The world of classic vehicles thrives on nostalgia and a love for our automotive history. Classic vehicle shows provide a platform for enthusiasts and collectors to showcase their rare and prized possessions, fostering an environment that combines passion, craftsmanship, and an appreciation for timeless design.
The venue for the recent Monmouthshire Classic and Vintage Vehicle Show was the picturesque Hogs Head near White Castle in the beautiful village of Llantilio Croesenny, near Abergavenny. The Show is part of the annual charity efforts of Monmouthshire Freemasons, with organisers and volunteers coming from its membership.
Early results indicate this Show could be a record breaker by way of entrants and exhibitors, well supported by Lodges from throughout the Province, supplying entertainment for all the family, including a Nerf gun shooting range, bouncy castle, human fruit machine, games of skill, sweets, arts and craft stalls, a clear-sided honey bee hive display, and auto jumblers to name a few. Hot food and ice cream were also supplied by members of the Province, ensuring fair and reasonable prices for exhibitors and the public alike.
Row upon row of impeccably restored classic vehicles were on display, some ongoing restoration projects and some untouched barn discoveries ranging from elegant roadsters to mighty and original 4x4s, commercials, motorcycles, tractors, ex-military vehicles, and displays from local enthusiasts clubs. The event was a testament to the dedication and commitment of classic vehicle enthusiasts who have poured their heart, soul and enthusiasm into the meticulous preservation of these icons.
The Show aims to honour and preserve automotive history whilst raising money for deserving Masonic charities. Now in its ninth year, the Show again attracted diverse participants, from seasoned collectors to passionate hobbyists who had lovingly restored a single vehicle. Each vehicle had a unique story, with many bearing witness to past eras, historical milestones, and the genius of engineering minds long gone.
Owners engaged with visitors, sharing stories about the restoration process, the challenges faced, and the joy of seeing their beloved vehicles returned to their former glory. This Show is unique because organisers interview the exhibitors, asking them about their particular vehicles and relating any stories they have to tell.
Judges meticulously assessed the cars, evaluating their authenticity, condition, and attention to detail, recognising the participants' exceptional efforts. The ‘Judges Favourites’ Awards were presented by the Deputy Provincial Grand Master Chris Evans, a car enthusiast. The cars receiving awards were a completely original 1911 Hudson saloon car, an immaculate Austin 7 van, a totally original 1977 Mini Clubman exhibited by its only owner, a modified VW Beetle and a concourse Mk 1 Ford Fiesta XR2.
Chris commented:
The Show is an excellent opportunity to raise much-needed funds for local good causes. I’m proud to lead a very dedicated and hardworking Charity Committee where our members epitomise all that is good about Freemasonry. They give up many hours of free time to ensure everything runs smoothly, and the Show goes from strength to strength every year. It attracts many people and helps raise the profile of Freemasonry and what we’re all about within our community. Our members can enjoy each other’s company and their love of classic cars.
Julian Tod, Show Organiser, added:
We deliver the Show because we all have a passion for classic and vintage vehicles. We bring together exhibitors and enthusiasts from all walks of life whilst raising money for local charities and good causes, raising the profile of Freemasonry, and making the public aware of our fundraising efforts.
Charity and voluntary organisations need financial support more than ever, and all the monies we raise go directly to worthy causes. Along with the Show, we held an evening celebration which included a fantastic raffle and a charity auction with items ranging from a restored motorcycle, a prestigious holiday, rides in classic and supercars, fine jewellery, wines and spirits, to name a few! The auction was expertly handled by Ryan Beech (of BBC Flog-it fame) from Anthemion Auctions in Cardiff.
The Hogs Head venue was generously provided free of charge to Monmouthshire Freemasons by Graham, Dale and the Jones family, and we thank them for their generous support.
The Show ensures that the stories and magic of classic vehicles are passed down to future generations. Roll on 2024.
