Farm manager gears up for 5000-mile drive from Scotland to Sahara
6th June 2024
A Perthshire farm manager is getting ready to embark on a 5,000-mile overlanding expedition in tribute to his late father-in-law.
Hugh Chamberlain is set to undertake an extraordinary trip from the rugged terrain of Highland Scotland to the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert to raise funds for agricultural charity RSABI and Eden Valley Hospice.
Mr Chamberlain, farm manager at Atholl Estates, will take on the challenge this September as a heartfelt tribute to his late father-in-law, Tony Rawlings, who dreamt of exploring the world in his cherished 1993 Land Rover Defender 300tdi.
In Tony’s legacy
Mr Rawlings, who passed away due to cancer, found solace during his illness by planning and modifying the Land Rover for this very journey.
His adventurous spirit and meticulous preparations provided a welcome distraction from his treatments.
Although he is no longer here to witness this expedition, his legacy lives on through Mr Chamberlain’s determination to fulfil his dream.
The man, accompanied by his friend Dave Hill, whom he met at an agricultural college, will navigate the arduous route relying solely on maps and intuition.
The expedition, set to test their endurance and resilience, aims to raise funds for RSABI and Eden Valley Hospice, charities close to both families’ hearts.
RSABI provides support to individuals and families in Scottish agriculture, while Eden Valley Hospice offers compassionate care to those facing life-limiting illnesses.
Dreams can endure
Mr Chamberlain said: “In honour of Tony’s legacy, we are embarking on this expedition to prove that even amidst loss, dreams can endure, and compassion can ignite change.
“It is our hope that through this challenge, we will provide a beacon of hope and support to those in Scottish agriculture and the hospice community.
“We gratefully welcome any donations which will enable our two chosen charities to continue delivering the all-important support and services they provide.”
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Pauline Macmillan, RSABI’s head of fundraising, added: “We’re very grateful to Hugh and the team for choosing to fundraise for RSABI through this fantastic adventure.
“We would also like to thank everyone who has stepped up to sponsor the challenge and those who have already donated – the money raised for RSABI will go towards providing vital emotional, practical and financial support to those who need it in Scottish agriculture.”
RSABI provides emotional support, including a free counselling service, as well as practical and financial support. The free, confidential support service is available 24/7 by calling 0808 1234 555 or using the webchat service on the RSABI website.
Support the challenge here or text SAHARA at 70480 to donate £10.
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