A MAN from East Lancashire is set to embark on the ultimate road-trip through Africa -- and is looking for someone to join him.

David Jonathan is aiming to drive 20,000 miles across 15 countries on the way to South Africa from his home in Clayton-le-Moors.

Inspired by his love of safari animals, the self-employed builder will make the month-long trip in October this year.

He plans to take two four-wheel drive vehicles and is now appealing for anyone interested in joining him to take the wheel of one of them.

He will be travelling through France and Spain before heading into Morocco, Mali, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Cameroon and several other countries down the west coast of Africa.

But while he's looking forward to taking in the sights and sounds of the extraordinary continent, he's also preparing to protect himself on Africa's underdeveloped road system.

He's fitted security cameras to his vehicles -- a Mitsubishi Warrior and a Mitsubishi Pajero -- so he can record the registration plates of any vehicles that might crash into him.

He says this extra security is necessary in a continent not renowned for its up-to-date insurance policies.

David, 50, of Warwick Avenue, said: "It's going to be the trip of a lifetime.

"I've travelled through parts of north Africa before but this is the big one. I love the wild animals out there and am looking forward to seeing the big cats up close.

"I'll be making a diary of my travels which will be great to look back on.

"The authorities have told me I can't do this on my own, which is why I want to take two vehicles.

"I just need someone to join me. It's not a case of it being cancelled if no-one comes forward, because I know someone will. The extra security on the vehicles is just common sense.

"I can record the number plate of anyone who might run into me."

In a fortnight David will fly out to South Africa with partner Lisa Savage, 35, to try and organise accommodation ready for the trip in the autumn.

When the journey-proper begins, Lisa will fly out to South Africa again, ready to meet him at journey ends.

On the trip he will spend an average of two or three days in each country as he works his way down the western coast of Africa.

Anyone who is wanting to join the self-funded expedition can phone David on 07788 868911 or Lisa on 07717 594549.