A GO-getting couple are set to drive 25,000km from Namibia to Stroud to raise money for the desperate relief efforts in Darfur in an incredible seven-month adventure.

Starting in October and braving wild animals, dirt tracks and conflicts, Chris Issac, 28, and Tamsin Savage, 26, will travel through 17 countries, two continents and through the Sahara desert before they reach the Five Valleys.

While Chris, who grew up in Chalford, said he was used to dodging animals on the road as he learnt to drive on Minchinhampton Common, his fellow traveller said the journey was a way of exploring Africa.

"We'd love to see more of the continent before heading home," said Tamsin. "At the same time we want to give something back by raising money through sponsorship.

"After lots of research we have chosen a route which takes us up the east coast to Kenya and then west through the Sahara.

"There are a lot of factors to take into account - rainy seasons, conflicts, road conditions - . we just hope the car keeps going."

The adventurous duo have prepared their trusty Toyota 4x4 with a complete survival kit including extra fuel tanks, sand ladders and even a fridge to keep the beers cold.

"I have read the workshop repair manual from cover to cover," said Chris. "Changing the oil is one thing but fixing a broken clutch in the middle of the desert could be a bit tricky so fingers crossed."

They are hoping to raise £1 per km for CARE International to support emergency relief efforts in the war-ravaged Sudanese province Darfur. All the money will go straight to the charity with no deductions for the cost of the trip.

To sponsor 'Africa25k' and help raise money for CARE's Darfur appeal send a cheque made out to Care International to Africa25k c/o By Design, Stadhampton, Oxford OX44 7UL. Donations can also be made online at www.africa25k.com/donate