by John Prince
Car enthusiasts are being invited to show off their motoring marvels at a new car show at Skirlington market this spring.
Owners and car clubs can come along and display anything from vintage and retro motors, to customised ones and rare Japanese models.
It is hoped the event will attract thousands of car buffs and onlookers to the market, which is under threat of closure.
A multimillion-pound expansion of the caravan park adjacent to it is being planned by Unity Holidays, which would swallow up the market which has been there for nearly 40 years.
The Skirlington car show is the brainchild of 21-year-old entrepreneur and university student Harvey Parry, who got his inspiration while working at Skirlington car boot sale.
He was approached by members of a car club, who asked if they could do something on the site.
That led to Harvey putting on a show last August, which saw 60 vehicles come along.
He now wants to develop that into a larger, more regular event. The site can accommodate up to 250 display cars, with ample room for visitor parking.
Harvey said: “The Saturday car boot was launched and operated by myself independently.
“Like any first season it certainly had its challenges, from the weather and footfall, to refining the format.
“But it’s given me a strong foundation in running events on the site and understanding what works operationally.
“The Skirlington car show is the next step on from that. It’s a standalone, one-day display event designed to feel structured, professional, and accessible.
“It’s not a casual meet, and it’s not positioned as a large-scale festival either. The focus is on good-quality cars, presentation, and creating a well-run day that appeals to both enthusiasts and the general public.
“I want to deliver a strong, well-run car show for the local area. The aim is to offer something different locally.”
Harvey is also looking to the future, and wants to tie the car show in with a new venture focused on organised driving experiences and road trips.
The show will be held on Saturday, April 18, from 10am. The admission fee is £5 on the gate for visitors.
Drivers and passengers who are officially displaying their cars will be able to come free of charge. There will also be trade stands and food on-site on the day.
For more information and to register interest, email [email protected], or call Harvey on 07496 046288.