A expedition in the Himalayas will be the latest challenge for a 63-year-old university lecturer whose previous expeditions include treks in Peru and along the Great Wall of China.

Temperatures as low as minus 15C are waiting for Dorrie Ball, pictured, who is to brave the fundraising trek in March.

She will join an expedition to reach the North side base camp of Mount Everest in the Himalayas.

And she hopes to raise £2,750 for Barnardo's to help it carry on its work with vulnerable children and families.

She has already completed a trek in Peru for the charity and another along the Great Wall of China.

"I'm starting to arrange fundraising events and scout around for potential sponsors for the trek to Tibet in March, so I will hopefully raise more than the required amount for Barnardo's," she said.

"When I trekked through Peru it was hard work but thoroughly enjoyable and although I know this will be even harder because of the altitude and climbing involved, I am really looking forward to once again helping raise funds."

Ms Ball, who teaches health and social care at Huddersfield University, is getting in extra training between now and March by going on walks, going to the gym and working out using fitness equipment at her home in Thornton.

She has been told to expect a lot of snow and night time temperatures of minus ten or minus 15 even though it will be the beginning of spring in the Himalayas.

"I'm not sufficiently trained at the moment, but I have two months from now to get ready," she said.

"The thing I am most looking forward to is seeing Tibet, and also reaching the end of the trek."

As part of a group of fundraisers, she will pass through traditional Tibetan villages during her 15-day adventure and also see nomadic camps with spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks.

Participants have been told to expect a first hand experience of Tibetan culture and welcoming hospitality from the locals.

Anyone who can help with sponsorship can contact Ms Ball on (01274) 835367.