A CHARD woman is set to take on the biggest mountain on the planet after her grandfather was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

Rachel Waller is set to trek to Everest base camp and beyond in an expedition next year.

The money raised will go to Alzheimers Research UK to support the charity’s work after her grandfather was diagnosed with the condition last year Rachel said: “I would like to raise money towards a cure for Alzheimer’s.

“My amazing Grandad was actually diagnosed with Alzheimer’s last year which took a toll on our family, but with family support he is keeping strong.

“Having been unaware of the effects of this disease until now, I never knew how it might one day destroy the people we love. What’s the point in a good life if we can’t remember it?

“It gave me the idea to do something for Alzheimers Research UK in the hope one day there will be a cure.

“I’ve never done a big trek, especially something as big as Mount Everest base camp but after researching challenges for charity I took a big interest in it and decided to go ahead and do it.

“I will be hiking between six to eight hours a day during the trek.

“I have started training with cycling and hiking around work. I have an intense training schedule which is to be started about 14 weeks before the trek.

The trek will be held in March next year and is a 12-day, 120km journey.

The goal is to reach base camp at 5,357m (17,575ft) before they push on to Kala Patthar at 5,545m (18,192ft).

Rachel said: “The temperature will vary from up to 40C at a maximum at Kathmandu to -15C up the mountain.”

To help boost her fundraising efforts and get her closer to her £4,000 target, Rachel will be holding a series of fundraising events, including up coming charity fun day at The Squirrel Inn, in Laymore, Winsham.

She added: “I live in Hewood, Chard, I always grew up in Chard and went to Holyrood School. My grandfather who was recently diagnosed is also in Chard with my grandmother.”

The Squirrel Inn event is set to take place on October 1 and will include a tug of war, lawn mower racing, an obstacle course, face painting, an open mic, and a pub quiz, and there will be camping available.

For more and to donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/rachclimbseverest.