GRASSINGTON survival expert Perry McGee will be navigating his way through the Guaymi reserve in Costa Rica later this year.

He is taking part in a Scientific Exploration Society project to assist medics and scientists who are carrying out medical assessments and performing dental aid to the local indigenous people.

The trip - which will take place in July - will also include building two bridges over the infamous Leona trail, creating a secure navigational area for sea turtles to land and distributing school books to the local children.

“I am very proud to be associated with the Scientific Exploration Society and the excellent work they carry out worldwide," said Perry, who runs his own tracking school.

"The area of is of a specific interest to me as Guaymi is where the illusive Jaguar has been detected and for me, this makes the challenge all the greater. I have never been lucky enough to visit an area where the Jaguar still lives freely and I am hoping to use my tracking skills to assist during the expedition.”

The reserve is situated in the Corcovado National Park and covers 45 hectares, which is mainly jungle forestation and mangrove swamps. It is located on the Osa Peninsula, which attracts for "eco-travellers" interested in observing its rich biodiversity.

Heading the expedition will be the legendary Colonel John Blashford-Snell, an former British army officer who has been described as the world’s greatest explorer. He has completed more than 100 expeditions worldwide.

Perry is also no stranger to the outdoors. He is an author, keen conservationist and animal welfare campaigner and runs the UK's National Tracking School where students can learn the art and science of tracking animals and humans here and overseas.

His skills are regularly called upon by the authorities and his work includes many high-profile tracking incidents involving fugitives and missing persons. He is a national tracking advisor and has a fascinating background including 30 years as a police detective.

Perry is the son of Eddie McGee who tracked down multiple serial killer Barry Prudham in the Malton area in July 1982. At the time, it was the largest armed police operation the country had ever seen, involving 12 police forces. Prudham shot himself after being cornered by police marksmen at the town’s tennis courts.

For July's expedition, Perry is looking for assistance and sponsorship and anyone who can help can contacted him via his website, nationaltrackingschool.com