Three pals are testing the lengths of their friendship as they drive their “fake fire engine” from Biggin Hill all the way to Benidorm.

All in the name of fundraising for Dementia UK, Martin Cropp, Paul Hill, and Jason Cheney are driving more than 1,200 miles over the course of five days, with pitstops in Reims, Clermont, Girona, Valencia, and finally, Benidorm.

“I’m quite nervous”, Martin told the News Shopper, “I haven’t driven in the continent for about 20 years – it’s going to be quite the experience for me."

As part of the Benidorm Bangers non-profit charity rally, the trio are driving in what was once the trusted car of Paul’s dad, who passed away with dementia just two years ago. They set off on Tuesday (May 7) and are expecting to return on Saturday.

The beloved vehicle has since been converted into the ‘Fire and Rescue Team car’ – also known as the ‘F.A.R.T’ - and joined dozens of others on the road raising money for their chosen charities.

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Martin said: “There’s about 51 cars taking part and it’s not a constant drive – we’ll be in Valencia on Friday and should arrive in Benidorm on Saturday.

“We have to complete tasks on the way with some games, and we’ll be in fancy dress, so it’s a lot of fun.

“We’re driving two to three hours each day and taking a route where we can sightsee.”

Martin said the trio are going off track to take in the scenic destinations, as they are passing quaint French villages and stopping for a bite to eat or two.

He added: “We had the option to take the toll roads straight to Benidorm or stop off at various places in France.

“Our first stop was in Reims in France, and then headed to Clermont.

“This is the first time I have ever done this, but I know all the other Benidorm Bangers are also dressing up.

“I’ve seen a police car and a beach buggy taking part.”

For the expedition, the F.A.R.T has been painted red and yellow, and has stickers scattered across the front advertising Dementia UK and Benidorm Bangers.

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“We tried to make it funny with the name”, Martin said, “I’ve been laughing to myself about it."

The Just Giving page has already raised more than £2,000 and the trio has put out a collection jar at the Biggin Hill social club, which will support the charity Dementia UK.

You can donate to the Just Giving page here

Martin added: “People have also been giving us money here and there which we have had to put aside.

“This is quite the experience for me, and hopefully we can raise some money for Dementia UK.”