The Atwell Wilson Motor Museum is situated in the heart of Wiltshire. The majority of the exhibits are cars from the 1920’s onwards. There is a collection of motorcycles, mopeds and push bikes as well as interesting motoring memorabilia and a reconstructed 1930’s style garage complete with cars.
Nick, Dawn, and myself turned up first thing and put up the 'Show Gazebo and Stand' ready for the busy day ahead. The forecast was for rain so we came prepared.
Richard and Seb Bolwell arrived with their young son Ruben during the morning, together with a visit from a member I haven't seen for a long time, Chris Cole. He remembered everyone but me until I said who I was. Have I changed that much? It was lovely to see them all.
There was a real array of cars, tractors and even the Wiltshire Air Ambulance were there, raising money for their very worthy cause. The Calne Silver Band were also in attendance giving a real 'village fete' feeling to the day.
This year's theme was a celebration of Mk1 and Mk2 Jaguars. There were over 200 classics on display. Prizes on the day were awarded to:
Best Theme Vehicle - Mr Don Westcott, 1956 Jaguar XK 140.
Best Car in Show - Mr Tony Green 1953 Aston DB 2/4 DHC.
Best Motor Cycle - Mr Jon Goodchild, 1924 Douglas 2 3/4 hp.
Atwell Wilson Memorial Trophy for Best Restoration - Mr Terry Connor BLMC 1100.
Best Commercial - Mr Michael Goddard, 1936 Leyland Beaver.
Best Tractor - Mr Graham Knight, Oliver 80 Standard.
The museum itself has a variety of contents, from a number of everyday classics, to rare cars and lorries. Amongst these are a 1934 Alvis Speed 20, 1938 Daimler EL24, 1936 Rover 14hp Sports/Saloon and a 1951 Dennis Fire Engine. Richard Atwell who founded the museum with his wife Hazel, had always had a strong interest in North American cars, so there was an interesting array of Ford, GM, and Chrysler products from across 'The Pond'.
There is also a good variety of rare motorcycles on display, carrying the legendary names of Brough, BSA, Clyno, Matchless, Triumph, Norton, Velocette and Indian, to name but a few.
The rain came in towards the end of the day but it was thoroughly enjoyable and I look forward to attending next year.
Richard Clark.
