Janet Goodman, 58, and Jonathon Goodman, 54, from Northallerton, who regularly enjoy trekking on the weekends, set themselves the challenge of climbing to Everest Base Camp.

This was their first major expedition, and the pair spent two years training for the trek, by increasing elevation gains and tackling more peaks to build the strength and resilience needed for the Himalayas.

Janet said: “Trekking to Everest Base Camp had been on our bucket list for a while, and it’s one of many treks we hope to complete.”

The pair, who work for the logistics company W. H. Malcolm Ltd, self-funded the whole journey and decided to use this opportunity to raise funds for charity.

They chose to support the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) because of the vital role the service plays in helping critically ill or inured people, particularly those who work or spend a significant amount of time outdoors.

Janet said: “Given the job that we do and our hobby, we may one day need the service, but hopefully not.”

Their journey to Base Camp took eight days, including two acclimatisation days.

Despite the trail being quite demanding at times, the couple were rewarded with incredible views.

Janet said: “Going up, our morale was high and we had a good team supporting each other, even on the long, hard days.”

After successfully reaching the base of Everest, the couple were overcome with emotion at the milestone they had achieved.

Janet said: “We were overwhelmed with joy, we were all crying.

“The views, working as a team, and the guides were definite highlights.”

Once they returned to the UK, the couple visited GNAAS’ base near Eaglescliffe and presented the charity’s critical care team with a cheque for £3,225.88, which included a donation of £1,000 from the Donald Malcolm foundation.

Janet and Jonathon have already set their sights on an even bigger challenge and have pledged to continue raising awareness and funds for GNAAS.