ARRT-Sponsored Team Takes on Europe in the Rust Bucket Rally

Just a few months ago, we shared the story of Lewis Bennett and his co-driver Ross preparing to tackle the Rust Bucket Rally in a car worth less than £1,000.

At the time, we questioned their vehicle choice, suggested a Volvo V70 diesel estate might have been a safer bet, and wished them luck on what promised to be an unforgettable journey.

Fast forward a few weeks and we’re delighted to report that not only did the team take on the challenge, but they did so while proudly flying the ARRT flag across Europe and raising awareness for an incredible cause along the way.

What Is the Rust Bucket Rally?

The Rust Bucket Rally is unlike any traditional motorsport event.

Rather than spending a fortune on performance cars and support crews, participants are challenged to purchase a vehicle for no more than £1,000 and then drive thousands of miles across Europe, navigating multiple countries, mechanical uncertainties and plenty of unexpected adventures.

For Lewis and Ross, their weapon of choice was a well-used Mazda MX-5 that certainly had character. While some might have questioned its suitability for crossing the continent, that’s exactly what the Rust Bucket Rally is all about.

It’s not about having the best car.

It’s about having the determination to keep going.

Lewis and Ross sitting on the back of the MX-5.

Making Headlines

The rally has captured the imagination of participants and supporters alike, earning media coverage from the BBC.

The article highlights the challenge, the fundraising efforts and the unique nature of the event, which sees teams travel thousands of miles in vehicles that most people would hesitate to drive to the local supermarket.

Read the BBC coverage here:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cwyle0lxl08o

Seeing events like this featured nationally demonstrates the incredible community spirit behind the rally and the positive impact it has for the charities involved.

Flying the ARRT Flag Across Europe

One of the highlights for us has been seeing the ARRT logo travel across multiple countries as Lewis and Ross progressed through the rally.

From major motorways to coastal crossings and iconic European routes, the team’s trusty MX-5 carried not only the Rust Bucket Rally branding but also the support of ARRT throughout the journey.

The photos we received from the road perfectly capture the spirit of the event — a combination of adventure, determination, questionable vehicle choices and plenty of laughs.

Bonnet view crossing the Øresund Bridge.

For a car purchased under the rally’s strict budget rules, it certainly proved capable of covering some serious miles.

Supporting AtaLoss

Behind every Rust Bucket Rally team is a charitable cause, and Lewis and Ross chose to support AtaLoss.

AtaLoss provides support, information and guidance for people affected by bereavement, helping individuals and families navigate some of life’s most difficult moments.

At ARRT, we are proud to support fundraising efforts that make a genuine difference in people’s lives, and we’re pleased that this adventure has helped raise awareness for such an important organisation.

If you would still like to support the team and contribute to their fundraising efforts, you can visit their JustGiving page:

https://www.justgiving.com/page/lewis-bennett-11

More Than Just a Road Trip

Looking at the photos, it’s easy to focus on the car.

The stickers.
The miles travelled.
The countries visited.

But the real story is about two friends taking on a challenge, creating memories and raising money for a worthwhile cause.

Whether it was navigating unfamiliar roads, dealing with long driving days, crossing international borders or simply figuring out where to sleep each night, Lewis and Ross embraced everything the rally had to offer.

The smiles in the photographs tell the story better than words ever could.

Proud to Support the Journey

At ARRT, we believe that innovation isn’t limited to technology and business. It’s also about supporting people willing to challenge themselves, step outside their comfort zones and make a positive impact along the way.

We’re incredibly proud to have sponsored Lewis and Ross on their Rust Bucket Rally adventure and look forward to hearing even more stories from the road.

Although we’re still convinced that Volvo V70 would have been the sensible choice…