A DOCTOR has realised his dream of reaching the summit of Mount Everest.

Dr Alastair Sutcliffe, 41, a GP with the Whitby Group Practice, undertook the challenge in aid of Scarborough's Saint Catherine's Hospice.

His party reached the peak of the 29,035ft mountain in the early hours of Saturday.

His wife, Clare, a surgeon in Scarborough, spoke to him after he had returned to Camp Four, just below the summit.

"He was absolutely overwhelmed," she said.

"He said it was an incredible experience and was quite emotional about it all. He was totally exhausted, but really excited.

"I'm delighted for him and very relieved that he has got to the top.

"Now I'm looking forward to having him back home safely."

The final push came after a few days spent below base camp, regaining strength after their last gruelling climb, which saw them reach Camp Three at 24,000ft.

A photograph of Dr Sutcliffe waving the Saint Catherine's Hospice flag was taken at the summit.

The Everest attempt is part of the doctor's goal to become one of only 100 people who have climbed the highest mountain on each of the seven continents.

He has already climbed Aconcagua, the tallest peak in South America, Vinson, the highest in Antarctica and McKinley, the highest in North America.

Dr Sutcliffe hopes to raise more than £5,000 for Saint Catherine's Hospice from the climb.

Jenny Green, director of fundraising at Saint Catherine's Hospice, said it was wonderful news.

"Dr Sutcliffe has done magnificently," she said.

"Everyone here is extremely proud and can't wait to welcome him back and congratulate him on his achievement."

Dr Sutcliffe is expected to return home to Whitby in a week.

Donations can be sent to Whitby Group Practice, Springvale Medical Centre, Whitby, North Yorkshire, YO21 1SD, or to the Fundraising Centre, Saint Catherine's Hospice, Throxenby Lane, Scarborough, North Yorkshire, YO12 5RE.

Please mark the envelope Everest Expedition.