A LEVERINGTON teenager will take part in a once in a lifetime expedition to Namibia and Botswana next summer.

Ellie Mason, 16, is one of 40 pupils at King’s School, Peterborough, who will climb mountains, come face to face with exotic wildlife and help out at a school and farm during their African adventure.

She needs to raise £4,000 to pay for her trip and sustain the community projects she will be working on.

Ellie said: “I’ve spoken to people who have been similar trips and the stories they have told sound really good.

“And it will be good to help out on community projects.”

Tim Smith, Ellie’s stepfather, said: “Camping in remote areas far away from the home comforts of running water, internet and home cooking will be a big challenge for all the party.

“In preparation for the trip Ellie has to follow a year long fitness programme to ensure she can cope with the extremes of the trip and anyone who knows her will appreciate that this in itself presents its own challenge. She is not a lover of exercise.”

As well as a part-time job, Ellie will be pack bags at supermarkets, collect aluminium cans and wash cars to fund raise for the expedition.

She is also hosting a general knowledge quiz at St Leonard’s church, Leverington, on Thursday June 20.

The entry fee for team of four is £10 and includes a bread and cheese supper.

To book your place on the quiz, make a donation or find out about the trip email Ellie on elliegoestonamibia@gmail.com