Monopoli or Bust – The Mercer’s Taxi🚕

27th September – 3rd October 2025

We’re four soldiers from 7th Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery, taking on something very different from the usual physical test. As a team, we’re calling ourselves The Mercer’s Taxi, and from 27th September to 3rd October, we’ll be taking part in the Banger Rally Challenge – “Monopoli or Bust”.

This isn’t about running marathons, climbing peaks, or pushing ourselves to the limit physically – it’s about logistical planning, endurance on the road, and teamwork under pressure in a whole new way.

🏁 What is “Monopoli or Bust”?

The Banger Rally is a challenge where teams drive cars worth no more than a few hundred pounds – the kind of vehicles you wouldn’t normally trust to get you to work – across Europe, taking on a route full of twists, turns, and surprises, finishing in Monopoli, Italy.

The catch? Our car is a banger – it’s not about speed or comfort, it’s about creativity, problem-solving, and keeping it alive mile after mile.

🔧 Why this is different

As soldiers, we’re used to physical challenges – the kind that test grit, strength, and endurance. This challenge is different:

Logistical planning – making sure we and the car can make it through multiple countries.

Adaptability – breakdowns, detours, and obstacles are part of the journey.

Teamwork – living out of a car for a week across Europe is its own test of morale and camaraderie.

❤️ Why we’re doing it

We’re not just doing this for the adventure – we’re raising money for a cause that means a lot to us. Every pound donated goes towards The Airborne gunners trust.

Your support will keep us motivated as we take on the highs and lows of this unique journey.

📍 How you can help

Donate – every contribution, big or small, helps our chosen charity.

Share – spread the word and help us reach as many people as possible.

Follow our journey – we’ll be sharing updates along the way.

👉 Please back The Mercer’s Taxi as we take on the road from the UK all the way to Monopoli in nothing more than a banger and a lot of determination.