Not even breaking down outside The Vatican could stop this group of motorists from reaching their destination.

On their recently completed Home to Rome challenge, the team of 10 friends took three old or cheap cars from Llandudno all the way across Europe to The Coliseum in Italy’s capital.

Headed up by garage owner Martin Krol from Llandudno, the team raised an incredible £12,586 including a truly memorable donation at the top of the Eiffel Tower.

An Adventure From The Start

Three of the trustee motors on the cross-Channel ferry

Martin said: “We had our moments. James locked his keys in his car before we’d even left the country, and we had to break in.

“We had a couple of mental breakdowns as well as the cars!

“James’ Volvo even broke down in central Rome outside The Vatican.

“We had armed police pointing guns at us in seconds – they don’t mess around over there.

“There were four of us with our heads under the bonnet trying to fix it as fast as we could.”

Gathering a good following online, the gang were even recognised on the Dover/Calais ferry by a couple from Llandudno who were on their way home from getting married in Poland.

Sight Seeing Generosity

The team larking around in Pisa at the famous Leaning Tower

After completing the mission, they went their separate ways home with some heading down to the South of France and others going to Paris to see the sights.

Martin continued: “Whilst in Paris, James was on his way up the Eiffel Tower and got chatting to a fellow tourist.

“At the top, he was so impressed with their efforts that he gave a £100 donation.

“We’re thrilled with the amount we have raised and want to thank every single person who donated.

“I’m also proud of all the lads who used their own time and money to come out on this adventure and support the charity.”

Once they were all safely back in North Wales, the guys auctioned off the four vehicles to top-up their total.

Affectionately known as Pink Panther, Noah’s Ark, Cecil and Veronica, the car’s raised another £3,500.

A Brilliant Effort

Hope House Tŷ Gobaith fundraiser Sian Golding, said: “What a brilliant effort by Martin and the team.

“They have managed to raise an incredible sum which will help us on our mission to reach and support every local child and family living with a life-threatening condition.

“They must have made some real memories and stories on the road, and their efforts will help to make even more precious quality moments for the families we support and care for. Thank you.”