Businessman gets into gear ready for transcontinental fundraising drive

Motoring enthusiast Phil Burgan, from the Scarcroft area of the city, has taken on the epic Peking to Paris rally challenge with his childhood friend John Wright, 64.

The trip will take them through the Gobi Desert, outer Mongolia and Russia as well as much of Europe as they travel west on their fundraising “drive”.

The 61-year-old, who is owner and managing director of the Leeds-based Maria Mallaband Care Group, has already raised over £75,000 for the Princes Trust but is hoping to reach his target before he sets off on the 33-day journey on May 28.

The pair have stocked up on food supplements and undertaken a strict fitness regime prior to setting off on the trip, on which they expect to lose a stone each due to poor food quality and problems finding fresh water.

Father-of-four Mr Burgan, who also has two grandchildren, said: “My family are used to it and my wife’s always known I’ve been a bit of an adventurer over the years.”

The 1959 Volvo Saloon they will be using has been extensively modified to prepare it for desert conditions and long distances without having to refuel.

Mr Burgan added: “The Prince’s Trust helps people help themselves, it’s a great charity and gives people a start in life.”

The charity, which was established by Prince Charles, aims to help support 50,000 young people who have struggled with employment or education.

The race is notoriously arduous and difficult – and, from past performances, on average half the entrants fail to reach the finish line.

To donate text PJBU52 and the amount to 70070 or visit www.justgiving.com/philip-burgan52.