HE’S the Hampshire pilot who will swap air travel for four wheels to embark on an epic road trip for charity.

Mark Beaumont, 52, is getting into gear to take part in the 1,000-mile Monte Carlo or Bust rally, which is inspired by the comedy film of the same name.

The father-oftwo, from Otterbourne, will get behind the wheel of his Mini John Cooper Works to join scores of other motorists in various sports and classic cars to drive across France, Switzerland and Italy.

His aim is to raise thousands of pounds for Standards Against Female Exploitation (SAFE), having already collecting more than £2,000 for the cause.

His decision to raise money for SAFE, which tackles human trafficking and under-age girls working in the sex industry, came after he attended a presentation against trafficking by CVM near Southampton.

He said: “I like driving and I am interested in cars.

“It’s a real honour to be able to take part in this rally for such a worthy cause.

“Human trafficking is a despicable trade and it’s important to raise awareness of it and put mechanisms in place to put traffickers out of business.

“SAFE does a great job to promote self-regulation and help people who have been affected by trafficking. But it needs funds to carry out its work and I wanted to help in some small way.”

To sponsor Mark, who sets off on September 4, visit mydonate.bt.com/ events/markbeaumont/ 118870.