2 months ago 05th Nov 14:00
Britain's Prince Harry promised to buy a beer for an amputee soldier if he scaled an 18ft wall.
Royal Marine Ben McBean - who lost an arm and a leg in a landmine blast in Afghanistan - made the ascent at the launch of the Khumbu Challenge at the Davenport naval base in Plymouth.
As Ben - who returned home from his tour of duty on the same flight as the prince, with Harry hailing him "the real hero" - climbed the wall, Harry, who is royal patron of the challenge, called out: "No pressure Ben, I'll buy you a beer if you reach the top".
Speaking afterwards, 21-year-old Ben - who also hopes to take part in the London Marathon next year - said: "Getting to the top was quite hard, having lost two limbs. But it was doable. Harry owes me a pint so I'll be getting that one."
The First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Jonathan Band, added: Some of these men have had some tough luck serving their country, now they will be facing this huge mountain, I wish them all the best
The Khumbu Challenge will involve five teams from the Royal Navy and Royal Marines of differing mobility and experience tackling a series of Himalayan peaks.
Ben added: "Mostly I'm looking forward to getting with the lads again and being part of a team.
"Getting blown up and losing a few limbs isn't the end of it - that's what I'm trying to get people to realise.
More about Prince Harry's beer promise on page 2
Your Comments:
Be the first to comment!