A BUS company employee is gearing up for a five-day trek across South American mountains in memory of his aunt who died of cancer.

James Chesters, 27, who works as a marketing assistant for First bus company, will fly to Peru in May to take on the historic Inca Trail.

He is hoping to raise more than £3,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

James, of Anchor Reach, South Woodham Ferrers, said: “My aunt’s death was very sudden and hit the family really hard.

“Macmillan do great work, and my aunt spoke of the Macmillan nurses as if they were saints. I can’t think of a better tribute to her memory.

“The Inca Trail is meant to be an amazing experience, so when the chance came up to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support by walking it, I jumped at the chance.”

The 25-mile trek leads to the ruins of the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu and is a steep climb through remote jungle and across snow-capped mountains.

First, which operates buses across south Essex, has already coughed up £1,500 and James hopes to raise the rest.

Anyone who would like to sponsor James can do so online at www.justgiving.com/jameschesters, or call 07743 433641.

He has organised a quiz night at 8pm on Wednesday, October 22, at Champions Manor Hall, Hullbridge Road, South Woodham Ferrers.