A HALESOWEN hospital consultant is gearing up to climb Africa’s highest peak for charity.

Raj Patel, of Colman Hill-based West Midlands Hospital, is tackling Mount Kilimanjaro to raise money for the Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice – an organisation which is close to his heart.

The general surgery expert is teaming up with a group of 14 others who are aiming to reach the mountain’s summit during the week-long trip organised and co-ordinated by Action Challenge.

Mr Patel, a consultant surgeon in laparoscopic and colorectal surgery at the private Halesowen hospital, has been preparing for the trek by doing regular long distance walks to build up his fitness and stamina.

He has chosen to raise money by climbing the 4,900m mountain for the hospice because of the excellent care provided to his mother some years ago.

Mr Patel, who lives in Harborne, said: “I’ve trekked across Tibet and I love walking and hiking in my spare time but this is going to be a completely different adventure.

“I’m the only doctor in the group which will include people from different professions and different countries and I can’t wait to get started.”

He added: “I’m extremely grateful to everyone who has made a donation so far and the amount as it stands has exceeded my expectations.

“It is going to be an exhausting trek but it’s one that I’m really looking forward to. I’m hoping some of the recent climbs I’ve done will stand me in good stead!”

To support Mr Patel on his mammoth trek and donate to St Mary’s Hospice visit www.justgiving.com/Rajtpatel.

West Midlands Hospital is supporting the long-serving consultant in his quest by donating £200 to St Mary’s Hospice, bringing the total amount he has raised so far so more than £1,800.

Gloria Kerrigan, the hospital’s general manager, said: “We would like to say good luck and send our best wishes as he takes on this amazing challenge to raise funds for an excellent cause.”