With recession all around and winter certain to do nothing to help anyone's mood, we decided a leisurely drive from west Kerry in Ireland, across to Wexford for the ferry, down through Wales and England, France and Spain, through a few souks and a Saharan minefield was just the ticket.

We're two, but probably gonna be three. My brother Andrew likes the idea and we like the idea that he knows a bit about engines! Looking forward to getting in touch with everyone and sharing a few hopes and fears about the journey to come!