WORK colleagues at a Winkleigh-based company are in training for the challenge of a lifetime next year, when they plan to trek along the Great Wall of China for charity.

Karen Collins, a 35-year-old mother of two, and Diane Hall, 58, work at the South West Woodburning Centre. They are undertaking their ten-day Chinese challenge to raise money for the Churchtown Outdoor Adventure Centre in Cornwall, a trust which gives a well-earned break for children and adults with physical and sensory disabilities.

Karen said: ?We went down and had a look at the centre in Cornwall and it was fantastic the facilities they have down there, we thought it was a really worthwhile thing to help.?

Karen and Diane will spend six days actually walking the Great Wall, trekking for up to seven hours a day. They will sleep under canvas, and in the homes of local families along the route.

Karen said: ?It?s going to be quite a culture shock but I think it will be fantastic ? it?s certainly the biggest thing I?ve ever committed to doing.?

Diane said she is reading up on China and admits it?s not a part of the world she knows much about.

?I think it?s going to be quite an experience ? but I was determined to do it before I?m 60!? she said.

She is already in training for the walk, which she was viewing with a little trepidation.

?I?ve started going to the gym, I do a long walk every weekend and I do something in the evenings, either go walking or go on my bike,? she said.

The two women have to raise £2,500 each to take part in the adventure and are organising a series of events to raise money towards the trip.

?We?ve got a Ceilidh night with the Oggle Band at Beaford Village Hall on July 25, in October we?re having a quiz night and we?ll be doing something at Christmas as well,? said Diane.

?Local suppliers have been very generous from the Woodburning Centre, they?ve been sending donations, which is wonderful,? she said.

Karen and Diane leave for China next May. Anyone who wishes to sponsor their walk should contact them on 01837 83333.