A selection of some of the world’s most rare and valuable classic cars has been gathered for the second Hope Classic Rally, with £300,000 being raised for WeSeeHope – an organisation dedicated to supporting vulnerable children in Africa.
Among the classics that turned out for the drive from Brooklands to Beaulieu was a Ferrari 250 SWB, Mercedes-Benz 300SL ‘Gullwing’ and an Aston Martin DB2, while celebrity guests included For the Love of Cars’ Ant Anstead and official presenter of the FIA Formula E Championship, Nicki Shields.
The cars lined up for a photoshoot on the Brooklands circuits’ Campbell Curve before setting off on a winding route through the Surrey countryside towards the National Motor Museum, where the classics congregated around the ruins of Beaulieu Abbey.
The event built on the success of last year’s inaugural rally, which raised £218,000.
“Last year’s maiden Hope Classic Rally was sensational and somehow this year they managed to top it,” said Ant Anstead. “It was the perfect blend of beautiful cars, scenic roads and generous people. Bear in mind that the use of each car is donated by the owner, allowing supporters of the charity to drive the car of their dreams. At the end of the rally we were shattered but with huge fixed grins across our faces, and already talking about next year! It was a truly sensational weekend for a deserved charity.”
His thoughts were echoed by Nicki Shields: “The Hope Classic Rally is an incredibly special weekend and it was an absolute pleasure to be a part of it. When else can you drive through the beautiful rolling hills of the English countryside in a Mercedes 300SL, sandwiched between a Ferrari 250 SWB and a concours-winning Aston Martin DB2?”
Phil Wall, co-founder of WeSeeHope and the Hope Classic Rally said: “I am again humbled by the kindness and generosity of the classic car community. The Hope Classic Rally is an amazing event that celebrates the old stories of classic cars, and in retelling these stories, makes it possible for the young Africans WeSeeHope works with in Africa to write their own new stories. Truly inspiring.”
