Castle Classics Car Show

Newcastle- Under- Lyme geared up once again on Saturday 28^th March, as the much- loved Retro and Classic Vehicle Show returned to the Ironmarket  and High Street, transforming the town centre into a vibrant celebration of motoring heritage. Running from 10am to 3pm, the free, family- friendly event showcased more than 60 classic vehicles, each proudly displayed by their passionate owners.

Now in its 3rd year, Castle Classics has become a major date in the local calendar, bringing together enthusiasts, families, and curious onlookers who simply want to soak up the lively atmosphere. While the cars remained the stars of the show, the day offered far more than motors alone. Guests enjoyed live music, a buzzing crowd, and a series of awards recognising standout vehicles.

The event hosted by Newcastle- Under- Lyme BID, in conjunction with The Red Haired Stokie, Envy Autos Ltd and 6 Towns Radio, was another great success, as it attracted thousands of people into the town to admire these beautifully preserved vehicles spanning decades of automotive history.  Dan, from 6 Towns Radio commented on how

“Castle Classics is a great event to be part of. The work the Business Improvement District Team and Jenna (The Red Haired Stokie) do behind the scenes to bring such a great selection of vehicles into the town is amazing, and it’s great to see so many local people supporting the event too!”

The occasion can be seen to appeal to far more than car enthusiasts. Visitors included families with young children, people with disabilities, complete novices, like myself, visiting for the first time, casual shoppers, and avid loyal supporters who return year after year.

The town centre was completely filled with nostalgia, excitement, and community spirit as Castle Classics brought together a diverse mix of people united by curiosity, or simply the desire for an enjoyable day out. Whether you are a lifelong classic car devotee or someone seeking an engaging  experience, the event promised a warm welcome and a brief  escape from modern life.

Throughout the day, I had the pleasure of speaking with many visitors and hearing what Castle Classics meant to them. One enthusiast, Garry Jones from Northwood and a member of the North Staffs Carers Group, spoke warmly of his lifelong passion for Ford and Jaguar models. He shared a particular fondness for the classic Capri and Cortina, telling me, “It brings me back to my youth”, adding that he is currently writing a book about his love of cars.

Another visitor, Bev from Stoke- on- Trent, was eager to express how much she enjoyed the event and the local town. She felt the show was a brilliant way to bring people together, and encourage visitors to explore the town while enjoying the vehicles on display.

Among the many remarkable vehicles on display, was the rare 1964 Ford Consul Capri, owned by father and son duo, John and Paul Beckett. Their car deservedly won ‘Best Classic vehicle on the day’. Converted by Hooper Bodyworks in Meadowvale, London, only 40 Consul Capris were ever modified- and just 2 remain on the road today, this one in Newcastle- Under- Lyme and the other in Cornwall.

The Becketts’ story is as captivating as the car itself. Paul bought his first Capri at the age of 14, spending all his savings on it while still at school. His passion soon “rubbed off” on his father. “Instead of ‘like father like son’, it was ‘like son like father’”. When they purchased this car, it had no working engine and required extensive restoration. Over 3 years, Paul painstakingly sourced parts, had components rechromed, and bought the Capri back to life. Today, it stands as a testament to his dedication, craftmanship, and love for classic motoring.

The Beckett’s now own 4 Capris- 2 standard models and 2 GT’s, including one of only 2002 GT’s ever produced. The pair are active members of the Ford Classic and Capri Owners Club, regularly attending shows across the region. For John, the best part of owning a classic car is the conversation it sparks. “I love talking to people about it and reminiscing” he said. He also enjoys seeing young people take an interest, especially when they notice the difference in design and manufacture compared to modern vehicles. His wing mirrors, mounted on the front wings rather than the doors, always triggers a lively debate. If he could bring back any car, it would be his father’s first- a Pippin Red Ford Anglia, registration number 2248 NF. “I remember it like it was yesterday” he recalled.

Having only recently seen the Back to the Future Films, as they were first aired before my time, I was keen to see the spectacular Delorean on show, with its brushed stainless-steel body and iconic gull- wing doors.  Will, from Trentham, happily shared the story of his recent “impulse purchase” of the car from the Owners Club, just 3 months prior to the show. Inspired by his love of the Back to the Future Franchise, he has been overwhelmed by the attention the car has attracted. Driving the left- hand- drive DeLorean back from Northern Ireland remains “the best experience I’ve had with it so far” he said.

This was Will’s first classic car show, having spotted the event post only a few days earlier. He also planned to attend the Caffeine and Machine in Warwick the following day, where he had been invited to showcase the DeLorean due to its French Renault engine. As a supplier of vehicles for the film production industry, Will also owns a retro Vauxhall Vectra Police Car, also on show at the event, which is soon to appear in a channel 4 production. His collection includes a rare Citroen Saxo VTS, one of only 116 remaining on UK roads, and he hopes one day to own the iconic KITT car from the Knight Rider series. Will has loved cars since childhood, though he admits he isn’t sure where the passion comes from, as his father was more of a bike enthusiast. What matters most to him is keeping the vehicles as original and as standard as possible- and making people smile. He fully intends to return next year and “hopes the weather might be a little warmer”.

Most exhibitors have taken part in the event since its inception and love the unique atmosphere the town provides. The setting helps drive footfall to Newcastle-under-Lyme’s retail, hospitality, and independent businesses. Exhibitors particularly appreciate that the event allows them to enjoy local refreshments, food, and the wider town experience, rather than spending the day standing in a muddy field.

All of the vehicle owners I met at the event displayed a deep sense of love and pride in their vehicles, and an infectious joy when interacting with fellow enthusiasts and members of the public. Many lit up when asked to recount the memories, experiences, and personal histories tied to their cars. Each person had a unique story to share about their collection of vintage, classic, and retro vehicles.

A significant number of these cars are now rare models from across the globe, and events like this play a vital role in preserving their visibility. Without gatherings of this kind, very few people would ever have the chance to see such remarkable vehicles up close.

Congratulations to all the lucky winners in the 5 categories

Most Unique Winner -MK1 Golf Van

Show & Shine Winner - Ford Prefect

Best Retro Winner - Mini Cooper

Best Classic Winner - Ford Consul Capri

Best In Show Winner - Ford Mustang