News

Press Release - 4 July 2007

BEN Lynwood Rally & Fête Raises over £15,000

Dull, wet and overcast it may have been for the start of the BEN Lynwood Vintage & Classic Vehicle Rally & Summer Fete, in Ascot, last weekend, but the array of gleaming cars brought out the sunshine in everyone. Despite the inclement weather some 140 Vehicles of the 205 Rally Entries turned up at Ascot racecourse for the 2007 Event - an amazing turnout. The rally started promptly at 12.30, and was led off by the two oldest vehicles - a beautiful 1905 Renault V8 Park Phaeton, followed by the striking and rare 1908 Stanley Steam Car Model K and then the remaining entries.

By 12.30pm all Rally Entrants Vehicles had been parked and the Lynwood Fête was open for the public. Just in time for the official opening at 1.00pm by Charlie Dimmock, guest celebrity, the sun finally shone down on everyone. Throughout the event Charlie enchanted everyone, stopping every few minutes to either sign autographs or have her picture taken. In particular, she was adept at spotting the shy amongst the many attendees, stopping to make time and have a quiet word with children and adults alike.

The Fête was extremely well attended despite the odd shower during the afternoon and the magnetism of the many colourful stalls was very evident. As usual, there were many attractions for children - the cuddly toys and farm animals, sited next to the Giant Michelin Man all proved very popular. The 2007 Event was extremely successful raising in excess of £15,000.00 for the Lynwood Residential and Nursing Centre, the highest total ever achieved - Charles Davis, Director of Fundraising & Communications, said "This is a wonderful annual event run by an exceptional group of volunteers who spend many hours planning and co-ordinating both the rally and fete. Our thanks go to Eamonn Gallighan, Fete Chairman and Rally Organiser, who works tirelessly each year with his committee in ensuring that everything runs smoothly and to all those involved for their help, donations and for spending money at Lynwood on the day."

Pictures available from Lorna Russell

Further Information:

Lorna Russell
Media Relations Officer
Tel: 01344 294765 / 07920 138187
Fax: 01344 622042
email: lorna.russell@ben.org.uk
Website: www.ben.org.uk

Editor's Notes:

BEN is the Automotive Industry Charity, the only occupational charity for those who work or have worked in the automotive and related industries. Founded in 1905, the Charity provides practical help, support, advice and friendship to more than 15,000 men and women and their families every year. In addition BEN provides a home to over 350 individuals who reside in one of its four residential centres in the UK and offers day care facilities at its centre in Coventry.