AN enthusiastic motorist is to swap Wiltshire's roads for a jungle path.
Darren Church, of Compton Bassett, is taking part in an international four-by-four challenge which will take him through the dense jungles of Malaysia.
He expects to spend at least 10 days under the dark canopy of foliage racing against at least 50 other teams from across the world.
"This is something I am definitely looking forward to. I cannot think of anything else at the moment but there is a lot of preparation before we go," said Mr Church.
The three-week challenge takes place in October and Mr Church is teaming up with race veteran Peter Cooper from Lechlade. The two men are currently the only UK entries.
The team is looking for sponsorship and is busy preparing their vehicle, a Suzuki SJ Samurai, and the huge container to ship the four-wheel drive out to the Far East.
The entry fee is £2,500 and the begging for every nut and bolt has begun.
"It is a tough course and the main advice given is that you have to be physically and mentally prepared," said Mr Church, a warehouse manager for an electrical wholesaler in Swindon.
Wife Jo and son Jack, 10, will be waiting at home eager for news.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article