Local trekker prepares for Everest Base Camp Challenge

An intrepid trekker from Harrow is preparing for Mount Everest.

Mohamed Poonawala has signed up for a trek to Base Camp on the world's highest mountain, Mount Everest, in aid of Penny Appeal's Rebuilding Pakistan Appeal, which aims to rebuild the village of Kamar Mashani in the Punjab region of Pakistan.

Countless villages in the region were swept away by the devastating floods that followed the heavy monsoon rains in July 2010, and which killed at least 1,700 people and displaced over six million others.

Mohamed, a financial consultant from Rayners Lane, commented: "I decided to take on the Everest Challenge for two main reasons: firstly, the families of Pakistan have nowhere near recovered from the devastating floods of 2010 and a whole lot more still needs to be done to get them back on track. Secondly, because of the title, it's a challenge! The majority of my preparation will involve cap in hand fundraising up until December as well as walking, walking and more walking!

"I am most looking forward to getting that first glimpse of Mount Everest, as well as seeing the results of the fundraising effort from the team. I hope to gain a whole lot of humility and some great new friends from the experience."

At 5,36metres, the Everest South Base Camp in Nepal offers a serious challenge for even experienced walkers, but the breathtaking panoramic views that take in eight of the world's highest mountains will make the trek a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Adeem Younis, Chairman of UK-based Penny Appeal, said: "The Everest Base Camp trek is all about remembering the plight of the forgotten victims of the Pakistan floods. We're aiming to raise over £40,000 - enough money to build a small village of two-bedroom houses, as well as to construct wells and distribute much-needed aid packages."

The charity trek takes place from 2nd to 18th December 2011 and Mohamed has set himself a fundraising target of £5,000. Donations are welcomed and can be made at www.justgiving.com/Mohamed-Poonawala

"It's a challenge that will leave the group with a lifetime of memories," said Adeem Younis, "and everyone who takes part in the trek will be making a very real difference to the lives of disadvantaged people in Pakistan."