SUFFOLK: It is the spiritual home of the Olympics.

And while world-class athletes are battling it out in London, a group of charitable residents are preparing for their very own challenge of travelling to Mount Olympus to raise funds.

Nine cars will be setting off from Ipswich on August 12, the date of the closing ceremony, and will tackle a gruelling journey across Europe before reaching the site.

The event, called the Undy 500, is being organised by Hudson Signs and Suffolk Offset owner, Steve Flory, and it has gained the support of a number of businesses in the area.

Mr Flory said: “It will be great fun getting down there and there will be great camaraderie making sure all the cars get there.”

The cars that will be taking part in the challenge have all cost under �500 and include a 16-year-old BMW estate and a 12-year-old Mercedes.

The group are all raising money for the East Anglian Air Ambulance and St Elizabeth Hospice. The Ipswich Star is also supporting the air ambulance through our Lifesaver Appeal.

Among those taking part will be Nigel Slinn and Adrian Dodds, from Sackers in Great Blakenham – they will be travelling in a red Saab 900 convertible.

Mr Slinn, the company’s commercial director, said: “I’m quite looking forward to it.

“My concern at the moment is remembering everything we need to take with us.

“We wanted to do it for local charities because they are close to a lot of people.”

Other organisations which will be taking part in the challenge include www.tiger.co.uk and Best of Suffolk.

All the teams taking part are paying their own expenses and so far nearly �6,000 has been raised from donations - they are hoping to raise �20,000.

If you would like to raise funds for the cause please visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/undy500

For more information about the trip, visit www.undy500.co.uk

? Are you preparing to raise money for a good cause? Write to Your Letters, Ipswich Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, IP4 1AN, or send an e-mail to starletters@archant.co.uk