Get in gear for Magnificent Motors

A record 550 vehicles will be descending on Eastbourne seafront over the May Bank Holiday weekend as Magnificent Motors celebrates its 5th year with the highest number of exhibitors yet.

Organised by Eastbourne Borough Council, Magnificent Motors 2008 is set to be the biggest in the event’s 5-year history with a record number of vehicles exhibiting on the Western Lawns, plus a 1908 Caffyn Wolseley will be the oldest vehicle there. Parking up on Eastbourne’s stunning seafront, the town will welcome a host of vintage and classic cars, buses, steam traction engines, motorcycles, bicycles and military and commercial vehicles from 3-4 May 2008.

Eastbourne Borough Council Spokesperson for Tourism, Cllr Steve Wallis said “2008 is set to be a bumper year for Magnificent Motors and promises a fun-filled weekend for all the family. From fancy dress competitions to live music, plus the vehicle timeline laid out in front of your eyes, this event will kick off the 2008 summer season in style. Set on Eastbourne’s picturesque seafront, there’s something to keep the whole family entertained, from fairground rides to autojumble pitches selling spare vehicle parts, and a commentated arena display. Come along and join in the motoring fun.”

Visitors can look forward to a colourful line-up at this year’s Magnificent Motors when the event returns in just 2 weeks time. From a 1923 Aveling and Porter steam roller that worked on the construction of the first Wembley Stadium to an Only Fools and Horses Uncle Albert look-alike selling Peckham Spring Water from his unmistakable yellow three-wheeler.

A huge display of Morris Minors will celebrate the vehicle’s 60th anniversary, while a group of Dutch TRippers are coming down for the first time on the Saturday, plus US favourite, the Lone Star will also make an appearance.

This year Magnificent Motors is adding two brand new competitions to the weekend line-up to be judged in the new arena. With a special area cordoned off for commentated motor displays and prize presentation, exhibitors are being encouraged to make the most of the festival atmosphere with the chance to get competitive.

To win the title of Top Gear for the Year, exhibitors must dress up in fancy dress inspired by the year of their vehicle’s manufacture, while Tailgate Picnic will see prizes awarded for the most imaginative picnic served from the boot of a vehicle.

There’ll be live music all day from the Magnificent Motors stage, with local bands entertaining the crowds on the Western Lawns and a cavalcade kicks the event off each morning from 10am parading the entire length of the seafront, with Magnificent Motors competition winners riding in Morris Minors and the event’s oldest entry.

With funfair rides, space to chill out and enjoy a cool refreshment, music from the Magnificent Motors stage, and a French Market joining the Bank Holiday fun, there’s something to keep all the family entertained from 3-4 May 2008.

For more information go to Visiteastbourne.com or Magnificentmotors.co.uk.