Hastings Pier memories spur Sarah on to her amazing triple peak climb

Sarah Owen took on Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis '“ spurred on by happy childhood memories of the currently closed Victorian-built attraction.

The 27-year-old set off in the early hours of Friday to begin her herculean challenge, returning home late on Sunday.

According to the local government worker, it was worth the effort.

"It is not the sort of thing I would normally do and it certainly took it out of me," said Miss Owen, "but I have a lot of happy memories of the pier and I wanted to do something to help the trust (Hastings Pier and White Rock Trust).

"I am terrified of heights and did freeze halfway up one of the mountains, but overall I really enjoyed the experience '“ and more importantly, raising money for what is a great cause. Hastings deserves a modern pier."

Miss Owen, who represented England at karate in her teens, has raised more than 250 so far, including a donation from a stranger who overheard her grandma discussing the climbs on a local bus. She thanked everyone who sponsored her.

And she got thanks of her own, from Alison Cooper, spokesman for the trust, who said: "When people volunteer for the pier it shows potential funders that the cause is being supported by the town so we owe Sarah a big thank you."

For more information '“ or to sponsor Miss Owen '“ visit www.hpwrt.co.uk.