11 Aug 09: Kilimanjaro challenge

11th August 2009

Matt Wilkinson is taking on a challenge of a lifetime to raise money for local charity East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).

On 4th September Matt will leave his home in Fordham and head to Africa to climb the world’s tallest free-standing mountain – Kilimanjaro.

Funds raised through sponsorship will be donated to EACH, the charity which provides care and support for life-threatened children and their families at the Milton hospice, and in family homes throughout the region.

At nearly 6000 metres in height, Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa, and is over 4 times taller than the highest mountain in Britain.

While he is no stranger to endurance tests, having taken part in 24 hour mountain bike relay races in the past, Matt admitted he had never done anything quite like this. He commented "At the moment I’m not sure if I’m more nervous or excited. The main thing I’m nervous about is the effects of the altitude. I really don’t know what to expect, but that’s part of the adventure, and my love of the unexpected is a big part of what inspired me to take on this challenge."

He added "I chose to raise money for EACH, as I feel very fortunate never to have had to call on their services, and I wanted to help children and families who are in a less fortunate position. My aim is to raise as much money for them as possible."

Karen Chesney, Events Fundraiser for EACH said "Sponsorship from challenge events makes a real difference to the work EACH does, as we rely on the generosity of the public for 72% of our income. We really appreciate Matt’s support, and wish him the best of luck."

You can sponsor Matt by visiting his Justgiving page

If you would like to take on a challenge in aid of EACH click here to find out more, or contact Karen Chesney (tel: 01223 205192)