THE GENERATION GAME
Clubs find a new way to get young petrolheads hooked on classics – lend them their cars!
The first classics being loaned to young enthusiasts under a new national scheme have been handed over to their custodians at a special presentation.
A 1929 Ford Model A Phaeton, a 1934 Morgan three-wheeler and a 1960 Vauxhall Victor were all involved in the event at the British Motor Museum last Saturday (7 April).
Their new young keepers will be able to use the cars regularly during the year the cars are in their care.
Classic Car Loan Project Manager and Ford Model A Club chairman, Bob Wilkinson, says he has been waiting for the project to come to fruition for a long time.
He says: ‘The whole idea is to get the next generation involved with classics. This is an ongoing project and we have more cars in the pipeline. Last year we had a single car, the Ford Model A, being loaned under a pilot scheme, and this year we have four.
‘ We hope that we’ll have nine cars next year.’
Also at the presentation was Tanya Field’s 1983 Austin Maestro, which should be going to a young custodian as part of the scheme soon.
The new keepers were given the chance to get used to their new steeds during a special supervised practice session on closed roads at the Gaydon, Warwickshire site.
Officially launched in December last year, the project has received considerable support from the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs and other organisations.
The idea was hatched at an event two years ago when Model A owner, Peter Garrett, approached Bob Wilkinson proposing that the car be loaned out to a young enthusiast.
It has been in the custody of Richard Gordon-Colebrook, 28, for a year from last March. The car never let Richard down but the engine was changed due to a scored piston, which happened before he took over the car.
He says: ‘I have mixed feelings about the car going back. I’ve really loved driving it – though the car did take some getting used to – and attending events. I’ll really miss it but the only consolation is that the Mini can come home.’
‘I’d recommend anyone to get involved with this project even if they have only a passing interest in classics.’
CAN YOUR CLASSIC HELP THE NEXT GENERATION?
Anyone in interested in becoming involved with the scheme should contact project co-ordinator, Bob Wilkinson. He will pass on details to the appropriate club representative. bobwilkinson49@hotmail.co.uk 01832 734463