CELEBRITY steeplejack Fred Dibnah proved he had a head for heights when he steamed up one of Britain's highest mountains.

The steam enthusiast decided to let the train take the strain when he climbed into the cab of a vintage engine and travelled to the summit of Mount Snowdon -- the highest peak in England and Wales at 1,085 metres.

Fred was officially opening the Snowdon Mountain Railway service in time for the 2002 season.

A crowd of more than 200 people gathered to watch Fred enjoying the breathtaking views which, on a clear day, extend as far as Ireland and the Isle of Man. At times, however, visibility was down to just five metres as fog and driving rain masked the Welsh mountainside. Fred said: "The weather was atrocious, but it was quite an experience to travel on a train that far up a mountain.

"It's the only railway of its kind in Britain but it's suffered a bit from a lack of trade -- which is why they called me in." Fred is best known for felling chimneys. He rose to fame in 1979 following an hour-long documentary called "Fred Dibnah -- Steeplejack" which charted his day-to-day life in and around Bolton.

The star is president of the Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal Society. He is currently restoring an old engine in his back garden, where he spends much of his time.

The Bolton TV personality said: "Anything to do with steam engines is wonderful for me."

The unique railway runs for 4.6 miles, starting at Llanberis station and travelling to just 20 metres below the summit of Snowdon.

Snowdon Mountain Railway will operate every day until the first week in November. Tickets can be booked in advance on 0870 458 0033.