I did it!  I successfully completed the Bhara Pokhari trek in Nepal - what an experience! For six gruelling days in October, we scrambled up rocky paths to 3500m (over three times the height of Snowdon!), camped in small tents, teetered at the edge of steep drops and then descended perilous, moss covered rocks to eventually reach the raging river in the valley. It was hot (25C) during the day and cold (-10Cish) as soon as the sun went down.

A HUGE thank you to all the people who sponsored me to help me exceed my original target for The Prince’s Trust,  It’s for a really worthwhile cause, as The Trust provides all sorts of support for disadvantaged young people aged between 14 and 30.

It is not too late to sponsor me now - the more I have learned about the Trust, the more I realise how desperately the money is needed.  Please give whatever you can - even £1 will help.

There were three elements to the preparations for the trek - the fundraising, getting the right kit and getting myself fit.  As I am now 60 and have led a sedentary life for years, all were challenging but I triumphed in the end.  I am pleased to say that I did not get altitude sickness or stomach upsets (even though all water had to be boiled and steriliesd).  But I did narrowly escape being bitten by leeches which got into our tent.

I must also give a plug to Community Action Treks (who ran our trek).  They were superb in every way and the  skill of our sherpas and porters was fantastic.  The Nepalese people were delightful - we were happy to know that just by going on the trek we brought employment to one of the poorest parts of the world.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: The Prince's Trust gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

So please give as generously as you can - anything you can donate will help this very worthwhile cause.   Thank you very much.