ORGANISERS are calling for more people to sign up to 'The Mile of Minis’ challenge.

The event, which will go ahead in May, will see a convoy of Minis driven across Oxfordshire to raise funds for children who have been adversely affected by the pandemic.

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Originally planned for March but pushed back to May 23, the event is back after an eight-year gap by organisers the Italian Job.

It is hoped the day will be a fun driving day out for old Mini and new Mini car owners and their families.

Motorists will also take part in a record-breaking challenge to park one mile of Minis in succession, firstly at the Mini Plant in Cowley and then later at the British Motor Museum in Gaydon, Warwickshire.

One hundred Minis have signed up so far, but to ensure the challenge is successful organisers need around 320 cars to participate.

The day officially kicks off at 8.30 am at the Mini Plant and following breakfast and an official welcome, the cars will be flagged off at 10am by a celebrity ringmaster before starting their driving adventure across Oxfordshire and Warwickshire.

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En route, the teams will take part in a photographic treasure hunt. Organiser Freddie St. George says it will be a fun day out for the family to fundraise for national grant-giving charity Buttle UK.

He said: “The Italian Job Mile of Minis will be a great day out for everyone, families included. The event is for everyone who loves the iconic classic Mini as well as fans of the modern day big brother the MINI.

“Every event organised by the Italian Job has a heavy emphasis on fun and camaraderie so no matter what Mini or MINI people come along with, a great day out in the company of many other like minded people is assured.

“Fundraising forms the backbone of each Italian Job event and the chosen charity for the Italian Job is Buttle UK, a national children’s charity that provides support and financial assistance to families in crisis across the UK. So the family aspect of each and every Italian Job event is underpinned by its very existence.”

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Buttle UK is helping young people financially with ‘Chances for Children’ grants to give them a chance in life. Each car should raise at least £40 for the charity.

To sign up go to italianjob.com

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