Yorkshire drivers gear up for UK-first Italian Job rally at The Piece Hall

The Piece Hall is set to host the finale of an Italian Job-inspired motor rally in its 66,000 sq ft courtyard this October. Mini and classic car drivers across Yorkshire are invited to take part in the exciting event, which will see 100% of monies donated to support local children living in poverty and affected by the pandemic across Yorkshire via Buttle UK.

Inspired by the 1969 classic film, The Italian Job motor rally has seen Mini and vintage car enthusiasts rally across Italy for the last 30 years to raise money for charity. In line with Covid-19 restrictions, this year’s 31st annual event will swap Italian coastlines for some of the spectacular scenery and breathtaking regional landscapes across Yorkshire, as the UK hosts its first ever rally.

The three-day event will culminate at The Piece Hall at 9:30am on Sunday 17 October 2021, where drivers will park-up against the backdrop of the stunning Grade I-listed building’s walls to be congratulated by Emmerdale star Liam Fox and Mini UK director David George.

Drivers of Minis of any size, age, type and colour, or those with a passion for any classic car featured in the 1969 film, are invited to sign-up to the rally and support Yorkshire families via the website or by emailing gsg@italianjob.com now.

Nicky Chance-Thompson DL, Chief Executive of The Piece Hall, said: “We’re thrilled that The Piece Hall is hosting the UK’s first ever ‘Italian Job’ motor rally. Yorkshire is a place famed for its sporting prowess, from the incredible athletes that represented our great county and nation at this year’s Olympics to the cyclists that have graced our venue for the Tour de Yorkshire in the past.

“The Piece Hall is a beautiful iconic British yet Italian-inspired building surrounded by the Yorkshire countryside. What better place to bring Italy and Britain together for such an amazing event. We look forward to welcoming classic car enthusiasts and film fanatics alike to join the drive or visit the spectacle at the finale in October.”

Freddie St George, organiser of the event, added: “The British have a fantastic sense of charity and helping somebody less fortunate than themselves. I think The Italian Job rally brings all of that together.”

Buttle UK has seen a 68% rise nationally in applications for their ‘Chances for Children’ grants since the first lockdown, emphasising the importance of the timely initiative to support families in need. The charity’s vital work supports sick, disabled and disadvantaged children to reach their full potential, and this year’s event is anticipated to help the charity reach the £3m mark for total profits raised over the years.

The event is now open for entry and The Piece Hall finale event is free-to-enter to the public. Drivers can sign up for The Italian Yorkshire Job 21 and The Italian Job 22 now.