The Team
Ed and Luke are firm believers in three principles that have guided them through many remote expeditions: 'self-reliance', 'positive thinking' and 'humour in the face of adversity'.
Ed Stafford
Ed, 32, from Leicestershire, started running expeditions after retiring from the British Army as a captain in 2002. He has led several expeditions to Patagonia, Borneo and Belize. Whilst not leading expeditions Ed worked alongside the United Nations in Afghanistan assisting with the first ever presidential elections advising on security, planning and logistics. Prior to this expedition Ed was in production with the BBC on their conservation series ‘Expedition Guyana’ which can be seen on Sunday 20th July on BBC 1 at 8pm.
Luke Collyer
Luke, 36, from Crawley, is a professional outdoor instructor in the UK when he is not leading overseas expeditions. He has led various expeditions to Belize and Borneo whilst working for Trekforce Expeditions. Last year Luke led an expedition with Jack Osbourne, son of Ozzy and Sharron Osbourne, to a remote part of Belize for Ginger Productions series ‘Adrenaline Junkie’ for ITV.
Oswaldo Taracaya Rosada
Oswaldo, 24, from Cusco is an aspiring guide who has completed a year of guide training in Peru. He has jungle guiding experience and lives in the Andes so is also very accustomed to altitude. Importantly for Ed and Luke, Oswaldo speaks fluent Quechua, Spanish and basic English. He also has nine months to spare! All going well - Oswaldo will accompany Ed and Luke through the whole of Peru and will leave the lads when they enter Brazil.
The Support Team
Craig Langman - TV Relations/Producer
Craig has worked in TV for many years. He says, "When Ed and Luke first told me in January '07 of their ridiculous idea to 'Walk The Amazon' I instantly knew it would make a great documentary. I'd love to have gone along on their amazing adventure but unfortunately I struggle to sleep at night without my 100% Bavarian goose down duvet and a hot chocolate".
Vikki Rimmer - Public Relations
Vikki is a writer and publicist who spends her days placing people with unusual and interesting stories in the press and across all media. Vikki says. "After years of working with pasty-faced media lovelies it's nice to work with some 'real men' with a passion for adventure.......oh, yeah, and for filming themselves!"
Marlene Lopez Bonatto - Peruvian Operations Manager
Marle is an artist by nature. She is a former teacher who dedicates her free time to help the helpless... "That`s how I met Ed and Luke" she says, "as soon as I saw how crazy they were, I felt extremely comfortable, that`s why I decided to help them during their stay in Peru."
