TWO Warrington Hospital doctors have completed a fundraising trek up Mount Everest in a bid to raise cash for cancer patients.

Steve Bentley, deputy medical director, and Barry Taylor, cancer lead and surgical consultant, took on the challenge to raise funds for CANtreat, a charity set up by 21-year-old Andrew Gartside.

Andrew, from Warrington, underwent tests at Warrington Hospital during his treatment for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Steve, Barry and Andrew formed part of a 21-strong group that hiked up to Mount Everest's base camp, reaching heights of around 19,500ft, between September 8 and September 24.

Proceeds from the trek will go towards the charity's £1m appeal to enhance the physical environment of cancer treatment areas within the NHS.

Andrew said: "My family and I are from Warrington and I was treated at a number of hospitals in the area.

"I was given the all clear in April last year and was keen to do something to help as many other cancer patients in the area as possible.

"As North Cheshire Hospitals NHS Trust treats a lot of cancer patients from all over the region I thought that it would be a good place to start.

"It has the added bonus of being my local hospital too."

He added: "When you are receiving chemotherapy half the battle is maintaining a positive attitude, so it really helps if the place where you are being treated is welcoming and homely.

"The money that we have raised will go towards improving the physical environment for cancer patients."

The fundraising team prepared for the trip with regular walks across the Lake and Peak District, as well as a gruelling trek to the top of Snowdon in atrocious weather conditions.

Dr Bentley said: "I have been at the Trust for almost 25 years and Mr Taylor has been here for around 15 years.During that time we have seen and treated many patients with various forms of cancer.

"Keeping positive during treatment is an important part of the process to recovery. Improving the surroundings of where patients are treated can only have a beneficial effect, and Andrew should be commended for his hard work in this area."