Jaguar XKs rally to raise money for charity

More than 100 Jaguar XKs are to drive round Britain in June to raise money for charity. The XK120s, 140s and 150s will tackle an 18-day, 3500-mile route along Britain’s costal roads in a bid to raise £50,000 for charity.

Launched in 1948, the Jaguar XK120 was driven by Hollywood stars and racing drivers alike. It helped launch the careers of Sir Stirling Moss and future World Champion, Phil Hill. Officially the fastest production car in the world, the XK led Britain's post-war 'export or die' campaign, earning vital dollars, scoring five Le Mans wins and triumphing in international rallies.

Participants will be flagged away from the start at the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu by the Murray Walker OBE on 12 June and finish back there on 29 June.

Four drivers are doing all 18 stages, including author Philip Porter who had the original idea for this adventure after recovering from prostate cancer. Notable entries include one car from the USA and one from Holland. Some 289 stage bookings have been taken so far but they are still rolling in.

Porter said, ‘Having done the entire drive in my Italian Job E-type in 2016, I can tell you 90% of the driving is superb, with some utterly breath-taking days. This is a fabulous way to see the best of Britain and use your car for a very worthy cause. One man in the UK dies every 45 minutes from prostate cancer. It is crucial we raise awareness to save lives.'

Several classic car companies are supporting the run, including classic Jaguar parts provider SNG Barratt. The event builds on the success of the Coastal Drive for E-types in 2016, which raised £64,000. To keep up to date with news from the run, visit the International XK Club website.