Challenge of three peaks in 24 hours

HELPING HAND: Richard Coffey is aiming to be of service in Brunei

A-Level student Richard Coffey has set himself a challenge, and two of his friends have volunteered to help him.

Richard, who is in his final year at Dover Grammar, and his two friends will be aiming to climb the highest peaks in England, Scotland, and Wales - all in just 24 hours.

The expedition to climb Scafell Pike, Ben Nevis and Snowdon aims to raise money for Richard's forthcoming placement in Brunei, for which he needs to raise nearly £1,000.

Raleigh International has selected Richard to spend 10 weeks in Brunei in the summer of 2001, taking part in projects to benefit the community.

"I will he spending three weeks in a community-based project, like building a school. My group will be carrying on from others who will have started the project. Another three weeks will be spent working on an environmental-based project, so I could be spending the time with a research scientist.

"We are also going to spend three weeks trekking through the tropical rainforests, when we will be camping."

Richard, who hopes to study aerospace engineering at Manchester University, can not wait for his expedition to Brunei.

"Six weeks is spent directly helping other people. You integrate into the community, and the organisation send you to places where they need help."

Richard, who lives in St Richard's Road, Deal, has approached several companies asking for sponsorship, but has had no success.

Anyone who would like to support Richard should phone him on 01304 369138.