A TEAM of students has traversed halfway across the globe to reach Mongolia for an innovative fundraiser that will aid their chosen charities.

The Stroud fundraisers, consisting of Ben Searle, Tom Simpson, Kieran Dhesi and Tom Shiner reached their Siberian finish in just five weeks, while raising more than £1500 as of yet.

Ben Searle, 22, spoke of why he had confidence before they tackled the 8000 mile adventure.

"We worked hard to ensure that our small car was fit to take on the deserts and demanding terrain along the challenge," said Ben.

"It is great to be able to undertake such an amazing challenge - the work that Cancer Research UK and MacMillan Support do makes a massive difference to the lives of so many."

On their adventure, the team of Stroud residents drove from the Cotswolds, through 17 countries, three mountain ranges and two deserts on the way to Mongolia.

All of this was achieved in an 14-year-old Skoda Fabia, that many would consider impractical, small and under-powered.

However, there are two rules regarding vehicle choice for the event, the transport has to be cheap and must be under 1200cc.

"With the great support of the mechanics at the Volkswagen & Audi Centre in Stonehouse, we installed heavy duty springs to improve ground clearance and to handle the extra weight of our supplies," explained Ben.

To help fundraise on their page 'The Meeple of Mongolia' please visit virginmoneygiving

"Everyone is very interested to find out more about the challenge as well as how they can help support the charities that we are fundraising for," added Ben.