Wheelchair users to climb summit

Julie is taking on Ben Nevis after trekking the Andes

She has conquered the Andes. Next stop Ben Nevis.

Julie McElroy, who was born with Cerebral Palsy, is taking part in a challenge to help push 10 wheelchair users up Britain's highest peak.

The 22-year-old, from Glasgow, is no stranger to adventure having already completed a gruelling four-week trek across the Andes.

She was one of 10 young people selected for the expedition led by ex-SAS commando Ken Hames.

Julie, who has been shortlisted for this year's Young Scot awards, has walking difficulties, speech and hearing impairment and manual dexterity problems.

She hopes her ability to overcome her disabilities would inspire others to take on Ben Nevis in May.

She said: "I have challenged my disabilities. This has made me physically and mentally stronger and will enable me to overcome more barriers.

"In the Ben Nevis challenge, Ken and I and our supporters want to encourage disabled and able-bodied people of all ages to work together and succeed."

The challenge is set for 10 teams made up of corporate employees to help wheelchair users climb the Scottish summit.

The event is designed to raise funds and awareness for the charities Capability Scotland and Scope.

Julie has already begun her training regime and has started a blog to provide updates on her progress.

"It's pretty hard work," she said.

"It's quite hard going when you're walking so I need to build my stamina and muscles up."

The Ben Nevis Challenge is due to take place on 31 May.

Julie is to feature in the TV series Beyond Boundaries: Across the Andes which will be broadcast on BBC2 later this year.