Two intrepid adventurers have returned home in triumph after trekking 100km through one of the most inhospitable places on earth.

Alex Hill and Alice Smee raised more than £7,000 for Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s disability charity, after successfully completing the Sahara Desert challenge.

The five-day trek included taking in peaks, gorges, dunes and oases of Morocco’s landscape with highlights such as a summit of Jebel Al Marakeb, where trekkers could take in panoramic views of the region.

Alice, Network Coordinator of Hoburne Group, set herself the challenge to mark her 60^th birthday.

She said: “I’m delighted to be home again after the most outstanding experience, it was nothing like I was expecting – it was far better!

“There were so many highlights and stories that I will cherish forever, from our camel companions, to rescuing baby goats lost in the desert, to local Berber women joining us at camp one evening.

“The terrain was so interesting and changeable, we could find ourselves walking on rocks in the morning, followed by crawling up sand dunes in the afternoon.

“We learnt so much about ourselves and each other during the five days and I’ve made some very good friends.”

Alex, Director of Meyers Estate Agents Poole, added: “So, back to normality after a life changing experience.

“Not only was it a great opportunity to test myself it also gave me a week where I was able to unplug from all the distractions that life throws at you.

“The landscapes were truly breath-taking and the people we met are now going to be friends for life, it was also great to enjoy different cultures and see how people that live so simply live so happily, it’s something I will never forget.”

The trek took place between Sunday February 16 and Sunday February 23.

Other challenge events for Diverse Abilities are available.

See www.diverseabilities.org.uk/events for further information.