A DAD of two will be taking on a challenge of a “lifetime” when he treks 100 kilometres in the Cambodian wilderness for charity.

Seth Dodson, 43, is hospitality employee from Colchester who works as a CPU Operations Manager at Merville Barracks, in Circular Road South, for the food service company Sodexo UK.

On April 20 2024 he will join 30 other people in flying more than 6,000 miles to Southeast Asia in aid of Springboard.

Springboard helps disadvantaged and unemployed people of all ages and backgrounds break into the hospitality, leisure, and tourism industries, and helps them gain the skills and experience required to build a lasting career.

Mr Dodson himself has more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry and deeply believes in the charity’s work - so much so he is now looking to raise £3,500 for the non-profit organisation.

Gazette: Charity - Seth is taking on the challenge for the charity Springboard Charity - Seth is taking on the challenge for the charity Springboard (Image: Seth Dodson)

Seth hopes to raise the funds by aiding in the construction of eco-bungalows in and around Siem Reap before embarking on a lengthy walk all the way to the ancient religious temple, Angkor Wat.

He was inspired to register for the trip after hearing many inspirational stories at the organisation’s Awards for Excellence event in April.

Speaking about the trip, said: “I was invited to an awards ceremony for Springboard Awards for Excellence, as I was a finalist for an award for innovation of the year.

“I’m excited but anxious at the same time, I’m going to be missing my family for 13 days, so I’ll barely have any contact with them.

"I am thankful my wife and two young children are supporting me.

“To prepare, I’m walking lots, going to the gym daily, trying to get physically fit and mentally fit as well."

Seth is now asking Colchester businesses to support his challenge by donating clothing, head gear and anything which will be useful during the gruelling journey.

He is also looking to organise fundraising events in the near future for the charity.

“Any support is appreciated, It’s going to be a once in a lifetime challenge," he added.

If you would like to contact Seth regarding sponsoring the walk, you can contact him through his LinkedIn account, tinyurl.com/ckvde6v2.

To donate to the charity fundraiser, you can click tinyurl.com/tu98fvk5.