ALONG with 68 other intrepid trekkers we successfully took part in the fascinating Inca Trail trek organised by The Children's Society earlier this summer.

We walked over high passes, through cloud forest and finally into sub-tropical vegetation culminating in the great city of Machu Picchu -- a fabulous sight.

All that ascending and descending has really stretched our legs. To give you an idea, it would be the equivalent of climbing Ben Nevis for each day of the trek.

We would like to urge Journal readers -- a huge congratulations to those who have already done so -- to take part in one of the charity's Peru treks planned for next year (April 21-30). There are also treks in Venezuela (May 5-13) and a coast to coast Mexico cycle ride (April 28-May 10).

All money raised from the challenges will help fund the Society's work with some of the most vulnerable children and young people in the country. Peru really is an amazing country and the Inca Trail is simply breathtaking. This is truly a wonderful way to support such a worthy cause.

To sign up, a registration fee and a commitment to raising the minimum sponsorship is required. Please ring the hotline number 0870 123 4423 for more information.

PENNY SMITH (GMTV)

MARIELLA FROSTRUP

(writer and broadcaster)

On behalf of The Children's Society