Will Khan’s car pollution tax drive classic Mini race off the road?

THIS year’s annual London to Brighton Mini Run looks set to be the last – because of the capital’s Ultra Low Emission Zone.

London mayor Sadiq Khan’s decision to expand the zone – in which the most polluting cars have to pay a charge – will add £25 to the cost of the race

The race attracts more than 1,500 Mini owners each May in a colourful convoy along a 45-mile route. But now an organiser behind the 37-year-old event has written on Facebook: ‘Sadly, this is probably going to be the last Mini Run due to the extension of the Ulez.’ From August 29, the zone will be expanded to cover the start in Cheam, with the worst polluting cars charged £12.50 a day. Although exemptions are in place for some classic cars, one organiser said around half of the run’s regulars would be hit by a two-day charge since many motorists camp overnight.

He added: ‘We already have to sell tickets for £45 and not many will be willing to pay £70 to take part.’ The mayor’s spokesman said: ‘The decision to expand the Ulez was one of the hardest he has had to make.’