INTREPID Amber Powers is appealing for help to embark on a dream South American adventure.

The 40-year-old from Darlington is planning to tackle a ten-day trek for charity through the mountains of Peru in September.

She needs to raise £3,000 by July for the mental health charity Mind, which has organised the trip.

"I only had this idea a few days ago but it is something I feel really strongly about. There is not enough awareness of mental illness," she said.

The rigorous training has started for the trek, which will involve walking at least ten miles a day at high altitude.

To make a donation telephone (01325) 288643