A Stevenage fundraiser is set to tackle a string of challenges to raise funds for a town-based charity – starting with getting snug with a snake.

After that Steve McAlinden will be confronting his terror of tarantulas, before lifting off for paraglide and skydive tests that could see him raise a total of £4,000 for Just Be A Child, which runs writing, design, music and talent contests to challenge young people in North Herts while raising funds to support projects in Africa.

Hitchin-based online estate agent Hatched has already agreed to back Steve as part of its monthly sponsorship programme for charity supporters.

The first rung on his fundraising ladder is the snake, which could net him £500, while the tarantula test is set against a £1,000 target.

Just Be A Child focuses on finding ways to help children enjoy the upbringing they deserve – find out more online at After that Steve McAlinden will be confronting his terror of tarantulas, before lifting off for paraglide and skydive tests that could see him raise a total of £4,000 for Just Be A Child, which runs writing, design, music and talent contests to challenge young people in North Herts while raising funds to support projects in Africa.

Hitchin-based online estate agent Hatched has already agreed to back Steve as part of its monthly sponsorship programme for charity supporters.

The first rung on his fundraising ladder is the snake, which could net him £500, while the tarantula test is set against a £1,000 target.

Just Be A Child focuses on finding ways to help children enjoy the upbringing they deserve – find out more online at www.justbeachild.com.

Hatched managing director Adam Day said: “To donate to a cause local to our Hitchin headquarters is especially exciting for us and we just hope Steve manages to overcome some of his fears while also raising these all-important funds.”.

Hatched managing director Adam Day said: “To donate to a cause local to our Hitchin headquarters is especially exciting for us and we just hope Steve manages to overcome some of his fears while also raising these all-important funds.”