A MACHYNLLETH woman is hoping to raise thousands of pounds for the Multiple Sclerosis Society by taking on a trek to the summit of Africa’s largest mountain.

Moira Jones will complete a self-funded trek up Kilimanjaro - the tallest freestanding mountain on earth - on 20 September.

Moira - herself diagnosed in 2005 with relapsing/remitting MS - has raised over £7,000 for the Multiple Sclerosis Society charity over the years, and has already raised over £6,000 more through her mountain adventure.

“I have been fortunate to lead a healthy and active lifestyle with no relapses,” Moira said.

“I really enjoy keeping fit and decided I needed an adventure, for myself and to raise awareness for the charity.”

Climbing the 5,896m high Mount Kilimanjaro, Moira will be following the Machame Route, a southern approach towards the Uhuru Peak on a seven day trek that starts in the rainforests at the Machame Gate.

“Each day features very different challenges, from covering great distances over moorland to scrambling with hands and feet past the Great Barranco Wall,” Moira said.

“The trek is set up in stages, allowing for acclimatisation to the altitude over time.

“Temperature is also going to be an issue; the journey is like travelling from the equator to Antarctica in a matter of days.”

Moira is still collecting donations, with over a month remaining.

For information on the challenge and the charity and to donate visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/moira-jones3

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