A MOTOR enthusiast from Bromsgrove will follow in the tyre tracks of the iconic 1969 film ‘The Italian Job’ to help raise money for children’s charities.

Ed Helps is one of the first people in the country to sign up to a 3,000 mile fundraising rally, named after the hit Michael Caine film, to raise funds for charities including Buttle UK.

The route will take Ed through the locations of the film, journeying through France, Belgium and Germany, along with a round-trip from Turing and the Italian-French Alpine roads.

All drivers must take part in a vehicle which starred in the classic film.

Ed spent three years restoring an old Ford Thames 400E camper can, which was used in the film for the football fans’ decorated van and referred to as the Dormobile.

He said: “It has been months in the planning and we will soon be on our way.

“I hope other Mini owners in the area will join me and together we can help raise urgently needed funds for Buttle UK to help eradicate child poverty in the UK.”

The Italian Job has raised over £2.5 million for children’s charities and the main beneficiary this year will be Buttle UK, who provide financial grants to needy children.

Gerri McAndrew, CEO of Buttle UK, added: “It is certainly a fun way to help children and what’s more 100% of any sponsorship money raised will go directly to helping these children in need and to give them a chance in life.”

The Italian Job 2018 starts on October 27 and finishes on November 2.

Places are strictly limited to 100 Minis and/or classic cars that featured in the original film, with entrants having to raise a minimum of £1,500 per car.

For details, visit italianjob.com.