PENSIONER Ken McCall is heading for the top of the world.

Inspired by his five-year-old nephew, the superfit 73-year-old will attempt to climb more than half-way up Mount Everest.

Mr McCall aims to complete the gruelling challenge in aid of Hearing Dogs for the Deaf. He is the oldest person to tackle an extreme challenge for the charity.

Next spring he will battle against altitude sickness and must trek a distance of about 100 miles to reach Everest's base camp at 5,357m above sea level.

After flying to Kathmandu in Nepal, the 16-day expedition will begin in the small town of Lukla. The most challenging days during the adventure will see Mr McCall trekking an average seven hours per day.

He chose the charity because nephew Sam has partial hearing and may benefit from a hearing dog one day.

Mr McCall's tough training regime includes three gym sessions every week, each lasting two hours. He plans to visit the Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales for some extra training and has previously scaled Snowdon, Ben Nevis and volcanoes in Mexico.

The retired carpenter from Meadowmead Avenue, Regent's Park, Southampton, said: "I can do the gym sessions - they're quite easy. It makes me sweat but I can handle it.

"My mother-in-law is a branch secretary for Hearing Dogs for the Deaf and she suggested I took part. My wife Christina and my family are all very supportive.

"It'll make me very proud when I finish the challenge. I just want to get at it now."

Bill Ruthven, honorary secretary of the Everest Foundation charity, said Mr McCall would have to endure some difficult conditions.

He added: "I understand base camp is a pretty unpleasant place. The altitude makes people feel very lethargic. I led a trip in the Everest National Park and two people

collapsed from altitude sickness."

Mr McCall is hoping to raise £2,500. To make a donation visit www.everest4hearingdogsouthants.net.