DETERMINED fundraisers are getting ready to scale Africa’s highest peak in memory of a much-missed mum.

Nine men and women jet off to Tanzania today (Thursday) as they bid to raise thousands of pounds for Cancer Research UK in memory of Macmerry’s Vera Cameron.

Among the fundraisers getting ready to climb Mount Kilimanjaro are her husband Dougie and daughter Laura-Jane.

Dougie said: “We’ve spoken about doing Kilimanjaro for years so we’re really excited to finally be able to take on the challenge. We’re so grateful for everyone’s support over the years and helping us raise such a fantastic amount for Cancer Research in Vera’s memory – we’re hoping to smash the £70,000 mark this year. I would also like to thank the team for taking part year after year, covering costs themselves and giving up their weekends to train.”

Dougie, who is site attendant at Kinwegar Recycling Centre, by Wallyford, will be joined by seven colleagues from East Lothian Council, where Vera worked as senior administrator in transportation at the local authority.

Ray Montgomery (project manager), Paul Ritchie (HR business partner), Lorraine Faulds (senior facilities officer), William Kelley (senior business support assistant – customer services), Stuart Baxter (Musselburgh Area Partnership manager), Rachael Cormack (leisure assistant at Haddington’s Aubigny Sports Centre) and Vanessa Sanal (facilities service manager) are also taking on the challenge. The team will attempt to reach the summit and descend the near-6,000-metre peak in just seven days. As well as the climb and adjusting to the altitude, the fundraisers will also have to deal with extreme temperatures, ranging from 30°C to -15°C.

Vera was 55 when she died from cancer in August 2012. She attended the village’s primary school before studying at Ross High School, Tranent, and later joined East Lothian District Council.

Following her death, fundraisers have been held each year in aid of Maggie’s Centres, Macmillan Cancer Support and Cancer Research UK.

In previous years, fundraisers have completed other gruelling challenges, including the West Highland Way, which stretches from Milngavie to Fort William (96 miles), and climbed the highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales – Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon.

Along the way, they have raised £63,000, with £70,000 now the target.

Donate at justgiving.com/fundraising/vera-kilimanjaro