Katherine Turner from Matlock who's expedition is being supported by Alfreton-based Terra Nova Equipment.

Horsing Around Alfreton-based outdoor gear manufacturer Terra Nova Equipment has agreed to be the product sponsor of an equestrian expedition-with-a-difference – a 3000 mile journey from the capital of Mongolia across the Russian Mongolian border to Siberia on horse-back. Explorers Katherine Turner and Alexandra Tolstoy set out in May on the rigorous and physical expedition which will take them 5000km on horse-back from Ulan Bator in Mongolia to Novosibirisk in Siberia.

The journey will encompass some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes in the world, including the Altai Mountains, Lake Baikal, the world’s largest and deepest freshwater lake, and the Sayan Mountains. The trip is expected to take 5 months with the pair riding 60 km per day with a rest every 4 days for the horses.

Terra Nova Equipment has provided the adventurous pair with a Hyperspace tent and an Ultra Quasar. Both are 4-season lightweight tents, designed and built to withstand the most extreme weather conditions which Alexandra and Katherine will no doubt experience.

Katherine Turner, from Matlock, Derby was keen to get a local company involved. Katherine said: “It is essential we have top quality, light durable expedition level tents that will shelter us through some very extreme conditions, especially when we get to the mountains in Siberia. “

“We have looked at lots of different makes but the Terra Nova tents are absolutely perfect – weight is one of our biggest considerations since we are carrying all our equipment on packhorse. Terra Nova tents are lightweight but don’t compromise on quality,” she continued.

Sales and marketing director Carolyn Budding said: "We wanted to support this expedition as it is an interesting and unusual trip which will cover some pretty rugged terrain. We also like to get involved with local 'adventurers' especially when a worthwhile charity is also going to benefit.

It is important for Alexandra and Katherine to have equipment which will not let them down over their 5 month trip and the tents they have taken have been tried and tested in some harsh conditions.

This is the second time Terra Nova Equipment has sponsored Alexandra. The company’s tents were put through their paces during an eight-month trek on the famous Silk Road travelling solely by horse and camel.

The expedition is also set to raise money for ActionAid, a UK based charity, tackling poverty across the world and the pair are encouraging donations from friends, family and businesses.

You can find out more about the expedition at www.mongolia-siberia2002.com

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