A DARLINGTON man is hoping to raise £2,500 for Mencap after completing a gruelling Sahara Challenge last week.

Graham Orange, 31, who works as an aircraft technician at RAF Leeming, spent a week in the north African desert, where he ran half marathons and took part in 40km cycle rides.

That is no mean feat at altitudes of 2,250m above sea level, and temperatures as high as 33 degrees during the day, falling to just two degrees at night, while the competitors camped out in the desert.

As well as the physical challenges of running, cycling and driving through the desert in extreme temperatures, the teams also had to complete other challenges, including abseiling, mental agility and mountain bike time trials.

The six teams of four taking part won points for their performance at the various challenges, and Graham's team won the overall title.

He said: "It was very hard and I would have to think carefully if I wanted to do it again, but I will never regret doing it, it was a great experience, probably a once-in-a-lifetime experience."

So far, he has raised £1,700 for Mencap through sponsorship and other fundraising events, but wants to increase that to £2,500. Anyone wishing to make a donation can contact Graham on (01325) 247123.