The hearse still bears the Coleman Milne Coachbuilders badges from the 70s, and despite a hard-working life it is still going strong. Much of its history is unknown; however it is clear that it has not been kept in show-room condition in someone's garage! It shows many signs of wear and tear and weather, and yet the team have been astonished to find the hardy vehicle functions well in towns or on motorways, in mountain passes or desert roads.

Scott Fitzgerald, Tom Wakeham and Jen Shepherd took part in the event run by banger rally organisers Street Safari (www.calais2casablanca.com); due to the age and value of the hearse it qualifies as a banger. The team returned triumphantly two weeks ago clutching their 'berbanger Award' for the best banger on the rally. "We were especially chuffed to receive this award as it was voted for by all the other teams" says Jen (28), "The support and camaraderie between teams was wonderful, and people did seem to love our banger in particular".

"We faced quite a few tough moments on this adventure& it certainly wasn't a holiday; but we also experienced some amazing sights in some beautiful and striking places. We've come back with an admiration for the people we've met, the places we've seen, and of course for an ancient yet thoroughly resilient hearse!"

Participants had to try to get to Casablanca in Morocco in their old bangers, costing less than 100 pounds. It is a fun event, where the emphasis is not on speed. Starting from Calais on Sunday June 24th and finishing in Casablanca on Thursday June 28th this was the first year for this particular rally; due to its success it will be repeated next year.

"We knew immediately it was an opportunity for adventure we just couldn't pass up" enthuses Scott (28), "and when we found the hearse sitting in a neighbouring street with the sign 'For Sale - 100 pounds', we just thought well, it would be rude not to". The team worked hard prior to the rally, restoring the engine, bodywork and interior in their spare time. Following their achievement they now have the bug and are already planning next year's adventure.

All three can usually be found working in various theatrical pursuits; Tom and Scott both working at the impressive Wales Millennium Centre Cardiff, and Jen working for the dynamic Watermill Theatre Newbury. Despite this not being a charity event, the team have decided nevertheless to take the opportunity to raise sponsorship for the Watermill. They have already raised more than 700 pounds and hope to raise 1000 pounds.

"I have been a part of the production team at The Watermill Theatre for five years now" says Jen "I'm proud to be a part of a theatre that achieves so much professionally, but I've also always felt that this a really warm and welcoming place that has given me great personal and professional support over the years. Now I'd like to give a little something extra back."

The Watermill Theatre is currently fundraising for a major renovation programme and has recently announced that it has just 300,000 pounds left to go before reaching its 3 million pounds target. The rally team will take nothing and so 100% of money raised will go to charity, helping with the final push to reach the Watermill target.

"Friends and family members and people in the area have been very generous and we'd like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has donated so far" said Tom (28). "The money raised will make a huge difference".

It's not too late to sponsor the team in recognition of their success. Sponsorship for the Watermill can be given via the team website: www.justgiving.com/hearse. The money will go directly to The Watermill Theatre and where supporters indicate they are UK taxpayers, the charity will automatically receive 28% extra in Gift Aid. For further information on the event or next year's attempt please contact Jen on 07792 103699.