A father-of-two from East Cambridgeshire is gearing up to climb the height of Mount Everest - from the safety of Cambridgeshire - in just three days to raise money for two local charities.

Mick Lazarus, of Stretham, will attempt to climb the the 20m high mound at Kingfisher Bridge in Wicken - but he will have to make more than 442 ascends (and descends) to reach the 8,849m height of Everest, and in only three days - June 14, 15 and 16.

Mick, who has experienced thyroid issues over the last two years which has required radioactive iodine treatment, is taking on this challenge in support of two local charities.

He is raising money for Addenbrookes Charitable Trust, with donations going to children’s services at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, and Jimmy’s Night Shelter which supports people who have been rough sleeping in Cambridge.

Bridget Parr, community fundraising co-ordinator at Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust (ACT), said: “We are so grateful to Mick for taking on this epic challenge, as his fundraising will help us to support children at Addenbrooke’s Hospital and help to make our hospitals, even better.

“From everybody at Addenbrooke’s and the Rosie hospitals, good luck Mick!”

Jimmy’s Night Shelter opened in 1995 as Cambridge’s first all-year-round night shelter and donations will ensure that Jimmy’s can continue to provide vital, life-changing support to help people in their journey through homelessness.

Barry Griffiths, community engagement officer at Jimmy’ Night Shelter, said: “The Everest challenge is no mean undertaking.

“We are very pleased that Mick has chosen us to be a recipient of some of the funds he is aiming to raise.

“We wish him all the best whilst doing this feat, and all of our staff and residents are fully behind his efforts in this and on our behalf.

“Thanks and good luck Mick, it is much appreciated.”

Help Mick reach his £3,000 fundraising goal by donating at: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/michael-lazarus?utm_term=BxWW2Z4N2