Can you tell me a little bit about yourself?

I am currently a police officer in the Met working out of Forest Gate Police Station on Newham Borough. In between working, I am mainly training for rugby or playing it. I live with my boyfriend in sunny Hackney overlooking Victoria Park and we have a little Yorkshire Terrier called Benson.

What inspired you to participate in this challenge?

My rugby career is coming to an end. I have been playing for England for 11 years now so it's time for the next challenge and you can't get a much better one than climbing up Everest.

There are lots of charities in the market place that offer such opportunities, what made you choose Wooden Spoon as your benefiting charity?

Wooden Spoon, because it works a lot with disabled children. My older sister has Rett Syndrome which affects her mentally and physically. I know the amazing work that Wooden Spoon do as I have been lucky enough to represent Wooden Spoon at rugby on a few occasions and been able to raise money doing what I love.

Have you started training yet?

I am playing Wales away in a couple of weeks in the Six Nations, so have been training hard for that. I hope that I will be playing for England up to the time I go on the expedition, so hoping that training will hold me in good stead. Closer to the time, I am going to have to don some walking boots, a rucksack and get up a few mountains. Maybe a spell in an altitude chamber somewhere?

Do you think of your previous life experiences will prepare you for the expedition?

Playing rugby and working together as a team, has got to help. Plus policing in Newham throws me challenges everyday, not all nice, so hoping that will assist me. My Dad always said to me that there is no such word as 'can't', just go out and grab life. Thinking of him and my family will get me up there.

What part of the challenge are you least looking forward to?

Breaking in my walking boots for a start. Coping with the altitude is going to be tough but then that's the challenge isn't it?
How do you plan to celebrate after completing the climb?

I don't know the other seven people on the expedition but I'm sure we will know each other very well by the end of it and that we will celebrate together. A few cheeky red wines possibly?

Why would you recommend that others take the time to rise to the challenge? (not necessarily just talking about your challenge...but just challenge themselves)

Because not only do you get to learn about who you are, you make great friends and raise money for a great charity at the same time. Who knows, it may be the start of a whole new outlook on life. After all, life is too short!

For more information on Spoon Challenges visit http://www.spoonchallenges.com or call 01283 841600