Hampshire mother and daughter take on European car rally in aid of Heartbeat

A Hampshire mother-and-daughter duo have completed a four‑day adventure across Europe while raising money for Southampton‑based cardiac charity Heartbeat.

Teresa and Adrienne took part in Monte Carlo or Bust Black Forest Gateau ‘banger’ Rally in a 2003 Fiat Punto – a car they bought for just £200 and decorated with hearts to highlight their Heartbeat fundraising mission.

The rally, which began in Namur, Belgium and finished in Monte Carlo isn’t about speed. Instead, it’s a fun challenge where teams earn points for the age of their car (the older the better), creativity in decoration, and how well they complete a set of quirky challenges along the way.

For Teresa and Adrienne, the rally was about much more than competition.

Teresa said: “As a mother and daughter team, this was a fantastic opportunity to spend quality time together, enjoy a unique adventure and create lasting memories.

"I've wanted to take part in this rally ever since I watched Monte Carlo or Bust as a child in the 70s. It's been on my bucket list for years."

Adrienne said: "Mum first mentioned it to me a few years ago. We finally had the opportunity to take part last year and enjoyed it so much that we signed up again straight away.”

The 3-day event took the pair and their loyal Fiat Punto through picturesque towns and breathtaking scenery. Teams were also encouraged to embrace the rally's costume themes. This year's themes were World Book Day on Thursday, Freestyle Friday, Toga Saturday, and a Beach Party finale.

The mother and daughter said it was an amazing experience, and one that raised money for a cause close to both their hearts.

Adrienne added: “It was so much fun, and we made some great friends along the way. The car even managed to hold it together for the whole journey, despite a few juddery anxiety-inducing moments.

“It’s also wonderful to know that we have raised more than £500 for Heartbeat. Heart disease has had a significant impact on our family, so showing our support for this incredible cardiac charity felt like the right thing to do.”

Teresa's father survived three heart attacks and underwent triple heart bypass surgery followed by several stent procedures, and Adrienne's father sadly passed away after suffering an unexpected heart attack at the age of 56.

Heartbeats’ Community Fundraising and Marketing Manager, Tanya Harder commented: "We are incredibly grateful to Teresa and Adrienne for their amazing support, determination and dedication in taking on this challenge. While it is deeply moving to hear the personal reasons behind their decision to support Heartbeat, it has been a true privilege to stand alongside them and support them throughout their journey.

Every pound they have raised will help Heartbeat continue to provide vital support for cardiac patients and their families during some of the most difficult times in their lives. We are immensely proud of everything they have achieved and would like to say a heartfelt congratulations to them both for completing such an inspiring challenge."