Austin 7 Rally to welcome intrepid explorer

This year’s Austin 7 Rally will mark the return of intrepid adventurer Chris Blakey. Chris was last seen in his Austin 7 setting off on an 8000-mile drive across Russia to Tokyo. Having successfully completed his trip in time to enjoy the Rugby World Cup, Chris will be the guest of honour at this year’s rally, which takes place at the National Motor Museum, Beulieu, on 5 July.

This year’s special theme is ‘Coachbuilt and Fabric-bodied Austin Sevens’ and visitors can be sure that plenty of fascinating examples will be on display around the arena. Hundreds of cars will take part and there will much to see and do over the weekend – all of it centred around the diminutive ‘Motor for the Millions’ created by Sir Herbert Austin in 1922 and produced up until the outbreak of the war in 1939.

The National Rally is organised by the 750 Motor Club and the event is open to all Austin 7 owners regardless of whether or not they are 750 Club members. Pre- 1980 vehicles of all other makes are welcome to attend and will have a designated parking area on the rally field.

The National Austin 7 Rally is an ideal day out for enthusiasts and for families as the rally entry ticket also gives access to the historic Palace House and Gardens, and The National Motor Museum. For entrants wishing to make a weekend of it camping facilities are available and on the Saturday there is an organized run through the picturesque New Forest followed by the ever-popular evening social gathering.