An adventure leader from Great Chishill is set to become the first British woman to scale two of the highest mountains in the world – in just one trip.

Jo Bradshaw, who works as a trek challenge leader for Discover Adventure, will head off to Nepal on Sunday to climb the world’s highest peak – Mount Everest – and the fourth tallest mountain, the 8,516 metre neighbour Lhotse.

She will only be the 12th woman ever to complete such a feat, on the year that marks the 40th anniversary of the first woman to reach Everest’s summit at 8,848 metres.

The 44-year-old said: “I never thought I’d be able to even climb Snowdon in Wales at one point, but after taking part in a charity cycle challenge back in 2004 my life dramatically changed.

“I’ve gained so much in my time as a trek leader, from dealing with tricky situations to helping anxious clients achieve their dreams through trust and encouragement.

“I have been training hard to be as ready as possible, through treks such as Kilimanjaro.”

Jo will be tackling the epic dual climb for the charity Place2Be, which helps primary and secondary school children overcome difficult situations through mentoring and counselling.

The former business advisor has an impressive track record, having taken a total of almost 4,000 participants on around 70 challenges across the world.

In the last five years, she has gained her mountain leader qualification, and now trains and assesses Duke of Edinburgh expedition students, and has led countless tours, including 17 times summiting Mount Kilimanjaro and five treks to Everest Base Camp.

Jonathan Bryan, managing director of Discover Adventure, said: “It is wonderful to see Jo take on the challenge to be the first British woman to take on Everest and Lhotse in the same trip. This is a fantastic challenge and Jo’s journey is hugely inspiring.

“Our team will be supporting her all the way and we wish her the best of luck for a successful and safe climb.”

For more information about Jo’s challenge and to find out how to donate, visit www.29029feet.co.uk.

To find out more about Discover Adventure, visit www.discoveradventure.com.