A WEYMOUTH policeman is summoning those with a sense of adventure for a new international car rally covering 23 countries in 23 days. Steve Blackmore is mustering 50 teams of intrepid adventurers that will set off from Weymouth in June 2013 for the Windy 500 rally – covering a distance of 5,500 miles in a banger.

Drivers will experience the Transfaragasan Highway in Romania and the The Stelvio Pass in Italy as well as the sights of all the countries on the loop back to Weymouth.

Father of three Mr Blackmore said: “The exact route is still under wraps and the participants will be informed of the following day’s destination the day before.

“There are still places for the Windy 500 although I already have 44 teams signed up.

“It’s something different and to visit 23 countries in 23 days is a great adventure and people will see cities, towns, gorges and great sights along the way.

“Contestants will go on high mountain passes, winding their way around hairpins and both roads have been featured on Top Gear.

“One couple have even signed up from Banbury who are looking forward to doing the venture as their honeymoon.”

The Weymouth-based police constable has even roped in his family who are all eager to take part – including his mum, little brother and even his three-year-old son Lucas, who will be five by the time of the rally.

All the teams competing in the rally will have to pay a £300 deposit and an additional £100 per team.

The money raised will be donated to Dorset Children’s Hospice Julia’s House – which is a charity that Mr Blackmore feels passionately about.

He said: “It’s a great local charity and I’m hoping that we will be able to raise well in excess of £10,000.”

Last year Mr Blackmore, who lives in Weymouth, also ran the Rome Marathon in aid of the charity.

Mr Blackmore was inspired to organise the event after organising a successful bus trip to Ethiopia three years ago to raise money for Clic Sargent.

Contestants entering the rally will have to have a car worth £500 or less but comedy exceptions will be allowed to enter.

Mr Blackmore added: “I’m hoping to get a Ford Capri and although the cars should be £500 or less I am open to cars with comedy value.

“I think we may have a person entering with a hearse and a few modified vehicles.

“And don’t worry for those worried about the journey there will be mechanics on the way.”

Those taking part will be camping overnight at various stop-offs along the way.

Potential participants are able to pre-register online on the website at www.windy500.co.uk to express their interest before the official launch in November 1.

If you would like more information regarding the Windy 500 you can contact Mr Blackmore by emailing spooky388@hotmail.com