AN Ilkley girl is to take on the heavyweight challenge of monitoring the breeding of rhinoceroses on the other side of the world.

Katja Armstrong, of Westwood Rise, is setting her sights on a youth trip to South Africa.

The 16-year-old will study a rhinoceros breeding programme, help staff at the Kruger National Park and have the opportunity to undertake a game keeper's exam as part of her stay.

Katja is undertaking the adventure with the Yorkshire Schools Exploring Society, an educational charity which ships young people to remote climes to give them an insight into different cultures.

Katja said: "I have never been out of Europe so it is quite exciting to go somewhere different and to give something back to other people. The conservation work we are doing is helping. They have volunteers all year round."

Katja, a pupil at Skipton Girls' High School, will also hike in the remote Drakemberg mountains and visit Zulu battlefields as part of the five-week stay, in July.

As part of the challenge the teenager is trying to raise the £2,375 necessary to fund the trip, and is looking for willing sponsors.

She said: "It is not a holiday. We are going out there to help local people."

If any individuals or companies wish to sponsor intrepid Katja they should telephone (01943) 816813.

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