A classic car event which has become a staple of the city's calendar will no longer run with organisers blaming spiralling costs, Ultra Low Emissions Zones and "reduced parking".

The London to Brighton Mini Run has been a popular seafront date for nearly four decades since it began in 1986.

It went ahead in May but organisers say it will not take place next year.

In a statement on its website, the London and Surrey Mini Owners' Club said: “After the post-event meeting and lengthy discussions, the committee have come to the difficult decision that there will not be a London to Brighton Mini Run next year.

The Argus: Cars at the event this MayCars at the event this May (Image: The Argus)

“Putting on this event has become increasingly challenging, with spiralling costs, red tape, reduced parking at Brighton and numerous other restrictions, before we even get to the possible impact of ULEZ in both London and Brighton.

“We would like to thank everyone who has helped marshal over the years and the members who have participated in the event.”

The news comes amid conversations about a ULEZ in Brighton, something the Green Party proposed in the run-up to the local elections in May.


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Some Mini owners at the event in May have been coming to Madeira Drive from London for over 20 years.

The event attracts car enthusiasts from across Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire and beyond.

Cars set off from the capital early in the morning and arrive in Brighton throughout the day.

Cars at this year’s event included a Knight Rider-themed Mini and one inspired by The Beatles.

The Argus: A '60s and Beatles inspired carA '60s and Beatles inspired car (Image: The Argus)

An advert on the club’s website previously billed the 2023 event as “probably the last London to Brighton Mini Run” with a green ULEZ sign.

Event organisers also cited reduced parking in Brighton as another reason for not holding the event again.