Last week, just one month into its 100th year, Bentley helped to raise €700,000 by providing an exclusive Flying Spur First Edition to the Elton John AIDS Foundation to auction at a gala held in Antibes, France.

The fundraising event welcomed regular supporters of the Foundation alongside luminaries from the worlds of film, music, philanthropy and fashion. One of the biggest lots of the night – the piano and Gucci jacket from the recent Rocketman film – sold for €1million, while a Chopard watch sold for €90,000 and a nine-day holiday in Courchevel fetched €120,000.

The anonymous winner of the Bentley auction, who fought fierce competition (including from Sir Elton John himself), has been invited by Bentley to create their own bespoke car alongside the Bentley design team through the marque’s exclusive Co-Creation Luxury Service, which is only offered to a very small few.

The collectable Flying Spur First Edition, which has a limited 12-month production run, has Bentley’s trademark luxury and sculpted surface while harnessing the best in intelligent technology. With a 0-60 time of just 3.7 seconds, its state-of-the-art W12 engine offers power and agility, while the eight-speed ZF dual-clutch transmission maximises smooth acceleration and quick gearshifts, delivering both improved fuel economy and efficiency.

Sir Elton John, who has raised more than €450million globally through his Foundation, which challenges discrimination against people affected by HIV and AIDS and motivates governments to end the epidemic, said: ‘It’s because of the consistent support and kindness of so many people in this room that we are able to commit the Elton John AIDS Foundation to real partnerships with world leaders that can make a future without AIDS.’

bentleymotors.com; ejaf.org