THREE businessmen are set to take on the challenge of a lifetime by trekking up Mount Kilimanjaro for charity.

Graham Sheldon, Steve Coulthard and Marc Borley, all from Bishop Auckland, are making their final preparations ahead of the 5,895 metres climb next month.

They have set themselves a target of raising £5,000 each for the Coco charity, which was founded by former world champion athlete Steve Cram to raise money to improve the lives of children living in poverty through education and healthcare.

Mr Coulthard will also be fundraising for St Mary’s Juniors football club, in Bishop Auckland, where he is the chairman.

The challenge takes place over ten days, with five of them spent trekking to the summit from Sunday, February 8.

Mr Sheldon, 58, said: “The opportunity arose and we felt it was the right time to do it. In another ten years it would be too late.

“As well as the trek, we know we will get the chance to see some of the work that is being done out there.”

The trio are confident with their training, having taken trips to the lLake District and up Roseberry Topping, in east Cleveland.

Mr Sheldon added: “We all know it is going to be hard but the biggest thing is going to be the altitude. We won’t know how we will cope with it until we are there.”

Mr Coulthard said: “I have been hoping to do this for the last 15 years and I eventually got around to it for my 60th birthday this year.

“It is great to have two great friends to share the experience with in Graham and Marc.”

To sponsor Mr Sheldon visit justgiving.com/Graham-Sheldon1 or for Mr Coulthard visit justgiving.com/stevecoulthard