A WIRRAL couple is preparing for a 3000-mile road trip retracing Europe's military history in aid of soldiers' charity Help For Heroes.

Julie Bates and Mark Wallace, from Pensby, will set off in their trusty Land Rover Discovery for the European Rally 4X4 in June next year.

The couple have raised the cash needed to take part, but they hope Globe readers will help suppport them by boosting funds for the charity.

The aim of the 12-day trek is to tell the story of the Allied Invasion through Europe, by visiting the sites of some of the conflict's biggest events.

It starts at Littlecote House Hotel in North Wiltshire on June 16, where they will drive through Salisbury Plain, a second world war training ground which is still used by the military.

Along the way they will visit War Graves cemeteries and museums.

Points of interest along the route will include the Normandy Coast, scene of the D-Day Landings in June 1944.

The trip ends with a visit to Adolf Hitler's mountaintop retreat in Berchtesgaden, Bavaria.

Mark said: "It's the first time we’ve done anything like this. It's a daunting challenge, but one that we’re very much looking forward to.

"Most of the time will be spent driving and a lot of that will be off-road, so driving in conditions we’re not really used to.

"A lot of time has been spent for this, for example we've had to make sure our Land Rover is ready for the trip.

"The thing to remember, though, is that It’s a challenge - not a race.

"It’s going to be hard work, but it will be rewwarding, fun and, most importantly, for a very good cause."

Julie and Mark have organised a number of events. Their next is an auction at the Village Hotel in Bromborough on Thursday, October 27.

On the nght there will be a raffle, live music from electronic violinist Alex Smith and Wirral band The Nook. Compere for the evening will be Radio Merseyside presenter Billy Butler.

It starts at 7pm. Tickets are from 07817164050 or 07891898808. You can also make a donation at bmycharity.com/teammeercat.