Martin BUCKLEY

'The mix of characters made the privilege of participating feel a bit like being in the midst of a Carry On film'

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The Veteran Car Club of Great Britain calls it The Hare chases the Snail, and as an example of pure English nonconformity (and charm), I can't imagine anything more representative in the world of old-car events.

Very old cars in this case, the idea being that chugging, London to Brighton-ineligible machines (the 'hares') get to mix it with puttering, mostly single-lung 'snails'.

Beautifully organised and discreetly marshalled, it was held in my part of the Cotswolds this August and based at the Royal Agricultural University. Navigating with the easy-to-follow road book, it was two days of sun, fun and fresh air that took in a thoroughly enjoyable visit to the Bugatti Owners' Club at Prescott on the Saturday and the Classic Motor Hub near Bibury on Sunday, with appropriate coffee stops and pub lunches along the way.