1 week Ago By Jack Mortimer
As the nights draw in and temperatures drop, many classic car owners across the country are planning to put their historic vehicles into storage until the spring of 2025, with retro motoring events becoming few and far between. However, often seen as the finale of the year for motorists, the NEC Classic Motor Show has turned 40 years in style, celebrating both its history and the past of famous car manufacturers from around the world. Taking place at the NEC Birmingham last weekend over a staggering seven halls, the event, featured no fewer than 3,000 different historic vehicles , with the majority displayed by the wide array of owner's clubs the UK has to offer.
However, whilst many stands celebrate the life and legacy of famous models, one of the staples of the show is the Pride of Ownership competition, which showcases a range of classics that have been lovingly restored by their owners. Each year, the ten finalists get to display their vehicles in a central location within the show, with the winner and two runners up getting free insurance up to £250, courtesy of show sponsor Lancaster Insurance . Richard Stacey, who won the Pride of Ownership event with his 1967 Ford Mustang noted that restoring the classic American pony car was challenging but incredibly fulfilling.
He explained: "I've owned her 11 years, but it was off the road for four years undergoing restoration. It came to the UK back in 1999, it came from California, but it was up in Aberdeen by the time I bought it in 2013. "It had been in dry storage for the whole time, so there was hardly any welding to do.
It's a very solid, honest car. But getting the body and paintwork right really took the time, plus rebuilding the car without scratching it was a challenge, especially the engine. It was a challenge, but if you take your time and have patience, it all comes together.
" Whilst the NEC Classic Motor Show is largely seen as an opportunity for motorists to share their interesting models with the world, the event also helps classic car owners master their skills. The historic vehicle publications Practical Classics held regular demonstrations to help drivers learn a variety of practices or get their questions answered from a panel of popular podcasters and YouTubers. Classic car lovers of all ages could even get a ride in their favourite model, with the charity Sporting Bears raising £42,580 over the three-day event, which will go to Young Minds, Me and Dee, Thrive, and Sibling Support.
Claire Serrell, Pride of Ownership finalist and owner of a 1988 Austin Rover Mini Jet Black, highlighted that she has visited every NEC Classic Motor Show since she was born and felt honoured to have one of her cars displayed at this year's event. She added: "Well, there's a photo of me on the bonnet of one of my dad's car on display at the show at two months old. I've never missed a show apart from the year that Covid caused it to be cancelled.
"I've been coming here my whole life, so having a car here on it's 40th anniversary is special. Having interest around it and speaking to new people is great, I love it.".
