Why have we decided to drive from Kent, England to Cape Town, South Africa? When asked why he wanted to climb Mt Everest, George Mallory replied "Because it's there". The journey provides us with a tempting challenge, but we aren't doing it simply 'because it's there'. It provides us with the valuable opportunity to draw attention to and raise funds for Kent's Demelza House children's hospice, and help it succeed in raising its goal of £5 million. During the expedition we will also be helping three childrens hospices in Africa with the view to setting up a programme of sustained support once back in the UK.

“The journey provides us with a tempting challenge, but we aren't doing it simply 'because it's there.”

The idea came to me in late July this year whilst having a beer at Heathrow Airport. I was talking with a friend about my prospects as a Durham University graduate. What were my options? Banking, Accountancy, Law, Management Consultancy? This didn't appeal. I announced that I planned to cross the Sahara by camel. Why? During my drive home it hit me, I didn't want to do this simply 'because its there'. I decided at a very early stage that I wanted to use my adventure to raise funds for needy children.

The research was done and I decided to raise desperately needed funds for Demelza House. The hospice was on the verge of launching its £5 million appeal. Upon meeting the Chairman, Derek Phillips, I learnt that he was expecting me to be a Muslim. I made the connection and immediately saw the problems that a camel journey would involve. 'What are you planning to do'? He asked, 'Drive two 4x4's from Kent to Cape Town' I said. 'Wonderful' he replied, and the project was underway.

About this site | Feed Back | Privacy Policy | Help?