The Road To Banjul

Book excerpt: The Road to Banjul is the true adventure story of two middle aged men pitting their wits against the desert in a banger on the Plymouth-Banjul Challenge 2007. Keith Pugsley, Lord Mallens of Bedfordshire, and his side-kick Graham de Meur motor through nine countries and down the west African coast in an ageing Cherokee Jeep called Black Betty in a bid to deliver a sewing machine to a budding gent's outfitter in the Gambia. They are kidnapped, duped, blown up and nearly capsized, and have to suffer the indignities of Mauritanian plumbing on the way. Part One, Getting Ready, describes Keith's preparations for the trip during the summer and autumn of 2006. It's a blue print for anyone considering this or any similar road borne challenge. Part Two, Getting There, is an account of the trip itself, and of the many adventures and characters encountered in this three week race for charity. All profit royalties go to the North Devon Animal Ambulance (go to www.northdevonanimalambulance.co.uk ). For more on the Challenge go to www.Plymouth-Banjul.com