WHEN Helena Simms “conquers” Mount Kilimanjaro thoughts of her grandmother will spur her on.

Miss Simms, 22, is hoping to raise £1,000 for Cancer Research in memory of Gladys Illing, of Winslow, near Buckingham, who lost her battle against the disease last May.

Miss Simms, from Windmill Avenue, Bicester, will travel to Africa in October to tackle the 5,895 metre peak. But when she heads off, she aim to be at the peak of fitness. She is going to the gym six days a week and has already had a practice climb up a snowy Mount Snowdon in Wales.

Miss Simms said: “This charity really means a lot to me. In the past 18 months I have lost two people.

I sadly lost my nan last May — I really admired her.

She made me realise how short life is and to really appreciate life by conquering your aspirations. Cancer Research UK is a truly fantastic cause and has helped deliver medical advances that save thousands of lives.

“Two success stories are my uncle, Brian Illing, and my nan’s partner, Edward Deveraux, who both recovered from cancer less than a year ago.

“I admire the courage and bravery of cancer patients, and this has made me so determined to do my part and help raise funds for more people to aspire and achieve their own dreams.”

To help her raise the cash, Miss Simms is hosting events including a jumble sale and raffle at the Methodist Church, Sheep Street, Bicester, today from 10am to 1.30pm.