A welcome break shortly before heading for the summit

Dr Robert Boon, 35, raised the cash for cancer research at Christie Hospital in the city.

He is hoping to attract even more sponsorship after returning from the gruelling trip which he funded himself.

Accompanied by special guides, it took him six days to reach the peak of Africa's highest mountain which is 19,340ft above sea level.

Unforgettable experience

Robert, from Chorlton, Greater Manchester, said: "The trek took six days and was the hardest but most rewarding thing I have ever done.

"To stand on the highest mountain in Africa with the sun coming up at dawn was unforgettable."

He trained for the attempt by swimming and running, as well as cycling 12 miles to and from work at St Mary's Hospital in Manchester every day.

Although he was fit, he admitted he was worried about altitude sickness - caused by a lack of oxygen which, in extreme cases, can lead to death.

He said: "It is impossible to know who will be affected, but thankfully I was lucky."

Vital research

All the money he raises will go to Christie Hospital in Manchester, which has cared for cancer patients for more than 100 years.

To mark its centenary, it launched its �25m Christie's Against Cancer Appeal in 2001.

Money from the appeal will go towards vital research and development into cancer diagnosis and treatment.

It will fund a series of linked projects vital to the work of the hospital's dedicated doctors and scientists