Formby resident embarks on 3000m trek across the Himalayas

The charity challenge of a lifetime - trekking across the Himalayan Annapurnas, home to some of the highest peaks in the world, in aid of the Humane Society International.

Formby resident, Hannah Loughlin, is to bravely embark on an eleven-day, 3000m high trek around Nepal's majestic Himalayan Annapurna region, with the aim to raise over £3,200 for charity, the Humane Society International.

Organised by Discover Adventure, specialists in trekking and cycling challenges worldwide for charitable fundraising, Hannah's trekking expedition will depart on 5th March 2016 from Kathmandu. Taking her through thick rhododendron forest, past mountainside villages perched up above picturesque rice terraces, it will be a real glimpse into local life. Walking by day and basic camping by night, there will be tree lined, awe inspiring views of the great peaks and glaciers of the Himalayas, including the famous 'fish- tail' mountain of Machupucchare.

Hannah, aged 35 and a Producer at the BBC, is raising money for the Humane Society international because: "Animal welfare is an issue close to my heart. The Humane Society International or 'HSI' is one of the only international animal protection organisations in the world working to help the well-being of all animals - including those in laboratories, on farms, companion animals and wildlife. That means that the HSI look at ways to make farm animals lives better, research viable alternatives to animal testing, protect wildlife and look after animals caught up in world disasters or just living in countries experiencing extreme poverty."

Hannah said: "I have paid £300 to register for the trek and also need to get all the kit. I've never done anything like this before so it's a real challenge and by no means a holiday. I've been training for about six months now and climbed Ben Nevis as practice earlier this year. As long as I reach my target HSI will cover the cost of my trip with all the money I raise going to help the animals. Through my trek booking Discover Adventure are also donating £150 to the Nepal Relief Effort. Tourism and trekking are more important than ever to aid Nepal's recovery from the earthquake there in April of this year." "I'm about half way to my fundraising target but have to give over all the money in less than a month! So I've pulled my whole family and friends together and will be running a fundraiser at my house on Sunday December 20th, 11am-3pm. The event will be tea, cake, mulled wine, Christmas music a vintage fair and craft activities for kids. I'm hoping it will be a proper festive affair right before Christmas." Discover Adventure offers a great deal for charities, with at least 50% of fundraising targets going direct to the charity concerned. Its eco-friendly worldwide challenges, include classic routes, such as the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu or Land’s End to John O’Groats cycle trip, to tailor-made expeditions – all led by highly experienced leaders. To support Hannah's charity challenge, visit: www.justgiving.com/Hannah-Loughlin For further information about Discover Adventure’s challenges, whether self-funded or raising money for a great cause, visit , www.discoveradventure.com