David Jones, MP for Clwyd West, today welcomed Old Colwyn adventurer Ash Dykes to Parliament and Downing Street.
Ash, 24, had been invited to represent Clwyd West as a ‘local hero’ at the Prime Minister’s St David’s Day reception.
Ash carried out the first solo, unsupported crossing of Mongolia – a distance of over 1,500 miles across mountains, steppes and the Gobi Desert – between May and August of last year. It was that huge achievement that resulted in the special invitation from David Cameron.
David Jones met Ash in Parliament and then accompanied him to the 10 Downing Street for reception in honour of Wales’s patron saint.
David Jones said:
“I was delighted to have the opportunity to meet Ash and was pleased that he accepted the Prime Minister’s invitation to represent Clwyd West as our local hero at the St David’s Day reception.
“Ash’s achievement is simply awe-inspiring. He is a credit to North Wales and a tremendous role model for local young people.”
Ash Dykes said:
“I am truly honoured to have been invited to Parliament and Downing Street.
“It was completely unexpected and has been a great experience.”
Ash’s journey raised funds for British Red Cross. He trained on beaches and mountains in North Wales, and his exploits attracted and caught the attention of local and national news.
He intends to lead another expedition to Mongolia, which is planned for later this year.
