THREE intrepid Oxford students are tackling the challenge of a lifetime this month.

Joseph Larvin, John Gallacher and Sam Hodgson, all 20, aim to cycle from Oxford to Morocco in a month.

The 3,000km ride, which will take them through four countries in blistering heat, started from the city centre on Monday morning.

Mr Larvin, a medical student at St John’s College, said: “We have all been training. Generally our fitness isn’t too bad. But we are planning the route as we go along so that is where I’m most nervous.

“I don’t think we’re quite as organised as we hoped we’d be. But I’m sure we’ll be fine.

“Our flights back from Marrakesh are on September 8, so we must be there by then no matter what.”

The students, who all attend St John’s College, are riding for Headway – a charity which supports people with acquired brain injuries.

It is a charity close to Mr Gallacher’s heart, since the charity helped his family when his sister was in a car crash.

Mr Larvin said: “We really want to raise £10,000 and we’re close now.

“It is a great cause and we want to do our bit. The response has been unbelievable and we just want to do it now.”

l To follow the progress of the trio or to donate, visit oxford2africa. wordpress.com.