A COUPLE from west Dorset are gearing up for an adventure after being selected to take part in an exciting driving experience.

Husband and wife Alan and Judith Peacock from Litton Cheney received the opportunity of a lifetime, after being picked for the Continental Black Chili Driving Experience in France.

They are among 12 finalists selected to take part after passing a series of motor challenges at Mercedes-Benz World, Brooklands.

The couple see it as a perfect way to celebrate their 35th wedding anniversary this year.

The trip to France runs from June 30 to July 4 and will be split into three stages, with those involved experiencing the Route des Crêtes, Route D’Azur and Route des Cascaces. There is no overall winner of the event.

Alan and Judith have been married since 1984 and celebrate their 35th wedding anniversary this year.

They said: “It’s a wonderful way to mark our 35th year of marriage and we would definitely say this is one of the biggest surprises during our time together – apart from our four children.

“We can’t wait to drive off on this incredible adventure together.”

The 12 lucky pairs who were picked for the experience entered through an online competition ran with Auto Car and What Car?.

From those who applied, 24 applicants were invited to attend the qualifying day at Mercedes-Benz World.

Participants were whittled down through a variety of challenges until only 12 remained.

In the driving experience, run by Continental Tyres, they will get behind the wheel of sports cars and SUVs.

Travelling a total of 354, miles, they will follow a beautiful, winding route passing Gourdon and Tourtour – starting and ending in the historic town of Mougins. Cars will include an Audi RS3, BMW M240i, Mercedes C43 AMG, Porsche Boxster, Jaguar I-PACE and a Mustang GT.

Continental Tyres spokesman Peter Robb said: “This is truly a once in a lifetime driving experience, giving back to our consumers whilst educating them about the Black Chili technology that goes into Continental’s tyres.

“The qualifying day was a huge success, with some fantastic driving that would excite any motoring enthusiast.”