A hardy fundraiser really is going the extra mile for a good cause as she prepares to set sail on a gruelling round the world adventure for charity.

Cathy Draper will take nearly a year to circumnavigate the globe in a yacht, starting on July 31.

And all her sponsorship money will go to Kids Alive, a Hornchurch-based charity which helps children in poor countries.

At 60-years-old, Cathy has bravely chosen to leave her family and job behind her for the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race

She has made it onto Qingdao, one of ten boats competing in the race, which sees amateur crew teamed with professional skippers.

Cathy, who was selcted from hundreds to take part, said: “I am very excited but apprehensive at taking on such a challenge.”

Cathy, from Ilford, took up the challenge after seeing the plight of orphaned and abandoned children at the Bethany School in Bekoiji, Ethiopia,

Kids Alive provides education for more than 330 children in the town, offering food, clothes “and hope”.

“We are thrilled that Cathy is raising money for Kids Alive as she sails around the world,” said Jenny Cox, Kids Alive editorial and publications manager. “It is such an extreme challenge.

“We really admire her determination and she will be making a lasting difference to children’s lives in the process!”

If you would like to support Cathy, please visit www.justgiving.com/catherinedraper