Basingstoke ObserverCLASSIC car enthusiasts, Philippe and Sue Allison, from Hook are taking part in one of the toughest classic car tours in Europe to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Philippe and Sue will drive their gleaming 1939 Citroen Light 15 Roadster, the second oldest car in the rally, in the final Cape to Cape Grand Classic Car Rally this April. Alongside entrants from as far afield as America, the couple hope to help founder, Dennis Greenslade, reach his target of £1 million raised for Macmillan Cancer Support.
“Having completely restored this beautiful car to its original condition, Sue and I love taking part in classic car events and to raise money for Macmillan into the bargain just makes it all worthwhile,” says Philippe. “We’ve known people who’ve had cancer and the wonderful support Macmillan has given them. The last 18 months has been very challenging for all of us and especially for people with cancer and charities like Macmillan. We’re already more than half way to our personal target of raising £5,000, with donations from generous supporters.”
Rally founder, Dennis Greenslade from Cornwall, lost his wife, Tricia, at age sixty to cancer of the oesophagus. Says Dennis, “I feel very privileged to have turned my love of motor cars, fascination with maps, and experience of international rallying into one of the toughest classic car tours in Europe. Both my late wife, Tricia, and I felt it important to raise money for charity with the challenge. However, like so many entrants, over the years, the fundraising has become even more personal.
The rally is not a race but a celebration of classic cars and brings together like-minded enthusiasts. The winner of the Cape to Cape is not the team that finishes first, but the crew that raises the most money for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Over the years, Cape to Cape has become more than a rally for those who take part. It has become an opportunity to reunite with friends and share our love of all things motor racing. With nearly forty classic cars arriving into a town at one time - we can create quite a spectacle. It is wonderful, because locals enjoy coming out to speak to us and get involved. We will always make time for photos and a chat.”
The 2,700-mile escapade sets off from Newquay on Saturday 23rd April, returning via Cape Cornwall on 7th May. The finale is a gala dinner and awards ceremony at the Bedruthan Hotel and Spa.
