THE Herefordshire-based SAS is daring you to take on some of the best special forces troops in the world - and raise money for charity at the same time.

The elite fighting force will test each individuals' emotional, mental and physical attributes over a gruelling summer weekend - set high in the Brecon Beacons - to raise funds for the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

Named the 'SAS Combat Survival Mission', entrants will be expected to use their initiative to navigate their way across the mountain range, locate the enemy and avoid capture by a hunter force of ex-military personnel.

The idea to link the former soldiers with the charity came from the guide dogs' fundraising events manager, Colin Hill, who was one of just four people to complete the BBC's SAS: Are You Tough Enough? programme.

"Having experienced first hand the various challenges on the TV show, I thought it would be a fantastic way of raising money for the charity and have an unforgettable weekend," he explained.

John Mac, an SAS veteran who took part in the Iranian Embassy siege of 1980, assured potential volunteers they definitely would not forget this experience.

"This challenge has been especially designed to give you the maximum SAS experience - it'll be tough but hugely rewarding," he said.

"You'll also have the bonus of raising vital funds for guide dogs - and you'll have earned every penny of your fundraising money!"

The mission will run from July 9-11 and applicants are expected to raise £500 to enter.

For an application form and advice on fundraising call 0845 600 6787 or visit www.saschallenge.org.uk