SeaFrance helps double decker bus adventure on its way

This Monday (21 April 2008) will see the most typical of British vehicles, a double-decker bus, embark on a 22,500 mile journey across 25 countries with the ultimate goal of reaching Nepal. The bus leaves the UK onboard the SeaFrance Renoir as it makes its only water crossing of the whole journey, from Dover to Calais. From France the bus will set on its way to reach its final destination, Nepal, and then turn around and begin the journey all over again for home.

The journey is the brainchild of Daniel Spokes from Bristol, who teamed up with friend Matt Lumber, and set about renovating a Bristol VR double-decker for the trip. It took five years to fully convert the double-decker into an expedition vehicle, which is tough enough on the outside (bull bar included) and comfy enough on the inside to make the trip. Finally the dream has become a reality.

They will start the trip from the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol, making their way to the SeaFrance Dover-Calais Ferries terminal at Dover ready for the ferry crossing at 8am, Monday 21 April 2008. They will pass through 25 countries including Belgium, Germany, Slovenia, Serbia, Turkey, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Russia.

To give the epic journey a clear purpose, both Dan and Matt chose charities close their heart to support. All money raised from the journey will be split between Dan’s charity the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation and keen climber Matt’s choice Mountain Rescue. In addition the bus will be calling in at Tiblisi in Georgia, the twin town with Bristol, taking boxes of vital supplies for a school for the deaf.

Bill Laidlaw, Sales Director of SeaFrance Limited, commented: “We are pleased to have been able to assist Dan and Matt on their journey to raise money for such excellent causes and wish them the best of luck.”

To follow the boys’ progress, check out their video blogs, written blogs and photographs charting the whole five month adventure on letyourselfgo.expedia.co.uk/doubledecker/