A classic car enthusiast and event organiser has been named as a regional winner in this year’s Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards. Terry Baker, the driving force behind the annual Legendary Grand Tour Mini Run in North Devon, was nominated for the award having spent almost 25 years raising money for local charities.
Each year, ITV West Country – along with other ITV regions – whittles down nominations to four people from each of its east and west subregions. Terry was one of the western finalists, and was chosen as the winner by a panel that included Broadchurch actor, Joe Sims.
Since coming up with the idea for the Grand Tour in 1994, Terry and his team have raised around half a million pounds, mostly for Children’s Hospice South West. Amongst other things, these funds have helped the charity to buy three minibuses and provide messy play areas at its Little Bridge House, Charlton Farm and Little Harbour hospices.
The event takes place over three days, and brings parts of North Devon to standstill as crowds flock to see the Minis weave their way through the local villages in convoy. This year’s Tour saw over 250 Minis take part and raised around £22,000 alone.
“I may organise the event but there is no way I could put it on without some very special help and they are my crew members and bike marshals, past and present, who are always out there in all types of weather,” said Terry, who previously ran a Mini garage in Bideford.
The 66-year-old and his wife Linda will be heading to a star-studded award ceremony at Grosvenor House in London later this month. It will be screened on ITV during November.
