A YORK woman was so moved by the plight of abandoned children in Eastern Europe and Africa she signed up for a sponsored charity event right away.

And before she knew it, Lesley Chambers had agreed to hike 75km in four days at an altitude of up to 3,500m to the lost Inca city of Machu Picchu, in Peru.

Now the 45-year-old accountant from Rufforth - who has, to date, barely climbed so much as a hill - faces the gruelling prospect of walking the Inca Trail to raise money for the international children's charity Hope And Homes For Children.

Lesley said: "I got an email at work asking me if I would like to go on an expedition to raise money for abandoned and orphaned children. But I wasn't really thinking about the trek - I just thought it sounded like a great cause. I have no experience of hill-climbing whatsoever, and as a result of a discectomy I have nerve damage down my right leg, so this will not be an easy feat.

"I'm nervous that I haven't done anything like this before, but the scenery looks stunning, and I can't wait to get out there."

Lesley has set up a website at www.justgiving.com/lcperu, where sponsors can donate money and follow her progress. Alternatively, phone her on 07745689750.

Updated: 10:23 Monday, October 11, 2004