A student from Hale is preparing for a challenge of a lifetime in aid of the Christie charity and in memory of loved ones who were treated at the leading cancer centre.

Jonathan Wrynne, 20, who is studying architecture at Leeds Metropolitan University, is flying to Kenya in June to attempt the gruelling trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Kilimanjaro in Africa is the world's largest free-standing mountain and at its peak stands at 19,340ft. He decided to embark on the challenge in memory of his cousin, uncle and grandma who all sadly died of cancer.

Jonathan said; "I have never done anything like this before and I have always wanted to do a big climb. I am quite nervous because I am determined to succeed.

"I have been walking, jogging and swimming to help with my general fitness but training at the same time as university exams was quite challenging."

The climb is an 11 day trek - six days to reach the summit and five days to walk back down. He has twice climbed Mount Snowdon in Wales as part of his training.

Jonathan's cousin Christopher Corridan, from Didsbury, was treated at The Christie but sadly died of Leukemia aged 26 in 2004. Jonathan's uncle also died of a brain tumour three years ago and his grandma died of cancer when he was eight years old.

He added; "This climb will not only be a huge personal achievement for me but I know I will be helping others as the Christie charity helps to fund research into cancer.

"I wanted to do this because, sadly, cancer touches so many people - and because The Christie helped my family so much.

"I would like to thank everyone who has sponsored me so far, especially Portland Wine in Hale and Heart and Soul bar in Altrincham."

Sporting events officer at the Christie charity, Marco Giannini, said; "Climbing Kilimanjaro will be an incredible achievement for Jonathan and we wish him all the best.

"There will no doubt be tough moments for Jonathan on the 11 day trek but I am sure that he will be spurred on in the knowledge that every penny he raises will go towards funding extra services for cancer patients at The Christie."

To sponsor Jonathan visit www.justgiving.com/jonny-wrynne-kilimanjaro

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