Stuart Williams and Russell Smith from Dagenham

Dagenham pair will spend a year and a half trekking through jungle

by Sara Odeen-Isbister , Senior Reporter Friday, August 24, 2012
10:42 AM

Surviving on food they catch along the way, two intrepid young men will trek 4,000 miles through the Amazon jungle for charity.

Stuart Williams and Russell Smith, both 26 and from Dagenham, believe it will take them a year and a half to hike from Peru to Brazil.

They plan to use a guide at the start of their bold journey early next year, before continuing alone.

Money raised will go to Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital.

Stuart, of Bradwell Avenue, and Russell, of Hooks Hall Drive, have never embarked on such an ambitious adventure before.

Self employed carpenter Stuart told the Post: “I was in the army for a few years so know a bit about trekking and survival techniques but this will be very different from anything I’ve done previously. However I believe we can do it and I can’t wait to go.”

He said the two friends would have to catch their own food along the way: “We can’t carry a year and a half’s supply of food so we’ll have to catch animals to eat,” he explained. “There will also be creatures we’ll try to avoid, as there are a lot of things in that jungle that can hurt you.”

They hope to raise at least £6,000 for Great Ormond Street. “Hopefully when people see what we’re taking on they’ll be inspired to donate. It’s a fantastic cause so I hope we can raise lots.”

Stuart and Russell, who until recently worked for a aeroplane parts shipping company, are currently looking for businesses or individuals to help cover the cost of the flights to Peru. If you can help call Stuart on 07976392296.