A garage owner and his friend hope to be on cloud nine when they set off on the challenge of a lifetime. 

Paul Odlum and Pete Caccamo set off on the 'Monte Carlo or Bust' rally next week - raising money for the North West Air Ambulance Charity. 

 The duo are doing the 2,500 mile trip across Europe in a 1957 Austin A35 which they bought for £500 and restored themselves. 

And this weekend they will be showing it at the Smallwood Steam and Vintage Rally in the hope of raising more money. 

Paul who runs Odlum Garage in Rode Heath and Pete, a project manager from Elworth, Sandbach, have set up a JustGiving page here

"We've both been involved in motorsport for many years and have seen the Air Ambulance in action," said Paul. 

The car they bought for £500. (Photo: Paul Odlum and Pete Caccamo)

"We decided to do something different for our birthdays. We bought silly suits off the internet and have painted the car in bright colours. 

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"We've chosen to raise money for the North West Air Ambulance Service as it doesn't receive any NHS or Government funding and relies solely on generous donations to keep them operational. 

"This year marks their 25th anniversary so what better time to give back to the amazing charity which saves so many lives within our local area each year." 

The car, bought in Birmingham, has a 948cc engine with 38 horsepower and a top speed of 55 miles per hour. 

The car before being restored. (Photo: Pete Caccamo)

"The first part of the challenge will be to make it to the start line in Namur Belgium by 30th May," said Paul. 

"We then travel through Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and France to the finish line in Monte Carlo on 2nd June. 

"Once the official challenge is complete, we hope to drive the car home in one piece." 

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The duo have spent every weekend since they bought the car from a scrapyard in November restoring it. 

They have taken it around Station Bank in Mow Cop to test altitude as they will be driving across the Alps.  

"We've booked accommodation for every night of going there but nothing for coming back yet," said Paul. "There are about 35 cars taking part all using different themes." 

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