Globe Truckers take on worldwide challenge for charity

Said to be the first group to take on the adventure, Andy Tustian, 57, from Banbury, Antony Petit, 35, from Bicester, Barry Davies, 44, from Manchester and youngest member, George Barret, 21 from Bicester, will set off next month.

Calling themselves the Globe Truckers, they are embarking on the mission to raise money for four different charities that each driver has a connection with.

Mr Petit has decided to drive for Great Ormond Street Hospital as he spent his first days in a special care baby unit, while Mr Barret has chosen Multiple Sclerosis International Federation as his dad was diagnosed with MS and he would like to help raise money to develop treatments.

The other charities they will be driving for are UNICEF and Worldwide Cancer Research.

The group will set off from Great Ormond Street Hospital on their gruelling drive for six months through countries such as France, Germany, Russia, China, Australia and Canada, before returning back.

Mr Barret, who is engaged and has been driving a HGV for three years now, said: “I am nervous as I don’t have the experience of other members within the team but I am excited and looking forward to it.”

Mr Petit, who has a two-year-old daughter, said: “I’m excited. I have driven abroad a few times but this was in a car and I am sure driving an artic lorry will be a very different experience which I am looking forward to.”

More experienced Mr Tustian, who has been driving HGVs for over 30 years, and Mr Davies, who has been driving for 22 years are excited to get on the road.

Mr Tustian said: “I’m looking forward to sharing my past experiences and driving knowledge with the younger members of the team.”

The drivers work for different hauliers across the country.

If you would like to sponsor the four drivers go to: