Trip of a lifetime

Chad Perkins, who is registered blind, will spend July travelling around India, Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet with a team of young people and adults from registered charity JoLt (Journey of a Lifetime).

His journey will include visits to monasteries, the Taj Mahal, elephant riding and glacier walking at Mt Everest's base camp.

The 15 year old was nominated to go on the trip by his English teacher, Debbie Hopcroft, back in November.

Miss Hopcroft explained she had chosen Chad because he "does not dwell on his disability and is an enthusiastic, positive and humorous young man".

She said he also relished challenges and new experiences.

In February, the teenager was invited for an interview with JoLt organisers and recently found out he had been successful.

Before embarking on his travels, Chad will go on a preparatory weekend to meet expedition leaders and other team members.

Miss Hopcroft said: "Chad is elated about the trip and has already set to work to raise the £600 sponsorship needed for the trip. He is keen to raise more than £600 though."

Chad said: "I feel extremely lucky to have been chosen for this once in a lifetime experience and I am looking forward to embracing other cultures."

Anyone wishing to sponsor Chad can call Miss Hopcroft for more details on 852478.

JoLt arranges trips of a lifetime for teenagers and young adults with all types of disabilities.

Recent trips have been made to parts of Africa and New Zealand.

For more details, visit www.jolttrust.org.uk