SHE'S used to trekking around North Dorset on behalf of the Primary Care Trust.

But next year Nikki Stevens from Wimborne will hit the Inca Trail at heights of up to 4,000 metres.

She's taking Spanish classes and has started a campaign of biking, swimming and lengthy walks to get fit.

But it's the lack of a hair dryer and hot showers which worries her even more than blisters and altitude sickness. "I'm a bit vain," she admitted.

Nikki is not new to travelling, having backpacked around New Zealand and worked on a remote vineyard. It's the fund-raising for Marie Curie Cancer Care which will be an equal challenge.

She must raise £2,500 and plans to sell home-made cakes at work and unwanted clothes at car boot sales to hit her target. Sponsorship from businesses would also be welcome.

"I've always wanted to see the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, so when I found out Marie Curie were organising the trek I thought I could combine it with helping local people," said Nikki, a project manager.

"I am slightly worried about the challenge of being fit enough but this is nothing compared to that faced by those coping with terminal cancer.

"I wanted to raise money for this charity because it gives people with cancer high-quality nursing totally free and gives terminally ill people the choice of dying at home supported by their families."

To sponsor Nikki on her challenge, visit www.justgiving. com/nikkitrek or telephone Julia Chapman from Marie Curie on 01460 271230).

First published: August 23