A VW Passat estate car transformed into a Star Wars X-wing starfighter
A VW Passat Estate car has been transformed into a spectacular Star Wars X-wing starfighter by four enthusiasts from Denbighshire to raise money for Cancer Support UK.
Tony Adams and his fellow Team Rogue One members – Dan, Luke and Liam – will be driving the iconic starfighter inspired vehicle when they take part in the 2023 Benidorm or Bust rally, which runs from 15 to 19 May. The team will be dressed as Star Wars characters for the entire five days of the rally.
Team Rogue One has been taking part in the Benidorm or Bust Rally since 2017, gradually gaining a reputation for their innovative builds. Last year they won first prize with their version of Dick Dastardly’s car from the Wacky Races.
Team Rogue One put in 100 hours of hard work into the conversion
This year’s X-wing Starfighter has taken the dedicated crew 100 hours to build. No detail has been spared and the car now features retractable wings, laser cannons, torpedo launchers, a dashboard complete with working dials, lights and switches. Famously Luke Skywalker was at the controls of a starfighter when he destroyed the Death Star.
The Rebel Alliance Starfighter VW conversion may not have hyperdrive (for long range jumps), but it is capable, most importantly, of blowing bubbles to spread a little joy across the universe.
Tony says: “This is our fourth Benidorm or Bust Rally and our biggest car build ever. We work really well together, all with the same goal, to raise as much as we can for Cancer Support UK, and to have a blast along the way.
Tony, right, was asked by his wife Diane to fundraise in aid of Cancer Support UK
It was Tony’s wife, Diane, who asked if they could fundraise in aid of Cancer Support UK:
“Having being diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2021, Diane needed surgery, chemotherapy then radiotherapy. As Covid was still rampant, the hospital would not allow any visitors, she had to go to every appointment alone. Cancer Support UK helped her so much.
“She was sent a Chemo Kit before undergoing chemotherapy. It was a very well thought out pack, with everything she could need to make her treatment that little bit easier. When it arrived, for the first time since she got the diagnosis, she smiled. The kit contained many items to help her through the chemo treatment, such as socks, because your feet get cold and sherbet lemons because the chemo leaves a bad taste. But, as her husband, the biggest thing was the smile that the kit brought.
“Then after her treatment, she joined a Cancer Coach support group, offered free by Cancer Support UK. This helped her come to terms with what had happened and how to move forward. She was talking to other cancer survivors, about things only those who had lived through it can understand. It was a vital and complete support.
“She was very touched by all the help Cancer Support UK gave her. So when we decided to enter the rally in 2023, and Diane asked if we could support this amazing charity, it was absolutely, yes.
“We hope you will never have to use this charity, but there are always some that will. Next time you see us driving around, blowing bubbles and you smile, please pass that smile on to someone who really needs it. Just a small donation means so much – whatever you thought your smile was worth. Please support our fundraiser by donating on my Just Giving page.
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