A BARBER and publican are swapping the scissors and spirits to compete in a 190-car banger rally to Benidorm.

Matt Cackett, 43, and Thomas West, 33, from Manningtree, hope to raise more than £2,000 as they attempt to drive a beaten-up 1988 Nissan to the Spanish city next week.

The 1,400-mile road trip from June 7 to 10 is part of the Benidorm or Bust Rally in aid of the NSPCC.

The longstanding rally is a mash-up of Wacky Races and the Gumball Rally with 190 bangers from across the UK setting off from Dover and undergoing a series of challenges on route to the tourist resort of Benidorm.

The car that Matt and Tom will be using was bought from a former member of 80s pop band Ignition and was used on the cover of Love Is War album colour.

Thomas West, award-winning landlord of the Red Lion, Manningtree’s oldest pub, said: “It’s a real pleasure to able to take part in such a fun challenge while raising money to make sure every child gets the childhood they deserve.

“When it comes to whether the car will make it to Dover let alone Benidorm, all bets are definitely off.”

On their journey they will be tested to a run around the former F1 racing track at Pau.

Matt Cackett, owner of Manningtree Barber Shop, said: “I can’t resist a challenge and nursing this old motor over to Spain will certainly be one.

“To do it all for the NSPCC makes the trip so worthwhile and something we will be immensely proud of, but getting it back in one piece will be the real test.

“We are dressing as the pop band too in that 80s look.

“As it’s getting closer I’m getting quite excited about it.”

To sponsor the duo visit www.justgiving.com/BenidormorBustNSPCC or visit the Facebook page Benidorm or Bust for the NSPCC.