THREE intrepid explorers from Blaenau Ffestiniog are to face a life-changing, cross-continental challenge this summer to raise money for Macmillan.

The trio will traverse 10,000 miles across mountains, desert and grasslands of Europe and Asia as they leave the UK and head all the way to Mongolia as part of the Mongol Rally - often referred to as “the greatest motoring adventure on the planet”.

If that was not challenging enough, the three teammates will complete the enormous challenge in a tiny car which cost less than £500.

Iwan Cynfal Williams, Steven Price and Connaire Cann, all from Blaenau Ffestiniog, will take on the arduous trek in July and expect the challenge to last approximately six weeks.

Iwan and Connaire, both 22, are both experienced outdoor enthusiasts but for Iwan’s cousin Steven, 23, this will be his first ‘big’ adventure.

“We took Steven skiing two weeks ago for the first time - it was hilarious,” Iwan joked with the Cambrian News.

“But me and Connaire are both outdoor leaders so we have a little bit of knowledge behind us, luckily Connaire knows a bit about cars so that should put us in good stead.

“We’re currently looking to get a Nissan Micra for the route - it’s a nice, simple design and a good engine so it should do the trick.

“Saying that, a Micra is probably more suited for taking your gran to Eurospar not driving to Mongolia.

“We’re buzzing for it now though, we really cannot wait.”

Iwan, a certified outdoor instructor, believes the route will take six or seven weeks to complete.

“We’re heading off in July but there’s no real set plan,” the 22-year-old added.

“It’s called a rally but it’s more of a fun run, there’s no point trying to finish first if you’re not going to enjoy yourself along that way.

“I think I’m looking forward to Kazakhstan most of all, it looks spectacular.

“More than that I’m just looking forward to being on the road and seeing where we end up.”

Although the Mongol Rally is designed for people to have fun, there is a serious element to it.

Iwan added: “All the money we raise will go to Macmillan Cancer Support.

“We’re looking for as many donations as possible to go towards an incredible charity.

“Lots of people around here have used their services either directly or indirectly and they make a huge difference.

“We’ll be hosting a few fund-raisers before we leave in July.

“Me and Steven play for local rugby teams so I’m sure we’ll get them involved in the fundraising somehow.”

Anyone wishing to donate to the trio’s Mongol challenge can contact the team via [email protected].