CLUBS: YOUNGSTERS ARE INTERESTED IN CLASSICS
Latest research challenged by show organisers and club representatives
Traditional and online clubs in England have responded to the findings of the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs’ 2020 National Historic Vehicle Survey with surprise – after results revealed falling numbers of 16 to 24-yearolds interested in classics.
The figures showed that 30 per cent of the age range said they appreciated historic vehicles as important heritage assets in 2016; the figure for the 2020/21 study had fallen to just 16 per cent. FBHVC research director, Paul Chasney, said: ‘This is barely half the 2016 figure. It’s an important issue that we all need to address. We need to get out there and get the message across that owning a classic is not a rich man’s game.’
To that end, clubs had recently proposed a scheme to help 18to 30-year-olds buy classics; inspired by the Morgan ThreeWheeler Club’s programme, Mog Match, younger club members could buy cars from their elders at a reduced market rate ( CCW, 29 September).
That wasn’t enough for OhSoRetro (ohsoretro.co.uk) organiser, Lee Collier, who argued that the FBHVC’s researchers needed to look beyond traditional shows and to the online and modified scenes.
He said: ‘Our show had hundreds of under-30s in classic cars all driving from half-way up the country. Yes, some classic car prices are unreachable by young enthusiasts, but a lot of the problem is that car clubs, especially one-make clubs, are not the most inviting or engaging groups for a youngster to join.’
The Imp Club (theimpclub. co.uk) stressed the value of clubs running young member groups and keeping an online presence.
The club’s social media officer, Pete Fitzgerald, said: ‘ We have a young member registrar specifically as we recognise the Imp attracts those from 17 years old and even younger. We have no real problem in recruiting younger members other than the fact they quickly learn you can get most information online for free. We have tried to adapt with the times. Young members are the club’s future.’