Nick Larkin
Let others enjoy your classic car, says our Nick
Nick says we need to encourge the next generation to love our cars.
Five simple words could have a profound impact on the future of the classic car movement – and should be uttered much more. ‘Have a sit in it!’ This simple fact seized me after experiencing the joys of two contrasting classics during the recent British Marques Day at Brooklands.
In the window of a gloriously-original Austin A35 was a simple, handwritten invite. ‘Welcome all to sit inside and enjoy the ride, J xx.’ Well done J, whoever you are! I was seized by a flashback to 1976 when a nice lady neighbour answered my questions about a vehicle I deeply loved, her immaculate Speedwell Blue Austin A35, rarely seen out of the garage,
The driver’s door was opened for me. I remember plonking myself down inside and savouring the joy of hot oil odour, warm upholstery, and utter charm. I decided that all cars should be like this, and have adored A35s ever since.
Back to Brooklands. John Dennis OBE was displaying his 1902 Dennis 8hp. His grandfather, John founded Dennis Brothers in Guildford with brother, Raymond, in 1895. The firm would make its final car in 1915 though the company would go on to have massive success with commercial vehicle manufacture.
The car John now has returned to the factory in 1910, apparently in part exchange, and languished there for many years. His father resurrected the vehicle in the Thirties and entered it for the London to Brighton Run. John and the Dennis have only missed this event once since 1959 and meanwhile he’s acquired the only two other surviving Dennis cars.
Positivity will pay dividends
Not surprisingly, the 1902 8hp has deep sentimental value to John and his family, and obviously is a tad venerable at 107 years. But John’s attitude at Brooklands was so refreshing. He was actively inviting younger visitors to look round the vehicle, ask questions and, praise be, clamber aboard. And most importantly, they could activate the horn!
John told me… erm something, but my brain was entirely focused on that funky horn! Ah, just a short parp then. Seriously, he made a very interesting point. ‘Attending a lot of classic car events is like going on a pensioner’s outing. We won’t be around forever and it’s very important that we spend time encouraging young people to take on older cars.
‘Most of the people that sat in this car today will forget it, but if we just persuade one to become involved, it’s well worth it.’