A GROUP of soldiers are aiming to climb South Africa's highest mountain this summer - as well as visit the site of a famous battle which produced a hero their barracks is now named after.

Members of the A Troop, based at Dalton Barracks in Abingdon, hope to fly out to South Africa in mid-June.

The main purpose of their trip will be to climb Champagne Peak, the highest mountain in the country.

But the expedition party, known as Champagne Ascent 98, will also visit Rorke's Drift - made famous by the film Zulu, starring Michael Caine.

A handful of British troops launched a heroic defence against overwhelming Zulu forces, earning Commissar Henry Dalton a Victoria Cross for the part he played in the battle.

The Abingdon barracks was later named in his memory.

The expedition is scheduled to last three weeks and is expected to cost £8,000.

Much of the cost will be met by private funding, but the troop is also hoping companies in the Abingdon area can offer their support.

Anyone interested in helping should contact Dalton Barracks directly. ZULU FILM: Michael Caine

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