A hiker who climbed Africa’s highest mountain to raise money for the restoration of a historic Highgate house has raised more than £3,000 for the cause.

Sales manager Simon Burgess, of South Grove, Highgate, has so far raised £3,200 to restore the Grade II-listed Lauderdale House in Highgate Hill after reaching the peak of Kilimanjaro in Tanzania three weeks ago. He has managed to more than triple his target of £1,000 with donations from friends, neighbours and Lauderdale House supporters.

Director Katherine Ives said: “I think he did incredibly well. It was really hard work but he got to the top and I think he enjoyed it. I think the walk up Highgate Hill will be a doddle now!”

In 18 months, staff at the house have raised £1.3million towards the £1.8million project.

They are calling on supporters to help raise awareness in a final push. Ms Ives added: “We’re trying to get people involved to help fundraise, to put leaflets through peoples’ doors and to get someone well-connected who could put us in contact with people.”