A STUDENT from York is preparing to climb one of the highest mountains in the world for charity.

Gemma Kay, 19, is climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania to raise funds for the charity COCO, which works to provide education for African children living in poverty.

The former Manor School pupil, who is now studying at Newcastle University, will then work as a volunteer on one of the charity's projects for two weeks. She departs for Africa on June 18.

Gemma has raised more than £2,200 through sponsorship, work and car boot sales, but hopes to reach her target of £2,800.

She said: “When I heard about the Kilimanjaro climb I instantly wanted to go. It’s a chance to help children in poverty and it’s a great achievement to climb to the ‘roof of Africa’. I’m really looking forward to volunteering because I can see where the money I’ve raised is going and how it can change people’s lives.”

To help Gemma reach her target, visit justgiving.com/GemmaFKay