A popular classic car event is gearing up for its annual rally from Hope House to Ellesmere College. 

Nigel Coulter revs up his prize-winning classic car ahead of this year’s Classics at the College.

Car enthusiasts are all revved up for Classics at the College 2024 on Saturday 1st June. The event showcases many of the region’s vintage vehicles, while also raising vital funds for local children and their families.

Among the cars taking part will be last year’s vintage car winner – a 100-year-old Salmson model VAL3, restored and driven by Nigel Coulter, from West Felton, near Oswestry.

Classics at the College sees a host of vintage vehicles join a rally from Hope House in Morda to Ellesmere College. The event starts at 9.30am, leaving at 10.30am, taking a scenic drive through beautiful Shropshire countryside before arriving at Ellesmere College around midday. Early bird tickets are available for £15. Alternatively, car owners can opt to just attend Ellesmere College.

The day is organised by Shropshire MG Club members David Sear and Julie Kirk. This will be their seventh event and, they hope, the most successful yet.

David says: “It’s such a popular day for car enthusiasts, supporters and families. Visitors can view the exhibited cars for free, and can vote for their favourite. It’s also a fun-packed afternoon of stalls and entertainment.”

“For those travelling from Hope House, it’s a privilege to meet some of the children at the hospice and enjoy some delicious breakfast hospitality. The children and the car owners love it, and it’s an opportunity to understand where the money raised is used, and why it’s so important.”

Hope to raise £5,000

Ellesmere College’s Julie Kirk said: “Way back in 2017, myself and another member of staff, Rob Harm, as classic car owners ourselves, came up with the idea of hosting a classic car rally at college. We were keen to do this as a fundraising event and Hope House was a natural fit, both because of our existing links, but also because we were moved by the superb work that Hope House do in supporting young people and their families, bringing fun and enjoyment into their lives through the most difficult of times.

“The very first Classics at the College event took place in 2018, raising £1,600. It quickly became clear this would become an annual event and the challenge has been on to beat our fundraising total each year. This year, we hope to reach £5,000."

Area fundraiser Vicky Bradbeer said: “Thank you to Ellesmere College and the Shropshire MG Club for continuing to organise this wonderful event. We’ve been delighted to see Classics at the College become an annual fundraiser, which grows in popularity every year.

"I'd also like to thank the volunteers from Rapid Relief Team Shrewsbury too for their support at the event this year and they will be giving our drivers a hearty breakfast before they set off."

Join Classics at the College