Published at 09:23, Friday, 19 February 2010

A Cumbrian animal nurse will swap uniform for walking gear on a fundraising trek through Africa.

• Video: Mica Graham in training for her Africa walk

Mica Graham

Mica Graham, of Burgh by Sands, is gearing up to walk 100km through Masai villages and the Tanzanian savannah in aid of the Blue Cross animal welfare charity.

The 20-year-old, who works at Belle Vue Vets in Wigton’s South End, is keen to get stuck into the challenge.

“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do and somewhere I’ve always wanted to go.

“I am nervous about the trek as it is a long way. But it will be great – a once in a lifetime experience.”

Mica has been hard at work raising the cash needed for her to take the trip. Coffee mornings and dog walking are just some of the fundraising events she’s staged.

“I need to raise £2,995 by the end of March. I’m about a third of the way there, so I’ve a bit to go.”

Mica, who has a horse called Jenner and a dog called Max, believes the Blue Cross provides an essential service.

“It’s such a help for the people who have animals. I think it’s so important we do look after animals because sometimes they look after us, like guide dogs and rescue dogs.”

The Blue Cross rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets’ fees.

Mica is hosting a sponsored dog walk around Talkin Tarn, near Brampton, on February 28 from 12pm. Participants can walk 2km or 4km. It costs £5 to join in and proceeds will go to the charity.

Sponsor Mica’s trip to Africa at www.justgiving.com/mica-graham.

Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk