British Car Day

It was a new look for British Car Day at Trentham Memorial Park on Sunday February 12. More cars were displayed towards the centre of the park than in previous years, which made it easier to get amongst the estimated 400 plus entries, and added to the enjoyment for visitors. They gave this change the thumbs up.

Pre-show newspaper coverage was considerable, setting the scene for another successful British Car Day. It was no 31. Both the Hutt News and Upper

Hutt Leader listed the event as one of five things to do during the week. Bernie Quinn’s 1937 Vauxhall 14/6 (DX) was featured in The Dominion Post, and the

Wairarapa Times-age ran an item on the 1974 Leyland P76 currently owned by Rob and Sonya Jones. Both cars were seen on the concourse. A line-up of eight AustinHealeys, including a Sprite, caught the eye, and Ford enthusiasts were happy to see two MKIV Ford Zodiacs. The day’s big crowd pullers were a 1931 factory-built Hispano-suiza J12, once owned by the Shah of Persia, and a 2012 Mclaren 570S, parked side by side. As one of the organizers said, “Seeing the two cars together shows how much motoring technology has changed in the last 80 years.” A 1972 Leyland Mini with ‘My Mynee’ number plates drove home with the People’s Choice award, while the best club display trophy went to the Morris Enthusiasts Car Club. To be eligible for consideration for the people’s choice, owners and cars had to be on the concourse at the time of the prize draw. When interviewing car owners and stallholders during the day, compere Roy Mcguinness asked for their opinions on including European cars in future shows. Their responses were generally favourable. Next year might be the first at which the event showcases European excellence with the best of British.

Proceeds from this year’s British Car Day again went to the Wellington Free Ambulance to help keep the service free.