Team Shropshire Lads

Name: Ross Preston
Aged: 23
Origin: Shropshire
Skill: Mechanic

I have lived in Shropshire most of my life. I did engineering at Sheffield University and am now working as a design and development engineer for a company that builds and adapts vehicles for disabled drivers and passengers. I have travelled in Europe and Asia before but never in the countries that we will pass through on the Mongol Rally. It has been a dream of mine ever since I heard about the Mongol Rally 5 years ago, it has just taken me a while to get here!

I am very keen on the outdoors and spend as much of my spare time as possible climbing, sailing or mountain biking. I am really looking forward to seeing so many landscapes in one trip.

We have set ourselves the challenge of playing cricket in as many countries as we can and involving as many children as possible in the fun. I personally want to raise money to support the care that the Birmingham’s Children Hospital can provide for children and families suffering the effects of a serious illness.

Name: George Hepworth Age:24 Origin: Shropshire
Skill: Film making

I was born and raised in Shropshire and I am currently in my second year at the University of Derby studying Film and Video Production. I have already been travelling a few times before but none of my travels have ever led me on a challenge quite like this. I am looking forward to explore and experience the environments and cultures of thirteen new countries in the process of doing the rally.

Whilst taking part in this adventure my role will be to capture footage of our journey so that I can make a documentary about any complications, achievements and new experiences that are waiting to arise along the way.

I am really pleased that by doing this rally we will also be raising money for the charities Birmingham Children’s Hospital and Cool Earth. Earlier this year I unfortunately lost my good friend Michael Clode and Birmingham Children’s Hospital had played a big part in his care and treatment when he was younger. I want to support them to continue their good work which is vital for so many children and their families. Cool Earth is the official charity for the Mongol rally that helps protect rainforest by only protecting the parts of the rainforest that are in imminent danger of being cleared. Already thinking about possible adventures after Mongolia I want to make sure that the rainforests aren’t destroyed so that there will always be somewhere for people to get lost exploring.