Intrepid reporter Alison Fraser is travelling further afield than normal for stories for her local newspaper...

Alison, who is education reporter on the Worcester Evening News, is heading for Peru in October to raise money for the Acorns Children's Hospice.

During her fortnight in South America the 25-year-old (left) will be trekking at heights of 14,000 along the world famous Inca Trail. The trail leads to the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu, re-discovered in the last century.

She said: "I've always wanted to visit Peru, ever since Paddington Bear. I might not spot any of his relatives but I know I'll have a good time out there."

Alison is a seasoned traveller, last year raising £2,000 for Arthritis Research Campaign by trekking across Iceland.

This time around it's for a charity closer to home.

"Acorns helps children across the West Midlands with life-limiting illnesses," she said.

"At the moment children from Worcester have to travel to Birmingham for respite care. But they are fund-raising for a new hospice in Worcester for children from the area."

After the trek Alison will celebrate her birthday in Cuzco, before extending the trip with a river safari in the Amazon rainforest.

"I haven't had time to get excited about the trip as I'm concentrating on fund-raising," said Alison.

"I need to raise £2,500 before I can take part so I'm holding a gig, classical concert and a teddy bear's picnic."

Anyone who would like to help Alison with her fund-raising can contact her on 01905 742252.

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