A PARTIALLY-SIGHTED pensioner who achieved his long-held ambition of conquering Mount Kilimanjaro has enjoyed his latest adventure in the Andes.

David Breen, 74, who astonishingly climbed all the way to the peak of the 19,000-feet plus mountain in Tanzania in 2017, 32 years after his first attempt, travelled to the Andes in January.

He took on the 6,140m high Mt Queva for the fourth time after previous attempts in 2012, 2013 and 2015.

Although a gas cartridge failure meant he did not time to reach the peak, David got to 4,500m and says he will return to achieve his ambition of reaching the top.

With nothing to cook at 14,100ft, David, from Portico, had to take a long journey back to Salta for a new gas cartridge and new stove.

David said: "Highlights include hitch-hiking from Santa Rosa to San Antonio, seeing 10 wild turkeys, in the Puna wilderness, and camping near the church at Santa Rosa, after a 10-hour storm.

"I did go up to camp two on Quiva, to 4,500 m but I had to return, with not enough time to the summit."

Former turkey farmer David also has ambitions to tackle the 5930m Mt Chani.

"In 2018 I found the route to the east side of Chani, but ran out of time again. I want to go back soon.The east side is easy, with Inca ruins on the summit," added David, who says he walks up 10 hills a day in St Helens.

"I never give up, just like with Kilimanjaro. Being 74 will not stop me."