More women wanted to drive in Sheffield charity's European car rally

Staff at youth homeless charity Roundabout are hoping to see the spirit of the famous pink-loving Ms Pitstop revived as the cars start their engines for Bangers and Cash, their European car race challenge.

Bangers and Cash is back on the road again for 2020, with a new route covering four days, six countries and 894 miles as competitors head from Meadowhall Shopping Centre to the finish line in the German city of Munich.

To make things interesting for the teams, the rally will take a circuitous route to its final destination, taking in the Netherlands, France and Switzerland as well as some of the famous sights of Germany - including a mad king’s fantasy castle.

Interest in the event, which hits the road on September 10, is already high, with many companies already signing up to take part.

The organisers are hoping, however, that there will be at least one all woman team to join the 30 strong lineup on the starting line.

Emily Bush, of Roundabout, said: “We’ve been delighted and overwhelmed by the response we have had since Bangers and Cash was launched. Up to now, though, it’s been an all-male lineup and it would be good to balance that out just a little.

“This is a great fun challenge and one that is open to all drivers - I’m sure there must be a female team out there keen to make their mark and keep the spirit of Penelope Pitstop on the road.”

With teams already signing up, anybody interested in taking part is advised to make contact with Roundabout quickly as the challenge is limited to just 30 cars.

Competing teams of three each have to pay a registration fee and then raise at least £2,000 in sponsorship.

Adding to the difficulty of the adventure, each team is allowed to spend no more than £650 on their vehicle, with its bonnet decorated with unique works created specially by acclaimed professional artists. At the end of the race the bonnets will be auctioned to raise more money for Roundabout.

Call 0114 253 6753 or e-mail [email protected] for more details.