The proud owners of vintage and classic vehicles are preparing them for the Annual Charity Vintage Parade which will take place in Enniskillen tomorrow evening (Friday, August 18).

The Erne Vintage Car Club Ltd Chairman Noel Grainger is no exception, as he is also looking forward to showing at least one of his two vintage vehicles on the evening.

“I have a Wolseley 1500 and an Austin A30,” he said, going on to explain that he has owned the Wolseley, which was made in 1963, for more than 40 years: “It’s very comfortable and very reliable as well.”

The Austin, from 1956, has been in his possession for about five years.

When asked what care the cars require to keep them going, Noel responded: “Just ordinary maintenance, keep the oil changed, and stuff like that.

“They don’t need a lot – they are in very good condition.”

Talking about what inspired him to start collecting vintage cars, Noel said: “I’ve been interested in the motor business for years and that’s how they came about.

‘Social gathering’

“It’s a good social gathering as well,” he said of being a member of the Erne Vintage Car Club.

Now in its 43rd year, Noel commented that the Annual Charity Vintage Parade is “as popular an event as ever”, with organisers expecting more than 100 vehicles to participate, as collectors travel from across the island of Ireland and Scotland to attend.

As per tradition, vehicles will assemble from 6.30pm at the Hollyhill Car Park in Enniskillen, with the parade to start at 7.30pm.

“There’ll be cars, tractors, motorbikes and all sorts of vintage, classic and commercial vehicles,” said Noel, noting that the vehicles will be accompanied by marching bands as they parade through the town.

“There’s always a great buzz and it’s a bit of fun,” he added.

Local charity

Every year, the club chooses to support a local charity. This year, funds raised will be in aid of the Aisling Centre, which is dedicated to the promotion of positive mental health and emotional wellbeing.

The following day, on Saturday, August 19, about 100 cars will take part in a run that will start at the Killyhevlin Hotel, on the outskirts of Enniskillen.

“They will do a wee scenic drive to Colaghty Church Hall via Tempo, Fintona, Dromore, Lack and Kesh,” said Noel, explaining that the vehicles will stop in Kesh, where they will be parking on the main street from 2.30pm to 4.30pm.