Four friends are revving up the funds as they count down the dates to this year's Benidorm or Bust charity rally.

The all-girl team aims to raise £10,000 for Ashton’s Willow Wood and Oldham’s Dr Kershaws hospices.

A latest fundraiser staged at Mossley AFC on Saturday has seen them motor past the £9,000 mark already before they even take their place on next month’s ‘starting grid’ for the rally proper.

Team member Joanne Magilton, who will be in the driving seat alongside two of her colleagues, said: “We should have originally gone on the charity rally in May 2020 – however Covid got in our way.

“We have been working very hard since February to raise funds with various events at local pubs, and our hard work has paid off nicely and unbelievably we have now raised more than £9,000 - so we’re well on our way to smashing our £10,000 target.”

Joanne explained: “The aim of Benidorm or Bust is to raise money for two charities that are very close to our hearts, Dr Kershaw’s and Willow Wood. 

“In some way or another we have  been touched by the incredible work these organisations have done to care for family and friends at the end of their life.”

BOOST: The team at Mossley AFC

The team will set off from Greenfield to arrive in Dover for 9 May in time for the registration and starting point on 10 May. 

They certainly won’t be missed as they motor along in their bright pink Skoda Octavia and plan to enjoy 80s’ hits all the way.

Fifty cars are competing in this year’s rally and they will motor across France and Spain to take in various staging posts before ‘taking the chequered flag’ in Benidorm on 14 May.

“We are really excited at the prospect of our once in a lifetime adventure,” said Joanne.

Joanne’s friends accompanying her are Louise Kershaw, Tracey Rontree and Lisa Watson.

On Saturday the friends were at Mossley AFC raising more funds, and selling ‘calendar’ dates attached to the side of the car, offering sponsorship opportunities for individuals or companies that take a date.

Joanne added: “We can also offer company sponsorship on our car for a fee of £150 for two logos or £100 for one logo.”

People can purchase a date on the car for a £5 minimum donation – they can then sign the car themselves on their chosen date – although the number of dates left is now declining.

You can follow the team on the Facebook page BOB82 does Benidorm or Bust - or donate on the webpage https://www.collectionpot.com/pot/1452002/ 

Tune into Thursday night's Reporter Show on Tameside Radio 103.6FM from 7pm to hear more from Joanne about the rally. 

Images by Nigel Wood