Everest avalanche survivor already flying to help those trapped in Nepal earthquake

Rupert Jones-Warner, whose late decision to switch starting points could have saved his life, is already off to help those trapped

And the 23-year-old is already on his way to help in the effort to rescue the many people still trapped following the disaster.

Rupert was attempting to become the first Britain to traverse Everest, but the avalanche caused from the massive earthquake has forced him to abandon his attempt.

The death toll for the disaster is said to be close to 5,000 and rising, and with scores of people stranded in remote areas, Rupert has joined an international aid effort to help them.

And he received a boost from legendary explorer Bear Grylls, who sent him a message saying ‘the mountain will always be there and you must follow your heart’.

Rupert’s mother Jane, also from Chichester, has described her ‘utter relief’ at learning her son was safe when many on Everest perished.

In a conversation with Chestnut Tree House, the charity Rupert is supporting, Jane said: “I felt utter relief to hear he was safe, but also shock to know that he could have so easily been on the south side where the avalanche hit Base Camp, but changed the expedition at a late stage.

“Also a feeling of extreme concern for all those and their families who weren’t so lucky, both on the mountain and on the ground in Nepal.”