John Back and his partner Alexa Taylor, who both live in Jennett’s Park, will take on the Mongol Rally in July – a yearly challenge which crosses deserts, mountains and treacherous roads from the UK to Russia.

The couple, who will take on the challenge under the moniker Team Slightly Lost, will only be armed with a 10-year-old 1.2-litre Volkswagen Polo and their wits as they aim to complete the rally in their personal target of six months.

With no rules to the route competitors must take, the pair are not pinning themselves down on a particular itinerary, but hope to take in parts of scenic Croatia, as well as daring to cross a stretch of highway in Afghanistan that is loaded with hidden mines either side.

The infamous Pamir Highway, the second-highest altitude highway in the world, is also in their sights.

Mr Back, who is 46 and a 3D co-ordinator, said: “I saw this rally a while ago and it really appealed to me. I’m at an age where I really want to give something back and do my bit, while fitting in some crazy travelling adventures along the way.

“I am feeling more and more nervous as the date to leave approaches but once we get the first day of the rally out of the way I think it will be amazing. I really can’t wait, to be honest. I am a trained mechanic myself so I’m hoping if we break down it won’t be too much of a problem!” The couple are doing the rally to help raise cash for mental health charity Mind, after a number of Mr Back’s friends when he was growing up were affected by mental health problems. The pair aim to raise £60,000 for their efforts and have so far raised £250.

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/TeamSlightlyLost