Classic car enthusiasts rev up for charity NSPCC at Glenarm Castle’s Drive It Day 2025

Ken Smyth, from UVOCC with Susan Smith, Community Fundraising Manager at NSPCC NI

The picturesque grounds of Glenarm Castle in County Antrim recently became a vibrant showcase of automotive history as the Ulster Vauxhall Opel Classic Community (UVOCC) hosted its annual Drive It Day event.

On Sunday, 27th April 2025, nearly 80 classic cars, including cherished Vauxhall and Opel models alongside vehicles from the NI Italian Car Club, NI Land Rover Club, and other iconic marques, dazzled attendees at this celebration of motoring heritage.

The event, which raised an impressive £2,835 for the NSPCC’s Childline service, underscored the community’s passion for preserving transport heritage while supporting a vital cause.

Members of the Ulster Vauxhall Opel Classic Community (UVOCC) and the NSPCC NI fundraising team at the event.

Organised by the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs (FBHVC), Drive It Day commemorates the One Thousand Mile Trial of 1900, a landmark event that demonstrated the reliability of early motor vehicles.

Now an annual highlight for classic car enthusiasts across the UK, the event also serves as a platform to promote the historic vehicle movement and raise funds for charitable causes.

This year’s gathering at Glenarm Castle drew crowds of enthusiasts and families alike, who enjoyed a day of nostalgia, community, and philanthropy in one of Northern Ireland’s most historic estates.

A Rally to Remember

Some of the classic cars that rallied to the recent UVOCC Drive it Day event at Glenarm Castle in aid of Childline.

The event kicked off with a spectacular rally, as classic car owners converged on Glenarm Castle from two starting points: Lansdowne Crescent in Portrush and The Ballymac Hotel in Lisburn.

The sight of these lovingly preserved vehicles winding through the Northern Irish countryside was described as “magnificent” by attendees, offering a moving tribute to the enduring appeal of classic motoring.

UVOCC, a Facebook group founded by Ballymoney resident Billy Maxwell, has become a hub for enthusiasts of Vauxhall and Opel classics, vehicles often overlooked in the broader classic car scene.

The group regularly participates in local car shows, charity events, and outings across Northern Ireland, showcasing rare models and fostering a tight-knit community of owners and admirers.

Ken Smyth, a member of UVOCC, expressed his pride in the event’s success:

“We have been delighted to support Drive It Day for the last five years and every year it gets bigger and better. We continue to be so grateful to the owners who take part and display their precious cars on the day or join the rallies from Portrush and Lisburn to the event.”

He also extended thanks to Glenarm Castle for providing “their magnificent grounds which are the perfect setting for the cars” and to all attendees who made the event “so special.”

A Day of Nostalgia and Generosity

The event offered more than just a display of automotive artistry. It was a chance for enthusiasts to connect, share stories, and celebrate their shared passion for historic vehicles.

For the public, it was an opportunity to admire rare and beautifully maintained cars while enjoying a family-friendly afternoon in the stunning surroundings of Glenarm Castle, one of Ireland’s oldest estates.

The funds raised—£2,835, surpassing the previous year’s total—will directly support Childline, the NSPCC’s 24/7 counselling service for children and young people.

Susan Smith, Community Fundraising Manager at NSPCC Northern Ireland, praised the organisers and attendees:

“Once again, we are beyond grateful for all the hard work and amazing generosity of UVOCC who organised such an amazing Drive It Day event – and it all went like clockwork.”

She added, “It was such a lovely day, not just for car enthusiasts who relished the sight of the vintage vehicles, but also for members of the public who enjoyed the afternoon in Glenarm Castle.”

The donation will bolster Childline’s vital work, ensuring that children across the UK have access to support “when they have nowhere else to turn,” as Susan noted. The service, available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, provides a lifeline for young people facing challenges, from bullying to mental health struggles.

A Growing Tradition

For UVOCC, Drive It Day is more than a showcase; it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of classic cars and their power to bring communities together.

“It really was a superb occasion for classic car owners to get together and swap stories and for members of the public who came along to admire the vehicles and enjoy a lovely afternoon in beautiful surroundings,” Ken said.

As the event continues to grow, UVOCC and its supporters remain committed to preserving automotive heritage while making a tangible difference for children in need.

With Glenarm Castle’s breathtaking backdrop and the roar of classic engines, Drive It Day 2025 was a triumph of passion, nostalgia, and generosity—a fitting tribute to the timeless allure of the motor car.

For those inspired to get involved, UVOCC welcomes new members to its Facebook group, where enthusiasts can share their love for Vauxhall and Opel classics and stay updated on future events.

As the community looks ahead to next year’s Drive It Day, the success of 2025 sets a high bar for celebrating both motoring history and the power of collective goodwill.