Travel back in time at Washington classic car show as club looks to replace workshop roof
The club needs to raise £150,000 to replace their roof
From pre-war cars to the 1980s classics we remember parked on the streets as we played, this Sunday (May 10) you can travel back in time thanks to the North East Restoration Club’s classic car show as the charity looks to raise vital funds to replace their roof.
The now annual event is taking place between 10am and 4pm at the Restoration Club’s home at Pattinson Industrial Estate, Washington.
Committee member Rob Reilly, 48, said: “We are expecting around 130 classic cars including Austin 7s - which you see in Peaky Blinders - up to the 1980s modern classics such as the Ford Fiesta XR2I and the Sierra Cosworth.
“We will also have a 1950s fire engine and a range of classic VW campervans.”
The club is a registered charity with 300 members and relies on the the car show to cover rising costs, including replacing their workshop roof.
Rob said: “The full cost to replace the roof is around £150,000 and we still have around £40,000 left to raise.
“These cars are part of our history, and so it’s vital we keep them alive. Most cars now are scrapped after 10 years and it’s becoming increasingly difficult to get the parts you need.
“Restoration clubs help to keep mechanic skills alive and prevent these cars from disappearing.”
The event will also see a range of motor themed stalls as well as activities for the whole family to enjoy including a birds of prey display, the chance to meet firefighters and explore a Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service fire engine, and learning vital life saving skills with paramedics from the North East Ambulance Service.
You can also take part in a tour of the club’s workshop and see the latest projects under restoration.
And if you get peckish or thirsty, a range of food stalls and hot and cold beverages will be available from an array of outlets.
Rob said: “This is a real fun day out for the whole family. Come along and see cars from all different eras and help to keep the club going.”
Anyone who would like to display their classic vehicle at the show is asked to arrive before 10am.
The cost of entry is £5 for adults with accompanying children free. You can find out more on the club’s Facebook page.