In an inspiring display of determination and charity, Paul Stephens, a veteran from Bollington, is set to conquer the highest mountain in Africa, Kilimanjaro, to raise vital funds for Veterans with Dogs. This remarkable endeavour aims to support the charity's mission to pair ex-armed forces members with assistance dogs, providing companionship and boosting mental health.

Paul, who has already raised £1,079, is determined to reach his target of £1,500 by the time he scales the 5,895-metre peak. His journey will begin on August 6, when he heads to Tanzania, and culminate on August 7 with the ascent of Kilimanjaro.

A seasoned mountaineer, Paul has been training rigorously, including a recent climb of Snowdon and a visit to the altitude centre in London. His choice of guide, Nims Dai, a renowned Gurkha mountaineer, ensures that the local Sherpas will receive the maximum financial benefit from the expedition.

"As we get older, there is a lot of things in life that you want to do, but you don't. So here I am doing it, climbing Kilimanjaro.

"So if this goes well, it will be my stepping stone to do more in a couple of years to come.

"Kili is 19500 feet. The closest I have done to that is 14000 feet, which I in Switzerland and Colorado. I recently went down to the altitude centre in London, which was a really interesting test to see what my body can do.

"I have been training with 14kg on my backpack, getting two-to-three six-to-thirteen mile walks per week."

"Obviously being an ex-military personnel, Veterans with Dogs is a great charity for me to support.

"I love the fact how dogs can help people so much from a mental health aspect.

"I have seen so many people have a normal sense of life by having something to care for, which is a dog that loves you unconditionally. Veterans for Dogs do a great job of pairing people and paws up."

Veterans with Dogs is thrilled to have Paul's support. Trustee, Chrissie Maclellan, expressed our gratitude, stating, "We are absolutely thrilled that Paul is undertaking such a monumental trek to support our Veterans Assistance Dogs programme. Our assistance dogs do more than just assist; they save lives, offering companionship, love, and a newfound sense of freedom to their human partners."

To support Paul's incredible endeavour and contribute to the life-changing work of Veterans with Dogs, you can donate to his fundraiser using this link.

Join us in wishing Paul the best of luck on his remarkable adventure and in celebrating the invaluable work of Veterans with Dog.