From Mitcheldean to mainland Europe: Ben and Peggy hit the road for Let’s Talk Well

This week, Ben and Peggy set off on an extraordinary adventure - the Screwball Rally - a five-day, 1,700-mile road trip across Europe in a car worth no more than £1,000, all in support of Let’s Talk Well.

Before heading to Dover to catch the ferry across to mainland Europe, the couple visited our office in Mitcheldean to say goodbye and show off their rally-ready Beetle, which has been transformed with a Toy Story 2 theme. The car has undergone a full mechanical overhaul, including a new engine, clutch, timing belt, and a fresh MOT — not to mention a resprayed bumper.

The Screwball Rally will take Ben and Peggy through France, Belgium, Holland, Austria, Germany and the Czech Republic. It’s a test of creativity, endurance and engineering and Ben and Peggy are taking it on with enthusiasm and purpose.

Earlier this summer, the couple also hosted a ‘Picnic in the Paddock’ fundraiser, where they introduced Let’s Talk Well to new supporters and raised awareness of our counselling and support services. Thanks to their efforts, they’ve already raised £1,417.50 (including Gift Aid).

“We’re deeply grateful to Ben and Peggy, whose creativity, humour and wholehearted commitment to raising awareness of young people’s mental health is nothing short of inspiring,” said Claire Power-Browne, CEO of Let’s Talk Well. “It means so much to see individuals go to such imaginative lengths to champion our cause. We’re cheering them on every step of the way and thank them from the bottom of our hearts for being such passionate and brilliant ambassadors.”

How you can support

If you'd like to support Ben and Peggy on their journey and help make a difference for young people, please visit their fundraising page for Let's Talk Well and share their story far and wide.