Jenny Copeland reaches Everest summit

Drumree woman Jenny Copeland reached the summit of Mount Everest yesterday, but the celebrations have turned to devastation as her climbing partner Seamus Lawless is missing after also reaching the summit.

The Trinity College lecturer was descending Mount Everest after reaching the peak yesterday, when  he reportedly fell from an altitude of 8,300 metres.

The rescue team searching for Mr Lawless was called off on last night and resumed their search this morning.

Seamus Lawless (39) was a part of an eight-member climbing expedition led by professional Co Down climber Noel Hanna and including Drumree's Jenny Copeland and the first African woman to reach Everest,  Saray N’ Kusi Khumalo.

Mr Lawless, who is from Bray, Co Wicklow, is said to have slipped while in the balcony area near the summit of Everest as they started their descent..

Mountaineer Pat Falvey, who has climbed Mount Everest twice, told RTE this morning that at the moment there is hope for Mr Lawless.

Jenny is believed to have returned safely to Camp Four with the other members of the team.

Jenny is a chartered physiotherapist and pilates instructor. She is married to Bob and is mum to Charlotte, Josh, Harriott and Elliott.