FIFTY-NINE-year-old Annette Leech will be scaling new heights to celebrate her next big birthday - by climbing the towers of Worcester, Hereford and Gloucester cathedrals in one day.

Annette admits it will be a challenge climbing the 1,500 steps but that it is one she is prepared to undertake to raise funds for St Richard's Hospice.

The former secretary of Churches Together In Worcester has the blessing of the deans of the cathedrals and has even been granted special permission to climb Hereford towe,r which is closed to the public.

"I wanted to do something different for my 60th birthday, something I would always remember," Annette said.

"I'm not particularly fit and live in a single-storey house so I don't have any stairs to practice on, but I'm determined to make it."

She added: "Last year a friend of mine died who had received lots of help and support from St Richard's Hospice.

"I'm taking on this three towers challenge in memory of all that care and the work of staff and volunteers at the hospice."

Annette plans to climb the 235 steps in Worcester Cathedral before breakfast, followed by Hereford's 140ft tower and finally the 269 steps of Gloucester cathedral on Friday, November 18.

St Richard's is currently based at Rose Hill, Worcester. But building work is under way on the new hospice near County Hall, Spetchley, which will include all the free services plus 15 urgently needed specialist beds.

which are not currently available in the area.