WORKMATES at a Ringwood theatrical supplies firm will have a change of scenery at Christmas when they head off on the third Plymouth to Dakar car rally across North Africa.

But it will be no Desert Song for Brett Tapping and David Walker, who are colleagues at the AJS Theatre Supplies concern in Crow Arch Lane.

They are aiming to make the trip in a 15-year-old Volkswagen Golf which cost just £60 and already has 200,000 miles on the clock!

Setting out on Boxing Day, Brett, 27, from Bournemouth, and 31-year-old David, from Christchurch, will be in the second tranche of nearly 200 crews taking on the three-week challenge to cover 4,000 miles of dirt tracks, deserts and minefields in cars which cost less than £100.

And if they make it to the finish the cars will be auctioned in the Gambian capital of Banjul to raise funds for local charities in the impoverished west African country.

It is Brett's second attempt at the journey after his debut with older brother Ellis ended when their Fiat Panda crashed among the desert dunes almost within reach of the finish.

He is hoping to do better this time after fitting a new clutch to the left-hand drive Golf and fitting necessary modifications to accommodate food and camping equipment and cope with the rigours of the route.

They are also taking a consignment of clothing and medical supplies to distribute in the Gambia.

But first the intrepid duo need to raise sponsorship towards the estimated £4,000 cost of food, fuel, ferry crossings and return air fares.

David said: "We really want to help these people who are less fortunate than us, but unfortunately people think that we are just out to have a bit of fun and sponsorship has been practically nil.

"We are willing to sell advertising space on the side of our vehicle to try and boost funds."

Anyone wishing to help Brett and David on their way can contact them through their website www.hospital radiobedside.co.uk/dakar05

First published: November 15