A rugby player and coach climbed the highest mountain in Wales in memory of his brother. 

Sam Portland, player and coach at Amersham and Chiltern, climbed Snowdon with friends and staff from Emmaus St Albans, a charity that supports homeless people.

The trek, on July 31, was in memory of Mr Portland’s brother, Jack, who died in December last year. 

Mr Portland said: “Being able to climb Snowdon with the Emmaus companions was a really rewarding and satisfying experience for me. 

“For me and my friends, it was quite eye opening to hear the stories of the companions and what they are going through and the barriers they face.

“I really look forward to creating more opportunities for adventure with them and giving them chances to physically and mentally challenge themselves.”

In March, Mr Portland raised more than £4,000 for Emmaus by climbing to Everest base camp.

The money raised funded challenges and outings for people that use the charity. 

Jenny Hewson, community support manager at Emmaus St Albans, said: “It was just the most amazing weekend from start to finish. 

“Half way up there was a mountain memorial and the St Alban’s companions placed a penny in the wooden post in memory of Sam’s brother, Jack. 

“The whole weekend was full of amazing stories, emotions, motivation, adrenaline and dreams of the future.

"It was an honour and privilege to be part of it, and without Sam’s amazing fundraising it would not have been possible.”