Unicorns rally for North Devon Hospice

A group of intrepid friends will traverse nine European countries in four days, covering 1,200 miles in an old Peugeot bought for £250, all to raise funds for North Devon Hospice.

Calling themselves ‘The Unicorns’, the foursome have spent months preparing and decorating their vehicle to make a real impression on the 2-Ball Banger Rally, as well as raising an incredible £3,400 for the hospice in the process.

The team is made up of Damian Stacey, Mia Goswell Casey, Niki Golder and Jason Golder. Mia said, “This has been a long time in the planning. We’d originally intended to do the rally in 2020, but Covid got in the way, so we’re thrilled to finally get going. It will be such an adventure! Over 50 cars are taking part in the 2-Ball Banger Rally, all old vehicles with a bit of ‘character’, so we very much hope our trusty steed gets us to the finish line!”

The rally route will take crews from the UK into France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Italy and Monaco. They will navigate everything from the fast-moving autobahn to narrow country lanes, from winding coast roads to dizzying mountain passes.

The ‘Unicorns’ team have decorated their convertible Peugeot to be a dazzling sight on the roads of Europe. The car also carries the logos of the many companies who have supported the team in their endeavour.

“We are so grateful to everyone who has helped with our mission.” said Mia. “People have been so generous helping to get the car prepped for the journey, as well as supporting us with our fundraising efforts. We wanted to raise as much as possible for North Devon Hospice, because it’s a cause close to all our hearts. We’re so proud to have raised well over £3,000, because we all know this will help people who need care while facing a life-limiting illness like cancer. But we also want to raise more, because every pound will really make a difference. So please follow ‘Unicorn Unite 4 North Devon Hospice’ on social media to follow our journey and make a donation.”

Georgia Bedgood, from the hospice’s fundraising team, said: “The Unicorns have done such an incredible job of raising funds, and they’re not finished yet! Please go online and support them, because every donation will help them along their journey. To cover 1,200 and nine countries in just four days is incredible, especially in the European summer heatwave. The money they’ve raised will help patients and families being supported by the hospice to enjoy precious time together. On behalf of all of those who will benefit, thank you.”