North Devon's Legendary Grand Tour raises more than £22,000 for Children’s Hospice South West

For a quarter of a century, the annual Legendary Grand Tour has been a driving force on North Devon's August Bank Holiday, drawing Mini enthusiasts from across the UK.

Organised by dedicated Mini lovers Terry and Linda Baker from Minehead, this year's event raised a remarkable £22,204, contributing to an astonishing total of £626,218.36 raised for Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) since its inception.

Often known as the 'little cars with the big hearts', the Minis tour North Devon and Torridge throughout the weekend, with a long run on the Monday passing through many local villages and towns, beeping as they go.

The sight of more than 150 Minis and their drivers, complete with fancy dress, is an amazing spectacle. Each year volunteer motorcycle outriders, also in fancy dress, help out as marshalls to manage traffic and keep everyone safe.

Mary Gray, Area Fundraiser for CHSW, expressed gratitude and said: "The recent Legendary Grand Tour saw 200 Minis take part, many in fancy dress, and the response from spectators was once again incredible. We can't thank the Mini run team enough for organising, yet again, a wonderful event!"

The event's roots trace back to 1996 when organiser Terry was asked to bring his Mini to Little Bridge House to surprise a young Mini fan named Christopher, who was staying at the hospice. The encounter led to the birth of the Legendary Grand Tour, and Christopher's legacy lives on through the annual event.

Adele Smyth-Richards and Sally Norden, Sibling Workers at CHSW’s Little Bridge House children’s hospice, joined the Mini adventure this year, which highlighted the community support. Ms Smyth-Richards said: "Taking part is a highlight of my year, and I’m looking forward to taking part again this August!"

The Legendary Grand Tour not only celebrates Minis but also funds CHSW, providing invaluable support for families facing life-limiting conditions.

To learn more about fundraising for CHSW, visit www.chsw.org.uk/getinvolved.