A GROUP of friends will take on an ambitious 2,500 mile rally challenge to raise money for a cause close to their heart- all in an old banger.

Pals Brett Taylor, from Romsley, Martin Reeves, from Halesowen, Darren Cutler, from Bartley Green and Lee Kent from Kings Norton will drive from Birmingham to Benidorm as part of the British Bangers Charity Rally to raise money to fund one whole day of research at one of Brain Tumour Research's 'Centres of Excellence'.

The group were inspired to take on the challenge in memory of Finlay Church, a friend of Martin's son who tragically died from a brain tumour aged only 11-years-old.

The youngster, from Alvechurch, was a former Pride of Birmingham winner and died 17 months after his diagnosis with a glioblastoma multiforme in November 2015.

His parents Penny and Wayne have continued their son’s legacy and have fundraised more than £125,000 for the Brain Tumour Research charity.

Penny Church said: “It’s touching that three and a half years on from Fin’s death members of the local community are continuing his legacy. I’m thankful for Brett, Martin and Darren’s support. We can never make sense of what has happened to us but through fundraising we can try to make a difference for other brain tumour patients.”

Brett explained: "I was stunned that there was nothing that could have saved him. Such a tragic loss of a lovely boy - it impacted on us all."

When the group heard about the annual British Bangers Charity Rally, they knew they had to take part.

The group, who work as car traders, have bought a £600 Honda Accord for the occasion. Now they are hoping it will last the journey.

Brett joked: "The biggest challenge is four sweaty blokes in the car together and we have to cover 2,500 miles in a car that cost £600!"

Brett says he has been touched by the support the challenge has received, with companies donating their time and supplies to make sure the car is ready for the rally.

Lye based company Seven Stars Wraps provided the car with a full wrap worth £2,000 completely free of charge.

Brett added: "I can't believe the support we have received."

The group will set off from Birmingham city centre in their Honda Accord, on Sunday 12 May. From there, they will drive to Dover before catching a ferry to Calais. They will then travel through Germany and Switzerland, onto Italy and southern France, before arriving in Benidorm on 17 May.

They aim to raise £2740, the total cost of one day's research into brain tumours, and have currently raised just over £2,000.

To make a donation visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/britishbangersforfinlaysjourney