MINI-mad
motorists made a tour of Teesside this weekend to raise more
than a little charity cash.
Owners and enthusiasts
gathered at Stewart Park in Middlesbrough on Saturday to gear
up for the event in aid of Diabetes UK.
Around 50 old, new
and lovingly-restored vehicles took part in the rally, stopping
off at the Riverside Stadium and Saltburn to collect donations.
They then headed
to the Fins and Chrome American Car Show at Preston Park in
Eaglescliffe where the fundraising continued.
There they were joined
by owners of American cars, English classics, bikes and hot
rods as well as the Middlesbrough Reds Juvenile Jazz Band.
Among those taking
part in the rally was Adrian Walker, from the Band of Gypsies
Mini Owners Group (BOGMOG).
He brought his stretch
original Mini Cooper, which he uses for his business, Luxury
Minis, along with Phil Johnson of Thornaby.
"I have just given
up my job in computing to join the business but I'm happy to
give it a go because it's different and a fun idea," he said.
Steve and Lorraine
Forrest, and their little girl Ellie, brought along a 1980 Mini
1275 GT.
Steve, who restored
the car to mint condition, said: "We go all over the country
to rallies.
"Minis are just fun,
little cars and Ellie's been coming with us since she was four
days old."
Derek Waterworth,
chairman of Diabetes UK South Cleveland Voluntary Group, said
they were delighted the Mini owners are raising funds through
entry fees and sponsorship.
The charity event
will help fund a summer camp for diabetic children in the area.
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