A retired Isle of Wight teacher in his mid-60s has completed a gruelling mountain challenge to raise money for Alzheimer’s Research UK, enduring extreme conditions on one of Britain’s toughest routes.

David Moorse, former headteacher at Shanklin (now St Blasius) CofE Primary, set out over half-term to tackle the Cuillin Round – a punishing 60-kilometre (37-mile) circuit across the jagged peaks of the Cuillin Ridge on the Isle of Skye. The route includes 60 summits and over 7,500 metres (24,600 feet) of ascent, typically spread across three days. It’s considered one of the most demanding mountaineering challenges in the UK.

Despite heavy rain, freezing winds and a knee injury earlier in the year that delayed his first attempt, Mr Moorse pressed on. He bivouacked in caves, survived on cereal bars, and climbed through relentless October weather. Though he didn’t complete the full Round, he covered significant ground and raised vital funds for dementia research.

His motivation was deeply personal. “When a cancer, robbing your family of your loved one, is a relative ‘blessing’ because it prevents the Alzheimer’s inflicting its worst… you know Alzheimer’s needs a treatment, and a cure,” he said.

Mr Moorse’s partner described the experience as unforgettable. “We may not have done the Round, but we had a fantastic adventure – one that will live long in our memories.”

Alzheimer’s Research UK is the country’s leading dementia research charity, working to find a cure and prevent others from losing loved ones to the disease. Donations can be made via iw.observer/david-moorse.