IT’S billed as the greatest motoring adventure on the planet, and one local fundraiser is hoping the force will be with her Gobi-Wan Khan-Obi team when it tackles the Mongol Rally.

Victoria Smith, from Three Cocks, and three intrepid co-drivers will be tackling the 10,000 miles journey across the mountains, desert and steppe of Europe and Asia in the bright orange, 1989 Soviet fire engine named Brunhilde.

Victoria said: "We are raising money for three charities that we consider are important for the team, that we have particular connections to - Beat, Cool Earth and National Autistic Society.

"One member has a cousin who is autistic and knows without the support of charitable organisations like the National Autistic Society his aunt and uncle would not have been able to provide the stability and routine that his cousin continually needs to help him develop and communicate with people.

"Beat was chosen by two of our members who have people close to them who have suffered from eating disorders. BEAT are a lifeline to families for both support and guidance to not only the sufferer but the families as well. The ability to talk to other parents, other sufferers or professional counsellors can be a channel of stress relief and of reassurance for both parties. Beat also raise awareness of eating disorders via ambassadors who have themselves overcome the illness.

"Cool Earth is the Rally organiser’s charity of choice and works with indigenous people to help stop the destruction of the rain forest. The charity also work with local villagers to help them generate income without cutting the forest down. Currently they are working on 113 projects in Peru."

The team is aiming to raise awareness of the charities at several events around the country, held by its sponsors Sylatech Automotive and team mechanic Andrew Seagust Ltd.

"We are still looking for support, either in donations to our charities or donation of equipment. Sponsorship is also an option, with plenty of space on our Barkas for advertising space," Victoria said.

Anyone wishing to donate can visit the team’s page at www.justgiving.com/teams/MongolRallyTeamFundraising.