A farm manager drove 5,000 miles from Scotland to the Sahara Desert to honour his late father-in-law who died at a Carlisle hospice after battling cancer.

Hugh Chamberlain, farm manager at Atholl Estates, embarked on the epic journey in September in the cherished 1993 Land Rover Defender 300tdi that belonged to his late father-in-law Tony Rawlings.

Mr Rawlings, who passed away at Eden Valley Hospice, had always dreamt of making this journey in his modified Land Rover, which he used as a distraction during treatment.

Accompanied by his friend, Dave Hill, Mr Chamberlain set off from Eden Valley Hospice on September 12 on a three-week journey to fulfil Mr Rawlings’ dream and raise funds for Eden Valley Hospice, Jigsaw, Cumbria's Children’s Charity, and agricultural charity RSABI.

(Image: Eden Valley Hospice) To make donations, go to https://tinyurl.com/y7szcdye or by text SAHARA to 70480 to donate £10.

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.

"We gratefully welcome any donations which will enable our two chosen charities to continue delivering the all-important support and services they provide."

The pair faced various mechanical problems, navigated flash floods and severe terrain, and camped by the roadside due to breakdowns.

Despite these challenges, they reached the Sahara and brought back sand to scatter on Mr Rawlings’ grave.

To date, more than £6,000 has been raised in Mr Rawlings’ memory.

Jenny Wilson, director of clinical services at Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, said: "Hugh’s fantastic achievement will provide many more local families with vital care and support to help them navigate through the most difficult of times.

"Thank you."

Pauline Macmillan, head of fundraising at RSABI, said: “By raising money for RSABI, this will help us with our mission to help those working in the agricultural industry within Scotland.

“The money raised by Hugh will help us continue to provide financial, emotional and practical support to those within the agricultural community.”