Ama Dablam Climb

Climbing Ama Dablam for Future Arborists — In Memory of Jonty

On September 6th, I lost my 18-year-old son, Jonty, in a tragic tree work accident caused by ash dieback. He was a talented, passionate young tree surgeon who loved what he did. His loss was sudden, devastating—and preventable. I believe that if a more experienced arborist had been by his side that day, things might have ended differently.

That belief has become a mission.

This year, I’m climbing Ama Dablam (6,812m) in Nepal—one of the most beautiful and technically demanding peaks in the Himalayas. I’m not doing it for adventure or accolades. I’m doing it for Jonty, and for every young arborist who deserves to be better supported and better protected.

The Vision: A Finishing School for Young Tree Surgeons

Alongside this climb, I’m fundraising to create a finishing school for young arborists—a place where they can learn hands-on from experienced professionals. Somewhere they can develop real-world safety skills, leadership, and mentorship—tools that could save lives.

This school will be Jonty’s legacy. A space where knowledge is passed down, safety is prioritized, and no young tree surgeon has to face risk alone.

Why This Climb Matters

Ama Dablam is no small challenge. Base Camp and Camps 2 and 3 are some of the toughest terrain on Earth. But I’ll be climbing with two close friends—Damian and Nigel—who have supported me through this journey. Together, we’re committed to making every step count.

To fund this expedition and begin building the school, I’m aiming to raise £20,000. This will cover essential costs for the climb: training, gear, logistics, and safety. Every donation helps me reach the summit—and bring this vision for safer tree work to life.

If we exceed the goal, every additional penny will go directly toward launching the finishing school.

A Fathers Promise

Losing Jonty was the darkest day of my life. He was my son, my best mate, my world. But I believe we can take grief and turn it into something powerful—something that protects others and shapes a better future.

This is for Jonty. This is for all the young tree surgeons out there.

Together, we can help ensure no more lives are lost the way Jonty’s was.

Please support however you can. Share. Donate. Spread the word.