Mrs Carol Worrell, of Moor Edge, will trek along high remote mountain trails and embark on adventures through one of the world's most important archaeological finds when she completes the Machu Picchu challenge to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Her friend, mother-of-three Mrs Julie Johnson (50), of Wilpshire, died in December 2006 just three months after she was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

Mrs Johnson worked as a senior officer at Hyndburn Borough Council and previously at Lancaster City Council.
She left behind her husband, Steve, and sons Adam (27), Alex (15) and seven-year-old Joel.

During her illness, Mrs Johnson spent a lot of time with Mrs Worrell, her friend of nearly 40 years since they had both attended Pleckgate High School, Blackburn.

Mrs Worrell, who works as a regeneration consultant for Economic Development Services, in Preston, is looking forward to the trek, which begins on May 24th.

She has already received £3,000 sponsorship from her employer. She has also put in £700 of her own money and family and friends have kindly donated towards the deserving cause.

"During her short illness, Julie had expressed a desire to take part in a fund-raising event to boost funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. Sadly she was unable to do this and I have been planning to carry out her wishes ever since," said mother-of-two Mrs Worrell.

To celebrate Mrs Johnson's life and raise additional funds, a tribute night will also be held at the Canberra Club at BAE, Samlesbury, on Friday, June 13th.

During the fund-raiser, Mrs Johnson's son, Alex, who is a talented young musician and a pupil of Clitheroe Royal Grammar School, will perform a selection of songs dedicated to his mother.
Other highlights include a raffle, supper and entertainment by party band "The Funtime Frankies".

Mrs Worrell added: "I was very lucky to enjoy Julie's very close friendship and my life has been so much richer for it, so for me this trek and event is not only in memory of her, but also a celebration of her life."

Tickets cost £15 and can be booked with Mrs Worrell on 07815 503451 or e-mail her on: worrell@edsnw.co.uk

You can also donate by visiting: www.justgiving.com/carolworrell.