Keighley man John Stell is planning to take his 1964 Aust-in Mini to Italy next month in an event which hopes to raise £1 million for children's charities.

John, 22, who recently graduated from Glasgow University with a degree in general science, will be taking part in 'The Italian Job'. It is an event based loosely on the film of that name in which three minis are used to steel gold bullion in Italy.

John's girlfriend Sheena Davidson, who has a degree in medieval history from Glasgow, will be joining him on the 2,000-mile journey. Glaswegian friends Ross and Jo Ferguson will be behind the wheel of another mini and 98 more will be joining in the fun.

The trip will involve driving to Imola and stealing - within the law - as much liquid gold in the form of wine as possible. They will also drive off the beaten track, and take part in a navigational rally around the Italian Alps, an autotest, driving skills tests and specially hosted visits.

John's mini, nicknamed Fer-dinand, is currently being rebuilt and the 850cc automatic engine replaced with a 1275 Metro Turbo engine. John, who works at the family business of J Stell and Son Ltd, paper tube manufacturers in Keighley, and Sheena need to raise £1,500 in sponsorship. They are still £1,000 off their target and hope businesses and individuals will help. Contact John on 01535 662119 if you want to donate. Businesses providing sponsorship will be advertised on the vehicle.

The funds are going to the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and the Society of Stars which pays for holidays in Italy for children with cerebral palsy and their carers.

John, who bought his first mini three years ago, has been planning the trip for several months. "My first car was terrible and broke down all the time," he admits.

But he is looking forward to the challenge of The Italian Job. "We've never done this before and we're having to give up holidays from work to do it but it will be worth it," he says. "This is an event for the enthusiast."

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