AN ADVENTUROUS Bewdley woman is calling on intrepid trekkers to join her in an attempt to climb the highest free-standing mountain in the world in aid of her father.

Kat Young is set to tackle Mount Kilimanjaro later this year and wants people to take on the challenge with her.

The 28-year-old will be raising cash for Parkinson’s UK as her father, Keith, was diagnosed with the degenerative disorder in 2005, at age 55.

She said: “I will be trekking for my father, Keith, who has been living with Parkinson’s for nine years.

"I’m also doing it for all the wonderful people I’ve met who have the condition, as they inspire me each time I undertake a challenge and think of giving up.

“I would encourage those who are considering signing up to think about why you are considering it.

"Think of the person behind the reason you want to take part and register now. Do it to make yourself proud and to make the person you know who has Parkinson’s proud.”

Paul Jackson-Clark, director of fundraising at Parkinson’s UK, added: “Trekking Kilimanjaro is an experience of a lifetime and a fantastic way to raise vital funds to support our work.

“Scaling heights of over 5,000 metres is a huge challenge. I hope that Kat has an experience she will never forget and that her story will encourage others to take part in the trek, or a future event for Parkinson’s UK. We are incredibly grateful to Kat for her support.”

The trek, from October 10 to 19, will take the popular Machame route, allowing gradual acclimatisation to the altitude and a chance of reaching the summit.

Trekkers will pass through thick forest and moorland en route to Uhuru Peak, which is the highest point.

The funds raised from Trek Kilimanjaro will be used towards vital re - search work to find a cure and improve the lives of the 127,000 people in the UK living with Parkin - son’s.

If you’d like to sponsor Ms Young, please go to virginmoneygiving.com/ Gokat