A TEENAGER will be nearly on top of the world with her head in the clouds if her next challenge is successful.

Rebecca Triffitt, a 17-year-old air cadet with 2487 (Easingwold) Squadron, has been selected to embark on an expedition to Everest base camp in August.

Rebecca, of Alne, is a corporal in the air cadets and a holder of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award's gold award.

She said: "Getting the chance to go to Everest has been a life-long ambition and this trip has made my dream come true."

The teenager, is in training for the high-altitude expedition by hiking every weekend and spending long sessions at the gym.

She and 20 other members of the air, sea and army cadets will take on the Long Trek, which takes around three weeks, after winning their places during a selection process held in Driffield.

Setting off from Jiri in Nepal, the group will hike along a 120-mile route and the total altitude gained on the numerous uphill sections totals around nine kilometres.

The Long Trek was the route used from the 1950s to the 1970s for explorers and climbers on Everest expeditions.

Rebecca is appealing to York and North Yorks-hire residents to help her fund the £2,500 trip.

She is hoping her efforts completing sponsored bicycle rides, walks and bag packs will raise at least half the money, but there will also be kit and special clothing to buy.

If anyone feels they can help they send a cheque to Wing Treasurer, Air Cadet Headquarters, Building 8, RAF Linton on Ouse, York YO30 2AJ. The envelope should be marked "Rebecca" and the cheque made out to CE Yorks Wing GP Fund. More information on her trip or offers of sponsorship can be discussed with squadron leader Paul McDo-nald on 01347 847463.