Get Your Mini Cooper in Gear for The Italian Job

Picture the scene. It's 1990 and a bunch of guys who happen to drive Mini Coopers are watching the 1969 Michael Caine classic, "The Italian Job", on the telly. As the movie ends, one of them, in his best Michael Caine accent, declares, "Hang on, lads; I've got a great idea..."

In the UK, where this film is more than just a cult classic and where most people can quote quite a few of the best lines...You're only supposed to blow the bloody doors off!... owning a well maintained Mini Cooper is a mark of distinction. And being able to emulate the madcap driving of "The Italian Job" a kind of dream.

So the Italy to Brighton Rally, The Italian Job, was bound to be a success. This year, the rally leaves Imola, in Italy on October 24 and pulls in to Brighton on November 1.

The drivers, who are sponsored for the trip, load up with local wine in Italy and it's sold at auction in Brighton. All the money raised, by sponsorship and auction, benefits children's charities.

Anyone over 21 years old can participate as long as they drive a Mini or Mini based car (regardless of age, size, colour, variation or shape) or any of the classic cars which featured in The Michael Caine film. Co-drivers must be at least 19 years old, and both must have a valid driving licence.

Registration costs £500 and there is still time to sign up for this year's rally on The Italian Job Website. Even if you don't drive a Mini, or you can't manage to get yours over to Italy in time for the start of the rally, get to Brighton on November 1, in time for the arrival of all the participating cars and for the auction. It is bound to be quite a sight.

Find out more about The Italian Job Imola to Brighton Rally

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