TWO Peebles petrolheads are gearing for a 3,000-mile road rally around Europe.

Later this month Christopher Philips and Martin Sterricks will head to the continent to take part in the Scumrun.

The event, which has been established for more than ten years, sees competitors travel around in clapped-out cars, all in the name of charity.

And the Peeblesshire pair will begin the five-day adventure in Dover on May 8 to help SAMH – a mental health support service.

Each morning the details of the next destination is revealed, which could cover a region of around 600 miles.

Chris will be participating in this event for the third time and has encouraged Martin to join the ‘experience of a lifetime’.

Martin said: “Chris has previously participated in this event, but I'm new to the team. I'm really looking forward to the new experiences, new places to see and new challenges to explore.

“We will be driving an old BMW 5 series, so driving in style!”

The pair can participate in the fundraising expedition thanks to sponsorship from many local businesses.

One of the sponsors is Peebles-based cloth merchant Holland & Sherry, who have employed Martin for over seven years.

They have supplied cloths and fabrics to tailors and fashion brands worldwide from their distribution warehouse in Peebles, since 1968.

David Duthie Auto Repairs Ltd, have also lent a hand. Chris is one of the business's full time mechanics and has been in the motor trade for more than 10 years.

Other local sponsors for the event include Calvalry Courier who are a fuel sponsor, Pentland Powder Coating who provided refurbished wheels for the car, and Forsyths Butchers of Peebles.

Martin added: “We have had lots of support and help along the way and are really appreciative of everything that those concerned have done for us.

“It’s not until you do something like this, that you can fully understand and appreciate all the extra costs involved,”

The Scumrun was set up to raise money for much needed national children’s charities.

Chris and Martin are setting up a JustGiving page to raise money for SAMH.