A WEST Dorset hospice is searching for volunteers to trek along the Great Wall of China.

The Weldmar Hospicecare Trust have launched their 2016 overseas challenge and are urging members of the community to take part in the journey.

The charity organised the Sahara Desert trek in 2013, the Icelandic trek challenge in 2014 - while volunteers will take on Mont Blanc in August.

In October 2016, Weldmar volunteers will be marching along a remote section of the Great Wall of China over five days. The trek will include walking through wild landscapes with distant green river valleys, mountain peaks with one of the wonders of the world as the backdrop.

The trip will be rounded off with a visit to two of Beijing's highlights, The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.

Organiser Matt Smith is reminding those thinking about taking part that the event can be quite hard-going.

"The trip is graded as moderate to challenging as the terrain is quite hilly and undulating with steep sections to contend with both on and off the wall," he said.

"The temperature will range between 15 to 25 degrees during the day. The bathroom facilities will be basic with no toilets on the trek and no shower facilities.

"Baby wipes will be your best friend."

The challenge takes place from October 15 to October 23, and there is a £320 self-funded registration fee, plus a minimum sponsorship of £3,150. The charge includes all meals on the trip, flights, transfers and transport in China - along with accommodation in a three star hotel for two nights, tents on the trek fro four nights. The cost also covers trekking permits, support crew and English speaking guides.

The team will only consist of Weldmar supporters and those taking part will be joined by Matt, who will offer support throughout the preparation and the event.

Various training walks and social events will be organised in advance, which help on reaching the fundraising target will also be on hand.

"We are now known for our amazing overseas challenges, which have become a main income contributor each year" said Matt.

"This year’s Mont Blanc Trek will be the third in our series of adventures. The majority of people that take part have never done anything like this before but come away with such a massive sense of achievement.

"Not only will you achieve an amazing challenge but also raise money for your local hospice at the same time - as well as leaving with lifelong friendships and forever memories. Our Mont Blanc trekkers are currently working hard at fundraising before we depart in August. And we now want to hear from people wanting to be part of our amazing challenge for 2016.”

For more call Matt Smith on 01305 261800 or visit weld-hospice.org.uk/china