A CARDIGAN-born plumber will embark on a charity journey of a lifetime next year as he takes on the Helambu Nepal Trek.

The walk from February 9-17, will see father of two Neil Jones tackle rolling foothills of the region, negotiating a series of long, steep climbs and descents on trails that range from well-maintained routes to rocky paths and forests – all in aid of Velindre Cancer Centre.

Neil, who will be joined by his sister-in-law, mother-of-three Emma Clarke from Crymych, has never done anything like this before.

“I was talking to a friend of mine, Ed Jones, last year who had been to Machu Picchu and I thought I should give something back to the community and do something similar,” said Neil. who will be one of 50 walkers, and joined by the television comedian Rhod Gilbert, on his charity event.

“I’m no athlete and would never do the London Marathon, but I consider myself to be quite fit and I walk a lot.”

The walk will see Neil and his team-mates walk 10 hours every day for six days in very cold conditions with a possibility of some snow but he’s looking forward to it.

“I have a lot of work to collect £4,000 for the trek and money is already coming in and I am very grateful. I’m dedicated and I’m going to walk Pen y Fan and the coastal path to get used to some rugged terrain in preparation for the event,” said Neil, who runs his own plumbing, kitchen and bathroom installation company from his home in Blaenporth.

With the support of his wife Holly and children Leon (nine) and six-year-old Jacob, Neil is confident he will complete the gruelling journey.

“I’m excited but weary that I will miss my wife and children, but they are very much behind me on this. I’m sure I will miss them a lot but knowing they are supportive gives me a boost for the journey ahead,” added Neil.

To donate, cheques can be sent to Neil at The Vetch, Blaenporth, Cardigan, Ceredigion, SA43 2AW or visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/neil-jones54

and Emma’s page www.justgiving.com/fundraising/emma-clark02