AN inspiring dad is climbing 15 peaks in 24 hours to raise enough money to buy defibrillators for two sports centres in Halton.

David Collins, from Runcorn, was compelled to start the fundraiser after his friend was saved during a football match thanks to the use of a defibrillator earlier in the year.

He will be joined by three friends for the incredible trek, where he aims to raise £3,000 to install defibrillators at Runcorn ABC Boxing and Stealth BJJ Cheshire Jiu-Jitsu club.

Tackling the Welsh 3000, one of the toughest challenges in the UK, Dave will be accompanied by friends Jeff Emanu, Dave Sheaky and Ian Goldsmith for the gruelling 24 hours on June 29.

Speaking on his fundraising venture, Dave said: “I set this challenge up after seeing a tv show over a year ago about younger people suffering fatal heart problems and the need for defibrillators in all sports clubs.

“Also, during this year, a friend of us all collapsed with a heart problem whilst playing football and his life was saved using a defibrillator.

“My 11-year-old son bobby goes Runcorn ABC boxing club and although they have access to the defibrillator in the shopping centre, I thought they needed one in the gym for immediate access as time is so important in emergency situations.”

Highlighting the important need for a defibrillator at Stealth BJJ Cheshire, Dave explained that currently the Jiu-Jitsu club does not have one on its premises or nearby.

“Not only are these good for the hundreds of kids and adults using the clubs but the benefit of the parents and grandparents who stay and watch,” he added.

The Welsh 3000 challenge consists of 15 peaks, 3000 feet above sea level and over 40 miles walking through the picturesque Snowdonia.

“We aim to raise £3000 as the defibrillators are £1500 each supplied via the Oliver king foundation,” Dave explained.

“This foundation was set up by the parents of Oliver king who aged 12 sadly passed away due to an unknown heart condition.”

So far donations have come pouring in and Dave has already reached his £3,000 target thanks to his own personal fundraising which brought in £840 of donations.

And a generous donation of £1,000 from Runcorn ABC Taxis, as well as a £800 donation from the Jamie Carragher Foundation.