Watch Manager Adrian Mantle from White Watch, Bedminster (15), and Firefighter Pete Marsh, from Red Watch, Bath (12), embarked on a huge challenge in December 2007

While most of us were recovering from the festive excesses, the duo were heading off in an ambulance driving from Temple (09) Fire Station all the way to the Gambia.  

The vehicle driven by Adrian and Pete was donated to the Gambia and Avon Fire Services in Partnership (GAFSIP) charity by Wessex Ambulance Service and when it arrived was handed over to the Gambia Fire and Ambulance Service.

As well as doing all the driving, the duo raised much-needed funds for GAFSIP. 

Speaking ahead of the trip, Pete said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for us. Having both flown to the Gambia, we thought it would be great to do the trip by road. I am sure it is going to be very difficult at times, especially when the tiredness sets in, but we will be seeing some beautiful sites along the way, so it will be worth it.”

On Saturday 8 December Adrian and Pete held a sponsored car wash at Bath station. Even with the heavy rain that stayed all day they still managed to raise a huge £645. The public also showed their support by the constant beeping of passing cars keeping the teams spirits up.

Pete and Adrian kept us updated during their trip, you can read the Don't Panic 2007 online diary here