YOUNG adventurer Jonathan Haigh will not be relaxing during his pre-university gap year.
The 19-year-old, from Sadberge, near Darlington, will be taking part in the biggest challenge of his life.
Jonathan, who begins a degree in biological studies at Durham University in October, sets off on a ten-week expedition to Mongolia on Thursday.
With temperatures ranging from 35C during the day to -15C at night, he will have to pack everything from Arctic sleeping bags to factor 45 sunscreen.
Jonathan was inspired to take up the challenge after attending a presentation by Raleigh International.
He is in sight of his fundraising target of £3,200 to take part in the trip.
Jonathan, who is a former pupil of Carmel College, Darlington, says he is looking forward to the challenge, which will include a trek across the Gobi desert.
He said: "I'm really looking forward to the adventure and can't wait to go, but I know mum and dad are very worried and will be glad when I come home."
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