Paul scales highest peak in memory of fallen comrades

A BLIND Afghanistan war veteran has climbed Ben Nevis in memory of his fallen Scottish comrade.

- BY ISLA STORIE

Paul Jacobs, 36, was serving with The Rifles when he was caught in a bomb explosion at the age of 20.

Shrapnel cost him his sight and left him with injuries to his arm and leg.

Two comrades Sergeant Paul McAleese, from Falkirk, and Private Johnathon Young - were killed the same day.

To honour their memory, Paul tackled Britain's highest peak on August 20 - exactly 16 years after losing his sight. Travelling 10 hours from his home in Margate, Kent, he set off at 5.45am with girlfriend Renn, a medic, servicemen, and members of the Royal British Legion, Grangemouth.

Together they reached the summit in four hours and 15 minutes-believed to be the fastest ascent of Ben Nevis by a blind climber.