​By 6am, the gates of The Polegrove Recreation Ground had opened to allow volunteers to continue the set-up process which began almost 24 hours earlier, when the white-lining to mark out the trade stands and parking areas had been undertaken, signage placed appropriately, and the club's registration marquee erected.

 

The vehicles to be displayed started to arrive at 8am, guided to their parking spots by a small, yet highly efficient army of marshals. The expected tally of 500 vehicles from all eras and ages and more than 60 trade stands had to be in place by 10am, when the gates opened to admit the general public and the show was officially opened by Bexhill & Battle MP, Kieran Mullen, and Bexhill Mayor, Cllr. Paul Wilson.

 

Until around 1pm, the showers ranged from drizzle to torrential, the result of which was a noticeable reduction in visitors when compared to 2023, and the hoods of many convertible cars remained resolutely up. To use a well-worn football analogy, it really was ‘a game of two halves’, as the clouds disappeared and the sun shone from early afternoon, and the gate attendants had their work cut out as ever-larger queues swarmed into the park, and by mid-afternoon the area was packed with enthusiastic admirers.

 

Entertainment was supplied by Bexhill Radio and ‘The Other Band’, and visitors were also treated to a fire drill demonstration by the Bexhill Fire Cadets, and ​Bexhill Lions again provided delicious cream teas and a very popular dog show.

 

The trade stands were seen to be enjoying steady custom, including the Bexhill 100’s own regalia outlet which in addition to its wide range of clothing, held a raffle, tombola and ‘Mystery Pick’, and our thanks go to the good people from 'Jesus Loves Bexhill' who both during and after the show, ensured that any litter was collected and we could leave the site in good condition.

 

As ever, the proceeds from the show are donated to the club’s nominated charities, which this year are:​

• Canine Partners

• Golden Marigold Club

• East Sussex Fire Cadets (Bexhill)

• East Sussex Young Carers

 

As 4pm arrived and folk started to depart on their journeys home, the show break-down commenced and a long, but ultimately successful day was over – until next year!