OF all the places to be on your birthday, halfway up the world's highest mountain might be one of the most unusual.
That's exactly what grandfather-of-five Mark Osborne is doing this year, climbing to Everest basecamp to raise money for Cancer Research Wales.
During the 19 day trek Mark will be turning 53, but the gruelling trip probably won't leave much time for celebration.
"I could take some birthday cake with me," Mark said. "It might be a bit stale when I get there though."
Mark, from Winston Road, Colcot, is funding the trip himself so that all money raised will go to Cancer Research Wales. He will be heading off to Nepal.
"I've never done anything like this before," said Mark, an ex-paratrooper who now works as a self employed plasterer.
"I've done a lot of walking up mountains but there's nothing you can do to prepare for the altitude, that worries me a bit.
"I'm looking forward to it, but I'm a bit apprehensive. It's going into the unknown."
Mark said he wanted to thank staff at the Colcot Arms for the fundraiser night held last month and also Mark Barrett of Rim Motors for a generous contribution.
If you want to sponsor Mark or donate to Cancer Research Wales visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/markosborne3
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