TWO grandmothers are planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro to raise money for a bereavement charity.

Barbara Bailey, 62, and 61-year-old Doreen Thorogood will begin their challenge on August 8.

So far they have raised more than £850 for the Greenwich Cruse Bereavement Service, which provides free support and councelling for adults and children.

Mrs Bailey, of Greenvale Road, Eltham, said: “ I think it will be wonderful. I have never been to Africa before.

"When I see pictures of it I’m really up for it. It will be something of a life time.

“My two sons are impressed. They think it’s quite an achievement.”

Each year both women raise money for charity by setting themselves a new challenge.

They have already walked 100 miles in the Scottish Highlands, climbed five of the highest peaks in Snowdonia in five days and walked 85 miles along the Dorset coastal path.

But it was Mrs Thorogood, of Dumbreck Road, Eltham, who set her sights on Mount Kilimanjaro.

She said: “I have always wanted to do it ever since I was a little girl. I’m really fascinated by it.

"When I turned 61 I just thought maybe I should do this so I asked Barbara.”

They have been preparing for the climb by going to the gym for the past year and doing cardiovascular work and core strength training with weights.

Mrs Thorogood added: “We are really excited about it but really nervous.

“The only problem we might have is altitude sickness but no one can help that. We are keeping our fingers crossed.”

To make a donation, visit justgiving.com/gokili