CLASSIC cars will be taking to rural lanes across west Hampshire and south Wiltshire next month in aid of a regional children’s hospice.

All donations to the Standard Motor Club New Forest Group’s annual classic charity drive, on April 27, will go to Naomi House children’s hospice at Sutton Scotney near Winchester.

The 40-mile route includes Michelmersh and Timsbury, Belbins, King’s Somborne, Crawley, Barton Stacey, Longparish, Andover, Middle Wallop and Stockbridge.

Cars will set off from the club’s HQ at the Bear and Ragged Staff at Michelmersh at 11.30am Darrell, who lives at King’s Somborne, will lead the drive in his 75-year-old, blue Standard Flying 8 Tourer named Stan.

“We should have at least 60 cars taking part but I am hoping to get about 100. Classic bikes and even tractors are welcome,” said Darrell.

“There is no charge for entering the event but a collection will be made in aid of Naomi House hhildren’s hospice, at Sutton Scotney.

After the charity drive Darrell, 67, and Stan’s next big outing will be the London to Brighton Classic Car run on June 1. Darrell is hoping people will gather at the Bear and Ragged Staff on May 31 at 11.30am to wave him off as he makes his way to London, via Belbins, Ampfield, the M3 and A3 and A2 to Greenwich Park.

His journey to London and Brighton and back to his King’s Somborne home will cover 210 miles and he will be raising more cash for Naomi House.

To sponsor his efforts, log onto justgiving.com/darrell-cunningham1, for more details