A KILWINNING cancer survivor is set to take on a monumental task in a bid to give back to the Beatson charity.
John Hornby has been called "crazy" a number of times for taking on the challenge - but it is one he is more than willing to do for such a worthy cause.
The 77-year-old, who is originally from England, will be joined by three friends - William Quinn, William McKnight and John McMillan - when he takes part in the British Bangers Rally to Benidorm.
It was an idea born by a chance meeting in the Spanish municipality, with a friend who was taking part in the rally himself.
The premise of the fundraising event is for those participating to purchase an old car - or 'banger - for £500 or less.
You then get the vehicle in working order, and partake in the rally which begins in Birmingham and heads to Benidorm.
For John and his friends, the journey will be even further - totalling over 2,000 miles - as they start from Kilwinning.
In between, there are stop offs in France, Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, Andorra and Spain before you reach your final destination - where your car is then scrapped.
The event will begin on May 4 next year, concluding on May 9, with those partaking set a number of 'Top Gear' style tasks along the route.
Only 50 cars will take part in the rally, though they will meet another similar event coming from Ireland on their journey across Europe - meaning around 100 cars will eventually descend on Benidorm.
It all makes for an eventful few days but John is ecstatic to be able to take part, and has so many incentives for doing so.
Some 20 years ago, he survived stomach cancer, and he cannot wait to give back to a charity like the Beatson.
He has plenty of backing as well, with his employer THWG paying for the car he will be using - as long as the cost is donated towards the cancer charity.
A number of other organisations have also got on board to provide sponsorship - and will take pride of place thanks to bumpers on John's car.
The 77-year-old and friends will also be making history on their journey as the first car from Scotland to take part in the rally. To mark this feat, all four will be completing the trip dressed fully in Braveheart attire - with the car also set to be clad in similar decoration.
Almost everything is in place for a fantastic fundraising effort, including future events closer to home, and now the group are looking for more support.
John is hoping that a local dignitary may be able to come on board to help send them off on their journey.
While those wishing to lend their support, and find out more, can do so via JustGiving at justgiving.com/page/jade-quinn-1717410661711.
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