A TEENAGE adventurer from Kelsall is gearing up to become the youngest ever Briton to climb Mount Everest via its south-east ridge this spring.

Alex Staniforth will attempt to climb the 29,035ft peak, the highest mountain in the world, as part of a 70-day expedition led by four-time Everest summiteer Tim Mosedale.

The expedition, in Nepal, takes place from March 29 to June 2, and the 18-year-old is aiming to raise �29,035 - �1 per foot of Everest - for children’s cancer charity CLIC Sargent and the Red Endangered Animal Connection Trust (REACT).

Alex said: ‘‘Having lost family to cancer, I’ve witnessed the destruction it brings, so CLIC Sargent help to ease this burden on young people and their families.

“I’ve always been concerned about the loss of forest, where 40% of all known species are endangered.

“REACT help protect wildlife globally.

“It’s so rewarding to be able to make a difference whilst achieving my own dreams and inspiring other people to be the change they want to see in the world’’.

Alex, a former Tarporley High School student, has so far been training with a dedicated plan of long distance cycling, swimming, strength training and walking and climbing in the mountains.

“The 5am starts and hours alone in the rain have been tough, but I know I’ll be glad for it when I’m pushing myself on Everest,” he said.

And it’s not the first time Alex has undertaken such a big challenge - in 2012 Alex climbed Mont Blanc, western Europe’s highest peak, and was selected as a London 2012 Olympic torchbearer.

His latest expedition has been sponsored �10,000 by Pulford mobile messaging company Textlocal, which will go towards covering costs such as food, shelter, travel, Sherpa mountain guiding, oxygen and kit.

Textlocal chairman Darren Daws said: “We are extremely proud to be sponsoring Alex for his Everest challenge. Alex is an inspiration to anyone who wants to overcome difficulties and achieve something truly remarkable in life.

“Textlocal will be following Alex’s progress as he makes his way to the top and we have also donated a top-of-the-range satellite phone to Alex so that he can keep in touch with friends and family during his travels.”

If you want to donate to Alex’s expedition, e-mail him at alex@alexstaniforth.com or call him on 07891841376.