Five mountaineers from Cyprus will set off to climb Greece’s Mount Olympus, as a message of solidarity for children battling cancer and leukaemia.

The group will attempt the demanding route to Mytikas, the highest peak of the mountain, between next Wednesday and Sunday.

The initiative follows the ‘Hope and Love’ marathon held two years ago, when some 500 Cypriot runners took part in the Athens Marathon in support of young cancer patients.

According to a statement from the Elpida foundation for children with cancer and leukaemia, “with every step towards the top, we convey a message of courage, love and solidarity to children and adolescents facing cancer and their families”.

It added that “by climbing Mount Olympus, we raise the message of hope even higher, for every child, wherever they are, deserves the opportunity for treatment and life.”

Mount Olympus holds a significant place in Greek mythology as the legendary abode of the twelve Olympian gods.

Rising to 2,917 metres at Mytikas, it has long drawn climbers and pilgrims alike.