THREE veteran footballers on a fund-raising mission to Malaysia got more than they bargained for when their guide got the whole team lost in an inhospitable jungle.

David Price, Maurice Murphy and Peter Evans, all of Droitwich, together with two of Peter’s work colleagues, flew to Malaysia to take part in a series of challenges to raise funds for Children Today, which transforms the lives of dis abled and ill children across the UK.

But three days into the trip it all went wrong on a trek through the Cameron Highlands.

Forced to cut a path with a machete through the untouched landscape, the group of 25 explorers spent eight hours trying to find their campsite in torrential rain before the failing light meant they had to spend the night around a camp fire in a small clearing. Attacked by leeches, large flying insects and a snake, the team made beds out of palm leaves in order to lie down in the muddy clearing – which they later found out was the local tribe’s sacred burial ground.

Found by a rescue party during the night, the team set off at sunrise for the long, slippery and treacherous route back to their hotel. After a night of good food and local beer, the group was ready to take on the rest of the charity challenges, which included white water rafting, blowpipe training, eating the foul-smelling durian fruit and a football match against the local tribe.

On his return to the UK, Mr Evans said: “We were looking forward to the chance to see some breathtaking scenery and explore a different culture, while at the same time raising thousands of pounds for disabled children.

“It turned out to be a real test of our endurance and courage as we helped each other survive the ordeal in the jungle.

“The rest of our challenges seemed quite tame in comparison.

“Despite our ill-fated trek, the organisation of the trip by Children Today was superb and I’m thrilled with the support we have received from our colleagues, members and suppliers – help ing us to raise more than £18,000.

“It makes it all worth it. Thank you to everyone who has donated.”

The five friends paid all their own costs so every penny that they raised is going straight to Children Today.

If you’d like to add your support, please visit justgiving.com/malaysiachallenge to donate.