A 20-STRONG group will set off today for a ‘banger’ race to Spain which will also see them running the bulls of Pamplona when they reach their destination.

Chris Jones, from Shadlock Roofing in Bacup, is one of the group, made up of family and friends, taking an old car to Pamplona in a 2,000-mile round trip.

The 40-year-old suggested the idea to celebrate his friend Chris Green’s 40th birthday in a charitable way, with money being raised for Rossendale Hospice.

Chris, from Whitewell Bottom, said: “We thought it would be a good change by doing this, and because it was Chris’s 40th, it made sense to do something special.

"We all had to find an old car and make sure it was good to drive.

“Each team of five had to pay £100 to enter and we are hoping to raise between £2,000 and £3,000 for the Hospice.

“It should be a real challenge but really good fun as well.”

On arrival in the north of Spain the men will also take part in the San Fermin festival, where people run through the streets being chased by bulls.

The Rossendale men will wear white clothes and red handkerchiefs around their necks as they attempt to run the 825 metre route away from six fighting bulls and two herds of bullocks.

Injuries are common to the runners who have been cut or and trampled by the bulls in the event. In total 15 people have been killed in the Running of the Bulls event since 1910.

On their return the teams will scrap their cars to raise more money for the Valley hospice.

Sam Morris, spokeswoman for Rossendale Hospice, said: “We are delighted that Chris Green has chosen Rossendale Hospice to receive the proceeds from this wacky event instead of asking for birthday presents for his 40th.

"There are many fun ways in which you can raise money for the hospice but this is one of the most unusual one that we have had so far.

“We wish them all the best of luck.”

To sponsor Chris visit www.just-giving.com/chris-jones10.