A couple from Douglas will be taking part in the Motoscape Banger Rally 2019 to raise funds for local wildlife charity Manx Wild Bird Aid.

The team - Need for Seed - consists of Charlie Shimmins and Paige Havlin, who are both aged 24, will be undertaking a journey through 12 European countries in seven days in a 20-year-old car that cost just £250.

The Motoscape Rally is a banger rally event beginning in northern France and ending in Prague in the Czech Republic. Over 50 teams take part, with many raising money for good causes.

Manx Wild Bird Aid rehabilitates sick, injured or orphaned wild birds on the Isle of Man and return them to the wild.

So far this year the charity has already rescued more than 1,000 birds and rely entirely on volunteers and donations.

Charlie, who is a civil servant, said: ’We are really looking forward to the challenge of getting our clapped-out banger across Europe. It will probably push our limited mechanical abilities to the limit.

’The event also has daily competitions which will give extra opportunities for us to win cash for the charity.’

Paige, who works at RBS International, said: ’Manx Wild Bird Aid does so much for local wildlife, and is entirely run by volunteers, so all donations are really needed and will be gratefully received.’

The Steam Packet gave them a free crossing from the Isle of Man to Heysham. Quayside Tyre and Service Centre serviced the Seat Ibiza for free.

You can follow their progress (September 5 to 14) on the Manx Wild Bird Aid Facebook page: facebook.com/manxwildbirdaid/.

You can make a donation at: www.gofundme.com/f/banger-rally-for-manx-wild-bird-aid