HAVING organised one incredible journey, local author Gill Suttle is busy preparing her horse, Kaan, for another.

This time the plan is to complete a 600 mile sponsored ride from the Dorset coast through Wales to the Scottish borders to raise £10,000 for ME (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis) research.

The ride - "The 2001 Odyssey" - is being undertaken in association with the Tymes Trust, a charity which is about to launch its ME research appeal fund.

Gill is herself an ME sufferer. A former British modern pentathlon team member, event rider and athlete, Gill's life was drastically altered when she was struck down by the disabling condition.

Several years into her illness, her legs still weak, but determined to break free, Gill set out on horseback to ride across countries as far afield as Mongolia, Syria and Turkmenistan.

It was in the latter country that she found the ex-racehorse Akhal-Teke (Kaan).

"He was more than just a travelling companion. For having ME, I have very limited mobility. Quite simply, Kaan was my legs - and he carried me for long distances, unshod and with little food other than grass."

Kaan faced starvation in Turkmenistan but bringing him to the UK was no easy option. Thanks to Gill's never say die resolution and the horse's iron hard constitution he survived a traumatic journey to arrive safely at his new home on The Doward.

Now fully restored to health, he is the sire of a beautiful filly, foaled last summer.

Getting Kaan ready for 2001 Odyssey has caused a few anxious moments for Gill.

"He's thumpingly well at the moment but I'm almost afraid to say that because any little thing could put him out - I feel as if I'm preparing him for the Grand National."

Gill will be riding Kaan along part of the route, backed up by a team of riders, many suffering or recovering from ME. Channel Four Racing presenter and former jockey Brough Scott will be the first rider, setting off from Lulworth Cove in Dorset on March 1st. All being well Kaan is scheduled to arrive at Chepstow Racecourse on March 10th and will journey on through the Wye Valley on the 11th.

Among those sponsoring Odyssey 2001 are Monmouth Choral Society who will present a cheque for £500 to Gill at Drybridge House next Tuesday (February 6th).

Anyone else interested in sponsoring or helping Gill and Kaan should contact Odyssey 2001 for ME, PO Box 41, Monmouth, 01600 890730.