A WORCESTER man climbed new heights as he embarked on a sponsored event aimed at raising money for a charity mountain climb next year.

Trevor Brookes raised more than £2,000 at St John's Sports Centre as he climbed the equivalent of six miles on one of the gym's step machines.

But the 38-year-old, who works in Bromsgrove, has far more ambitious intentions - a 62-mile six-day trek through the Himalayas, reaching aheight of 2,500ft.

The sponsored trek is aimed at raising money for the Youth Hostel Association so holidays can be provided for underprivileged children.

"It was part of my training as I get ready for next year's climb," he said.

"The first hour was fine but the rest of the time was very gruelling.

"It went really well and the support from the staff at the centre was brilliant. I would like to say thank you to everyone who donated money during the event.

"When I finished I was exhausted and it was good to have a drink at the end of it.

"It will be much tougher in the Himalayas. During the day it is more than 20 degrees and at night it is below freezing."

But Mr Brookes said he was looking forward to the climb, as it would be "the challenge of a lifetime".