A former detention officer from Devon & Cornwall is set to embark on a 4,500 mile journey across Europe to raise money for Rock2Recovery, a charity supporting veterans and emergency service colleagues.

Leaving on the morning of Saturday, September 21 from Charlestown Harbour, Tim Stevens will be taking on the 4,500-mile journey across Europe to Split in Croatia in his 18-year-old Volkswagen Beetle. He will be joined by numerous other cars who will also taking part in the week-long challenge.

Tim worked as a detention officer for Devon & Cornwall Police for 11 years and is now facilities manager for the Force: “People who enter the challenge can choose to support any charity they want. Rock2Recovery is a charity that is close to my heart along with many other people in Devon & Cornwall Police. It provides support, guidance and coaching to serving and retired members of the armed forces and emergency services.

“People who work in these sectors face many unique and difficult challenges in their daily work. It’s so important that all colleagues have access to resources and supportive communities who can help people manage these issues, their wellbeing and mental health.

“Rock2Rocovery has been a light in so many people’s lives, including mine. I’m honoured to have the chance to participate in this challenge to raise money - and more importantly awareness - of this incredible charity and the work they do to help others in this community.”

To take part, all challenge attendees were required to purchase a car that was over 18 years old, with a sale value of under £1,000. 

“It’s going to be an interesting journey, that’s for sure! Our Volkswagen Beetle, nicknamed Ringo, is 18 years old and has a good few miles on the clock. Luckily, I’ll have my wife Rachel joining me every step of the way. Part of the challenge also requires us to be in fancy dress, so we’ve opted for Slash and Axl from Guns N’ Roses,” Tim added.

Chief superintendent Scott Bradley, who currently heads up policing teams in Plymouth, said: “This is a fantastic challenge for such a worthwhile cause. I know the charity has been there to support many of our colleagues across the Force. I am wishing Tim and Rachel (and Ringo) lots of luck. I hope they enjoy every minute of the challenge.”

Rock2Recovery’s mission is to save and change the lives of those in the armed forces, the veteran community, emergency services, as well as their families who are affected by stress. Their purpose is to inspire and coach towards a more positive future. The services they provide are free. 

For more information about Rock2Recovery and the support they provide, visit: www.rock2recovery.co.uk