A man is set to embark on a 5,000-mile expedition this month as a tribute to his father-in-law.
Hugh Chamberlain, with friend Dave Hill, will drive from the Highlands to the Sahara Desert to raise funds for Eden Valley Hospice in Carlisle and agricultural charity, RSABI.
Hugh is embarking on the extraordinary journey as a tribute to his father-in-law, Tony Rawlings, who dreamt of exploring the world in his cherished 1993 Land Rover Defender 300tdi.
Tony, who died at Eden Valley Hospice due to cancer, found solace during his illness by planning and modifying the Land Rover for this journey.
His adventurous spirit and meticulous preparations provided a welcome distraction from his treatments. Although he is no longer here to witness this expedition, his legacy lives on through Hugh’s determination to fulfil his dream.
Dave – who met Hugh at agricultural college – will navigate the arduous route relying solely on maps and intuition. The expedition, set to test their endurance and resilience, aims to raise funds for the two charities close to both families’ hearts.
Hugh said: “In honour of Tony’s legacy, we are embarking on this expedition to prove that even amidst loss, dreams can endure, and compassion can ignite change,” Hugh said.
“It is our hope that through this challenge, we will provide a beacon of hope and support to those in Scottish agriculture and the hospice community. We gratefully welcome any donations which will enable our two chosen charities to continue delivering the all-important support and services they provide.”
Eden Valley Hospice is a charity dedicated to providing specialist care for adults in north Cumbria who have life-limiting conditions and support for their families, friends, and carers.
Sponsors of the drive include Simon Huntington, Lloyd Ltd Carlisle and Fluscowood Homes.
For more information or to support Hugh’s journey, visit https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/highlandheathertosaharasands or text SAHARA to 70480 to donate £10.
