Hi

 I have created this page to announce "Tank's Trek" to Mt Kilimanjaro, the highest free standing mountain in the world, located in Tanzania, East Africa

I am climbing from 1st February 2010 with the Jagged Globe mountaineering company, based in Sheffield who I have climbed with before in the Scottish Highlands

My obvious ambition is to reach the top at 5895m but a have a second important target of raising money for the Julia's House Childrens Hospice by reaching the top. I am grateful for any donations and pledges from £1 to infinity because it will all go to a great cause. I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Corfe Mullen centre which brought to light the excellent work the charity does for the terminally ill children they care for, either during day visits or at the child's home. This professional care is often a lifeline to the parents and siblings who not only get the chance of a break but are included in a number of schemes too. The relationship can go on for years and the kids learn to love the times when Julia's House nurses and carers knock on the door or when they visit the centres.

This care, you won't be surprised to hear does not come cheap. The government only supports 3% of the funds needed,so donations and fund raising are vital to ensure the excellent level of care and support is maintained. £2million is needed next year so I am asking everyone to spare some loose change for a great cause. Please give generously!

To support me in my climb go to  http://www.justgiving.com/James-Tank-Kirkpatrick or pledge some money in the fish and chip shop. I'll be very glad you did.

For more information on Julia's House go to www.juliashouse.org

Many thanks

James "Tank" Kirkpatrick, (The Fish Plaice proprietor)

This picture below is me in the Scottish Highlands

*********** Kilimanjaro Update *************

February 2010

I've recently completed the climb to the summit of Kilimanjaro. I summitted at around 7am on Thursday 28th January 2010, just after sunrise. The views of the crater, glaciers and Serengeti plains in the distance were breath taking. I suffered from medium to strong effects of attitude sickness and struggled to sleep and had headaches of various degrees through the 5 days of climbing. The summit bid involved a final ascent of 1300m in darkness and I arrived on top completely spare of energy! I found it as tough mentally as physically but the feeling at Uhuru Peak was europhic. I've raised over £1200 for Julia's House and I'm currently considering what challenge to take up next!

Regards

James

18th February 2010

     The roof of Africa, Mt Kilimanjaro, 5895amsl, Tanzania