Classic car show to return in 2022

blackmorevaleOctober 23, 20200 Comment0

OFF THE ROAD: Sherborne Classic Car Show

The organisers of the popular Sherborne Classic and Supercar show have stood by their early decision to cancel the event in 2021.

The move was announced a full eight months ahead of the annual show at Sherborne Castle, which last year attracted 15,000 visitors. It means that there will be a two-year gap before the show is scheduled to return in July 2022.

A statement said that an “in depth investigation” had shown health risks to volunteer staff, many of whom are Rotarians aged over 60. Castle and show staff, exhibitors, traders and visitors also faced health risks, it added, particularly in the 25 marquees that are used. The show has run at the castle since 2003.

Show secretary Stuart Annett told The New Blackmore Vale: “The show has grown and grown and we start work on it a year ahead of the event itself. A lot of work takes place early in the build-up. For example, we would normally send a team to the NEC Classic Car Show in Birmingham in November to seek commitments for our show – but that has been cancelled. When you start work on a show, you start to incur debt. We talked about all sorts of options but you either do the event, or you don’t. It is run to raise money for charities and if it doesn’t bring in a good amount of people, it is not going to work.”

Last year more than 2,000 classic, supercars, veteran, race, rally, custom and special cars turned up at Sherborne, together with 40 touring car clubs. It’s a popular day out, with 150 stands and a large catering and entertainment area.

The statement added that the organisers are “as keen as ever” to continue the show in 2022 and through future years. “Given that through our sponsors, exhibitors and visitors’ support we have been able to donate £250,000 over the past five years, we view the show as an exceptionally good way to raise funds for charities.” The date pencilled in for 2022 is Sunday, July 17.