Barton student Luke Steaggles has never been out of Europe on his travels and has never taken part in a charity challenge.

But all that will change in September when he climbs Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, for Childreach International, an organisation founded by three undergraduates five years ago.

And the former Harlington Upper School pupil can't wait. 'I've always been Outward Bound-minded,' he said. 'I'm a keen cyclist and sailor. I've walked up a couple of mountains in the Peak and Lake Districts, as well as a few in the Alps.

'My mum was a bit worried initially about me doing such an incredible climb but now she's taking it in her stride.'

Aspiring environmental engineer student Luke is one of a 64-strong group from Nottingham University taking part in the charity challenge.

He said: 'Someone at uni has a link with Childreach International. It's a fairly small charity which means more of the money goes to the people who need it.

'Lots of students spend their gap years working for it. They put in wells, run workshops, provide education and supply books.

"We're spending three weeks in the region. It takes 10 days to climb Kilimanjaro, allowing for altitude sickness. After that I want to assist with some of the local projects.

'It would be nice to have an opportunity to explore the area and maybe visit a game reserve but the important thing is to do as much as we can to help.'

Luke hopes to raise £2,000 for Childreach International. If you'd like to sponsor him, click here.