PANDEMIC-PROOF CLASSIC DRIVE IN PROVES A HIT
New event designed for COVID attracts thousands of visitors
The Classic Car Drive In Weekend, the first classic car event designed for the COVID-19 pandemic, attracted some 8000 visitors to Bicester Heritage on 18-20 September.
Taking over almost all of the Bicester Heritage site, the entirely outdoor event was designed with social distancing from the ground up with spectator ‘ booths’ lining the centrepiece demonstration track, large thoroughfares and drive-in screens accessible by car only, while marshals patrolled the event to make sure that guidelines were being followed.
Events director of organiser, Brand Events, Bas Bungish, said: ‘After what’s been such a long, hard summer we just wanted to put the smiles back on people’s faces and, with the help of the wonderful autumn sunshine, I think we achieved that. It was great to see some wonderful cars back in action as well as on show and also to help the industry to get back on its feet.’ Though the marshals in particular had the potential to be overbearing, feedback from visitors and exhibitors alike has praised both the organisation and enforcement of the event’s social distancing measures.
Replica Parts Limited director, Paul Hoyle, said: ‘From an exhibitors’ perspective, the briefing was very thorough, and things were very quickly rebriefed following the announcement of the Rule of Six. The advice seems to have been followed and it has been very positive for us from a networking perspective. Brand Events has done very well.’
Total Headturners manager, Alex Parkinson, said: ‘ We were really glad to get back out doing shows again as they’re a big part of the business. I’ve got to commend the guys from Brand Events, though – the social distancing was really good. At one point I saw eight guys sitting together and the security team were on to them in seconds. They did it really well. The show was good fun, everyone seemed to enjoy it and we sold a car, so people were buying, too.’
With an increase in government restrictions seemingly looming in the face of a second wave of coronavirus infections, however, some suggested that the event could have attracted even greater numbers had it had taken place a few weeks ago.
Alex Parkinson said: ‘I think the show was smaller and quieter than it would have been if it wasn’t for all of the talk of lockdown. Not everyone was comfortable to come out. You could see the potential for the venue and the things they had on though. We would definitely be up for it if it returned next summer.’