Wheelchair user in Ben Nevis battle

AN EDINBURGH woman has vowed to become the first person to climb Ben Nevis unaided in a wheelchair.

Sally Hyder, 47, who has multiple sclerosis, says she will not be "shackled down by this stupid disease".

She is currently training to take on Britain's highest mountain in a battery-powered off-road wheelchair in August.

Although wheelchair users have reached the 4,406ft peak before, the path is so steep at the top that they have previously had to be carried to the summit.

However, Ms Hyder said: "I am aiming to be the first to get up unaided.

"If the machine gives up, I'm going to crawl.

"Getting to the top of Ben Nevis is not a done deal, but if I manage it, I will be absolutely ecstatic.

"I will feel this total exhilaration and freedom, instead of being shackled down by this stupid disease."

By her side during her attempt in August will be her assistance dog Harmony, a golden Labrador-Retriever cross.