TWO accomplished climbers joined MPs for a discussion - on top of a mountain.

Alan Hinkes, the first British mountaineer to have summited all 14 8,000metre peaks, and Crag Jones, the first Welshman to climb Everest, accompanied Halton MP Derek Twigg and seven colleagues to scale Mount Snowdon.

The MPs belong to the All Party Parliamentary Mountaineering Group and met to discuss issues affecting climbers and walkers.

Mr Twigg, a keen fell walker, said: “The climb was exhilarating and it was rewarding to be greeted by spectacular views of Snowdonia at the summit.

“I was pleased to be doing something to promote the health and social benefits of accessible walking, which helps boost individual health and well-being as well as the rural economy more generally.

“ I would encourage anyone who is able to do so to take up this inspiring activity.

“It was also great to spend time with two esteemed mountaineers such Alan Hinkes and Crag Jones.”

MPs are keen to promote the importance of outdoor recreation to the rural economy.

The climbing group is made up of more than 30 MPs, and gives the British Mountaineering Council access to policitians to work on issues affecting climbing, hill walking and mountaineering.

Last year, the group walked up Blencathra in the Lake District, with Sir Chris Bonnington.

Halton MP Derek Twigg with esteemed mountaineer, Alan Hinkes, on Mount Snowdon