HEREFORD'S answer to Indiana Jones, Colonel John Blashford-Snell, is at it again. The irrepressible adventurer is preparing to lead an expedition back into the jungles of South America to explore Inca remains.

Bodenham-born 'Blashers' is teaming up with the Scientific Exploration Society for a return to Bolivia and Brazil.

The expedition, known as Kota Mama IV - Mother of the Lake - is a five stage project to prove that the ancient people of the region used reed boats to navigate the waterways.

Blashers needs help in both phases of Kota Mama IV to study pre-Inca and Inca sites in jungle covered mountains of Samaipata and return to sites along the Beni River.

Last time around the 70-strong team faced torrential rain, temperatures of 95F and razor-sharp bamboo that cut deep gashes in their skin. Swarms of bees were attracted by the salt in their sweat and one member was stung more than 50 times.

At the time Blashford-Snell said: "This is some of the toughest terrain I have ever encountered and the weather is not helping."

A liaison officer, medic, dentist, photographer, community aid team member and a mechanical officer are needed to join the expedition.

Colonel Blashford-Snell said: "It seems strange that all this began through exploring the Canny Brook."

The cost of joining Blashers in phase one in August or phase two in September is £2,600. For information call Melissa Dice at the Scientific Exploration Society on 01747 854898 or visit www.kotamama.com.