Snazzy sports cars and vintage vehicles will be revving into action to raise funds for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
The popular Helmingham Festival of Classic and Sports Cars is taking place at Helmingham Hall, in conjunction with the Suffolk Vehicle Enthusiasts Club (SVEC).
It is being held on Sunday, 4th August (10am until 5pm), with a percentage of the proceeds going to EACH.
Last year, the long-running event raised £5,000 for the charity – taking the overall total to £94,800.
Hopes are high that this year could take that figure past £100,000.
In addition to a percentage of the entry fee, there will be bucket collections and an EACH stand, with volunteers on hand to help raise awareness and talk about the charity’s work.
The event will showcase many eras of motoring history and among the exhibits will be Austin and Morris classics, in addition to many more marques.
Colin Whitmore is secretary of the Suffolk Vehicle Enthusiasts Club, who are co-organising the day with Helmingham Hall.
He said: “It’s become a staple part of the county’s social calendar and we’re very proud to support EACH.
“Our first event here was in 1999 and we’ve held one every year apart from 2000 and 2020. Every single one has raised funds for EACH.
“It’s a wonderful charity and we’re pleased to have such a long association.”
Last year’s show featured more than 1,100 cars and was attended by over 8,000 people.
Colin, who has been SVEC secretary since 1989, is looking forward to exhibiting his own Armstrong Siddeley.
“There’s something for everyone and, as car enthusiasts, we love and cherish our vehicles,” he said.
“We enjoy showing them to other people and like it when they’re interested and enthusiastic.
“I particularly like it when our cars stir up nostalgic memories for them, perhaps remembering rides in a model that a grandparent used to own.
“We think it’s a perfect way to have an enjoyable day out, while at the same time supporting the fine work of EACH.”
Visitors will be able to enjoy ‘driveway runs’, when selected vehicles are paraded by being driven down the tree-lined main entrance towards the hall.
As well as displays in the main ring, there will also be trade and craft stalls, live music, food and drink.