ODIHAM resident Paul Spencer is just a matter of weeks away from taking part in a marathon European driving challenge.

The 66 year old will be getting behind the wheel of his Aston Martin V8 Vantage with close friend Stephen Beard, as they race across the continent with other drivers to raise funds for military charity SSAFA.

The charity provides practical support to the entire military family on bases at home and overseas.

The event is organised by Rally For Heroes, which organises charity driving events across the UK and Europe.

The majority of money the group raise is through fundraising by entrants into their rallies. 

One of the conditions when taking part in Rally for Heroes is to raise a minimum amount of money per car, with 100 per cent of the proceeds going to charity to SSAFA.

In 2012 Rally for Heroes raised £123,000 with the money being split between Help for Heroes and the Royal British Legion.

Car fanatic Mr Spencer has taken part in the rally before, driving across Europe in 2014.

He explained that 50 cars will be participating with all driving a minimum of five miles for every service man and woman who lost their lives during the Afghanistan conflict, with that number currently standing at 456 in total.

This year’s rally is approximately 2,700 miles over nine days, starting from Portsmouth Historic Dockyard on August 5. It will see drivers travel through France, Brussels, Basle, Turin, Monaco, Girona, Pau, Le Mans, culminating Waltham Abbey in Essex.

Mr Spencer said: “Being a member of Rally for Heroes is like being a member of a large family. We are a close-knit group of petrol heads who have a common goal, to raise money for military charities.”

With eight countries to travel through this year, the retired local has pinpointed a few legs of the journey he is most excited about.

“I am looking forward most to the drive from Basle to Turin. This will be through the Alps taking in some of the high Alpine passes. Exhilarating roads to drive on and fantastic scenery.

“Also Girona in Spain which is a medieval walled town. The event organisers keep a few things secret, such as visits to very special places that would not normally be available, so that is another interest to look forward to.”

The charity fundraiser is also grateful for all the donations people have sent.

“The current amount of money I have raised so far is £4,057.55. I am very grateful to relatives, friends and members of the general public for their continued and generous support.

“It will be the second time I have participated in this rally and I think the continued generosity shows how much gratitude and support the people of this country have for the armed forces.”