STUDENTS AND WOMEN PREPARE FOR THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME

Louise Chambers, 41, who works as a research administrator at the University of Bristol, was inspired to take part in the rally following the sudden death of a friend in 2007.

She has persuaded two pals, Carole Atkinson and Jenny Brock, to leave their families at home for a few weeks and travel to Mongolia and raise money for Save the Children.

"Taking part in the rally has been an ambition of mine for some time. It's amazing to think it is becoming a reality with the help of Carole and Jenny," she said.

"None of us has ever attempted anything as ambitious as this before but we're all really determined to make it to Ulan Bator and to raise thousands of pounds for our chosen charity in the process."

Once the teams reach the Mongolian capital their cars will be donated to the Children's Development Protection Fund (CDPF) and then auctioned off to raise additional funds.

The women are still looking for a car with the help of a Combe Down garage owner.