A Leominster woman who trekked the Himalayas for Lepra, the leprosy sufferers' charity, is heading for a complete change of scene.

Sheila Cole, manager of the Paradise Court Sheltered Housing Scheme, Leominster, is heading for the Amazon for her latest adventure where she will be raising money for the Acorns Children's Hospice.

Sheila and her colleagues Sheila Tate, Anne Turner and Sue Clarke have been fund-raising for the hospice since July 2002 and have raised between them more than £7,500.

On February 13 - a Friday! - Sheila will fly out with eight others from Herefordshire and Worc-estershire to Quito in Ecuador.

From there they will trek down the Rio Napo, a tributary of the mighty river Amazon, partly on foot, partly in canoes, visiting Indian villages and staying in huts and tents during their trek. Each trekker has had to raise a minimum of £2,500 in sponsorship to take part in the trek. Eleven days later, they return to Quito and fly home.

Sheila's employer, the Marches Housing Association is making a contribution and her colleagues at the association have helped as well.

The pre-Christmas regular staff briefing session ended with a buffet - including some stunning cakes - supplied by staff and a collection was made to add to the funds.

"We wish Sheila all the best with her trip," said David Hinchliffe managing director of the association. "We're proud of her exploits and look forward to seeing her back in one piece!"

The Acorns Children's Hospice is being built in Worcester and serve the three counties of Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire, providing a dedicated hospice and respite care for terminally ill children and their families.

On January 17, Herefordians can support Acorns and other charities while enjoying a great night out at the Courtyard when Hereford Police Male Voice Choir is joined by the Eager Divas for a concert. Bookings: 01432 359252.