In September 2008 members of Kent And East Sussex MINI Club plan to make an epic trip up above the Arctic Circle driving our MINI over 5,000 miles to the most Northern point of Europe and back to raise money for Leukaemia Research.

Nordkapp is our destination which sits on the same latitude as Siberia, Greenland and Alaska. Our journey will take us through France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Norway. Our route is set to include the most Northern point of Europe, The Atlantic Road and the longest tunnel in the world - all located in some of the most stunning scenery on the planet.

My mother Jayne and I thought long and hard about where to holiday this year, lazing in the sun somewhere, or a long and arduous journey to from Kent to Nordkapp, Norway and back in just over two weeks?

Jayne made the mistake of saying "Ive always wanted to see the Northern Lights" and the decision was made, despite the fact the chance of seeing them in September is remote!

We then thought, it is a long journey, a full day's driving almost every day and probably a once in a life time adventure, so lets try and raise some money towards Kent & East Sussex MINI Club's year long commitment to raising money for the Leukaemia Research Fund.

You may ask why the Leukaemia Research Fund? Several people both in the MINI Club and their family members are here today thanks wonderful charities such as the Leukaemia Research Fund. In the 1950's the only treatment was to change the patient's blood, which of course only delayed the inevitable. Now research has brought about a long and complex treatment protocol giving a fantastic survival rate. Research continues, especially into tailoring the treatment to each indiviual's needs, meaning less side effects.

On a personal note Elaine, David's sister and Jayne's daughter is a long-term survivor and will be marrying this year thanks to the dedication of the unseen heroes!

Keep up to date at minitothearctic.com or arcticmini.eu

If you'd like to contact me please email david@kaesminiclub.com