TWO friends have set off on an adventure that will see them cover more than 4,500 miles for charity in a car worth no more than £500.

The driving forces behind Graeme Wilson Joiners and Murdoch Smith Construction have signed up to this year's Rust 2 Rome Banger Rally.

After years of saying they would take on such a feat, it was over a Christmas drink that Derek McIntyre, 41, and Graeme Wilson, 46, decided to take the plunge.

The Muckhart-based pair left from Edinburgh on Sunday, June 5 and will drive over some of Europe's most challenging and spectacular roads in a 15-year-old Peugeot 406 with 165,000 miles on the clock.

Prior to setting off, the route before them was a mystery but they were looking forward to taking on the challenge.

The friends, who have called themselves the Roamin' Builders, are taking on the journey in a bid to raise money for two causes close to their hearts.

They are fundraising for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society and Reach (The Association for Children with Upper Limb Deficiency) and hope to be able to give something back to these charities.

Derek's wife sadly lost her sister to MS at the age of 34 after a long battle with the illness and their work to improve treatments and help people with MS is invaluable.

Meanwhile, Graeme lost the lower part of his right arm in a tragic accident many years ago, however, thanks to his prosthetic limb, he has still been able to pursue his career as a joiner – and also beat Derek at golf.

They have raised more than £2000 so far and thanks is given to those who have given money, but donations are still very welcome.

Please head to their fundraising page.