ED and Sue Helps, an adventurous couple hailing from Worcestershire, have enthusiastically joined the ranks of 40 teams embarking on a nine-day 3,000-mile road trip like no other—the iconic ‘ Italian Job’ driving adventure and charity fund-raiser.
This memorable journey is aimed at supporting families facing the harsh realities of the cost-of-living crisis, particularly children living in poverty in the region.
Inspired by the classic 1969 Michael Caine film of the same name, this unique road trip welcomes Mini owners and vintage car enthusiasts, affectionately called ‘Jobbers,’ to traverse the wide range of dramatic Italian landscapes, far from the touristy paths, while revisiting famous locations from the renowned movie.
Ed and Sue Helps are no strangers to this captivating expedition, having previously completed the adventure in a restored Ford Thames Dormobile, identical to the one featured in the film (below).
Their initial expectation of it being a once-in-a-lifetime experience was quickly surpassed, as they participated in two more ‘Italian Job’ events with the Dormobile before finally acquiring a Mini for their fourth and eagerly awaited ‘ Job’ adventure this year.
The driving enthusiasts participating in this venture are encouraged to raise funds for Buttle UK—the designated charity beneficiary dedicated to supporting families living in crisis. The Helps are actively seeking local sponsorships to maximize their contribution towards this important cause.
Elated about their upcoming return to Italy, Ed said: “The Jobbers taking part are a great bunch, with old friends meeting up year after year, and newcomers made immediately and warmly welcome.
“The IJ is not just a great drive to Italy to explore beautiful scenery and visit unusual places, it is having roadside mechanical support throughout the journey and having experiences money can’t buy with a growing circle of friends.
“We particularly like the fact that the money we raise goes to help children in need in our own locality and that Buttle takes no administration costs from funds raised.”
Indeed, ‘The Italian Job’ holiday presents an extraordinary opportunity for discerning mature travellers to revel in stunning Italian locations, forge lasting friendships, create cherished memories, and savour the finest cultural and gastronomic delights that off-grid Italy has to offer.
Founded to support children in poverty in the UK, ‘The Italian Job’ driving adventure has already raised an impressive £3 million for charitable causes, all thanks to the dedication of its mother and son organizers, Giulia, and Freddie St George.
In a world where post-pandemic travellers seek meaningful experiences, ‘The Italian Job’ aligns perfectly with their aspirations, allowing them to contribute to charity while immersing themselves in the extraordinary, and capturing every moment through their lenses.
For those intrigued by this one-of-a-kind journey, the organisers are still open to more teams joining this noble event.
To be part of this exhilarating adventure, interested individuals can reach out to [email protected] or visit www.italianjob.com.
