The Pontefract extreme sports enthusiast and two friends will join 60 teams on a 2,000 mile rally across India in a three-wheel auto rickshaw in June.

His squad hopes to raise £7,000 to buy a water sterilisation unit for a poor Indian community.

Matt, 35, of Canterbury Court, said: “We’ve taken part in conservation and charity events before but this is the challenge of a lifetime.

“Everyone should have the right to clean water and that’s what we wanted to help provide, but in a unique way.”

The rickshaw race trail travels through jungle, desert and the Himalayas – and teams will risk life and limb to reach the end.

Matt added: “The rickshaw only has a level seven horsepower, it’s like using a scooter to drag a sardine can crammed full of men.

“It only has one brake, which will be scary on India’s main roads.

“From the moment we set off we’ll be completely on our own but I can’t wait.”

For ore details of Matt’s adventure, or to sponsor his team, visit www.teammidlifecrisis.wordpress.com.