AN adventurous musical couple are to travel 600 miles into the Arctic Circle to raise funds for a hospice.

Heather and Geoff Thompson, from Darlington, are taking their camper van through Norway to Hammerfest, in the Arctic Circle, to play a flute duet in the world's most northerly Methodist church and raise money for St Teresa's Hospice.

They have been planning the trip for almost seven years and it is expected to take about a month to complete,

Mr and Mrs Thompson are beginning the trip on May 28, following a blessing and lunch at the Northland Methodist Church, in Darlington.

As well as collecting donations, the couple are offering local businesses a chance to advertise on the side of their Fiat Lunar motor home, in exchange for £100 sponsorship.

The couple have already raised more than £1,000 for the Darlington hospice.

Mr and Mrs Thompson are funding the entire trip themselves, with all proceeds going to St Teresa's Hospice.

Jane Bradshaw, St Teresa's Hospice director, said: "Heather and Geoff are undertaking a huge challenge in travelling such a great distance and we are all extremely grateful to them for their efforts."

Mrs Thompson said: "St Teresa's Hospice provided wonderful care to my mother, and as a result, it is a cause close to our hearts."

Anyone wanting to sponsor the couple can contact Alexa Wilson at St Teresa's Hospice, on (01325) 254321.