A teenager is attempting to raise £4,000 for a charity trip to Kenya.

Alex Dean, 15, of Hornbeam Close in Buckhurst Hill, is hoping to volunteer with charity, Camps International.

The West Hatch High School pupil is aiming to help construct houses, schools and huts for the community, as well as assist keepers in a wildlife conservation.

He said: “I have never done anything like this before, I will be helping local families as well as taking part in a safari and an expedition to the summit of Mount Kenya.

“I hope to complete my Duke of Edinburgh Gold award whilst in Africa.

“My family have been really supportive, they are obsessed with helping me fundraise.”

The 15-year-old has organised a series of fundraising events in order to raise the money, including walking the 82 miles of the ‘Essex Way’, on October 25.

So far, the teenager has risen more than £800 from cake stalls, family and friends and selling bicycle cookies and balloons as the Tour de France passed through Essex.

Hannah Davies of Camps International, said: “Our expeditions incorporate a number of learning objectives and offer students a wide range of personal development opportunities.

“Camps International has dedicated fundraising support in place for all schools and students taking part.

“We wish Alex all of the very best with his campaign and we look forward to welcoming him to Kenya to embark on an expedition of a lifetime.”

Follow his progress and sponsor him on his donations page at http://walktothesummit.moonfruit.com.