RNLI Kessock team prepare for 3000 mile round trip - in 21 year old BMW
Volunteers for the vital service have decorated the car to resemble a lifeboat
A team of lifeboat volunteers will travel from the Highlands to Monte Carlo this week in a car which is more than two decades old.
Four members from RNLI Kessock are setting off this Wednesday on the 3000 mile round trip in a 21-year-old BMW estate.
They're raising funds for the charity in the "banger" which has been decorated to look like a lifeboat.
One of those taking part admits the car isn't in great condition, but is looking forward to the challenge.
The North Kessock volunteers are competing in a car which was previously going to be used by RNLI Tynemouth in 2020, but COVID-19 meant the rally was cancelled.
Ross Sproule, Alan McDiarmid, Chris Howard and Graham Hastie will be travelling to Monte Carlo, passing through the likes of Newcastle, London, Paris and Turin as part of the mammoth six day trip.
Various challenges have been set out along the route, with teams being awarded points for how well they overcome these and how well their car is decorated.
Despite the age of the car, full time RNLI Systems Technician and Trainee Helm Ross Sproule is confident they'll do well.
He said: "It definitely could be described as a banger.
"It is safe, but by no means in great condition. We could experience some challenges along the way.
"As the mechanic, my part on the team is to hopefully deal with anything that happens as we're going.
"We've spent a bit of time prepping it and some local businesses have helped us with time and parts.
"They've helped us get the car up to a good enough standard that we're confident it'll get there and back, but maybe with just some excitement along the way."
Ross says some are questioning their attempt, but overall the public have been onboard.
He added: "Some people think we're a bit mad for doing it, but generally it has been quite a good response.
"I think a lot of people have found it as a good way to fundraise.
"It's out of the box, it's not just the coffee mornings or the usual fundraisers.
"We're doing something a bit different this time."
You can contribute to the team's fundraiser here.