PRESTON is set to be transformed into a scene from the classic 1968 film, The Italian Job, as Mini car enthusiasts wheel into the city for a charity run.

More than 25 Mini owners have already signed up for the L2/B2 challenge on Sunday August 15 and a convoy of 40-plus vehicles are expected to descend on Preston North End's Deepdale stadium at about lunchtime.

Teams of vehicles will drive in convoy from the Albert Dock, Liverpool and Leeds United football club, before leaving en masse for Blackpool at about 2pm.

The event has been organised by Minifinity, an online fan club for Mini enthusiasts, in a bid to raise cash for Breast Cancer Relief.

Business consultant and co-organisers of the event, Simon Howarth, 38, of The Grange, Cottom, has been a lover of the small car since he was 18 years old. "They are just great little vehicles," said Simon, a member of Longton and District Motor Club. "Despite being small, they are designed brilliantly."

This weekend Simon, accompanied by seven-year-old son, Harry, will join the event in his mint green 1981 sprint racing vehicle.

Another driver planning to take part is Tom Kidd, 24, of Wildman Street, Plungington. Tom will be driving his treasured 1993 Mini Tahiti, one of only 500 manufactured, which he has restored to its former glory with the help of staff at the Mini Centre, Riverside, Broadgate.

"This make of Mini was the first to be painted in this particular metallic blue colour," said Tom, who has been a fan of the vehicle since he was 14. "I've stripped it down and had the rusty panels replaced and put back all the original parts."

Entry to the event is £3 per car and all Mini drivers are invited to join. Log onto www.minifinity.com or email Tom at tom@tomkidd.co.uk for details.