Let’s hear it for the clubs

Record turnout at Gloucestershire’s huge vintage show – but there are plenty more treats too

Arecord club turnout helped to contribute to more than 1000 vehicles going on show at this three-day event, where the art deco 1930s control tower at South Cerney’s airfield formed the backdrop.

Event organiser Stroud Vintage Transport & Engine Club said that the 502 cars entered by 27 clubs made this the biggest yet, with highlights including a 22-strong display from the Cotswold Classic Car Club and 17 from the Gloucestershire branch of the MG Owners’ Club, while the Panhard et Levassor Club GB used the show to stage its national rally.

Martyn Slater, chairman, said: ‘This event was organised by a very small group of volunteers, whose aim is to promote the preservation movement by demonstrating, educating, and entertaining others. What better way to do this than by recreating the opportunity to see our country’s heritage in action?

‘‘Due to the success of 2017’s event, we’ve been able to support no less than 35 organisations, with donations approaching £25,000.’

The show also brought together more than 450 privately-entered classics, including sections dedicated to a 50-strong turnout of pre-war cars, 189 cars made between 1966 and 1990, and 72 US classics. This row-by-row display was also notable for the number of classics up for sale, including a sub-£4k MG Midget.

Malcolm Alderson, who brought along his 1958 Triumph TR3A, said: ‘It’s got much bigger over the years – and we keep coming back because the atmosphere is wonderful.

It’s definitely the premier event for classic cars in this part of the country.’

This 1970 MG Midget was one of the many classics up for sale at last weekend’s show – yours for £3995. Stunning colour great for summer. This 1991 Jaguar XJS was bought last year by Swindon couple John and Barbara Frak, who are aiming to keep it as...

Colin Harper, from Royal Wootton Bassett, showed off his 1974 Reliant Scimitar GTE SE5.

The local MG Owners’ Club brought along 17 classics, with Peter Vielvoye’s 1949 MG YT at the front.

Ian Greese brought along his 1976 Austin Apache and 1948 Standard 14.

Malcolm and Helena Alderson, from Cranham, showed off their 1958 Triumph TR3A.

Modified classics can take part too – one entrant was this two-door, V8-engined 1960 Vauxhall Victor.