World Cup bound Austin Seven cars on show at the Madejski Stadium

A group of committed pre-war Austin Seven car owners and England Rugby enthusiasts will undertake a unique driving challenge in support of the world rugby family by travelling 8,000 miles from Twickenham to Tokyo for the 2019 Rugby World Cup opening ceremony.

And two of the 80-year-old cars will be on show next to the Club Shop before Saturday’s European Rugby Challenge Cup fixture against Krasny Yar as supporters rev up for the game.

Travelling the length of the Trans-Siberian highway in Russia from St Petersburg to Vladivostok and then on to Japan, a team of dedicated motorists led by Chris Blakey will visit Russian and Japanese rugby clubs along the way to promote the sport.

Over the next 18 months prior to departure, the ‘Celebrate the Seven’ team will attend a range of rugby and motoring events to promote the 2019 rally and raise money for charity.

Saturday’s roadshow at the Madejski Stadium will give supporters of both London Irish and Krasny Yar the chance to see the majestic vehicles close up.

Chris Blakey, who is spearheading the challenge, said: “A huge thank you to London Irish for allowing us to raise awareness of the rally and we hope the vehicles bring some joy to supporters before the game.

“If you would like to find out more or to support this exciting event, please visit our website www.celebratetheseven2019.org  

 London Irish’s next home game will be against Krasny Yar in the European Rugby Challenge Cup on Saturday 13 January. Under 13s tickets are just £1 throughout the stadium with adults from £18 from www.lidirect.co.uk  or by calling 0118 968 1016 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to noon).