Stephanie BrooksA student from Hethersett is aiming to conquer three of the country's tallest mountains to raise money for a charity which has given immeasurable support to his own family.Stephanie Brooks

A student from Hethersett is aiming to conquer three of the country's tallest mountains to raise money for a charity which has given immeasurable support to his own family.

James Rice, 21, will be taking on the Three Peaks Challenge in August, which will see him and a large group of mates climb Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in England, and Snowden in Wales within 24 hours.

His aim is to raise �2,000 for Brain Tumour UK which has been a constant source of support for James since a close family member was diagnosed with a brain tumour last year.

'It was a very difficult and confusing time for us. We didn't know much about the condition and had no idea what sort of help or support was available for us,' he said.

'But we were put in touch with Brain Tumour UK and they have been amazing. They helped us talk to other sufferers and told us procedures and support available.'

James, who is often seen on the football pitch playing for Hethersett Athletic, is currently fitting his mountain climbing training between lectures at the University of Bedfordshire where he studies Physical Education.

But this is not the first time he has gone the extra mile to raise cash for charity - his Wax Ricey campaign which involved him having his head shaved and entire body waxed raised �1,220 for Quidenham children's hospice in 2008.

He said: 'I've never climbed a mountain before. I usually ensure I am going downhill not walking uphill.

'I'm getting up every day at 8am to go for a run before lectures and work. And I've had to knock the chips and chocolate on the head. I must be mad.'

To sponsor James, visit www.justgiving.com/james-rice-3peakschallenge