TWO fearless friends from Inverclyde reached new heights when they conquered Japan’s highest mountain for charity.

Andrew McDougall from Queensway in Gourock and David Falconer, from Greenock, tried not to look down when they scaled the gigantic 12,400ft high Mount Fuji — an active volcano.

The pair were among a group of 15 apprentices from the British Airways engineering base at Glasgow Airport who jetted out to the country last month before they set off on the arduous climb.

Andrew told the Tele it was an incredible experience and well worth all the preparation and travelling.

He said: “It was a 12-hour flight to get there and then a four hour drive to get to the base camp.

“We set off for the climb at 8pm so it was dark but we used head torches.

“It was quite challenging, especially near the top, where it was quite steep.” Japan — known as the land of the rising sun — then lived up to its billing for the local lads.

Andrew said: “We managed to do it in just over six hours and reached the top for sunrise.” David, 21, who lives in Bawhirley Road, also enjoyed the challenge.

Their mammoth climb has helped raise about £4,000 for BA’s charity initiative, Flying Start, which supports vulnerable children living in the UK and around the world.