A CHURCH minister is climbing to a virtual altitude of 3,700 metres for a charity that improves children’s educational lives.

The Rev Dr Robin Hill, minister of Gladsmuir linked with Longniddry, has set himself the challenge of climbing 80 metres each morning for the 46 days of Lent to raise £540 for the Preston Lodge High School (PLHS) Learning Foundation.

The foundation secured a grant earlier in the year for a substantial number of Chromebooks – but not enough to meet the scale of demand.

Dr Hill, a trustee of the charity, said children were struggling to learn at home without up-to-date technology.

He said: “A Chromebook costs £180 so, for a comparatively small investment, Preston Lodge can set up families with the life-changing resources they so urgently need.”

Unable to physically climb some of Scotland’s finest mountains, Dr Hill has opted for an in-house alternative and will be climbing the stairs in his manse.

He added: “So far, I have climbed the equivalent of the Eiffel Tower, the Sydney Tower and almost the Empire State Building, all on 13 stairs.

“The main thing to remember each morning is to tie a double knot in my trainers – I don’t want to trip and fall.”

His virtual altitude goal of 12,000 feet exceeds the height of Scafell Pike, Snowdon and Ben Nevis combined.

Dr Hill said he wanted to give back to the school that helped his children when they were students.

His ultimate goal is to raise enough money to secure 50 Chromebook computers. Donations can be made to the Gladsmuir and Longniddry Parish Church 2021 Lent Appeal.