ADVENTUROUS fundraiser Anna-Marie Perry hopes to fulfil a lifetime's ambition as well as protecting the world's endangered animals.

She has launched an ambitious fundraising campaign which will allow her to take part in a rare wildlife challenge.

Mrs Perry, from Bath, wants to fly to Uganda next year as part of a scheme to help protect the last remaining gorillas and rhinos. The Kingsway mother is appealing to residents and businesses to help her achieve the £2,500 target.

She has already raised around £1,000 from family and friends but needs to collect the rest by December if she is to join the expedition.

Mrs Perry said: "I've never done anything like this before but I've wanted to ever since I read the book behind the film 'Gorillas in The Mist'.

"I'm completely fascinated by gorillas and rhinos and this will be a way of helping them. It definitely isn't a holiday but it will be the experience of a lifetime."

The challenge takes place in February and March of next year, culminating in a five day trek to the summit of Mount Elgon, the highest Ugandan peak.

Mrs Perry is already training at Monkton Combe Gym and backs this up with regular sessions of swimming, skipping and walking.

She has so far raised some money from festival stalls and car boot sales, and plans to don a rhino costome when she starts collecting money in Bath city centre over the next few weeks.

Mrs Perry added: "I would like to appeal to anyone who is experienced in sponsored challenges to contact me to discuss further fundraising ideas.

"For instance, I am a qualified chef so there might be someone who would be willing to host a dinner party in aid of my appeal."

Half the funds raised will go towards providing Ugandan game rangers and wildlife managers, as well as supporting vets and local conservation groups.