London to Brighton veterans on the road for men's health

London to Brighton veterans on the road for men's health

Movember Foundation appointed as Official Charity Partner for annual Veteran Car Run

The Royal Automobile Club, organiser of the iconic Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, supported by Hiscox, is delighted to announce an exciting new partnership with the Movember Foundation.

The only global men’s health charity, the Movember Foundation works year-round to help men live happier, healthier, longer lives. Known best by their annual Movember campaign in November, they are focused on raising funds and awareness around the causes of prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s mental health and suicide prevention. To date, the Foundation has funded over 1,200 innovative projects in the cause areas, across 21 countries.

As tradition dictates, the hugely evocative Veteran Car Run also takes place in November with large numbers of the plucky participants – many of whom travel from overseas to be part of the world’s oldest and most charismatic motoring event – dressing up in period clothing as they board their venerable pre-1905 cars for the annual pilgrimage from Hyde Park to the Sussex coast.

With its timely November date and alluring appeal that always attracts thousands of roadside spectators, the magical showcase proffers the perfect plinth for the Movember Foundation to raise both awareness and funds.

As a curtain-raiser to its new Official Charity Partner role, the Movember Foundation was represented on last year’s Run by 1996 F1 World Champion Damon Hill OBE and renowned adventurer Charley Boorman (photo above). The pair teamed up to pilot a 1904 Rover 8HP to Brighton.

Now all those involved in this autumn’s event, whether they be entrants, passengers, marshals, support crews, followers, visitors, friends or family members are being encouraged to grow moustaches and join the movement. The Movember Foundation will be encouraging all pubs and villages along the route to show their support in the lead up and on the day and join the Veteran Car Community of fundraisers.

To help all-comers get involved, an online community of fundraisers has been created where members can post photos and share ideas. All those joining the community will also be eligible for prizes and incentives including the once-in-a-lifetime chance to partake in the coveted ‘tearing the flag’ ceremony as performed by Hill and Boorman last November.

Furthermore, entrants will be able to show their support and simultaneously generate yet more recognition for the Movember Foundation via the purchase of an exclusive ‘carstache’ which can be displayed proudly on all participating veteran cars (photo bottom below) with all funds raised going directly to the charity.

“This is an exciting opportunity to support one of the most celebrated and historic motor events in the world,” said Anne-Cecile Berthier, Movember Foundation County Director UK & Europe. “Working together in partnership with the Veteran Car Run team will allow us to meet and engage with the local and international motoring community. It will also provide an exceptional platform for the Movember Foundation to raise funds to continue the incredible work we are doing to improve the health, and quality of life, of men around the world.”

The Movember Foundation’s commitment to changing the face of men’s health is one that is fully supported and endorsed by all those organising the ever-popular Veteran Car Run.

“It’s a charity that is close to all of our hearts and we are proud to be spreading the Movember message and making a difference,” acknowledged Ben Cussons, Chairman of The Royal Automobile Club’s Veteran Car Run Steering Group. “By its very nature, the Veteran Car Run appeals to males of all ages and its time-honoured date in early November presents the ideal opportunity to unite with the Movember Foundation to raise awareness and vital funds. This is a terrific partnership to inspire donations, conversations and real change.”

For more information on the Movember Foundation visit www.movember.com. Further details of the Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run and ways to support the charity can be found via the event’s official website: www.veterancarrun.com.


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