Hundreds of classic cars and thousands of visitors filled Rye Rugby Club on Sunday June 16 for the 29th Senlac Classic Car Show. Some of the most stunning cars ever created, along with more familiar models, were all on show at what’s become an important date in Rye’s calendar raising £9,500 for local charities.
Owners proudly showed off their vehicles, encouraging visitors to reminisce about their own cars past and present. Mayor Andy Stuart opened the show remembering a much loved Morris Traveller with wooden trim and no milometer, and a personal favourite – a Citroen DS.
Organizer Dave Miles praised the classic car owners for their enthusiasm. “They have been fantastic. Everyone has told me how friendly everyone has been, and so willing to talk to people about their fantastic cars. It’s been brilliant. Plus raising so much money for our charities. I’m on top of the world.”
One of the smallest cars at the show was a 1960 BMW Issetta. Owner Michael Hack from New Romney explained it may be small, but it still gets noticed. “It’s a three wheeler and to get in you have to open the whole front of the car. The top speed is 60mph, though I’ve not tried that. People do look but I don’t mind that.”
In contrast, one of the largest was Ted Vinall from Hawkhurst’s electric blue Desoto Fireflite with stunning chrome trim, also made in 1960. “It used to be black and it’s been totally repaired. I love it. but I love all American cars like this. I used to have a Cadillac Coupe. That was stunning, but so heavy. It weighed almost 2.5 tons.”
Also from Hawkhurst, but this time with a British classic, Melvyn and Gillian Eyles proudly showed off their 1960 red and cream PA Cresta. “We’ve restored this one, but it’s not our first. Many years ago we had toured Devon and Cornwall in our first with the kids and Mum and Dad in the back. Great days and a great car. We’re going to start restoring another, this time a Velox, with my son.”
The money raised by the 29th Senlac Classic Car Show will be split between Rye Relief in Need, Chestnut Tree House, and the Rotary Club of Senlac’s Yellowmen Project. Dave Miles says next year’s event will be the thirtieth. “We’ve big plans to make it bigger and even better to celebrate. We’ll be back at Rye Rugby Club too. They’ve been superb to work with.”
Image Credits: David McLoughlin , Nick Forman , James Stewart .