A student has flown to Africa to climb one of the world's highest mountains and raise money for Cancer Research UK.
Phillip Moore, from Newton Aycliffe, is among a group of 16 people who will climb Mount Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania.
The 18-year-old, who is studying physics, maths and PE at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, in Darlington, will spend 13 days with Charity Challenge on the trek. He flew out on Saturday.
Before leaving he said: "I'm from a really close family and cancer has affected all of us.
"My grandad died from it and my grandma has suffered, but recovered, from it.
"I want to do something to help fight the disease and this seemed a good way to do it."
He has funded the cost of the expedition and equipment and hopes to raise an additional £1,000 for the charity through fundraising and sponsorship.
Donations can be forwarded to Phillip at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, Vane Terrace, Darlington, DL3 7AU, or on 01325-461315.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article