A HOPWOOD man who suffered two heart attacks in one year is hoping to raise thousands of pounds for the British Heart Foundation by completing an ambitious trek in Peru.

In October, Ray Harrison, 50, of Bittell Farm Road, will be travelling to the mountain city of Cuzco in Peru, 3,400 metres above sea level, where he will spend two days acclimatising himself.

He and a group of others will begin a trek to Machu Picchu, better known as the Lost City of the Incas.

Mr Harrison will have to deal with steep ascents and descents, rocky paths and slippery rocks and will have a fierce battle on his hands to deal with the extreme altitude.

His wife Carol said: "Due to Ray suffering two heart attacks in 2003 he is likely to feel tired and short of breath but he believes this is a small payback for the treatment and care he received.

"He will be covering the cost of the trip himself but would love to raise as much money as possible in sponsorship and donations."

She said they had already collected nearly £3,000 from neighbours and employees of The Bournville Village Trust, which Mr Harrison has done a lot of work for.

Mrs Harrison said: "I am very proud of him and I know he has put a lot of determination into this trip."

Anyone who would like to sponsor Mr Harrison can write to him at 42 Waterside Orchard, Bittell Farm Road, Hopwood B48 7AE or call 0121 445 3938.

Mr Harrison would also be pleased to hear from anyone interested in joining him for his training sessions.