Mini enthusiast John Stell has been inspired by the 1960s movie, The Italian Job, to drive his car on a 2,000-mile trip in aid of charity.

He and girlfriend Sheena Davidson plan to join almost 100 other Mini drivers to help raise a million pounds.

They will be accompanied by Glasgow friends Ross and Jo Ferguson and will start the journey on October 22.

John, a science graduate, who works in the family business of J Stell, paper tube manufacturers of Keighley, said: "I met Ross and Jo two years ago and they spoke about this event. I had always been a fan of the film The Italian Job and so I decided to give it a shot."

In the hit film Minis are used as getaway vehicles following a bullion heist in Milan.

John and Sheena, who has a degree in medieval history, now need to raise £1,500 in sponsorship. They already have one sponsor, a firm called Minis with Attitude.

The trip involves taking part in a navigational trip around the Italian Alps, an auto test, driving skills tests and specially-hosted visits.

John's Mini, nicknamed Ferdinand, is being rebuilt and the 850cc automatic engine replaced with a 1275cc Metro turbo engine.

John said: "We are still about £1,000 short of our target and are hoping that businesses and individuals will help."

He said the money would go to two charities - the NSPCC and Society of Stars for sufferers of cerebral palsy.

Anyone who wants to help John and Sheena should telephone (01535) 662119.

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