Two stalwarts of the timber industry have joined forces to conquer the mighty Everest.

Taking Norbord to the top of the world next month will be James Ogilvie, President of the Institute of Chartered Foresters, Head of Grants & Licences for the Forestry Commission, Scotland, author of Adventure Holidays Worldwide, and all-round daredevil. Norbord is part-sponsoring James in his quest.

A graduate from Oxford University with a BA in Agricultural & Forest Sciences, James’ passion for climbing mountains began with his first expedition to the summit of Kilimanjaro ten years ago. Not content with the highest mountain in Africa, he conquered the Aconcagua, the highest mountain in South America, then Denali/McKinley, the highest mountain in North America. Other peaks elsewhere in the world followed.

In conquering the continents’ tallest mountains, the next journey in James’ quest for the ‘7 summits’ brings him to the world’s tallest mountain, Everest, a challenge he’s looking forward to with understandable anticipation and trepidation:

“I’m feeling more excited as each week goes by, but I’m also a little nervous as anyone would be embarking on such a challenge, “says James. “The Khumbu icefall will be a whole new experience – several people have been killed by the immense ice blocks falling randomly. Then there’s the higher altitude from previous climbs so I’ll need to use different climbing techniques.”

On each climb, he has raised money for the charity Tree Aid which helps alleviate poverty in sub-Saharan Africa. .This time, his target is £5000 and any donations would be gratefully received at www.justgiving.com/jamesogilvie.

Linda Brett, Marketing Manager of Norbord explains the thinking behind for Norbord’s commitment to James: “The commitment and focus that will be required by James to summit Everest is very much mirrored in Norbord’s European Values and Beliefs. A successful summit will require team work, a focus upon safety, superb skills and professionalism – all aspects integral to Norbord. James’ strong links to timber is also an obvious connection and we are delighted to be part of raising funds for the worthwhile charity Tree Aid; Norbord has been at the forefront of supporting and championing sustainable forestry practices for the best part of two decades; James’ interests in this area are a perfect fit with our own. ”