Group Events in 2017

A message from the Admin team

After a fairly full calendar of group events in 2016, the team has been reviewing how it all went before deciding on our approach for 2017.

​Whilst it is clear that every event was thoroughly enjoyed by those that attended (even in pouring rain) we had hoped more of you would turn up. The best attendance at any of our events amounted to only around 0.5% of membership. Attendance at two events barely scraped into double figures, so clearly something wasn't working as we had hoped.

We believe that two key factors worked against us:

• Most classic/vintage car owners are (understandably) reluctant to travel long distances so generally attend only local events
• Many of you are members of local clubs and societies, which (again understandably) tended to take priority over our group events

We remain committed to generating a Community feel in the group which includes 'real life' meets and events - but will try a different approach for next year, as follows.

2017 Group Events

We already have a dedicated group event scheduled, and this will be our flagship 2017 event. Organised by group founder John Simpson, it will take place on May 07 2017 at the Bubble Car Museum in Lincolnshire - revisiting the scene of our first-ever Group event. Full details can be found here. 

​This will be the only 2017 event planned and organised solely for members of our group.

However, with the need to 'go local' very much in our minds, we have agreed the following:

Group members will be encouraged to organise pitches/stands/areas at successful existing events in their own areas, then invite the group to attend. Details of these events will be shared in the group to encourage as many members as possible to show up and make it a great social event without all the stress and expense of organising our own shows.

We see the benefits of this approach as:

• There can be an unlimited number of group events as the effort will be spread around
• Minimal cost/outlay
• Well established shows attract very large crowds and tend to offer a wide range of attractions and facilities the group cannot provide - this makes it a great family day out as opposed to a 'flat caps convention' 
• Events can take place in any and every part of the country to avoid the need to travel long distances (unless you want to, of course!)

What you can do

If you would like to have a group event in your area and know of an existing show we could join - now you can make it happen. All you need to do is:

• Agree a pitch/stand/area with the event organisers
• Publish details in the group, using the "Events" area
• Invite everyone to attend

The Admin team will be happy to provide moral support and advice. We will also be happy (diaries allowing) to attend as many events as we can and provide some help on the day.