A HUSBAND and wife are gearing up for a European motoring trek described as a cross between Top Gear and Scrapheap Challenge.

Teams are invited to buy a cheap car, decorate it and then complete a mystery course across Europe.

Michael ‘Mickey’ Shannon, 36, and his wife Debbie, 35, from Billingham, Teesside, have signed up to the charity event which is to raise funds for Action Medical Research.

Mr Shannon, who is driving a modified BMW, said: “We thought it would be a great opportunity to take on a challenge, drive around Europe and raise money for a great charity.”

The event takes place from May 17 to 21 and there are still places available. For more information visit scumrun.action.org.uk