A LOCAL woman has raised £60,000 for the Multiple Sclerosis Trust after taking part in a monster ski challenge.

Siobhan Hall, finance director of the Douglas based ICM Group of companies, took part in the 2011 Monster Skiers three-day event in Tignes, France.

Siobhan, who lives in Peel, was one of four members of the nine-strong team who suffer from MS but successfully rose to the challenge of skiing 30,000 vertical feet a day.

She said: "The mix of people in the team made for inspired skiing. All the Monsters attacked the slopes of Tignes with ferocity and passion and, as a result, skied the 90,000 foot quota and more.

"The Alps and Tignes could not have put on a better show with 95 per cent sunshine, coupled with a cool average -4C temperature making the groomed grippy runs fast paced, intensive and spectacular. What kept us motivated throughout was the generosity of those who sponsored us."

The Monster Ski Team was formed by ex-RAF helicopter pilot Mike Laver who, when diagnosed with MS, left the RAF and has since re-trained as a cabinet maker.

He formed Monster Ski in 2006 and the first event took place the following year.

Siobhan is a committee member of the local MS Society and is committed to working with them to raise awareness and funds for the society.

She continued: "Monster Ski was an amazing experience – the kind that restores your faith in humanity. I would certainly do it again."