Friends Laura Lamptey and Charlotte Bains have special reasons for wanting to visit the Great Wall of China.
The pair are raising funds for East Cheshire Hospice where they work.
Laura saw how the Hospice cared for her sister-in-law Sarah who died of cancer in 2014, aged 36.
Meanwhile, Charlotte is approaching her 50th birthday and has never been to the Great Wall.
It was her idea to make the trip to one of the great wonders of the world next November (11-19).
Places are still available for the five-day trek organised by the Hospice. The deadline is February.
Laura, the charity’s people and development manager, heard about China from daughter Lola who visited in July as part of her Mandarin studies at Tytherington High School.
Laura said: “I’m copying my daughter who went to the Great Wall though not a trek. Lola said it was an amazing experience and I can’t wait to visit.
Charlotte Bains (left) and Laura Lamptey preparing for the Great Wall of China trek.
“I did the national Three Peaks challenge but haven’t done a walk quite as adventurous. Charlotte persuaded me to sign up, though I didn’t need much convincing.
“My husband Omar had already suggested I should go.
“I first became aware of the Hospice because Sarah died here. I’ve been here five years and get satisfaction working for an organisation that makes such a big difference.”
Laura and Charlotte are holding events to raise funds with a bingo night at Broken Cross Club on Friday, March 6.
Charlotte is payroll and finance coordinator at the Hospice. She said: “It’s the best place I could ever choose to work.
“I was a graphic designer in my younger days and did several sales and accounting jobs.
“They were very corporate and a different environment whereas here I’m contributing towards society. It feels rewarding and I’m a happier person.
“I’m Malaysian Chinese and have travelled around Asia but haven’t been to the Great Wall.
“The trip has come at the right time for me. I wanted a challenge because I hit 50 in two years.” Sponsor them via www.justgiving.com/page/laura-charlotte-china-2026.
The trek is moderate to challenging and supporters need a good level of general fitness. There are also visits to Beijing highlights, The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. For more details, visit www.eastcheshirehospice.org.uk/trek-china-2026 or email fundraiser Sarah Elvin on sarah.elvin@echospice.org.uk.