The Maltese Everest 14 team has made it to advanced base camp at 6,400 metres according to plan, unaffected by a Sherpa strike.

Gregory Attard, Matthew Xerri, Douglas Barbaro Sant and Raphael Fenech Adami left Malta on April 4 for a two-month expedition in an attempt to become the first Maltese to summit the world’s highest mountain from the north ridge route in Tibet.

An avalanche last week on the mountain’s west side in Nepal killed at least 12 local guides, known as Sherpas, exposing an undercurrent of resentment over their pay, treatment and benefits. Two days ago, dozens of Sherpa guides packed up their tents and left Mount Everest’s Base Camp.

Speaking to Times of Malta, Gregory Attard’s girlfriend said the Maltese climbers were unaffected since they are on the north side of the mountain.

“I spoke to Gregory 10 minutes ago and they have just made it to advanced base camp. They didn’t know about the strike before I told them. It doesn’t affect them as they’re on a different side of the mountain. All is going according to plan,” said Sharon Zahra.

Ms Zahra said the climbers will now need about four days to acclimatise before tackling their goal.

The team aims to raise €30,000 for Id-Dar tal-Providenza: €1 for every foot they climb.

To make a donation, visit www.everest14.com/charity.