By Hayley Robinson

A magazine article inspired one grandmother to take on a challenge of a lifetime.

Christine Spicer was waiting for a manicure at the Julie Gamble Skin Care Centre in Sittingbourne High Street when she spotted an advert for the Meningitis Trust's Kilimanjaro trek.

The 58-year-old had always talked of taking on a big challenge, and after a bit of encouragement from staff at the centre, she decided to sign up.

Mrs Spicer, of Swan Close, Murston, said: "There are two reasons why I'm doing this - I get great enjoyment out of helping people, plus I like a challenge.

"Meningitis hasn't affected me personally, but I know a lady whose brother had it in his 50s and he is now totally blind. I also know someone else whose hearing was damaged.

"It's not just about raising money, it's about raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of meningitis."

Despite running her own business - Abbagail Cleaning Services - Mrs Spicer has still found time to fit in a hectic training schedule to ensure she is fit and ready to climb Africa's highest mountain when she takes part in the fundraising event in February.

She walks all over Swale for two hours at a time, four times a week, works out at the gym at the Swallows Leisure Centre in Avenue of Remembrance, Sittingbourne, and recently trekked through the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Zambian-born Mrs Spicer has pledged to raise a minimum of £3,000 for the charity and is keen to stress that 100 per cent of the money raised will go to the charity as she is covering her own expenses.

She said: "I've already raised £2,100 thanks to friends, family and customers.

"It will take three days to climb up it and two days to come down it. I'm really pleased and excited and determined to get to the summit - providing altitude sickness lets me!"

To sponsor Mrs Spicer visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/ChristineSpicer

For more information about the Meningitis Trust, see www.meningitis-trust.org