OWEN Stark is planning to drive 1,500 miles for charity – in a car he bought for three hundred quid.

Owen, of Tutshill, is taking part in the Rusty Rex Banger Challenge to Nice in the south of France for Diabetes UK.

He will push his luck even further by adding on an extra 200 miles to finish in the French capital, Paris.

Not to be outdone, wife Debbie has her challenge for Diabetes UK – aiming to finish 100km of the Thames Path in less than 30 hours in September.

Owen, who is a professional driver, reckons his trusty Vauxhall Meriva is up to the challenge which includes driving through the Alps.

Local businesses have rallied round sponsoring new tyres, spare parts, a full service and even stumping up the cash for fuel.

He said: “Our sponsors have been absolutely superb. It means every penny we raise will go directly to Diabetes UK.”

Owen travels to the cathedral city of Reims on Sunday (July 10) to begin the four-day challenge which will see them take in four countries.

To support Owen and Debbie visit www.justgiving.com/debbie-stark.