FOR most people, the thought of ascending two of Europe's highest peaks is horrifying - but then again, Nigel Lyle is not just anyone.

The 52-year-old Acton Bridge amateur mountaineer lost a leg 35 years ago in a climbing accident but refused to give up his snowy pastimes. He said: "I was young and daft at the time but there was never any question of me stopping what I enjoyed."

Now Nigel, a chemical consultant, is leaving wife Jane for a month of skis, ice axes and crampons in his fundraising attempt to climb Western Europe's highest summit Mont Blanc, and also Mount Elbrus, a summit of 5,642 metres, situated in the Russian Caucasus range.

Mr Lyle said: "Both are on any self-respecting mountaineer's wish list. I myself am 50-plus and want to try this while I am still young and fit enough."

Nigel and his climbing companions will travel to France today, Wednesday, to acclimatise themselves in preparation for the assent and will travel to Russia on May 7. He said: "We're staying in a hut 3,000 metres above ground level because we need to get used to the lack of oxygen.

"We expect to do Mont Blanc on Monday or Tuesday of next week, so long as we feel ready."

"A recent ski tour in Austria has provided the opportunity to get fit, with seven summits in seven days, but daily gardening and DIY chores should also serve me well."

Sponsorship money will be donated to Comic Relief, Cancer Research and Outdoor Activities for the Disabled. Hartford Scouts and Lancashire Mountaineering Club will also benefit, following Nigel's long associations with the groups.

He added: "I also want to donate to a foreign charity but I will research where best to give the money when I'm out there."

If you would like to support Nigel, visit www.comicrelief.com or www.justgiving.com or send a cheque to 4 Dutton Locks, Acton Bridge, Northwich, CW8 3QQ.