THREE Monmouth men have tackled 'the ultimate banger adventure' to raise funds for Cancer Research.

Running from Thursday 4th June to Sunday 7th June, Monte Carlo or Bust is a challenge where fundraisers must drive from their start point in Namur, Belgium to reach Monte Carlo, all in a car costing less than £300.

Adrian 'Bomber' Whitehead, Graham 'Rear Gunner' Bridges and Nick 'Mid Upper' Goodhall made up the Moosehunters team, and made their journey which took them through Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and France in a revamped 1996 Rover 600.

The Monmouth team travelled on the Black Forest Gateau route, which boasts such events along the way as a drive through the mountains of the Black Forest in Freiburg, saunas, lake swimming, and an adrenaline-pumping crossing of Devil's Bridge.

The Moosehunters chose to fundraise for Cancer Research, a charity close to the competitors, as each racer has been touched by cancer in some way.

Before the race began Adrian Whitehead said: "Monte Carlo or Bust is a banger rally, with three friends, three days, six countries and 1,400 miles, all in aid of Cancer Research."

Adrian said that the race was a brilliant experience for all the team: "We had a fantastic time. It was just amazing to see over 80 cars taking part, all decorated and filled with people.

"The atmosphere in the car was very good. We're three old friends who've known each other for a long time, so we all got on very well."

The team raised more than £1,300 on their travels, and made it to the finish line in Monte Carlo, despite their old Rover's condition.

"People kept teasing us, saying a Rover had never made it to the finish, but ours went the whole way without any problems at all.

"It's a very friendly event, if someone breaks down you stop and help them out." said Adrian.

"You don't get the same effect from watching these races on television, the atmosphere of all the drivers together is quite phenomenal.

"The Moosehunters will definitely be reappearing at Monte Carlo or Bust next year!"