Ready for the off tomorrow, the four members of the Centurion team have completed their intensive fitness training programme and are said to be in “supreme physical shape” for the Vado Rally that will take them through Northern Europe and into Scandinavia all in aid of both The Rainy Day Trust and the Teenage Cancer Trust. 

Dubbed the “four Bobs” (yes –  they agreed they would all be dressed as Bob the Builder!) will undertake the 2,500 mile round trip in a 1989 Volkswagen T25 Transporter with over 300,000km on the clock and which has been given a facelift for the occasion.

According to the team, the vehicle is running well and they are confident of success … but say they are also seeking comprehensive specialist European breakdown cover and enhanced life assurance.

Team Captain and Rainy Day Trust Chairman, Peter Stone updates on the progress so far: “As there were moments of minor tension (and some dissent it must be said) in relation to being dressed up as a children’s character, I have skilfully diffused the situation by broadening the scope of the team’s appearance, so that at varying stages of the journey, they will be seen as officers of the law protecting the good people of France and Belgium from villains, all four of The Beatles and a small-but-fearsome legion of Viking Warriors. One look at the team will tell you immediately how excited they are at this prospect.”

Apparently, some of the team (and his whole family, in fact) have privately expressed their concern that Mr Stone has not been seen in normal dress since mid-April. 

Meanwhile, in recent pre-rally trials the T25 reached speeds of up to 34 mph (on downhill sections) and only two of the four crew members were sick as a result of the vibration.

Mr Stone added: “If you would like to brighten your days between June 6 and 12, you can follow our progress on Facebook (centurioneurope), Twitter (@centurioneurope) or Linkedin (centurion-europe-ltd) and if you would like to help us with a donation you can do so at: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/centurion.vado.rally”

Centurion Europe owners Paul Kantecki and David Geczi are planning to rent the restored T25 out locally for events and celebrations after the rally, and all the proceeds from this in the first 12 months will be donated to The Rainy Day Trust. Managing director Mr Kantecki said: "We are long-term supporters of The Rainy Day Trust and wanted to do something extraordinary in their 175th year, as well as to acknowledge Peter Stone in his retirement year and on his appointment as chairman of the Charity"