A NORTH-EAST academic is preparing for the challenge of a lifetime in one of the world's most inaccessible and beautiful places - the Inca Trail, in Peru.

Jim Bradshaw, the University of Sunderland's deputy vice-chancellor, is heading to the South American country on behalf of an international charity.

Mr Bradshaw, 56, will leave his Sunderland home next month to spend ten days trekking through exotic locations, such as Cuzco, Runkoracay and Machu Picchu, at heights of up to 14,000ft.

He is raising money for ActionAid, an organisation committed to tackling poverty worldwide.

Mr Bradshaw is also fundraising for the university's Futures Fund, which supports students by giving grants, scholarships and awards.

Although relatively fit, Mr Bradshaw said he was realistic about the effects of the change in altitude in the mountains of Peru.

He said: "I've heard that some people just can't take the change in altitude.

"It is going to be tough. I've done some training on walking weekends in the Lakes and the Peak District, but it's not quite the same thing. I've been to the top of the Matterhorn - but I took the train, so I don't think that counts."

Anyone wanting to support the marathon trek is asked to contact Mr Bradhsaw on 0191-515 2042