A MOTHER from York braved tarantulas, tropical heat and a 90 kilometre jungle trek to raise funds for a local cancer charity.

Marie-Louise Surgenor, from Acomb, has completed a gruelling five-day walking challenge through Cuba’s Escambray Mountains in aid of York Against Cancer.

She is one of the people behind York Rocks and other concerts that raise money for the charity. Marie has also undertaken several walks in aid of the charity in memory of her grandmother, who died of cancer six years ago.

When the chance came to take part in a more exotic challenge being run by her employers, The Bibby Line Group, Marie and some of her colleagues jumped at the opportunity.

Marie, who raised more than £2,500, said: “It was a real adventure.”

About seven people from her Dunnington-based office started raising cash to make the trip for various charities and Marie teamed up with friend Jen Steel, who was fundraising for the Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund.

They raised sponsorship and held a fundraising concert before flying to Cuba and beginning their trek from Santa Clara to Trinidad, both towns in Cuba.

Marie said: “I didn’t know anything about Cuba. I knew it was going to be hot and that was about it, really.”

The heat and humidity were high, and the jungle trails were often overgrown, forcing their guide had to use a machete to clear the way, she added.

It was while stocking up with food for their trek that Marie faced her biggest challenge in the way of local wildlife – a tarantula in a banana crate.

“I only held it for the second that it took to take the picture.” Marie said. “It was the size of my hand. I thought the hairs would be soft but they were actually quite prickly.”

Of the whole experience, she said: “I enjoyed it immensely. It was a beautiful country and I would love to go back there.”