Round Table Team from the North East Joins European Charity Rally to Support CALM
A team of four Round Table members from across the North East will be the first in the region to represent their area in the Skint Flint Rally, an international charity car rally across Europe. The team is taking on the challenge to raise awareness and funds for CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably), a leading UK charity dedicated to preventing male suicide.
The rally, now in its eighth year, invites participants to drive across Europe in a car costing no more than £500, testing endurance, teamwork, and resourcefulness over thousands of miles. This year marks the first time a team from the North East has entered, with representatives from Whitley Bay Round Table, Newcastle Round Table, Alnwick Round Table, and the National E-Club Round Table.
Paul Hughes, the team organiser, said:
“This is more than just a road trip—it’s a mission to raise crucial awareness for men’s mental health. CALM does vital work to prevent suicide, and many of us in Round Table have been personally touched by these issues. I suffered a breakdown late last year and was fortunate to have support from those around me. Not everyone is so lucky, which is why this cause matters so deeply to us.”
The team will begin their journey in Newcastle, travelling to Dover to join approximately 40 other vehicles. From there, they will take the Eurotunnel to Calais, driving through France, Germany, and Poland, with the destination being Błędów, located in the snowy mountainous region of southern Poland.
The challenge stipulates that the vehicle must have a current MOT valid until at least the end of September, and must not exceed a purchase value of £500. If the car does not survive the journey, it will be legally scrapped at the point of failure.
As well as Paul, the team consists of Andrew “Drew” Burston from Alnwick Round Table– A web developer currently working as a delivery driver. Drew is excited for the camaraderie, adventure, and opportunity to support a good cause.
Ash Haldenby from Blyth and a member of Whitley Bay Round Table– a former forensic scientist and police officer, now a civil servant. Ash brings a love of driving, travel, and just enough GCSE German to navigate Europe.
Peter Cheshire from Newcastle Round Table – A professional vehicle recovery technician. Peter will serve as the team’s on-the-go mechanic and is passionate about classic cars and roadside repairs.
“This rally gives us a chance to challenge ourselves while supporting a cause that could save lives,” said Peter. “We’re proud to be flying the flag for the North East.”
To meet their £5,000 fundraising goal, the team is seeking:
A suitable donated vehicle (under £500 in value, MOT valid through September)
Corporate sponsorship for logo placements on the car, t-shirts, and team apparel
Individual donations via their official fundraising page: https://gofund.me/ecf99523
“We’re not just doing this for fun,” said Paul. “We’re doing it to help men talk, seek help, and know that they’re not alone.”
For sponsorship enquiries—logos on the car, kit branding, or vehicle donations—please contact: eclub@roundtable.org.uk
Ends
Photo: Left to right
Andrew (Drew)
Peter
Ash
Paul
Media Keith@highlightspr.co.uk 07814 397951