THEY will strap on their walking boots and climb 6,000 metres to keep Hampshire’s life-saving helicopters in the air.

But time is running out for people to sign up for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance’s trek to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro as there are only four spaces left.

Those who had already signed up for the trip met at the Alice Lisle pub in Ringwood for tips and advice on how to prepare.

The 30 climbers aim to raise more than £100,000 for the charity in the run-up to the six-day trip to Tanzania in Africa in February next year.

Community fundraiser James King said: “I am overwhelmed by the support of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight community and how much interest this challenge has generated.

“With only four spaces remaining, we have already had an amazing response to this event and are hoping to get these spaces filled.”

Call 023 8033 3377 or visit hiow-airambulance.org.uk.