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A determined young fundraiser from West Felton is preparing to take on one of the world's most iconic trekking challenges as she climbs Mount Kilimanjaro in support of three local charities close to her heart.

Sophie Bayliss, 25, will spend seven days trekking up Africa's highest mountain, reaching an altitude of 5,895 metres at Uhuru Peak, while raising funds for charities that support rural communities.

The challenge holds particular significance for Sophie, who is undertaking the expedition in memory of her late mother.

"I've wanted to take on a big trekking challenge for quite a while," Sophie explained. "I'm a fairly experienced walker who loves the outdoors, climbing and kayaking, and I've always wanted to set myself something that would really push me physically and mentally."

While many people choose fundraising challenges such as the Yorkshire Three Peaks or the Snowdon Six, Sophie felt she needed something that would truly take her beyond her comfort zone.

"When the opportunity arose to climb Kilimanjaro, I thought I couldn't pass it up. I think it will be a significant physical and mental challenge, and hopefully that will help me raise meaningful funds for the charities I've chosen to support."

Supporting Causes Close to Home

Sophie has set herself an ambitious fundraising target of £3,000, which will be divided equally between three charities serving local communities.

Among them is Shropshire Rural Support, an organisation that held special importance to her mother and the farming community she was deeply involved in.

"There are so many charities that deserve support, but for me it's important to fundraise for local charities that make a difference to my communities, friends and family," Sophie said.

She described her mother as "the heart of our family and a true pillar of our community", noting her well-known role in creating the popular 'Shropshire Farmers, Smallholders and Contractors' Facebook group, which now has more than 30,000 members.

"These three charities were incredibly close to her heart and mum mentioned the vital work of Shropshire Rural Support on several occasions."

The Kilimanjaro Challenge

Mount Kilimanjaro, a dormant volcano in Tanzania, stands as both the highest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain above sea level in the world.

Sophie will tackle the renowned Machame Route, often referred to as the "Whiskey Route", which covers approximately 60 to 65 kilometres over seven days.

The route is designed to maximise acclimatisation through a "trek high, sleep low" approach, improving climbers' chances of reaching the summit successfully.

Starting on the south-western side of the mountain, the route traverses the dramatic Shira Plateau before joining other established climbing paths on the mountain.

After completing the trek, Sophie plans to travel to Zanzibar for a well-earned period of rest and recovery.

Preparing for the Unknown

Training for Kilimanjaro has presented unique challenges, particularly given the limited opportunities in the UK to prepare for high-altitude trekking.

"I've really increased the amount of walking I've been doing over the last six to eight months," Sophie said. "I vary the distances, terrain and incline to try and prepare for anything, and I go out in all weathers, which is a great test of my gear."

Alongside extensive walking, she has also incorporated strength training into her routine to build the endurance required for the expedition.

However, one aspect remains impossible to fully prepare for.

"What I can't really train for is the altitude, and that's probably my biggest concern."

Looking Forward to the Summit

For Sophie, the prospect of standing at the summit is both exciting and emotional.

"Completing the challenge and feeling that sense of achievement, standing at the summit and looking across at the view – I can't wait," she said.

While she admits to concerns about travel logistics, altitude sickness and the impact of a previous knee injury, she remains determined to succeed.

Her knee underwent ACL reconstruction and meniscus root repair two and a half years ago, but despite returning to football and other activities, steep descents can still cause discomfort.

Nevertheless, Sophie is taking the challenge in her stride.

"I'm not someone who always looks for the easy option. I like to be challenged and to push myself. I'm a bit of an adrenaline junkie and enjoy completing something that requires a lot of effort and determination."

'Climbing for the Countryside'

When asked what she would say to potential supporters, Sophie delivered a passionate message about the purpose behind her fundraising efforts.

"I'm doing it to raise awareness of and money for charities which regularly serve my local communities."

She added: "I am doing it for the rural communities and the farmers that keep this country running. I am 'Climbing for the Countryside!'"

And when she finally reaches the summit of Kilimanjaro?

"I think there will be a huge range of emotions," she said. "It'll probably be something like: 'We made it! What a view! Give me a beer! Can I go to sleep now?'"

But one thought stands above all others.

"This one's for you, Mum."

As Sophie prepares to take on Africa's highest peak, she hopes not only to achieve a lifelong ambition but also to make a lasting difference for the charities and communities that mean so much to her family.

To support Sophie's fundraising challenge and help her reach her £3,000 target, donations are welcomed https://gvwhl.com/A8L0V

Everyone at Shropshire Rural Support would like to wish Sophie the very best of luck as she takes on this incredible challenge. We are immensely grateful for her support and commitment to raising funds and awareness for SRS. We will be following her journey with great interest and look forward to celebrating her achievement when she returns from the summit of Kilimanjaro. You've got this Sophie!