Entries for the autumn final of the Lancaster Insurance Pride of Ownership are now open, with 20 cars set to battle it out at the NEC

The Pride of Ownership competition is always a major highlight of the big season finale that is the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show, with this year’s 40th anniversary event taking on November 8–10.

As ever, it’s the show’s visitors that will decide who the winner will be, as they cast their votes based on the story of the car and its relationship with the owners. Open to privately owned vehicles manufactured before January 1, 2004, owners wanting to enter need to share the story of their classic vehicle – why they wanted to buy it, where they’ve driven it, their connection to it, and what they’ve done to the vehicle. While the standard of the vehicle is considered, the organisers have emphasised that it’s not a concours competition, so it’s not just about which car is the shiniest or the most perfect.

To enter, owners can submit an entry form, which can be found on the show website, and two images of the vehicle, including one full picture. Only one vehicle can be entered per owner. More details can be found on the show’s website here.

Fomer Pride of Ownership winner Ian Croft and his 1968 Lotus Elan Plus 2

Fomer Pride of Ownership winner Ian Croft and his 1968 Lotus Elan Plus 2

Chosen finalists will receive two tickets for each of the show days, free parking throughout and a commemorative certificate. The winner and two runners up also receive trophies and a year’s free car insurance from Lancaster Insurance up to the value of £250 (T&C apply). The overall winner will also be offered the chance to display their car at the next event held by the organisers – as well as the obvious bragging rights!

The winners’ roll of honour continues to grow, with the spring final held at the event’s sister show in March. Previous winners include Rob Sargent’s 1969 Ford Cortina Savage, Jake Clappison’s 1979 Triumph Spitfire, Laura Godtschalk’s 1992 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet, Ian Croft’s 1968 Lotus Elan Plus 2 and Tahmid Haque’s 1993 BMW 850CSi Individual, with Colin Fidler’s 1956 Austin A35 the victor in spring.

Andrew Evanson, Senior Operations Manager for Lancaster, said: “Shining a spotlight on enthusiasts and their classics is something we’re passionate about supporting and we can’t wait to see this year’s line-up in November!”

Tickets for the event are now available at necclassicmotorshow.com, where you’ll also find the latest show updates.