HEROIC Wolverley schoolteacher Alison Hemming embarks on a trek of lifetime later this year when the 37-year-old mum of three will attempt to reach the top of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Alison, who is under no illusions about the task, said:

"This is one of the toughest yet most thrilling challenges of my life.

"I suffered from post natal depression over the past 12 months, so I wanted to do something for myself. But working as a teacher, you come across a lot of students who have mental health conditions and I want to show that you can overcome them."

Alison - a science teacher and head of house at Wolverley Secondary School - will set off on Boxing Day and expects to be back in time for the new school term.

But she has to raise £3,000 for mental health charity Mind in the process to take her place on the trek.

Alison added: "Although the trek is going to be a great opportunity, raising money for Mind is more important to me."

Prior to the trek, Alison, from Halesowen, will have to embark on a strict training programme to prepare for the physical challenge which will involve taking walks up Ben Nevis and Snowdon.

Alison admitted: "I've never done anything like this before and I'm really nervous but something I'm determined to do knowing the money I raise will be used to improve the lives of people living with mental health problems."

If anyone would like to support Alison on her challenge, they can by finding Alison's page at justgiving.com