Large Donor Please

Its been a while, too long. Especially as there have been some developments.

Here's a quick round-up of the most important news

1. Car

The car has arrived and is living in Wincanton. I'm going to pick it up next week. Its a 1996, 5-door, white, Nissan Micra. Alex and his brother Andrew have been giving it the once over and making it ready for the installation of the magic tree. It falls 2cc within the 1-litre rule and, according to Andrew, is a 'good runner'.
Andrew, we'll give you the full verdict from Ulan Bataar.

2. Visas/Red Tape

We're up to 5 each. Including Russia and Iran. Only a few more to go and we'll be ready for the off on the 19th July.
Nick is in negotiations with an Iranian national to arrange a Carnet de Douane to get the car through Iran. His request for contraband has been firmly and politely refused as I have become quite attached to my body parts over the last 43 years and feel that losing any extremity in return for even the best sngle malt is a tall order. Sorry Hossein.

3. Sponsors

We are pleased to announce that our sponsorship is going to plan. If you're thinking of donating, try this link http://www.willwemakeit.com/lowbeam .
In the meantime, a big thankyou to Liz O'Brien, Moray Watson, Colin Ward and Andrea Ward for their generous support for the cause.
Also, a big thankyou to Andy Hilton for the Jerry Cans and also to Malcolm and Mairead for the security 'stuff' (say no more).

So, in keeping with the spirit of the trip 'Be unprepared' we have done precious little else. Apart from the mandatory European Safety equipment and a rudimentary First Aid Kit, I'm making a small pile of suitable underwear/sundries. That should see me as far as Bucharest. After that I'll be on the goat skin cod pieces.

Keep it Low Beam.