Over 700 Austin 7 owners from all over the world gathered to celebrate the centenary of the car's launch last summer, raising over £10,000 for Parkinson’s UK. Charlie Plain-Jones of Solihull, organised the celebration of the car, which was launched in July 1922. Charlie wanted to fundraise at the event for Parkinson’s UK as his father lived with the condition for many years.
Charlie said: “It was truly a historic day to remember and I am proud to be supporting Parkinson's UK. During my student days, I enjoyed many happy hours with Dad working on old cars, either to keep them on the road as daily transport or long term restorations. When he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, these activities slowly diminished.”
Built in Birmingham, the Austin 7 is seen as one of the most important cars in British history as it was one of the first affordable vehicles available to families on the British market.What is not so well known is the important part that Austin 7 cars played in British motorsport.
Heads of Regional Fundraising at Parkinson’s UK, Kirsty Berrigan and Rebecca Landolt, said: “We are so grateful to Charlie for taking on this incredible challenge for Parkinson’s UK.
“With more than 40 potential symptoms, Parkinson’s can devastate lives. We’ve made huge breakthroughs in the last 50 years, but there is still no cure and current treatments are not good enough. We hope that this fundraising challenge inspires you to get involved with Parkinson’s UK.
“There are lots of ways for you to get involved and support us - from volunteering at an event, to campaigning for better services. Without the generosity of people like you, our work would not be possible." To find out how to fundraise for Parkinson’s UK visit parkinsons.org.uk/fundraising.
