Starting 2023 with generosity and kindness, visitors to the first Bicester Heritage Scramble of the year donated selflessly to support the work of the local Bicester Foodbank as part of the Souped Up appeal.
The charity drive, organized by REVS and Piston Broke Social, invited Bicester Scramble attendees to contribute tinned goods or toiletries for those struggling through the cost-of-living crisis. On the day the response to Souped Up was incredible, with people giving in abundance, and the weight of goods donated totalled 174.6kg.
The initiative was supported by Suzuki GB, with the loan of a very special 1979 LJ 80 as the collection point. The ‘company car’ of motorcycling legend Barry Sheene, the diminutive 4×4 served as a pitlane vehicle, a promotional tool and was used by his family on their farm during the famous racer’s heyday.
By the end of the Scramble, the striking, light blue Suzuki off-roader was overflowing with tins, packets, bags and boxes – all given by people attending the event. Further donations were given by Toiletries Amnesty, an organization that looks to provide hygiene essentials for those in need whilst preventing surplus products from going to waste.
The appeal coincided with the team’s focus on Seasonal Affective Disorder, a condition which many struggle with through the winter months. The eclectic display of open top cars, ranging from classic hot rods through to modern sports cars, highlighted how enjoying daylight and getting out can alleviate some of the SAD symptoms.
With both elements of Souped Up combating winter blues and encouraging mental wellbeing, the day generated a huge amount of positivity and community support.
“It has been incredible to see how much people wanted to give,” said Rev. Adam Gompertz, founder of the REVS community. “We have seen people deposit every type of tinned food possible, as well as vital hygiene products that will help those in need. The cost-of-living crisis is affecting so many people right across the country, and it is so good that members of the car community have sought to make a positive difference’.
