OSKAR the Frogeye Sprite ran out of puff on its way north to start a charity JOGLE just days after leaving Devizes last week.

Lions Club president Roger Stratton has apologised to supporters for the mishap which meant the drive was over almost before it started. But people have taken to social media to applaud the endeavours of Mr Stratton and friend Bill Ritson and say they still want their cash to go to the Wiltshire Air Ambulance Airbase appeal and the Helen Straker fund which supports Dorothy House and the Forever Friends Appeal at Royal United Hospital, Bath.

Mr Stratton, who had been worried about the ability of the little car, known as OSKAR because of its number plate, to complete the fundraising trip from Lands End to John O'Groats.

He said: "I am very sorry that we had to abandon the JOGLE without even getting to the start at John O Groats.

"We were beaten by what appeared to be a serious engine failure, but now we believe was an electrical problem caused by the very heavy rain and spray encountered on the way north. Our journey ended on the A9 near Aviemore, with OSKAR being returned to Blair Atholl on a recovery truck.

"We are sad this happened and would like to apologise to our wonderful sponsors, the many people who donated their hard earned money and who entered the competition. We are determined that the three charities we are supporting will benefit from our efforts, but we will need to discuss with you all how best to do so."