IT IS not often you see an accountant riding around in an old banger, but Jim Gorton is doing just that to raise money for a Radcliffe landmark.

On Saturday, Jim, from Gortons Accountants in Blackburn Street, Radcliffe, joined his cousin Jim Ball to embark on a 4,000-mile sponsored drive to Dakar in West Africa, on the Plymouth Banjul Challenge.

The pair, using the team name of the Caped Crusaders, set out in a clapped-out 1991 BMW estate, which has been christened the Bat Banger.

On arrival in Dakar - which could take up to three weeks -the cars of all competitors are auctioned off in aid of local Gambian charities, while money pledged to them for the trip will go towards the upkeep of the Giant's Seat campsite.

The route of the challenge takes in France, Spain, Morocco, Western Sahara, Mauritania, Senegal and finishes in the Gambia. Part of the trip is through the Sahara desert, and a guide is required for certain sections, due to landmines.

Mr Gorton (38), from Prestwich, said: "Giant's Seat is a campsite which is used by young people of all ages from Radcliffe and the North West generally - not just Scouts and Guides. Local groups, including those benefiting disabled children, make full use of the facilities there.

"The maintenance and upkeep costs are huge, and the facilities have to be kept fully up to date with the latest health and safety requirements etc. Unfortunately the campsite has also been hit by vandalism in recent years, and this has further drained resources. Funds are desperately needed for major renovation projects such as making good the access road, improving the electrical supply, and upgrading the shower and toilet facilities. And all of the sponsorship we raise will be going to the campsite. "