INTREPID drivers endured torrential rain to travel across the county - and raise funds for a good cause.

The Weymouth Vehicle Preservation Society organised the 30th annual Dorset Tour in aid of Autism Wessex.

Started by the Mayor of Weymouth and Portland, Councillor Gill Taylor, drivers set off from Lodmoor Country Park and the event raised £650 for the Society’s chosen charity of the year.

Thomas Johnston, fundraising manager at Autism Wessex, said: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to the Weymouth Vehicle Preservation Society for their fantastic support in our 50th Birthday year and to everyone that took part in such challenging conditions. I was there at the start line and it was an incredibly wet and windy day! It’s only with the generosity of community groups like the Society that we are able to provide specialist advice and support to local children and adults affected by autism, so thank you once again for choosing to fundraise for us.”

Peter Griffin, chairman of the Weymouth Vehicle Preservation Society, said: “58 days of glorious sunshine and then it rained! Boy did it rain. But it still went ahead and we were really pleased to be able to present Autism Wessex with a cheque for £650. It’s a cause close to our hearts as one of our members has two daughters who have autism.”

Founded in 1968, Autism Wessex is the regional charity that provides varied and far reaching services to anyone affected by autism. The charity is celebrating its 50th Birthday this year.

Weymouth Vehicle Preservation Society brings together vehicle enthusiasts from across the region to share a passion for cars and support local causes. Since 1988 the Society has raised more than £73,000 for local charities.

Autism Wessex is keen to hear from any community groups that would like to explore working together. Please get in touch with the Fundraising team at fundraising@autismwessex.org.uk. For further information about the charity please visit www.autismwessex.org.uk and follow @autismwessex on Facebook and Twitter.