TWO Dudley lovers embarked on a dangerous trek, which resulted in a dramatic helicopter rescue and a romantic proposal.

It sounds like the script of a Hollywood blockbuster but it was a reality for Perry Ware and his new fiancée Anita Homer.

The couple braved Mera Peak in Nepal last month to raise funds for Children's Heart Federation, risking possible avalanches, frost bite and altitude sickness.

When they landed at Lukla Airport, they were told that heavy snowfall had closed their original pathway to the top but undeterred, they decided to find an alternative.

The plucky couple were led by a team of experts from Himalaya Hikes along a narrow path, with snow masking sheer drops, which Perry said was a mentally and physically draining challenge.

He continued: "The snow was up to our faces most of the time. It was quite dangerous, we were the only people up there."

It was on the eleventh day that the team decided it was too risky to carry on and although they could see their final destination, it would have taken another five days to get there.

Perry, who had planned to propose to his partner of five years at the top, had to rethink his plans so got down on one knee then and there.

His romantic gesture shocked Anita, who said she had "no idea" but the bride-to-be said it was "a beautiful place" to get engaged.

Their haze of happiness was short-lived as less than 24-hours later they were the focus of a dramatic rescue operation.

"We'd decided to turn back as it was getting serious and we needed to think about our health and wellbeing, so walked to a phone so we could call the company that organised the trek and see what the path was like.

"It turned out they'd had more heavy snowfall and we were trapped."

The group were uncertain how long they would be stranded for but luckily a helicopter carrying cargo was able to divert and rescue them shortly afterwards, although Perry admits it was a nerve-racking experience.

Although the drama meant they could not complete the challenge, the couple have still raised more than £1,580.

Perry said they were thrilled with people's generosity and had decided to support the charity after hearing about the good work they do for youngsters with congenital or acquired heart disease.

There is still time to sponsor the couple by visiting www.justgiving.com/the-mera-peak-expedition.