The Great Western Classic Car Show has established itself as the show season opener for enthusiasts in the South West, but this year’s event proved to be a game of two halves on February 8-9. Those who attended on the Saturday enjoyed blue skies and a bumper turn-out at the Royal Bath and West Showground, but we picked the Sunday, which had to endure the wind and rain of Storm Ciara.
Nevertheless, hardy classic fans couldn’t be deterred, and they still made their way to Shepton Mallet venue in reasonable numbers. A wide variety of cars were parked in the classic car park, while various clubs put plenty of effort into their displays too, with the Austin A30 A35 Owners’ Club celebrating its golden anniversary with a variety of derivatives. Other eye-catching stands included great efforts from the Volvo Enthusiasts’ Club, the Gilbern Owners’ Club, the Classic and Capri Owners’ Club, Yeovil Car Club and many more.
This event also offers the chance to go rummaging for parts, with a large autojumble hall featuring a wealth of traders selling new, new old stock and used parts. Those planning more substantial purchases, meanwhile, could head over to the Charterhouse Auction where a host of classics were up for grabs – see page 10 for our review of the sale.
Battles against the elements included one of the marquees taking a real battering, but here’s hoping things look brighter when cars and enthusiasts return to the venue for the 41st Bristol Classic Car Show on June 20-21. See www.bristolclassiccarshows.com.
