COLIN Jenkinson is a man who enjoys a challenge - and he is currently preparing for his most gruelling test to date.

In October, Colin, of Blenheim Gardens, Winsford, will be leaving the English autumn far behind and heading out to Africa to tackle a charity walk up Kilimanjaro.

At a height of 19,335ft (5,895m), the volcano in Tanzania represents a daunting challenge. But as 39-year-old Colin explained, his walk is for a very good cause.

"I'm doing the walk in aid of the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust, and I am trying to raise £2,500," said Colin, who is a works engineer for a Liverpool firm which makes car parts.

"I'm hoping that as many local businesses as possible will get in touch and sponsor me."

Colin, who will be climbing Kilimanjaro with business associate Chris Millington, from Warrington, is no stranger to raising money for the Anthony Nolan appeal.

Last year, he got in the saddle for an epic sponsored bike ride around Israel and Jordan, raising £2,000 for his chosen charity.

"It's such a good cause," Colin said. "I can't think of anything better than something which benefits kids.

"I have always enjoyed walking and the Kilimanjaro challenge is one which I'm really looking forward to.

"I have done the Three Peaks Challenge in the past, but this will be the first big walk I have done for a long time."

Colin says that his African adventure will take six days, including a day to acclimatise in Tanzania and then two days to climb the volcano.

"It is not a difficult climb technically, but the altitude will make it tough," Colin said.

"Hopefully, it will be fairly warm there at that time of the year, but at the top of Kilimanjaro the temperature will drop to around minus four degrees.

"I'll be doing a lot of gym work to get myself prepared and I'll be doing a lot of walking too, probably training three or four times a week.

"My wife thinks I'm absolutely mental for wanting to do this, but it's for a good cause and I'm really looking forward to it."

Any businesses or individuals wishing to sponsor Colin can contact him on 01606 862746.

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