A FATHER from Alveston is gearing himself up for some high altitude in order to raise money for the region’s sick children.

Later this year Richard Ford, 41, who works as a car salesman at Berkeley Vale Motors, will be putting his best foot forward as he embarks on a 80-mile charity trek.

The expedition will take him to high altitude as the course runs near to the Mount Everest base camp.

The father-of-two is doing the trek to raise money for the Children’s Hospice South West. He is hoping to raise more than £3,000 for the charity.

Children's Hospice South West cares for children with life limiting or life threatening conditions and provides hospice care and support for them and their families.

Mr Ford said: "I decided I wanted to do this trek and talking to my wife, who works in the medical profession and a few friends, they all said what fantastic work the hospice does for young children so I decided I would raise money for them."

Mr Ford said he is now trying to prepare himself ready for the trek, which starts on November 6 and will take about two weeks to complete.

"I’ve never done anything as big as this before. I did do the Yorkshire three peaks challenge last year.

"I used to be quite athletic but no so much in the last few years so I am now trying to get into shape ready for November. When I have time I am doing lots of walking."

To help with his fundraising efforts Mr Ford is holding a barbecue and disco at Thornbury Cricket Club on Friday, July 31 (7.30pm). Tickets in advance call 01454 415341 or 07786620351.

People wanting to give their support to Mr Ford can also go to www.justgiving.com/richardford1