Charity trek in memory of mother (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Charity trek in memory of mother

THE memory of her mum's death is helping to spur on a Malmesbury woman's quest to complete her second charity trek for Cancer Research UK in 18 months.

Next May, Sharon Moore, from Bonner's Close, aims to complete a five-day trek to the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu, in Peru.

The day she returns, May 14, is also the date on which her mum died of cancer 29 years ago, at the age of 44.

Mum of two Sharon, a part-time teaching assistant at Malmesbury Primary School, explains the significance of the timing of the new challenge.

She said: "I'm now 44 and my mum was 44 when she died.

"I'm hoping to get to university next September to train to be a midwife so if I get on that course I won't be able to do anything else for another three years.

"I've spoken to a few people who have done it and they all say it's absolutely magnificent."

The adventure is costing her £1,500 just to take part, and she has an additional minimum target set by the charity of raising £2,500.

In the first month since registering for the trek, in which she has to walk 55 km in five days and reach an altitude of 8,000ft, friends and family have already stumped up £1,400 towards her target.

In November 2004 Sharon completed a six-day trek for Cancer Research UK in Sri Lanka, raising an impressive £8,500.

Having had a "fantastic time" on that trip she now hopes to emulate her success, and has organised her first major fundraising event with the help of the Spice Merchant restaurant in Holloway, formerly the Duke of York pub.

On Sunday, January 29, buffet meal will be held at the restaurant, which is organising live music, possibly in the form of Indian musicians and dancers.

Restaurant manager and part-owner, Suraj Ali, said: "The way she put everything in front of us, we thought, why not."

Tickets cost £15, and only 76 will be available so book now by calling the restaurant on 01666 823330.