Jane set her sights on Machu Picchu fund-raising trek

Not only does she have to raise 2,900 by next June year, she also has to bring herself to the peak of personal fitness.

Jane, a solicitor partner at Donaldson Dunstall Solicitors in Parkhurst Road, plans to take part in a trek along he Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in September 2009 to raise money for Dogs For The Disabled.

The charity trains dogs to help disabled people lead a fuller, more independent life.

In 2004 Dogs For The Disabled launched a children's project, training dogs to help disabled children.

Now it has launched a new project to train assistance dogs to help children with autism.

Jane says: "This Trek will definitely be a huge challenge we will spend the first three days acclimatising to the high altitude.

"I have also been given a training programme which I will have to take seriously as I am very unfit! I understand that the weather will be quite hot during the day, but very cold at night which will not be very nice as we have to camp out in freezing temperatures.

"Still I am determined to succeed!

"I have always wanted to go to Machu Picchu so when I saw this Trek advertised I thought it would be an ideal opportunity, and I can also raise funds for this excellent charity at the same time."

Jane has set up a website on www.justgiving.com/janestrickland which gives intending donors all the necessary information.

On her web, Jane says: "This will be my first fundraising challenge and now all I need to do is to get fit - no easy task!

"This Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is rated amongst the 10 best trekking trails in the World due to its striking beauty, ancient Inca ruins and diverse ecological zones.

"The route includes hugely differing terrain from high desert plateau to tropical Andean rainforest. It will NOT be a holiday, but will be a difficult challenge partly due to the high altitude and also the steep terrain. However it will also be a wonderful opportunity and unique experience, and I'm determined to succeed.

"I've chosen Dogs for the Disabled to be my special charity as they are a smaller charity and it is only their third hike overseas.

"They desperately need to raise funds to train puppies to be assistance dogs for disabled people across the UK as there is an ever growing demand. These clever and willing dogs help with things most of us take for granted such as turning off the bedroom light last thing at night.

Quite often, a dog will give a disabled person the confidence to venture out of their home.

"Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It's also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Dogs For The Disabled gets your money faster and, if you're a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation."

Supporters can donate online via the website or they can complete a Sponsorship Form at Donaldson Dunstall Solicitors, 48 Parkhurst Road, Bexhill on Sea (Tel 01424 216329).

Jane is also looking for sponsorship from local businesses and plans fund-raising activities around the town in the next few months.