A GROUP of intrepid adventurers have completed an extreme exhibition following the trail of one of the most dramatic rescue missions ever attempted by the British army.

The Napier Trail expedition, organised by Malvern-based Trailquest, was a 1,600km off-road motorcycle journey in Ethiopia.

Led by Trailquest managing director Richard Jeynes, the team made their way across often-difficult terrain heading for the remote hilltop fortress of Magdala.

In 1868, the fortress was the scene of a military rescue operation to rescue British hostages being held by King Tewdros II.

General Sir Robert Napier led a military force of 12,000 troops, 8,000 auxilliaries and 35,000 pack animals across 720 kilometres of treacherous terrain to reach the fortress.

As well as raising money for forces charity Help for Heroes, the Trailquest expedition also delivered essential supplies to Ethiopian schools on behalf of education charity Project Pencil Case.

Mr Jeynes said it had been a tough but extremely successful challenge.

“Operating at 3,000 metres above sea level for much of the time the winding trails, with steep ascents and descents, were often flanked by steep cliffs and sheer drops of more than 1,000 feet,” he said.

“Apart from five punctures and problems in the latter days with poor-quality fuel we had no major problems.” A postexpedition buffet and ceremony takes place at Trailquest’s headquarters on Sunday.