A FORMER student at Crediton's Queen Elizabeth's Academy, who is currently studying at the University of Birmingham, is planning to trek to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa, in September in aid of charity.

Paige Vinnicombe (19), who keeps fit playing both football and netball, will, however, find it a more difficult challenge as she has photo sensitivity epilepsy, which is brought on my extreme sun light and the reflection of the snow.

She is likely to encounter both of these issues during her venture.

Paige is aiming to complete the challenge, climbing to 5,895 metres, in aid of a meningitis charity.

She is welcoming expressions of sponsorship from businesses and individuals.

To help raise funds, Paige and her family, including dad Chris, mum Paula and sister, Abbie, have organised two fundraising events.

The first is a Race Night, which will be held at Witheridge Football Club on Saturday, April 19.

The evening will begin at 7.30pm and will also include a silent auction.

Prizes, to date, include a Crystal Palace football shirt signed by the team, an Exeter Chiefs signed training top, Burnley FC signed shirt, Glasgow Rangers signed shirt, golf vouchers from Downes Crediton Golf Course and a No 7 Ultimate Collection gift set.

A few local companies have, kindly, sponsored the race evening and they are Smarter Accountants, Thomas Westcott Accountants, Mr Micarber Vintage, Vagabonds Milkshakes Bar and V E Barker Jewellers.

The second fundraiser will be a Quiz Night, beginning at 7pm, at the Crown and Sceptre, Newton St Cyres, on Saturday, April 26.

Entry will be just £1 per person.

For more details about either of these events, please contact Paula on 07463 859379 or just turn up on each respective evening.

Paige also has a Virgin Money giving page at: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/paigevinnicombe

If you are able to help with a donation towards her target of £2,850, please give via the website or contact Mrs Vinnicombe on the number above.

Alan Quick