FRIENDS from Eversley are joining 40 teams on a 3,000-mile road trip inspired by the film The Italian Job.

In October Paul Denning, 53, and Mark Grubb, 48, are taking on the nine-day driving adventure and charity fundraiser, the Italian Job, to support families facing the harsh realities of the cost-of-living crisis.

Inspired by the classic 1969 Michael Caine film of the same name, this unique road trip welcomes Mini owners and vintage car enthusiasts, affectionately called 'Jobbers,' to traverse the wide range of dramatic Italian landscapes, far from the touristy paths, while revisiting famous locations from the renowned movie.

READ MORE: 82-year-old woman thanks strangers and NHS after falling ill

Paul is no stranger to this expedition, he first took part in 1991 before he went on to do the journey from 1992-1994 and then returned for the special Yorkshire Job in 2019.   

The driving enthusiasts participating in this venture are encouraged to raise funds for Buttle UK the designated charity beneficiary dedicated to supporting families living in crisis.

Paul and Mark are actively seeking local sponsorships to maximise their contribution towards this important cause.

SEE ALSO: How to get digital version of the Basingstoke Gazette and back copies

Elated about their upcoming return to Italy, Paul said: "Over the years I have made lifelong friends who I love bumping into at numerous mini or motoring events. The Jobbers taking part are a great bunch, with old friends meeting up year after year, and newcomers made immediately and warmly welcome. Once a jobber always a jobber.”

He continued: "The Italian Job is not just a great drive to Italy to explore beautiful scenery and visit unusual places, it is having roadside mechanical support throughout the journey and having experiences money can't buy with a growing circle of friends. We particularly like the fact that the money we raise goes to help children in need in our locality and that Buttle takes no administration costs from the funds raised. Fundraising for children gives us a great deal of pleasure knowing our efforts are so much help to less fortunate children who are living in poverty.”

Paul's co-pilot Mark, who also returns this year, said to anyone thinking of taking part, "it's the best thing I've ever done".

For those intrigued by this one-of-a-kind journey, the organisers are still open to more teams joining this noble event. To be part of this exhilarating adventure, interested individuals can reach out to gsg@italianjob.com or visit italianjob.com.