SYLVIA Fairchild is counting down to her 70th birthday next year with the aim of raising £3,000 for the charity Hospiscare, through a self-funded trek along the Great Wall of China.

To set the ball rolling she is organising a pre-loved sale at the Newton Abbot Racecourse on Saturday November 14, between 9.30am-1.30pm.

Ms Fairchild, who lives in Bishopsteignton, is the racecourse’s conference and events manager, and is hoping for plenty of support at the sale.

The event will look to raise funds for Hospiscare to help it continue its work, caring for those who are terminally ill in Exeter and across Mid Devon.

It is just one of a number of fundraising events she is organising for the charity, including her gruelling Great Wall of China challenge – walking part of the wall for eight days in October next year.

‘Hospiscare is a wonderful charity that has done so much for so many people locally. Over the years, I have seen first-hand the amazing work that hospices do to help people and I am delighted to be able to support their efforts.

‘Next year’s trip to China is going to be a challenge for me, but it will be more than worth it to raise funds for the charity,’ said Ms Fairchild.

The sale will feature a number of stalls, selling everything from clothes to accessories, homewares and more. Open to those looking to buy or sell, it could be the ideal time to make a start on that Christmas shopping.

Entrance is free, although a donation to Hospiscare would be appreciated.

More information on Hospiscare can be found by visiting: www.hospiscare.co.uk.