A Truro College student is off on a trip of a lifetime to the Amazon jungle with the British Schools' Exploring Society, part of the Royal Geographical Society.

Louise Matthews, who is currently studying for her A levels at Truro College will head off for a five week trek in July to the Amazon Jungle.

"I'm really excited about the trek," said Louise. "It will be such a fantastic experience and I'd like to thank everyone who has supported me."

As well as receiving help from private and business sponsors, the 17 year old from Mullion has also had the support of the Training Centre at Lusty Glaze, which is part of Cornwall College, and Devoran based, Cornish First Aid Supplies.

Cornish First Aid Supplies' owner, Christine Chaplin, donated a first aid kit and also sponsored Louise's place on the Training Centre's new 'Remote Medicine' course, a programme specifically developed for expedition leaders and members.

"I found the course very helpful, especially the part about sprinkling anti-fungal foot powder around the ropes of a hammock to stop the ants from crawling down," said Louise.

The course, which teaches people how to survey and deal with emergencies in remote locations, is being taught by Matt Thomson, who spent nine years in the Royal Marines, many of which were as a medic.