aOVC History
The Association of Old Vehicles Clubs in Northern Ireland promotes and supports the restoration and use of all old vehicles
Representing Clubs since 1973
The AOVC: A Short History
The Association of Old Vehicle Clubs in Northern Ireland was founded in 1973 and incorporated in 1979.
Early Days
While many people owned a veteran, vintage or classic vehicle there was little or no opportunity to use these vehicles on public roads. The AOVC was created to address this issue.
The first organised event was the Belfast to Portrush Run which was an outstanding success with 70 pre-1939 vehicles taking part.
The Kirker Cavalcade, later renamed The Apple Blossom Run, followed in 1975. The Mourne Run became the third run in 1978.
We added an extra event in 1997 with a trip to the Isle of Man. This event was so successful we returned for a further two years and, for a break, went to The Doune Classic in Scotland in August 2000.
In 1999 we had discussions with our counterparts in the Republic of Ireland, The Irish Veteran & Vintage Car Club (IVVCC) about co-hosting an event which led to the first joint event that year, run by the IVVCC at Cabra Castle in Country Cavan. Congratulations must go to the IVVCC on the high standards set for this new event.
In 2000 it was the turn of the AOVC to host the event at the newly opened Holiday Inn in Letterkenny, County Donegal over the May Day weekend. Subsequent events were held in Tullamore in 2001 and Armagh in 2002.
A Growing Membership
The Association initially attracted individual members but over time numerous one marque and local clubs were formed, each organising their own events.
As the popularity of old vehicle events grew, there was a corresponding increase in the number of people owning old vehicles.
As local heritage vehicle club now organise their own road runs and static events throughout the year, clubs now form the basis of the AOVC membership.
Some of the first Clubs to join the Association were the MG Owners’ Club NI, Ulster Pre-War Austin Club, Newry & Mourne Classic Vehicle Club and the Thirty Motor Cycle Club of Ulster.
Today there are twenty-two clubs in the Association catering for veteran, vintage, classic cars, motorcycles, tractors and commercial vehicles.
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Today, it is absolutely vital we work together as a body to ensure continued support for the Association’s original aim i.e. the restoration and use of all old vehicles.
Association Founded in 1973
RepresentinG Historic Vehicle Clubs in Northern Ireland
The Association consists of 22 affiliated clubs dedicated to providing their members with a way of enjoying the most from the use of their vehicles and a chance to meet with other like-minded people.
Support
Acts as a central body for member clubs, offering advice and assistance with organizing events and ensuring they adhere to regulations.
Promote
Actively promotes the restoration and use of old vehicles, encouraging people to enjoy and maintain these vehicles for future generations
Represent
Work with other organizations and charities to assist with their events, helping them connect with the necessary resources and expertise.
