A TERMINALLY ill adventurer is tackling an energy-sapping car trip to the Sahara to support the cancer unit treating him.

Steve Cook and friends are driving from Taunton to Marrakech to raise money for the Somerset Unit for Radiotherapy Equipment (SURE) charity, which buys equipment for the Beacon Centre, at Taunton’s Musgrove Park Hospital.

The BMWs and Saab they are driving are all over 20 years old and they could face temperatures of 50degsC without air conditioning.

Steve, owner of main sponsor Cook’s Commercials, said: “Everybody knows somebody who’s had something to do with the Beacon Centre and I wanted to thank them for what they’re doing for me.

“We’ve done some exciting things in the past, travelling to India, Thailand and other places. When Marrakech was suggested I said, ‘Let’s do it’ – I’m not going to sit back and feel sorry for myself.”

Steve, whose mother died from cancer last year, is being joined by Mike Boyd, Trevor Klimpke, Jonny Bage, Alan Cook, Mike Parker and Andy Follett – they are funding the trip themselves.

They have already raised £1,700 through a race night and any company wishing to support them should call 01823-338820 (office hours) or individuals can help via BT Donate Cookie Cars.