Exeter Express & Echo web editor Sarah Elliott is preparing to swap the comfort of the newsroom for a week in sub-zero temperatures, in a bid to raise money for leukaemia sufferers.

The intrepid 26-year-old will join a team of ten on a trip to northern Sweden to take part in an Arctic Survival Week, and is currently doing all she can to raise the £2,500 sponsorship needed for the January adventure.

Sarah (pictured) said: "I saw a story in the Western Morning News looking for volunteers and thought it would be a good opportunity to go somewhere that I have never been before and raise money for a good cause.

"I've never been anywhere with such extreme weather conditions, but with the help of the right kit hopefully I won't come back with frostbite!"

During the seven-day adventure Sarah and the rest of the team will spend their time with a survival school in the Arctic Circle, and will learn how to ice-fish, ride a husky-dog sledge, and snow-shoe.

She will also sleep in a snow hole and drive a snowmobile as she gets to grips with surviving on rations.

Sarah said: "My family is excited, but also a little worried for me.

"I don't want to come back with frostbite, but I also think it's really good to challenge yourself."

To help Sarah towards her fundraising target, the Express & Echo has pledged £500 in sponsorship.

She has also put on car boot sales, placed collection boxes at her local post office and pub, and written to a large number of local companies, but so far she is struggling to gather enough money together.

If you would like to sponsor Sarah, you can contact her on 01392 667539 or selliott@nepdc.co.uk. All the money raised will be donated to the Exeter Leukaemia Fund.

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