THE first-ever Three Counties Mini rally has raised more than £2,500 for Acorns Children's Hospice.

The rally, organised by the classic Mini owners club the Hilltop Minis from Malvern, started at St Peter's Garden on Sunday, May 27. The group of 35 classic Minis, a rare Mini Markus and three BMW Minis then made a 100-mile journey across the Three Counties.

Event organiser Jan Judge said: "Apart from it being a very rainy day, the first Hilltop Minis' Archie's Mini Run in aid of Acorns Children's Hospice was a great success. We've raised more than £2,500 so far, and we've still got money coming in from sponsorships. The rally was a fantastic way to show off the classic cars around the Three Counties and spread the word about Acorns, which is an amazing local charity supporting the life-limited children and their families in our area."

Tony Blake, who waved the flag to start the rally, said: "I myself own a new Mini and was delighted to help out with the event. To be honest, I've never seen so many Minis in all my life and it was really good fun to be part of the convoy as we made our way through the Three Counties. My wife Janet and I thoroughly enjoyed it."

The event had the expert help of motorcyclist Barry Morgan and his group from Hereford Motorcycle Club who marshalled the course and manned the main roads and junctions. From St Peter's Garden Centre the Minis took to the country lanes through Hatfield, Defford, Strensham and Shuthonger, then crossed the A38 to Corse Lawn and headed westwards, brushing Newent, before heading into Herefordshire and reaching Much Marcle and their first pit-stop at Westons Cider for lunch.

The rally continued from Westons up towards Tenbury Wells, then back down towards Bromyard and Clifton upon Teme, into Martley, towards Rushwick and over to Malvern. There they rallied near British Camp and made a grand finish at The Railway Inn pub where an auction and raffle took place.