A Porthmadog man has raised over £2,000 trekking to Machu Picchu in aid of the mental health charity, MIND.

Arfon Davies (pictured) was part of a 27-strong team who ventured to the ancient Aztec city.

He arrived home earlier this month, and spoke to the Cambrian News about his experience.

Mr Davies said: “The training started at the beginning of the year. Initially I started walking by myself or as part of a rambling group. It’s not something you can just start doing.

“I’ve always wanted to go to Machu Picchu and here it was for a worthwhile cause. We had one night of camping with a full moon, it was amazing. The hills were massive and you could see the ice caps on top.”

Mr Davies, who raised an impressive £2,652 during his trek, spoke of how his South American adventure came about and why the charity he picked is so close to his heart.

“I saw the link online of how to join up and be part of the group,” he said.

“MIND was my choice because I relate personally to it through family. There were seven of us there for MIND and the rest were there for others such as cancer research charities.”

Mr Davies has plans to tackle another of the world’s toughest climbing challenges.

“I’m hoping to climb Kilimanjaro - not next year but the year after.

“It’s doable but there’ll be a lot more preparation because of the altitude.”

Mr Davies also spoke of the bond which he forged with his fellow climbers whilst on the trail. He said: “I didn’t know any of the group to begin with, but afterwards it was emotional. I hope to meet up with them again.

“The hardest part was the Inca trail as it was just so high up.

However, Kilimanjaro will be much higher. It was immense and fulfilling. Bonding with other people was an experience.”