Gareth Exton, 24, of Heckington, is doing the walk at the end of March 2009 with a group of about 40 others in aid of the Firefighters Charity which supports injured firefighters and their families.

He said: “I want to support the whole firefighting community, including those injured, their widows and families.”

Gareth is usually based at RAF Coningsby but will soon be heading off to spend four months on duty in Afghanistan before returning just in time to jet off to Beijing. He is trying to raise as much as he can before he goes.

He knows the climate may not be best suited for walking long distances and the final section of the trek climbs 435 steep steps, known as the Stairway to Heaven, to reach spectacular views.

The daily treks along stunning sections of the wall, from Gubeiko to Mutianyu, will take from five to eight hours a day.

Gareth is aiming to raise a minimum of £2,500. He collected £540 in four hours at the Tesco store in Sleaford and he has been putting out collection pots and posters in local shops highlighting his expedition.

He said: “I’m looking forward to it as it will be a massive experience.

“I’m excited about seeing a different part of the world where you would normally only go for a holiday.”

l If you would like to sponsor Gareth or make a donation to his cause, you can contact him on 07815953588.