ONE Ansdell man is looking forward to the trip of a lifetime - but it definitely won't be all palm trees and cocktails by the pool.

In June Toby Westoby (pictured) will join best-selling author Bill Bryson and up to 50 intrepid walkers as they trek with llamas through the Appalachian Mountains in aid of the NSPCC.

And 54-year-old Toby is appealing for local people and businesses to sponsor him.

Inspired by Bryson's 1997 best-seller A Walk In The Woods, this unique fund-raising trip will take the group eight days, travelling 80 miles along mountains paths, old railways and logging paths through some of America's most arresting and celebrated landscapes.

As he hikes deeper into the densely wooded wilderness Toby will share the trail with wild turkeys and even black bears.

And if this isn't adventurous enough, at the end of the walk Toby will have the opportunity to try his hand at white-water rafting and abseiling.

Toby said: "This trip will be a great personal challenge for me as well as an enormous adventure.

"I can't wait to hear at first hand Bill Bryson's account of his original trip into the Appalachian Mountains and then follow his footsteps.

"I've been in training doing long walks up hills - I suppose it's good for my dog if nothing else. But I really am looking forward to it and I'm hoping to raise about two or three thousand pounds.

"It's good to know the money I raise will make a real difference to children by helping to fund local NSPCC projects."

Anyone wishing to sponsor Toby can contact him on (01253) 736849.

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