I emerged into the freezing cold at 1am and got ready to climb Island Peak for four hours in the dark. I had to prepare myself for a “trekking peak” grade climb and the intense physical effort required to bash my ice axe and crampons into the snow and ice wall at 5900 metres.

In the face of such challenges you see the best in people. I was climbing Island Peak after trekking to Everest Base Camp, and I was continually amazed by the kindness of my climbing companion. Being much fitter than me, he carried my day sack as well as his own until eventually he was too exhausted himself and handed it back.

When my ascender failed to work on Island Peak’s fixed ropes because they were iced up, he swapped his ascender for mine. At one point he rushed across a crevasse to secure an anchor on the other side for me, ensuring I crossed safely. As I stepped over the crevasse I gaped down at a 200ft drop.

You don't forget things like that.

I felt very exposed climbing Island Peak’s final ridge to the summit. The way was narrow and precarious, but I had to step aside for those that had summited already and were descending on the fixed ropes.

Eleven hours after setting off we got back to our base camp. I was exhausted, but elated. I had successfully climbed Island Peak.