CLASSIC vehicle enthusiasts from Teignmouth and Torbay will be heading to the other side of the River Exe next month when the annual Exmouth Classic Vehicle show returns on Sunday, August 13.

This popular event held on Exmouth’s Imperial Recreation Ground, next to the River Exe, is organised by local members from the Morris Minor Owners Club Devon Branch (MMOC) in partnership with the regional area for the Ford Anglia 105E Owners Club. It has traditionally attracted over 200 classic cars and motorcycles, including local vehicle clubs such as Torbay Old Wheels Club, because of its relaxing atmosphere and diversity of vehicles on display.

First held in 2004, the MMOC wanted their event to be less formal than many other car shows by not requiring vehicle owners to book their vehicles in advance or have set arrival and departure times. Nor did they impose a specific cut-off date for the age of exhibiting vehicles, recognising that some more recent vehicles are also of interest with show goers.

There are also static displays by various local clubs which include the BMW Car Club Devon Region, Mazda MX5 Owners Club, Crash Box & Classic Car Club, Exeter Classic Motorcycle Club and UK Cruisers Club for owners of the Chrysler PT Cruiser.

This year the MMOC will also be hoping to attract a healthy display of Morris Minors in the region to help celebrate the model’s 75th anniversary. The Cowley built model was offered in saloon, convertible, Traveller, van and pick-up bodystyles up until production ended in 1971.

MMOC spokesperson Nickie Tilley of Exmouth said: “It’s a show we love putting on with our friends from the Ford Anglia 105E Owners Club because visitors and fellow vehicle exhibitors comment on how friendly it is. Our motto is always ‘bring some sunshine and a smile’!”

The organisers will be looking to collect any voluntary donations on the day for their nominated charity Devon Air Ambulance Trust. Since 2010 the annual event has raised over £10,000 for this charity.

► For further details, contact Nickie Tilley on (01395) 225614 or Lorna Moggridge on (01823) 672553