Police employee to drive 4,500 miles for charity

Tim Stevens and his wife Rachel are driving from Cornwall to Croatia for the charity Rock 2 Recovery

A Devon and Cornwall Police employee plans to drive 4,500 miles (7,240 km) to raise money for a veterans and emergency services charity.

Tim Stevens, a facilities manager for the force, will drive his 18-year-old Volkswagen Beetle, called Ringo, from Cornwall to Croatia to raise funds for the charity Rock2Recovery.

The two-week Split Or Bust banger rally, which involves a total of 200 cars, follows a "surprise" route and requires participants to wear fancy dress and take part in a series of challenges.

Mr Stevens, who is taking part with his wife Rachel, said the couple were expecting an "interesting journey" and were planning to dress as "Slash and Axl from Guns N’ Roses".

'Fantastic challenge'

The former detention officer said the charity was close to his heart as it had been "a light in so many people’s lives".

"People who work in these sectors face many unique and difficult challenges in their daily work," he said.

"It's so important that all colleagues have access to resources and supportive communities who can help people manage these issues, their wellbeing and mental health."

Everyone taking part in the challenge was asked to buy a car that was more than 18 years old and worth less than £1,000, and could pick a charity of their choice to support.

Ch Supt Scott Bradley said: "This is a fantastic challenge for such a worthwhile cause.

"I am wishing Tim and Rachel (and Ringo) lots of luck. I hope they enjoy every minute of the challenge."