A TEENAGER from Launceston is preparing for a summit attempt on Mont Blanc next summer, aiming to become the first recorded under-18 Cornish youth to reach the 4,810m peak.

Sixteen-year-old Finn Mason, who studies Military and Protective Services at Duchy College Stoke Climsland, plans to carry the Cornish flag to the continental summit while raising money for HighGround, a charity that supports veterans and service leavers into land-based careers.

Commenting on the challenge, Finn said: “I’ve always pushed myself outdoors, but Mont Blanc is the biggest challenge I’ve taken on.

“I want to prove that someone my age from Cornwall can take on something this demanding. HighGround is important to me because they help people leaving the military find new direction. I hope to join the Royal Marines in two years, so it’s a charity I might need one day. I’d love people to support the climb and help me reach, or even beat, my £5,000 target.”

Finn works two hospitality shifts a week to cover equipment and training costs and is aiming to keep public donations focused on HighGround by seeking business support for the expedition.

Having hiked on Dartmoor since he was 14, summited a 3,000m peak in the Italian Alps this summer and completed a multi-day route through the Pyrenees with a friend, Finn already has significant experience taking on impressive challenges.

When he’s not out hiking, Finn is playing rugby with the Cornish All Blacks, where he has been for the last ten years.

Jon Stone, senior study programme manager for Military and Protective Services at Duchy College said: “Finn shows the discipline, planning and determination needed for an ascent like this. Taking on Mont Blanc at 16 reflects his ambition and the confidence he brings to his training and studies.”