Hawkins Blackwater’s first classic car show is already coming back

A coffee machine in the back of a Peugeot 205 GTI. A 1935 Riley 9hp Kestrel. And three generations of one Cornish motoring family handing out the prizes.

More than 300 people and 125 classic cars turned out at Hawkins Blackwater on Sunday 1 November for the first Hawkins Classic Collection, a classic car event held in aid of Cornwall’s Merlin Neuro Therapy Centre.

The day was organised by Hawkins Motor Group, a family-run Cornish motor retailer founded in 1933, which now represents multiple brands across dealerships throughout Cornwall. Enthusiasts, collectors and families came from across the county, and the autumn sunshine held all day.

📷Hawkins Classic Collection

From a 1935 Riley to the Chery TIGGO 7

The vehicles on show spanned generations of motoring, from carefully preserved vintage classics through to performance icons and modern favourites.

A Ferrari 308 and a Maserati GranTurismo were among the line-up, along with a strong turnout from the MG Owners’ Club and plenty of cherished classics brought along by owners from around Cornwall.

There was something newer too. Hawkins Motor Group put a selection of its latest vehicles on display, including the new Chery TIGGO 7, giving visitors a first look at one of the newest car brands to arrive in Cornwall.

📷Jo and James Hawkins

Dressed for the era

Plenty of visitors got into the spirit of things by dressing in outfits inspired by different motoring eras. Jo and James Hawkins joined in themselves.

John, James and Jack Hawkins, three generations of the family, came together to present the prizes for Best Car in Show and Best Dressed. For the family-run business it was a special moment.

📷John James, Tom, Jack and Henry Hawkins

“What an incredible day”

James Hawkins, Director of Hawkins Motor Group, said: “What an incredible day! We couldn’t have asked for more. To see so many fantastic cars, their proud owners and hundreds of people coming together to share their love of motoring was really special.

“The sunshine certainly helped, but it was the atmosphere, the enthusiasm and the stories being shared that made the day so memorable. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who brought a vehicle, came along to support us or helped make the event happen.

“As a family business, it was particularly lovely to have three generations of the Hawkins family involved, and we’re already looking forward to doing it all again!”

📷Hawkins Classic Collection

Simulators, Scalextric and coffee from a Peugeot

Shane Solomon kept things moving as event compère, and there was plenty going on away from the cars.

Inside the showroom, visitors tried a driving simulator hosted by the Richards Racing Team, along with Scalextric racing, cornhole and a rowing competition. There was no shortage of friendly rivalry.

Cub&Co served freshly brewed coffee from a machine fitted into the back of a classic Peugeot 205 GTI, and the team also created a commemorative event t-shirt featuring the car.

The Millstone Deli brought sweet treats, the Red Lion served bacon butties, and The Cheeky Little Monkey provided ice cream and music on the forecourt.

📷Merlin Neuro Therapy Centre

Over £1,000 for the Merlin Neuro Therapy Centre

The Merlin Neuro Therapy Centre is a Cornwall-based charity providing specialist therapies, services, activities and support for people living with neurological conditions, as well as their families and carers.

Thanks to visitors and supporters, the day raised more than £1,000 for the charity. Hawkins Motor Group has a long record of supporting local causes in the communities it serves.

📷Cub&Co

Back in February

Hawkins Motor Group has already confirmed the Classic Collection will return to Blackwater on Sunday 7 February 2027.

Further details are due to be announced soon.

📷Hawkins Classic Collection

📷Hawkins Classic Collection

📷Hawkins Classic Collection

📷Hawkins Classic Collection

📷Hawkins Classic Collection

📷Jack Hawkins and Tegan

📷Hawkins team

📷Liam Smith

📷Hawkins Classic Collection