A FORMER student at St Mary's College has completed a 96-mile hiking challenge and climbed Ben Nevis in memory of a friend who took his own life.

Ellie Herndlhofer, from Wallasey, took part in the Scottish challenge as part of World Suicide Prevention Month to raise cash for the male suicide prevention charity 'Campaigning Against Living Miserably' (CALM).

23-year-old Ellie and her university friend Emma Gerbich set off on their 96-mile-long West Highland Way hike which spans from Glasgow to Fort William on September 10 in memory of their friend Lewis who took his own life in June.

Ellie told the Globe: “We wanted to do something positive in light of such a terrible situation.

"We decided to hike for CALM because of the incredible work it does.

"It offers support to men in the UK who are seeking support or are in crisis and challenges a culture which prevents men from seeking help.

"It’s working for changes in policy to prevent suicide, which is the biggest killer of men under 45 in the UK.

"CALM also provides a bereavement service for those who have lost loved ones to suicide.”

It took seven days for the pair to complete West Highland Way and on the eighth day, they climbed the tallest peak in the UK - Ben Nevis.

Ellie added: “We learned pretty quickly that no waterproof can beat the sideways rain in Scotland.

"Our tent was blown apart on the fourth night, but luckily a pub along the way took pity on us.

"It was such an incredible adventure, and we’re over the moon with the support and generosity people have shown."

Over the seven days, Ellie and Emma walked 107 miles and climbed more than 5,500 metres.

They also raised £811 - beating their target of £500 by 162%.

To donate to their JustGiving page visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/eleanor-herndlhofer

CALM helplines are open 5pm to midnight 365 days a year via 0800 58 58 58.

If you or you know someone seeking support visit https://www.thecalmzone.net/