CHILDREN’S Hospice Helen & Douglas House is calling for adventurous fundraisers to join its Great Wall of China Trek.

One of those already signed up to take part is Lucy Walker, community fundraising manager for the East Oxford charity.

She sees first-hand how the money raised for the hospice makes a life-changing difference to local families with terminally ill children and young adults.

The 27-year-old said: “I’ve been so touched by the incredible work that Helen & Douglas House does for terminally ill children and their families that I just felt compelled to do something for them.

“I’ve especially been touched by the families that I work with so closely, who despite going through the unimaginable are determined to raise funds and awareness of Helen & Douglas House.

“These local families face massive challenges everyday so the least I can do is take on this challenge to help them.”

Stretching over 5,500 miles, the Great Wall of China has a history spanning more than 2,000 years.

The wall, the longest human-made structure on the planet, is located in the north of China and crosses deserts, plains and snow-capped mountains.

The trek, which will take place between October 27 and November 4, will be via the Gubeikou to Simatai route, which features some of the most stunning views of the wall and the surrounding rolling hills.

Across five days Ms Walker and those who join her will take on 50km of the iconic structure, trekking through remote villages and towns and meeting local people along the way.

The terrain will be mixed, from undulating paths to demanding steep, uneven steps, finishing with a visit to the famous Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City, to give an insight into city life in China today.

Ms Walker, who is from Bicester, added: “I’ve never done anything quite like this before and I really am looking forward to having something to focus on and work towards.

“I’ve committed to a healthy eating plan to lose weight and an exercise program to make sure I’m as prepared as possible.

“I have started planning my fundraising events and will be doing a ladies clothes sale in March, selling handmade valentines items and regularly down the local car boot selling what I can to raise money.”

Anyone interested in taking part can visit hdh.org.uk to register or call 01865 799166.

Helen & Douglas House is also holding an information evening at 6.30pm on Monday at the hospice for those who want to find out more.

Booking is essential by calling 01865 799150.

To sponsor Ms Fisher visit justgiving.com/fundraising/china2018