A STUDENT from Madresfield has set himself the challenge of climbing Kilimanjaro in September to raise money for charity.

Charlie Titmuss, aged 20, who is studying physics at Exeter University, is hoping to raise £1,500 for the Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF) by completing the six-day trek.

He said: “I am really looking forward to the challenge. I am pleased to be supporting MRF as I remember a friend of mine at primary school had meningococcal septicaemia. He was in hospital for a long time and needed lots of grafts to replace skin that was damaged.

“So far I have raised £500 from a coffee morning and car boot sales, and will do more fund-raising when exams are over.”

Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania, is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world at 5,895m. Its snow-capped peak is one of the most recognisable sights in the world of adventure.

Susie Bailey, of MRF, said “We are so grateful to Charlie.

Meningitis and septicaemia are diseases that can leave a baby, child or adult fighting for their life within hours of the first symptoms. As well as helping to raise much-needed funds for our work to fight meningitis, he is also helping to raise awareness of this devastating disease.”

To sponsor Charlie, visit justgiving.com/charlietitmuss.