A student from Romsey is preparing to climb Africa’s highest peak in aid of a children’s charity.

Gareth Turner, who is studying History and Economics at the University of York, is planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania for Childreach International.

Childreach helps children at a grassroots level in Africa and India, by setting up schools and health centres.

“It’s a little but daunting but quite exciting, “ said Gareth, 19, who lives in Richmond Lane.

Gareth is currently getting in shape for the trek up the slopes of the 19,341ft snow-capped volcano by running and making regular trips to the gym.

“My main worry is altitude sickness, which can effect you no matter how fit your are, “ said Gareth, a former pupil of Romsey School, where his mother, Caroline, is a teacher.

To take part in the expedition, in July, Gareth must raise £2,300.

Gareth’s fundraising plans include bag packing at a supermarket, holding a street collection and organising a pub quiz and a doughnut sale.

You can help Gareth on his way by logging onto www.virginmoney giving.com/Gareth Turner.