A UNIVERSITY student from Sidbury has high hopes her home-community can help her climb the world’s second highest mountain for charity.

Kesiah Moss,19, is gearing up to scale Mount Kilimanjaro in bid to raise cash for Practical Action – a cause that uses technology to challenge poverty around the globe.

Theology student Kesiah, of David’s Close, needs to raise �2,500 before her summit attempt in September.

A life-changing gap year in Central America has spurred Kesiah to take on world-wide charity challenges.

She told the Herald: “Having spent time living with some of the poorest communities in Nicaragua with Raleigh International, I know how much difference charities like these can make. I speak having seen it first hand.

“When I saw this once-in-a -lifetime opportunity to climb one of the world’s highest mountains - and at the same time raise money for an amazing charity - I jumped at the chance.”

“I know it will be a challenge, but I have always been involved in charity and will continue to do so as I know how privileged I am.

“Longer term, I hope to pursue a career in international development work overseas.

“The trek itself is an organised event of about 40 students and it will take seven days to reach the summit.

“I aim to organise, alongside some university friends, a series of fundraising events in the next few months to help raise money and also increase the profile of the charity in the university and in my local area.

“If anyone can spare any amount of money - however small - it would be so gratefully received. I have a big target and need every bit of help.”

Kesiah thanked the Chairman’s Trust of Sidmouth Town Council and The Rotary Club of Sidmouth for their “extremely generous” donations so far.

She will be joined on the trek by fellow students from Exeter University.

You can back Kesiah’s bid at www.justgiving.com/Kesiah-Moss.