AN OKEHAMPTON man will ?walk like an Egyptian? next month when he embarks on a tough trek to raise charity cash.
Phil Bush has volunteered for an amazing challenge covering a route through the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt.
One part of the challenge is to walk 50 to 55 miles in five days over difficult, mainly off-road terrain. Located between Asia and Africa, the Sinai region of Egypt acts as a land-bridge between two continents and has left a significant mark on the history of the area.
The EMMS and Bethany Trek 2004, which runs from March 20 to 28 has attracted 25 walkers from across the UK.
The week-long trek begins with a climb of 2,265 metres to the summit of Mount Sinai, considered by most people as the spot where Moses received the Ten Commandments.
Camping out beneath the stars each night the trekkers will be facing a challenge that will earn every penny of the sponsorship raised.
Phil said: ?This will be a tough challenge and I have started training already. It will take all my resources of energy and stamina but I am inspired to achieve this for a very good cause ? all in support of two projects, the Nazareth Hospital in Galilee and the Bethany Christian Trust in Edinburgh who work with vulnerable and homeless people.
?By taking part in this trek I have committed myself to raising at least £2,500 in sponsorship.?
Phil is in his mid-fifties and has lived in Okehampton for 15 years. He is a self-employed carpenter and joiner working from Hatherleigh.
Phil said as he was covering all his own personal expenses, every penny raised in sponsorship would go directly to the charities.
He said homelessness or ill health were something that any of us could face and he was pleased to have the opportunity to do something ?worthwhile?.
If you are able to make a sponsored donation to Phil you can do so via Mr and Mrs Cornish at W J Cornish Jewellers, 12 Fore Street, Okehampton, cheques payable to ?EMMS Trek?.