I have a confession to make. I covered hardly any miles in a classic car in 2025 — probably the fewest since I learned to drive over 20 years ago. I did drive classics for work, checking customers’ cars or testing vehicles for sale, but I covered very little mileage purely for pleasure.
Why? Children, building work, a busy full-time job, and the fact that I don’t currently have a classic car stored at home, as my garage contains a half-finished restoration. Worse still, I made very little progress on my own Wolseley 1500, despite not being out and about at shows. The reality is that time is finite. I am at a very busy stage of life, and in 2025 I prioritised work, the house, and family life.
This year, however, I am determined to get out and about in classic cars again, and I have already been cracking on with the Wolseley at home. I believe it is vital for the future of classic motoring that these cars are seen and used, not simply tucked away in garages or private collections, only occasionally emerging for a prestigious show. If we want future generations to recognise, enjoy and aspire to own these cars, they need to see and experience them.
My aim for 2026 is to take the children out in classic cars more often — even if it’s just a quick trip to the shops or a run to the park. I also want to attend more gatherings, particularly local ones such as the wonderful Hayling Legends or the Portsmouth Car Meet. I want to get back to enjoying classic cars, not just fixing other people’s.
I would encourage all of you to get out in your classics this year. Share them with your children, grandchildren or friends if you can. Visit local events, even if you don’t own a classic yourself. Above all, enjoy the wonderfully diverse classic car scene that we are so fortunate to have in this country. If you have any event recommendations or destinations you think I should try, please do drop me an email — I would love to hear about them.
