HE walked for up to nine hours a day, crossing 120km of some of the most inhospitable landscape on earth.

But after conquering brutal sandstorms, overcoming a bout of dysentery and completing a gruelling eight-day trek, Steve Searle has raised thousands of pounds for a cause very close to his heart.

The 44-year-old, from Horton Heath, set off on an adventure across the Sahara in North Africa using Berber local guides and a caravan of camels.

Along the way he battled through incessant sandstorms which were so strong they blew down tents in the group’s camp and even endured two highly unusual days of rain in the barren desert.

But the father-of-four has already raised more than £6,500 in aid of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust – more than double his original aim.

He was inspired to take on the charity challenge because his niece, Angela Lechner from Woodstock Close, Hedge End, suffers from the genetic disease – which seriously affects the lungs.

The retired managing director of a recruitment firm said: “I knew this would really put me outside my comfort zone, but was shocked by just how harsh things got. The desert was as an amazing place to witness, as I had hoped, with the striking landscapes and scenery seemingly ever changing – and never ending.

“My niece Angela unfortunately has the terrible condition CF and therefore this cause is hugely important to our family. “I have had an experience that I will never forget and the additional adversity, with the conditions, has made the sense of achievement even greater, for everyone who was involved.

“I wanted a challenge – and got one. This has been the main focus for me since I decided to take it on, and I am very proud that the hard work and effort has paid off.”

Support Steve at: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SteveSearleSahara.