A record-breaking adventurer from Chester has been honoured for his achievements by the University of Chester.
Alex Staniforth received an honorary Doctor of Letters in recognition of his outstanding contribution to young people’s mental health services this week. The award was presented at Chester Cathedral.
Professor Simmons said: “It’s an honour to recognise honorary guest Alex Staniforth for his incredible achievements and the impact he has made in our region and beyond.”
Alex, 29, is a record-breaking adventurer, international keynote speaker, author and charity founder.
As a teenager he had already survived the two most significant disasters in Mount Everest history, in two consecutive years. However, his biggest mountains have been overcoming epilepsy, bullying, mental ill health and a stammer since childhood.
Alex is no stranger to overcoming challenges. He is the fastest person to climb all 100 UK county tops – covering 5,000 miles by human power in 72 days.
He has raised over £100,000 for charity through his adventures, winning the Pride of Britain Granada Reports Fundraiser of the Year 2017 and a Points of Light award from the Prime Minister in 2023.
Alex has authored two books Icefall and Another Peak, and in 2020 founded a mental health charity, Mind Over Mountains, operating across England and Wales to restore mental wellbeing through nature. As a founding trustee of the charity, he believes that everyone should have access to our ‘Natural Health Service’ and the support that they need.
In 2025 he will be taking on his biggest challenge to date to raise £500,000 for Mind Over Mountains – and open a conversation around mental health and the challenges that young people face.
He said: “Being awarded an honorary degree from my home city of Chester means the world to me.
“The challenges that young people face need to be at the forefront of our attention and I’m dedicated to doing what I can to support those struggling with their mental health through my own experiences and our charity, Mind Over Mountains.
“I’m so grateful for this recognition, which will help build awareness of our work, and empower us to support more people within the community and beyond.”
