DRIVING instructors across Somerset will be helping Children in Need to complete a 2,800 mile relay around the United Kingdom.

Instructors from Taunton, Chard and Watchet will be among the seven driving schools from Somerset to help the fundraising effort.

The Big Learner Relay, which is in its second year, will see hundreds of instructors pass a baton – a specially designed car roof box - from one car to another.

Hampshire based driving instructor Louise Walsh, came up with the idea while watching BBC Children In Need in 2013.

She said: “I thought, 'Why aren't we as driving instructors doing something to raise money for such a great cause? Let’s do something!

“The task of making this event the reality that it is has only been possible because of the enthusiasm and support from so many instructors.

“The route has been planned to take in as many places as possible over the two weeks and to involve as many driving instructors and pupils as we can.

“Last year we raised an incredible £65,000, I hope we can exceed that amount this year.”

Louise Walsh will travel across the UK sitting in the back of each car.

To raise money for the charity, many driving instructors are covering their cars with sticky spots and asking people to donate money per spot.

The driving schools taking part are Green4Go with participants in Taunton and Ilminster, Sally’s School of Motoring from Watchet, and 121 Somerset Driving School in Langport.

Others are offering free lessons with donations to charity, conducting lessons wearing fancy dress and a variety of other activities.

All driving instructors are encouraged to take part by joining their local convoy behind the lead car with the baton, or purchase items from the online shop.

Details can be found on www.biglearnerrelay.co.uk To donate text PASS65 plus the amount (£2,£4,£5 etc) to 70070 or go to http://www.biglearnerrelay.co.uk/donate.