STARS of the hit TV show Police Interceptors are revving up to raise money for charity in a 24-hour go-kart race.

Police officers from Durham will compete in the endurance event in a bid to support Paws Up, a retired police dogs fund and the Great North Air Ambulance Service.

They will compete against 80 teams in the UK’s biggest kart race which will start at noon on Saturday, August 4.

Team captain, PC Mike ‘Spike’ Fisher said: “This is 24 hours of pure adrenalin. It isn’t going to be easy but it’ll be worth it. Not only will we have Police Interceptors at the race but behind-the-scenes staff too. From our mechanics who keep us on the road to our media team who keep the public in the know. Teamwork makes the dream work.

“The nonsense stops when that flag drops. We are quick with a capital Q. We’re going to have full TPAC authority, stingers, we’ll be pulling out all the stops.

“We’re going to be up against the professionals but we don’t know to spell fail and our chief constable Mr Barton won’t let us return without a trophy. In all seriousness, we’re just honoured to take part. I’m more excited than at Christmas.”

The team will go by the name ‘Specialist Police Interceptors Kart Extravaganza’, abbreviated to ‘SPIKE’, the nickname of their team captain.

There are a range of trophies to be won for victories such as the most laps in 24 hours and fastest lap.

Kat Franklin, managing director of Teesside Karting, said: “We rarely watch TV, but we love Police Interceptors. We’re really excited for them to come and race. It’s a great opportunity for everyone to meet them. We have a lot of respect for them and the job they do.

“The race is definitely the highlight of the year. There’s a lot of work leading up to it and so when that flag drops, we all take a deep breath.”

Speaking of the charities, PC Fisher said: “We admire the life-saving work of the Great North Air Ambulance wholeheartedly and our police dogs are vital to our operations. Both are more than worthy of our support.”