A HEREFORDSHIRE horsewoman is all set to do her bit for charity, and explore Iceland at the same time.

Jan du Cros has signed up to take part in the British Horse Society's Viking Challenge which aims to raise funds for Horse Rescue.

The challenge, which has been 18 months in the planning and takes place between August 14-21, requires those wanting to join in to raise a minimum of £1,800 but Jan has already more than played her part with excess of £3,000 in the bank.

"And I have a golf day at Burghill Valley tomorrow (Friday), two days before I go, from which I hope to raise at least another £1,000," she said.

"I have raised the money mainly from family and friends. I've had great support from my Christmas card list!"

The riders will get a chance to ride the famous Icelandic horses in their own territory but the trip across Iceland promises to be fairly arduous with five days in the saddle of up to eight hours each day, covering 30km.

"I have bought a seat-saver," joked Jan, aged 55. "And we are staying in farms in some remote locations so it's not a case of going back to five-star hotels at the end of each day.

"The weather can often provide four seasons in a single day over there, so we are told, but the scenery is supposed to be quite spectacular."