SOMERSET Driving Instructors are taking part in a nationwide relay to raise funds for the 2014 BBC Children in Need charity.

The Big Learner Relay is a relay of a roof box from one driving lesson to another throughout the route. The roof box is covered in different sized coloured spots, and the legendary Pudsey Bear mascot.

All over the UK instructors are getting into the spirit and taking part.

The Big Learner Relay is the brain-child of Louise Walsh, a Hampshire Driving Instructor, who will travel in all the lead cars. Louise's initial aim was to raise £5,000 but already over £15,000 has been raised.

The rely has already started and will finish in Birmingham on November 14. Learner drivers, accompanied by their instructors, will drive one of the 147 legs, followed by a convoy of other driving school cars.

The first local leg is led by Bryan Booth of Booth School of Motoring, who will travel from Yeovil to Ilminster on Monday November 10, followed by Lucy Vaughan in Learn in Herbie, travelling from Ilminster to Honiton.

On November 11, Helen Levett from Focus Driver Training will travel from Tiverton Taunton, then hand over to Pip Godson from Alpha Driving School.

Pip will lead the way to Highbridge and hand over at Steve Page of Sally's Driving School, who will drive to Bristol.

Everyone is welcome to join the convoy at any point.

For more information, visit the Big Learner Relay's website at www.biglearnerrelay.co.uk or visit them on Facebook via the "Big Learner Relay - Somerset" page.

To sponsor a spot, text PASS73 then add the amount in £ and send to 70070. Or donate via Big Learner Relay Just Giving.