Pictures from the Heritage Archives

Isle of Wight Classic Motor Show

AS the 21^st Centaury dawned, Victor Gallucci, a true ‘all things motorised enthusiast’ invited those who shared his interest to a gathering located on the Isle of Wight. Many, bringing all manner of two and four wheeled vehicles came from all over the UK and Europe. So it was the Isle of Wight International Car Extravaganza was born, and quickly became a regular September time two day annual event, featured at two island locations. By 2022 the event had become of age and grown to some five or six hundred enthusiasts with their vehicles attending. This year, the 24^th, The Isle of Wight Classic Motor Show 2025 was no exception.

The first day of the gathering, Saturday, is centred on the rather picturesque Newport Quay. Sparkling water dotted with moored white sailing boats, contrast with the variety of colour and gleaming chrome of cars and bikes.

On the second day, Sunday, the vehicles are parked, ‘nose-in’ along the length of the Esplanade road at Ryde, much loved by many of the participants for the superb views, on a fine day, over the Solent to Portsmouth.

One should note that this is an event which raises funds to support local charities. We recall one year urgent funding was needed for specialised equipment for the local hospital. Those taking part are required to purchase tickets to secure a place to display but the event is totally free for spectators.

None the less donations made by the participants, car clubs, and contributions from the public make the weekend worthwhile on two levels.

The Armstrong Siddeley Owners Club have supported the event since the very early days and have regularly displayed some dozen or more superb examples of the marque each year.  Amazingly this year, three Armstrong Siddeley ‘Siddeley Specials’ were on parade. World –wide, only some 25 of this limited edition model are known to exist. So it was no surprise that these 90 year old executive carriages attracted much attention.

Whatever your take the Isle of Wight Classic Motor Show has something for everyone.