AN Aberystwyth eye-care specialist is climbing the highest free-standing mountain in the world in the hope of raising £3,600 for Vision Aid Overseas.

Rhian Mansel-James, 23, a consultant optometrist for Boots, will spend six days trekking the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro in June 2016

An estimated 670 million people worldwide are unnecessarily visually imp­aired because they do not have glasses due to the significant lack of eyecare services available in low income and developing countries.

Rhian, from Maesycrugiau, said: “Working in optics daily I see how much correcting a refractive error can really change peoples lives. For some, without their glasses they would not be able to do simple daily tasks."

Of the climb, she said: “I am worried about fatigue and altitude sickness but I am determined to reach 5895 metres.

“I will have vision first and foremost in my mind especially how important it is when I look at the view from the top."

Anyone who would like to sponsor Rhian can do so by visiting www.JustGiving.com:RhianMansel-James Or text KILY60 with £10 or £5 to 70070.