A charity challenge devised by an adventurer and friends has raised thousands of pounds to improve the lives of people in Moldova. Peter Laurie, 38, of Carleton Rode, was joined by 11 madcap volunteers on the marathon trek driving bangers costing less than �200.

A CHARITY challenge devised by an adventurer and friends has raised thousands of pounds to improve the lives of people in Moldova.

Peter Laurie, 38, of Carleton Rode, was joined by 11 madcap volunteers on the marathon trek driving bangers costing less than �200. They set off from London travelling via the Arctic Circle to Moldova, which is officially ranked

the poorest country in

Europe.

"We just about managed to complete the challenge. One car broke down terminally 20km from the end, but we still managed to tow her to the finish," said Mr Laurie, who was given a Nissan Bluebird that was destined for scrap.

"We had a fair share of issues along the way, but arrived safely in Moldova after travelling more than 5,000 miles each. We spent a fantastic couple of days visiting some of the projects that we have supported and were thoroughly impressed with their work, as well as being completely bowled over by their hospitality."

The Snowdodgers Rally was held last month and sponsorship money is still coming in. The charities to benefit are Moldova Ministries, which helps orphans, the homeless and prisoners, and Children on the Edge, which established a base in Moldova in 2007.

"We don't have a final total yet, but it's �20,315 at the moment," said Mr Laurie.

More information and pictures of the journey are available online at www.snowdodgers.co.uk