A TAVISTOCK teenager is looking forward to the challenge of a lifetime this September, as he treks to the top of the world to raise money for a national children's charity.

Johnny Croft, 19, a former Kelly College student, is studying civil engineering and architecture at the University of Bath. But on September 3 he will leave for Katmandu for his two-week trek to Everest base camp. He aims to raise £2,450 for the Childreach International charity.

He said: 'I heard about the expedition from advertising around uni and thought it sounded like an amazing opportunity. There are actually a few universities doing this expedition or others for Childreach I believe.

'I've always enjoyed challenging myself and having new experiences. Expedition Everest seemed like a once in a lifetime opportunity to do something amazing and raise money for a really great charity at the same time.

'I'm very excited to travel to Nepal, experience their culture and go on this adventure.'

Childreach International works with local communities in the developing world to help improve children's access to healthcare, education, and child rights and protection.

Johnny said: 'We asked to attend an initial briefing when we first heard of this expedition back in October.

'This is when we were told about Childreach International and how many children they have helped over the past years. I thought I would like to be a part of that and experience first-hand how we are helping these children when we go in September.'

Johnny said he felt the biggest challenge of the trek would be the mental aspect of the challenge, staying positive throughout and motivating team-mates.

'The vast change in temperature and pressure will also be a shock to the system, as it is expected to be quite hot when we start and get to be very cold as we get higher.

'I am not partaking in any special training for the expedition as I am already very active with sports and in general just keeping up with what I already do.'

Anyone who would like to help Johnny achieve his charity target can go to https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/childreachjcroft">https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/childreachjcroft

Johnny said: 'The final fundraising deadline is on July 20. That just means that I must have at least the £2,450 but donations are still accepted after that date.

For more information contact Johnny at [email protected]">[email protected]