In less than a month, Ali Russell from Truro who injured her back in a car crash last year, will take on the Duke of Edinburgh's Awards scheme's first ever adventure for adults – a weekend of hiking 50km and camping which has been created to encourage adults to take on a challenge.

Ali will be joined by her partner, James Danneau and will be raising money for one of the country’s leading youth charities.

It was in February 2016 that Ali suffered injuries to her back in a car accident which left her unable to exercise and knocked her confidence. The couple have been training together to build Ali’s confidence and fitness back up and plan to complete the DofE Adventure hand in hand.

Participants will tackle either a one day, 25km; or two-day, 50km, hike through the Peak District, on September 30 and October 1. All adventurers will enjoy an overnight stay at base camp, with tents, campfires, hot showers, marquee and bar all provided.

Ali and James have covered the costs of their adventure, so all of the £385 they have so far raised will support the work that the world’s leading youth achievement award has been doing for seven decades. From volunteering to physical activities, life skills to expeditions, achieving a DofE Award is a passport to a brighter future, valued by employers and universities.

Ali said: “I am personally taking on this challenge as although I completed both my silver and gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards in my teens, but following the car crash I am at my heaviest, least fit and have a low self-esteem.

“This adventure is something that will challenge me and motivate me both physically and mentally and it means everything to have my partner-in-crime, James Danneau, alongside me every step of the way. He has been my rock through everything and keeps me going, always.

“The support and motivation from everyone means the world to us both - we can't wait to tackle this challenge together. Bring it on.”

You can support Ali’s fundraising by going to justgiving.com and searching for Alexandra Russell.

adventure challenge by donating at justgiving.com - just search for Alexandra Russell.