Boy tackles Three Peaks Challenge during Storm Babet for charity

Harry Byrne reached the summit of his final mountain, Ben Nevis, on 22 October

A nine-year-old has completed the Three Peaks Challenge in memory of his big sister and little brother while being battered by Storm Babet's 70mph winds.

Harry Byrne, from Larkhill near Salisbury, conquered the three tallest mountains in the UK.

Joined by his dad, Sean, he was raising money for charity after his siblings died of a rare genetic condition.

"At one point, Dad had to lie on me so the wind wouldn't push me off the mountain," Harry said.

Harry's sister, Olivia, and brother, Reuben, both passed away from a rare genetic condition called PIGB, which has complications including developmental disorders, seizures and nerve damage.

The family has raised £95,000 for children's hospices Julia's House, Naomi House and Jacksplace.

Harry's brother and sister both passed away from a rare genetic disease

Harry and his dad, who is a Battery Sgt Maj with the Royal Horse Artillery, took on Ben Nevis, Scaffel Pike and Mount Snowdon in three days.

They summited the last mountain on 22 October and had to battle through Storm Babet during their climb.

"When we were walking up Ben Nevis, it was super windy and I had to hold onto a rock," Harry said.

"At one point, Dad had to lie on me so it wouldn't push me off the mountain."

'Giving back'

Sgt Maj Byrne added: "As we scaled up Ben Nevis, the weather got progressively worse.

"On the top, it was about 70mph winds and -12C so you would get pins and needles, it was like a load of needles hitting you in the face."

He added: "I think it's important to remember Olivia and Reuben.

"Equally it's important to create new memories with Harry and still do positive things. And especially give back to the local community."

In September 2023, Harry Byrne was also the recipient of The Sun's Who Cares Wins Award in the Young Hero category.

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