This month’s main Charity Heroes feature (right) looks at how the efforts of a small group of volunteers and a slightly larger group of philanthropic supporters can come together to really make a difference in their local community – and it’s something we really want to see even more of in our Charity Heroes pages as we head into 2024.
Don’t get me wrong – the bigger charities and professionally supported events are absolutely brilliant and they regularly bring in enormous amounts of money for truly deserving causes – we will, of course, continue to fly the flag for their efforts.
But it’s the enthusiasts whose labours really drive deep into a community that typify the very ethos of the Practical Classics community. Just as the magazine itself is put together by a close-knit group of like-minded people, so too are the events, tours and initiatives generated and supported by car clubs, small businesses and individuals who are going the extra mile for good causes.
The reason why the Stirling and District Classic Car Club takes centre stage this month is because it approached us to tell us about its efforts – and that allows us to share the fruits of its deeds more widely, which can only raise awareness and therefore potential charity revenue in the future.
And that’s where you come in. We know full well that a lot of people who raise money don’t always like to shout about it – and there’s everything to admire about humility as a personality trait. But if you want to raise cash for a good cause, we’re here to help you reach whatever goal you've set and we’d love you to tell us more about what you’re up to.
Finally, may I wish every one of you a happy and healthy New Year.
If you, your car club or your friends have got anything planned to raise money for charity, we absolutely want to hear about it and talk about it in these pages. Please drop us a line at practicalclassics@bauermedia.co.uk and we’ll help you in any way we can.
Stirling and District Classic Car Club
Charities across central Scotland have benefitted from over £113,000 in support from the old car community over the past decade – with an amazing £13k-plus raised in 2023 alone, thanks to the Stirling and District Classic Car Club. The club donated £13,100 to 11 charities and community organisations from the proceeds of its successful 2023 show in Bridge of Allan.
This year the club presented cheques to Maggie’s Forth Valley, which provides mental, physical and financial support to people and their families who are living with cancer; the Crossreach HMYOI Polmont Prison Visitors' Centre, which provides practical and emotional support and childcare for the families of prisoners; the Larbert
