Around the world in 800 days - from Weymouth

The two adventurers will embark on the trip of a lifetime in an 18-year-old Toyota visiting 50 countries whilst stopping along the way to help chosen charities for a month at a time.

Biologist Emma Smart from Weymouth and her partner Andy Smith will be leaving their jobs and home behind to embark on the journey which will set out from Overcombe Drive in Weymouth on May 8 after 18 months of planning.

This starting point has been chosen in tribute to Ms Smart’s late grandfather Bernard Davenport who lived on the road and was an experienced traveller.

Miss Smart, 34, whose family still live in Overcombe Drive, said: “The freedom of it all is so exciting. We get to leave everything behind and help others at the same time.

“We chose to start from outside my grandfather’s old house because he was a real inspiration.

“It’s been tough because we have been living with Andy’s parents in Guernsey and saving all the money we can.

“But between our knowledge, experience and some serious grit and determination we are prepared for a successful trip.”

The couple who met on holiday 10 years ago plan to arrive back in Weymouth 800 days after the start date. After Weymouth the duo will sail to Calais travelling up through Europe towards Scandinavia before entering Russia and driving towards Australia.

Heading eastwards they will then explore north and south America arriving back in Europe to head downwards to explore the African coast before heading home.

Mr Smith, 36, said: “With Emma’s qualification in expedition planning and experience in organizing expeditions with wildlife documentary crews and my modifications to our vehicle over the past 12 months the journey should be a success.”

The third member of the team, a 1994 Toyota Hilux Surf named ‘Bee Bee’, has been prepared for all eventualities and terrain.

It is fitted with a roof tent, fridge and hot water shower system meaning that the explorers can set up camp in minutes and remain self-sufficient.

Miss Smart said: “We've saved and raised £20,000 to cover fuel costs. We worked out that we will produce 41 per cent less carbon dioxide per day compared to our lives in Guernsey.”

Anne and Tim Smart, Emma’s parents, said: “We are thrilled they have decided to start their journey from Weymouth. We live in Emma’s grandfather’s house now so we can send them off from here in style.”

Supporting communities

THE couple will help give back to the communities that welcome them.

Three one month volunteer placements have been confirmed so far in Turkmenistan, Southern India and Northern Sumatra.

They will work with The Turkmenistan Youth and Civic Value Foundation to help young Turkmen students hoping to apply for university in the UK.

The couple will spend one month at the Emmanuel Children’s Home in Kerala, Southern India working with the vulnerable, disabled and impoverished young women and children who live there.

In Pangururan, Northern Sumatra the duo will stay at Sitinoraiti Orphanage to help educate the small group of orphans who live there.

To follow the couple’s progress or to make a donation to their charitable works go online and visit aroundtheworldin800days.com