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Lecturer Gears Up For Epic Journey
[22/12/2008]A daredevil lecturer from Otley College is taking part in a charity challenge that will take him from Plymouth to Banjul, Gambia in a battered old Peugeot.
Michael Cleverley - an engineering lecturer at Otley - is the man taking part in the challenge and he will be participating in the 3700-mile journey with his brother in law, Peter Austin.
Students from Debenham and Stradbroke High school have been helping Michael customise the car as part of their BTEC course.
So far, the school learners have sorted out the brakes and exhaust system with other modifications to follow. And full-time Otley learners have created and fitted sump and tank guards to help the car survive the hostile conditions.
The three-week rally will see competitors travel through France, Spain, Morocco, Mauritania, Senegal and Gambia, and is only open to left hand drive vehicles.
"I am really looking forward to the challenge," said the 38 year old from Fressingfield, Suffolk - who is also into paragliding in his spare time.
"The students have really enjoyed getting involved in the project and feel very much like a team. Although they won't be coming along on the journey, they will definitely be with us in spirit."
The journey will include a two-day trek through the Sahara Desert.