The Eel Pie island resident is preparing to undertake the challenge of a lifetime when he sets out in June with a group of 70 trekkers to cross the desert.

Amongst those taking part in the 10-day adventure is Eleanor Grigas of May Road, Twickenham, who is currently training for the 120km trek.

She said: "This is a daunting challenge for me as I have never done anything like this before. I am training hard to be sure I am in good shape for the trek. My first and biggest challenge is to raise £2,000 to support the work of MAG."

Mrs Grigas is hoping to boost her fundraising total by raffling one of Mr Baylis's clockwork radios at the HANDS charity fair on Bank Holiday Monday. The fair is run by the Twickenham-based charity - Help A Neighbour in Distress Scheme. It runs from 10am to 4pm at Twickenham Green.

MAG provides support to families devastated by landmines and it is working to raise awareness of its cause.