We're off on longest hearse ride in history.

Byline: ANDREW HIRST ,

preparing Event organiser Alison Wright with some of the people taking part, who are (from left) Alan Crewe, Mike Black, John Gunson and his son Thomas

PEOPLE who have always wanted to take part in wacky races now have their chance.

For the challenge is on to buy an old car, drive it 600 miles to southern Germany and then complete a circuit of the world-famous Nurburgring circuit.

The convoy will set off from Huddersfield in the last week in June to raise money for Cumberworth C of E School and Denby Dale Lions - with the Lions share destined for Kirkwood Hospice at Dalton.

People taking part must buy a car for no more than pounds 500 - and the wackier the car the better.

The event has been organised by Alison Wright, a governor at the school, her husband Nicky, and John Gunson, from Denby Dale Lions.

Nicky has bought a 20-year-old limousine - complete with cocktail bar and TV.

Another vehicle in the convoy will be a pounds 150 hearse.

Alison said: "It would be great if we could get 10 cars together for the event - and the wackier the better. The cars will be old, but mechanics are taking part.

"We would like each vehicle to raise at least pounds 250 in sponsorship and it doesn't matter how many travel in each car."

Firms are urged to sponsor vehicles and their signs will be displayed on the car they sponsor.

The convoy will set off on June 29 for Dover. It will catch the ferry to Calais and then motor across France and Belgium into Germany.

Former world motor racing champion Jackie Stewart said: "The Nurburgring is the greatest and most challenging race circuit in the world."

* Anyone wanting more information or to find out about sponsorship should ring Alison on 079200 54132 or Mike Black from the Lions on 07836 746827.