IT WAS a MINI adventure and then some. Owners of the popular car make came together for a fundraising drive.
The Italian Job Mile of MINI saw 150 drivers bring their motors to Oxford for a special meet-up, all with a mission to help children living in poverty.
The event was for charity Buttle UK, which helps families struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. It offers support for essentials such as children’s beds, household appliances, school uniforms, computers, and books.
The event started from the MINI Plant in Cowley, before driving across the countryside.
Participants received a special Italian Job route book, ensuring they stayed on course, starting from the MINI Plant in Cowley, Oxford, before embarking on a thrilling driving adventure across Oxfordshire and into South Warwickshire.
Among the day’s highlight was a visit to JLR Classic, the classic and works division of Jaguar Land Rover, located south of Coventry.
Teams got the opportunity to explore a collection of the world’s rarest classic Jaguars and Land Rovers.
Dr. Markus Grüneisl, CEO MINI Plant Oxford, said: “MINI Plant Oxford is pleased to support the Italian Job Mile of MINIs event once again; we love to see people embracing the MINI spirit! It is always a special moment for Plant Oxford to act as the starting line for the 150 participating teams.
“This year is an exciting year for our plant: We are starting the production of three new MINI Cooper models, and we are thrilled that the new MINI Cooper three-door model is already participating in this Italian Job event.”
And Paul Barritt, director, JLR Classic, said: “From one organisation keeping historic automotive icons on the road to another: we salute you.
“As fans of 1960s-derived design, culture, and engineering we are pleased to welcome you to Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works.”
The fundraising drivers were welcomed by Joseph Howes, CEO of Buttle UK.
He said: “While inflation may be falling, the families we work with are working through crises and have no respite from this.
“We want to support their children to have the basics that all of us would agree are essential, like a bed, toys and games.
“I want to thank all those who took part. 100% of every penny raised by the drivers will go directly to giving children a better chance at life.”
Freddie St George, who organises the day, said The Mile of MINI’s event was gaining popularity and becoming a staple on the annual events calendar for the car’s owners.
“We witnessed an impressive turnout from both classic and modern Mini enthusiasts here in Oxford. It’s truly remarkable,” he said.
“A total of 150 teams, showcasing Minis of various ages, styles, sizes, and colours, have registered to participate in this annual one-day gathering and drive from Oxford to Coventry.”
Now, he is working on plans for a real The Italian Job – just without the heist – in October.
This will be a six-night off-the-beaten-track road trip through Italy’s lesser-travelled paths, covering 3,000 miles of scenic European countryside, this navigational drive offers participants a chance to immerse themselves in Italy’s rich heritage and visit locations from the film.
For more details, log on to: www.italianjob.com
