Wacky racers in Screwball Challenge

THEY’RE off: OPAL users cheer on Gareth Roberts and Sarah Rainford as they set off on the Screwball Rally

A STUDENT social worker has set off on a wacky race across Europe in an old banger.

Sarah Rainford (25) is competing in the famous Screwball Rally to raise money for charity — hitting the road yesterday.

She’s teamed up with boy friend Gareth Roberts (24) in the drive to Amsterdam in a 1990 Mercedes 420 SEC via France, Belgium, Germany and the Czech Republic.

The rally places a large emphasis on fun and previous themes have included Scooby Doo and the Mystery Machine, Sheila’s Wheels and Star Trek. Teams enter into the spirit by dressing up in accordance with their individual theme and driving a car that must be worth less than £750.

Sarah’s car was decorated by users of Oldham Personal Advocacy Ltd (OPAL), based at the Millennium Centre, Westwood, where Sarah works helping people with learning disabilities.

They gave the dynamic duo a big send off yesterday as they set off for the race. Money raised will go to OPAL and also to the Tyneside Leukaemia Research Association.

Gareth has a particular motivation to raise money for leukaemia research after being diagnosed with the illness when he was young. He survived thanks to medical advances and recognises the need for continued research.

Gareth’s father supplied the courageous pair with the car which he bought for £500.

Sarah, from Didsbury, said: “With any luck we will be back in a week. Gareth’s dad is really hoping we return the car in one piece.”

The Screwball Rally has a growing reputation for generating cash for charities.

In 2010 over £71,000 was raised by participants for various UK charities.

Sarah and Gareth will cover all their own costs and hope to raise £500 through the donations site www.justgiving.com