End to End Challenge

Niko Ltd general manager Mike Stanley is taking part in the Vauxhall Viva Owners Club charity drive from Lands End to John O'Groats.

During the last week in June the Viva owners will be donating their time and fuel expenses to drive the 873 miles from Lands End to John O'Groats, and then on to Billing Aquadrome near Northampton for an after event celebration at the VBOA National Rally on the week end of 2nd and 3rd July.

In the process of celebrating the Viva as a practical everyday classic, the club will be raising money for Whizz-Kidz, a national charity specialising in the mobility needs of disabled young people. Each driver will pursue their own sponsors, while the club is hoping to find the names of some corporate sponsors from the automotive industry whose logos can grace the cars on route and at the Rally.

Mike Stanley says:

"I have been the custodian of the Green Viva in the foreground since 1992 when I rescued it from the scrapman as it had failed the MOT suffering from severe tin-worm (rust). The restoration project was an on-off affair as time, money and family commitments would allow.

I completed all the work myself except for the painting. This was carried out by Carmatics of Kineton. Trim parts do not exist, so I had to learn sewing skills to make a new headlining and vinyl roof cover.

The Viva passed its MOT May 2010. I attended 8 rallies/shows up to October with the car winning "Best in Class"on two occasions. However, it was never my intention of just showing the car but to get out and enjoy the experience of driving it as it was meant to be.

The above trip is the first of several long distance runs planned over the next two/three years and hopefully many more will follow. My fellow Viva owner, Danny, who is joining me on this trip suggested we try and raise funds for Whizz-Kidz mobility charity which the club supports."

Niko Ltd is supporting their general manager in this challenge by donating to the Whizz-Kids charity. If anyone can help with sponsorship, please contact Mike via mike@niko.ltd.uk.