As a country the UK loves its vintage vehicles.
Thousands of people spend hours scouring the internet for classic cars they can renovate and make into their dream automobile and often meet with like-minded people to discuss ways in which they can boost their collections. Restoring a classic car, motorcycle or classic commercial vehicle can be lifelong hobby with many people going through a number of different projects sometimes lasting numerous.
It is something that people can get highly enthusiastic and vintage vehicles are highly popular and this weekend (July 12th and 13th) sees the turn of Powderham Castle. The site, situated near to the Devonshire village of Kenton, is set to be the venue of the 41st Historic Vehicle Gathering. The event, organised by the Crash Box and Classic Car Club of Devon, will bring together classic cars, motorcycles, full size miniature steam engines among a host of other attractions.
The 41st Historic Vehicle Gathering coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Crash Box and Classic Car Club which has been dedicated to the restoration of vintage vehicles ever since its formation. Members do not necessarily have to own a vehicle but simply have are enthusiasm and free to meet other people to share their passion.
Powderham Castle provides a picturesque location for the event, sitting on the banks of the River Exe. Visitors will be treated to a showcase of various classic cars ranging from Italian Job-style Minis to perfectly restored Aston Martins. There is also a selection of carefully perfected trailers and trucks including the famous Eddie Stobart range.
Steam enthusiasts will not be disappointed as the vehicle show will have numerous model steam train sets as well as traction engine and steam rollers. It will provide a trip down memory lane for many visitors as the Devon show celebrates a time gone by where these vehicles would be a normal site on the UK's roads.
Rich history
The Crash Box and Classic Car Club has been hosting the Historic Vehicle Gathering since the first ever event took place in the Powderham Castle forecourt in July 1975. Since then it has blossomed into a major event on the steam and vintage enthusiast's calendar. Over the years there have been some memorable vehicles showcased at the Devon landmark.
Since its inception the oldest vehicle ever to be displayed at the event was a 1903 Panhard Levassor while the youngest was a 1962 Jaguar E-Type, owned by a Mr R Dickens of Exeter. Between 1975 and 1990, the event boomed and as the UK edged towards the 21st century, the event boasted almost 150 classic cars, 12 commercials, 20 motorbikes and seven car clubs.
This year will be just as popular with the club already closing entry forms due to the overwhelming demand from clubs and individuals wanting to show off their restored vehicles to visitors.
Gates open on both days at 10:00 BST. Admission will cost £8 for adults, £5 for children aged between five and 14, £5 for OAPs while under 5's go free. Family tickets are available for £20.