We had no idea how well the 2nd Practical Classics Restoration and Classic Car Show would be attended. We didn't expect it to be as busy as it was; approximately 19,000 people and the MMOC team managed to achieve success in more ways than one.
The project car was there and the boys were able to make their lists of existing parts and those still required for the restoration, while Alan Scott demonstrated and explained his work on the engine.
The Club merchandise sold well; we enticed a total of fourteen new members and the opportunity to rest one's feet with a cuppa was welcomed by our many visitors.
The highlight of the weekend came on Sunday afternoon when Danny Hopkins the editor of Practical Classics magazine announced the results of the "Restorer of the Year' competition. Readers of PC had voted for 10 from an original 25 nominations and we felt very fortunate to have two members representing the MMOC. We were holding our breath!
Our congratulations go to Richard Wilson from Kirton, Lincolnshire whose two headed 'Push me Pull you' car was so popular with the kiddies and came third. Michelle Cope came second with her 1971 Triumph Spitfire and the winner, at 21 years of age our youngest competitor, Matt Tomkins with his 1969 Morris Minor Traveller
We were so pleased for Matt who accepted the Golden Spanner award together with a hotel break. Indeed there was more euphoria when Ray called us all together on the Club stand and presented Matt with a salver in recognition of his achievement as runner up in the 'Best Contribution by a Youngster' category at the awards in the November 2014 Show. Matt was dumbstruck again but after thanks and more photos got his laptop out and proceeded to write his Branch News!
It all goes to prove the MMOC is firmly on the map and greatly respected within the Classic Car movement.
Rosie Hamilton
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