A POLICE sergeant is planning to travel 3,000m on a charity touring event the day after retiring from the North Yorkshire force.

Paul Wren, 54, from Thirsk will travel to Italy with 100 Minis at the end of next month in an event called The Italian Job.

It is based on the classic film starring Michael Caine and visits some of the famous locations used, including the roof-top test track on the former Fiat factory in Turin.

Since the event began in 1990, it has raised £1.6m for children's charities, with National Children's Home's (NCH) action for children being the main beneficiary. Each team is asked to raise a minimum of £1,500.

Mr Wren recently visited the NCH May Lodge in Scarborough to find out where the money raised is put to use.

He said: "The happy atmosphere and the obvious dedication of the staff coupled with the excellent facilities must make a real difference to the lives of the children and those of the parents who use May Lodge and I am proud to be associated with such an excellent project."

To sponsor Sgt Wren send donations directly to NCH, May Lodge, Cherry Tree Avenue, Scarborough, marking the envelope Sponsorship for The Italian Job.