A father and his 10-year-old son have completed a trans-European trip in car which cost them just £100.

Rob and Ben Balfour took part in this year’s Scally Rally – a 2,700 mile road trip through western Europe in which competitors drive old cars in aid of charity.

The Baxenden pair fixed-up an old Volkswagen banger which they drove from Calais, France to Rimini, Italy.

They set off on their adventure on Friday, September 16 and arrived in Italy Monday, September 19.

Rob used his experience as a former motor mechanic to get the car ready for the adventure.

Before the trip Rob, 43, said: "The car is 13 years old so it needed some work to get it through the MOT and ready for the roads of Europe. I’m confident we will get to Rimini – hopefully we’ll get back too."

He said he was looking forward to testing the car on mountain passes in the Alps while Ben, 10, was excited about trying some Italian pizzas and ice cream.

The pair were due to return to Baxenden late Thursday, September 22 or Friday, September 23.

The rules of race stipulate that cars cannot cost more than £100 but additional money can be spent to make the car roadworthy.

The pair raised funds for Urban Outreach which is also where Rob works.

Pupils from Ben’s school, St John’s CE Primary, Baxenden, supported the duo through a fundraising day, collecting £100 for a new bumper for the car. Some of Ben’s classmates also signed the bumper to wish him luck.

Bolton-based Urban Outreach works with homeless people, rehabilitating ex-offenders and helping runaway children.

Chief executive Dave Bagley said: "We’re really excited about Rob and Ben’s adventure. I wish I was going with them. We’re very grateful to the generous sponsorship we have received from local businesses and individuals."

To sponsor Rob and Ben visit www.urbanoutreach.co.uk/scallyrally or call 01204 385848.