Bond cars and classics roll into Hawkins Blackwater this November

The smell of leather and petrol, an engine turning over for the first time in years, a car you last saw from the back seat as a child. That is the feeling Hawkins Motor Group is chasing this November, when its Blackwater dealership fills its forecourt with some of the most memorable cars of the last half century.

The cars taking centre stage

The Hawkins Classic Collection event takes place on Sunday 1 November, running from 9am to 1pm at Hawkins Blackwater. Cornwall’s classic car enthusiasts and families are being invited along for a morning built around beautifully preserved and lovingly restored classics, rare and unusual vehicles, and cars inspired by film and television.

With a spirit borrowed from the great motoring gatherings of Goodwood, visitors can expect cherished family favourites and performance cars alongside legendary James Bond cars and other film and TV replicas that have become part of popular culture. At the heart of it sits the Hawkins Classic Collection itself, giving visitors the chance to get up close to a selection of distinctive vehicles and restoration projects, among them a beautifully preserved 1989 Peugeot 205 GTI and a 1998 Lotus Esprit V8.

More than something to look at

Hawkins is keen to stress the event is about more than static cars on a forecourt. From the sound of an engine coming to life and the smell of leather and petrol, to the elegance of period design and the memories attached to much-loved models, the aim is an immersive trip down memory lane for motoring enthusiasts of every age.

James Hawkins, Director of Hawkins Motor Group, said the event was built around the feelings classic cars bring back as much as their looks. “We wanted to create an event that celebrates everything people love about classic cars, not just how they look, but how they make you feel,” he said. “There’s something incredibly evocative about hearing an old engine start, seeing a car you remember from childhood or coming face to face with a model you recognise from a favourite film. These cars carry stories, memories and a real sense of nostalgia.”

“We’re really looking forward to bringing the Hawkins Classic Collection to Blackwater and creating something with that Goodwood spirit, relaxed, full of character and bringing together people who share a love of cars. We’re also delighted to be supporting the Merlin Neuro Therapy Centre, which is a cause very close to our family’s heart.”

Raising money for a Cornwall charity

The event is being held in support of the Merlin Neuro Therapy Centre, a Cornwall-based charity providing specialist therapies, services and support for people living with neurological conditions, along with their families and carers.

Adele Carter, Head of Marketing and Fundraising at the Merlin Neuro Therapy Centre, said the charity was looking forward to another community event with the dealership. “It’s wonderful to be part of another community event with Hawkins Motor Group and we’re incredibly grateful that they’ve chosen to support Merlin Neuro Therapy Centre,” she said. “Every pound raised helps us continue providing specialist therapies and support for people across Cornwall, but it also helps us be there for the families, carers and loved ones who rely on our centre too. Classic cars and coffee cannot fail to bring people together, and we’re looking forward to meeting supporters old and new while celebrating a shared commitment to our local community.”

Entry to the Hawkins Classic Collection is free, with donations welcomed throughout the morning in support of the charity.

Games, coffee and a morning to wander

Away from the cars, there is plenty to get involved with across the dealership through the morning. Visitors can try their hand at Scalextric racing, a driving simulator, cornhole, rowing and a putting challenge, adding a bit of friendly competition to proceedings.

Beyond that, the morning is built for wandering among the cars, meeting owners, swapping stories and picking up refreshments from Cub&Co and The Millstone, for a relaxed few hours of motoring, coffee and conversation.

A Cornish family business marking 90 years

Hawkins Motor Group is a family-run Cornish motor retailer with a history stretching back more than 90 years. Founded in 1933, the business represents multiple automotive brands across dealerships throughout Cornwall, and has long-standing links with communities across the county, regularly supporting local charities, organisations and fundraising initiatives.

Owners of special vehicles are also being invited to become part of the event, whether they have a cherished classic, a much-loved family car, a rare performance model, an unusual vehicle or a film or television replica. Those interested can register their interest here, or get in touch by emailing [email protected].