FETTERCAIRN MOTHER of five Jen Reekie leaves home on Monday en route to scale Europe’s highest peak Mont Blanc.

Jen will be raising funds for Erskine House, the charity that provides specialist care for ex- servicemen and women in Scotland.

After the birth of her youngest daughter Giggles, Jen decided she wanted to get in shape and set herself the target of completing the New York marathon, which she did in 2001.

Spurred on by her success Jen continued running and cycling, mainly to keep trim.

As well as keeping fit through Jen said “running around looking after five daughters is enough to keep anyone fit.”

Not one to shy away from challenges, she decided to attempt Mont Blanc after spending time in the French Alps and becoming mesmerised by the mountain.

Although her best friend begged her not to embark on such a dangerous project, Jen is determined she will make it to the 4810 metre summit of the highest mountain in the Alps.

“I am doing this for myself, my daughters Flo, Tilds, Asia, Olive and Giggles, my best friends and in memory of my wonderful father, but primarily in recognition of bravery of all the young and old ex-service men and women throughout Scotland,” said Jen.

Her father Major Christopher Browne, who served with the Cameronians and Royal Scots, died four years ago after a battle with cancer.

Jen, who has never climbed or mountaineered before, has been wearing climbing boots borrowed from eldest daughter Flo for her training.

She added, “I have kept fit but will have to spend three or four days acclimatising to the conditions before embarking on the climb, which is expected to take two days. Although I have no mountaineering experience I will be accompanied by a guide.”