Volunteer to climb Everest in aid of Trust

Andy Zallmann at the top of Mount Snowdon

A Rochdale man is preparing to climb Mount Everest to raise money for the Rochdale Connections Trust (RCT).

Andy Zallmann, 41, is a volunteer at RCT and a great lover of the outdoors so decided to take on the charity trek to raise funds for the Trust.

Mr Zallmann, got involved with RCT in February last year after a back problem forced him into a career change. He had been in the army and an accident left him with a damaged back. He went on to work in print finishing before being told to give up the job because of his back.

He knew he enjoyed working with young people following working with Cadets so contacted the Youth Service. He then started working at RCT and over time he saw how funding can be a problem.

So, he decided whilst he had some free time he would raise money – by climbing the tallest mountain in the world.

The 18 day trek will take place on 20 November 2011 and until then Mr Zallmann will be preparing for the journey.

When asked, why Everest? Mr Zallmann,said: “I love the outdoors, that is a big tick box for me and I wanted to do something for charity.

“I’ve made good connections with RCT. I like what they do.”

Mr Zallmann hasn’t set an official target but he is aiming for anything between £5,000 and £10,000.

“I’ve never done anything like this before, so of course, the more the better.”

As part of the preparation for the trek Mr Zallmann climbed Mount Snowdon last week and has been doing work in the gym. Despite having a set back with his back injury over Christmas Mr Zallmann is looking forward to the trek.

To sponsor Mr Zallmann email zallmanns@googlemail.com or call into RCT on Drake Street.