Grant Park in Forres will become host once again for the town’s largest and oldest family days out.
But for one man, taking his family to the show means something different.
Dave Lyons, who has built his collection of classic cars after moving to Forres will bring his entire fleet of six cars to the show on Sunday.
Highland Classic Car Hire is a self-drive car rental company with a difference, where people get to choose a car from days gone by, lovingly preserved and cared for, adding a romantic, or nostalgic element to their day.
Dave’s business started when his work as a driving instructor dried up during lockdown and he had the idea of sharing his love of old motors with the public.
Lifelong passion
He said: “At the time I was living close to the NC500 route and as restrictions started to lift and people were travelling again I came up with the idea of turning my lifelong passion for Classic Cars into a business and allowing others to share the pleasure I get from driving them.
“Initially the business was run from my home garage near Rogart then in August 2021 my fiancé (now wife) and I decided to move to Forres and expand the business, increasing my fleet from two to six cars.
He says that his customers come from all over Europe to drive his cars around Scotland, and he has also seen particular interest from couples getting married.
Dave says he’s owned dozens of cars since he bought his first classic when he was just a teenager.
“My father was a massive influence – I grew up around old cars. I bought my first classic when I was 18 and became involved with local clubs and events. I continued my love with classics cars over the years and have probably owned nearly 100 by now.
History
“I enjoy working on them as well as driving them, also love the history of the cars and their owners. Although my current fleet is mostly made up of British models, my tastes are varied, and I’ve always have had a keen interest in Motorsport and have competed in some events.
Dave’s passion for his vehicles is evident. He says every vehicle has a story and they continue to acquire new chapters with each hire. He refers to them by name.
- 1967 Ford Mustang 289 Coupe – Eleanor
- 1967 Rover P6 2000sc Automatic – Rona
- 1968 Austin Healey Sprite MkIV – Little Nelly
- 1972 Triumph Stag – Gus
- 1973 MGB GT – Coleman
- 1976 Triumph TR6 – Skye
“We love to hear about our customers’ adventures in our cars and everyone so far has come back with a big smile.
“For some, driving a classic is a dream for them, maybe having always wanted to experience a certain car. We also have quite a few younger drivers who are fascinated with the experience compared to a modern car.
Day tours
“In 2023 we have decided to offer Classic Driving Day Tours alongside our usual self-drive hire, where we will be taking a group of people out for the day and allowing them to experience all six of our cars, see some beautiful scenery, drive some fabulous roads and see highlights of the local area.”
Dave says he’s pleased to see the return of Forres Theme Day on Sunday 30 April. The event usually attracts around 250 vehicles for the show, and this year has a new category called Show and Shine which allows drivers to show off their vehicles even if they don’t fit into any of the categories.
“We’re are keen to support local events and business and also to raise the profile of our company and allow people to see the cars in person,” added Dave.
More details about the show: Forres Theme Day: visitforres.scot/themeday
More details about Highland Classic Car Hire: https://highlandclassiccarhire.co.uk/
