An army major is set leave his home in Angus to take on the challenge of climbing Africa’s highest mountain.
Steve White, from Glen Prosen, is part of a trekking party that will climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.
The 41-year-old is taking part in the challenge to raise money for soldier’s charity Help For Heroes. He hopes to reach the peak shortly after sunrise next Thursday.
His trek to the 5,895m (19,340ft) summit will require him to navigate between six and nine miles of tropical jungle, plains, ravines, scree fields and glaciers a day, all the while climbing as the air thins.
Steve said he was fortunate to live near so many hills in Angus, allowing him immediate access to some of the very best terrain for mountain training.
Through his role as the Officer Commanding of the army wing of the Defence Diving School, he has also been able to join in with some of the most demanding physical training available for soldiers.
Steve said: “My training regime has been getting up and over the peaks and ridges around Angus in my 20kg weighted vest. I’ve also been wearing a training mask that restricts my breathing, which is equivalent to breathing at 18,000 feet.”
Steve, who recently completed two tours of Afghanistan with 1 Rifles and 2 Rifles, said he was astounded at the support he has received.
He credits his wife Ruth for leading the fundraising drive as he prepared physically. The total raised sits at more than £3,300.
“The training and preparation is all but complete and the anticipation is now building for the challenge itself,” Steve added.
“I am used to being away from home for months on end and an 11-day trip is not even registering to be honest but I will help some of my fellow trekkers with their mental and emotional preparation for the separation from their families.
“I have been overwhelmed and humbled by the level of support.”
Steve’s fundraising page is at www.bmycharity.com/trekkingsteve