A Norwich lecturer plans to climb Mount Everest to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation.

Chris Clare will take on the challenge of reaching the Base Camp of the highest mountain in the world next March.

The 23-year-old, who is a maths, English and ICT lecturer at City College Norwich, said: 'I have always had an interest in mountains.

'I spent a lot of my childhood in the Alps when I lived in Germany, but of course Everest is the big one – obviously there is a big difference between the Alps and the Himalayas.

'It is something I have wanted to do for quite a few years, and the fact that I can raise money for charity at the same time is brilliant.

'It still feels just that little bit surreal that I will be going to Everest Base Camp. I am really looking forward to it.'

He added: 'On March 17 I shall be flying out to Nepal to spend over a fortnight trekking eight hours a day to reach Base Camp Everest in aid of the British Heart Foundation.

'Landing in Lukla at 2827m I will spend nine days ascending from the 'foothills' of the Himalayas to reach Mount Everest Base Camp, a height of 5364m above sea level, as well as summiting Kala Pattar (5623m) en route, before making the trek home again.'

Mr Clare hopes his challenge will raise �3,500 for the British Heart Foundation.

Previously Mr Clare, who lives in Mottram Close, has completed the London to Brighton bike ride for the British Heart Foundation, and he is trainer for Heartstart, the British Heart Foundation's emergency life support sessions.

The British Heart Foundation's aim is to play a leading role in the fight against disease of the heart and circulation, so that it is no longer a major cause of disability and premature death.

To sponsor Mr Clare go to http://original.justgiving.com/christopherc/ or email chrissclare@googlemail.com

For more information on the British Heart Foundation visit www.bhf.org.uk

Are you raising money for a good cause? Contact reporter Emma Knights on 01603 772428 or email emma.knights@archant.co.uk