AN engineer from Worcester who has raised £25,000 for a leading charity is donning his walking boots yet again in a bid to generate vital funds.

Trekking through Central Asia, tackling the mountainous region of Khazakstan and cycling the western coast of Ireland are just some of the challenges Ray Sturdy has completed on behalf of Mencap.

Now he is preparing to cycle more than 300 miles through South Africa in November.

After finishing each of his previous six challenges, the keen photographer has collected images of spectacular scenery and fantastic wildlife from his far-flung adventures to present as slide shows on behalf of the charity.

The talks - covering Patagonia, India, the Himalayas, Nepal and Ireland, to name just a few - have been so popular that he has given more than 50 presentations already this year.

The shows have contributed towards helping adults and children with learning difficulties and he is hoping other clubs and societies will be interested in booking the show.

"The people, places and experiences I've gained from every trip have been fantastic," said Ray, of Northwick.

"I think meeting lots of like-minded people who are all striving towards the same goal is physically and mentally stimulating.

"Completing the treks really is a life-changing event and you get a real high finishing a challenge for a good cause."

Ray's favourite place so far was Patogonia, in South America, for its variety of countryside.

He also organised the Dealer Ride for Mencap, which saw hundreds of UK Harley Davidson motorbike owners raise money for the charity.

Anyone interesting in booking a talk and slide show by the engineering consultant can contact him on 07831 422233.

To find out more about the individual presentations, log on to his website at www.phototravels.co.uk