There's scope for a challenge (From Penarth Times)

There's scope for a challenge

A PENARTH globetrotter will be setting off for the Himalayas in February for a gruelling 100km walk.

Emma Murnane, 29, of Windsor Road, will be jetting off from Heathrow on her 30th birthday to take part in the Nepal Hike Away for SCOPE.

She will be joining 50 other people from around the UK to trek in the Annapurna mountain range.

Emma, who is currently training at Penarth Leisure Centre, will have to walk steep, narrow paths for six hours each day and camp out in freezing temperatures.

She said: "I'm really looking forward to it. This is a particular challenge for me as I am scared of heights.

"I know I will have to be very fit so I am doing a lot of training, including a sponsored walk up Snowdon.

"Staff at the leisure centre in Cogan had their own challenge - to devise a specific gym programme to prepare me for trekking long distances carrying a rucksack."

Emma, who has been living in Penarth for five years, said: "I have pledged to raise at least £2,500 which could provide equipment to allow a person to live, with relative independence, in his or her own home.

"Local shops, family, friends, and colleagues at Hyder Consulting in St Mellons, have been extremely supportive."

Emma has just £700 left to raise and is now appealing to Penarth residents to buy tickets in a raffle, to take place during the New Years Eve celebrations at Chandlers on the Esplanade.

She said: "Tickets will be on sale on the night with a great many prizes, donated by local shops and companies."

If you can help Emma please phone her on 2092 5121, or for more information on events run by SCOPE, phone 0800 0191 200.