Eglinton Classic Car Club's Annual Show in support of Foyle Down Syndrome Trust

All monies from this year’s Eglinton Classic Car Club’s Annual Show to be held at City of Derry’s Rugby Grounds on Sunday, April 6, will go to local charity Foyle Down Syndrome Trust.

Making the announcement at the FDST headquarters at Irish Street on Thursday morning, club chairman John Nixon said he was delighted that this year’s chosen charity was FDST and it was great to have them onboard again following the Trust’s selection in 2005 when over £5,000 was raised.

Eglinton Classic Car Club was founded in 1995 when the club consisted of a dozen or so people that met together at a local pub in the village called the Happy Landing. It has grown over the years and now has almost 40 members.

"Christopher and the team at Foyle Down Syndrome Trust do a lot of very worthy work with the young people under their care. It’s only fitting that we as a club, can give of our time to try and beat that 2005 target this year, and that is why I appeal to everyone to come along on Sunday week and support our annual show.

"This year we will have over 260 cars on display including the likes of a 1947 Austin 8; 1969 Riley 72 and even a 1970 Texas police car, which will be driven by well-known Donegal businessman Colum Dillon. Incidentally, the Riley 72 is owned and driven by Derry bar owner Tommy McDermott."

The club have been donating to local charities since 1996 and John proudly states that over £126,000 has been handed over to worthwhile causes over the years.

"We are a small group of people with only 39 members but all volunteer of their time to raise money for our chosen charity annually. I believe that this year, we will exceed all expectations and be able to hand over a notable amount to Christopher and his team here at Foyle Down Syndrome Trust."

Annually, over 2,000 people attend the classic car event which also boasts stalls, fire service demonstrations, line and Irish dancers performing, and as well as a selection of classic cars – motorcycles and tractors as well.

Thanking the Car Club for their continued support, Christopher Cooper, manager, FDST, said all at the charity was absolutely delighted to tie up with the Eglinton Club and appealed for everyone to visit and support on Sunday week at City of Derry Rugby Club.

"It’s an honour to be associated with the Eglinton Classic Car Club and we are very happy that they have chosen us. Hopefully, we can play our part on the day and all monies raised will be gratefully accepted. We are in the process of improving our sensory room within the building among other things, so the timing of our selection is fitting. A massive thank you to John and all at Eglinton Classic Car Club."

PICTURED BELOW: Group pictured outside the Foyle Down Syndrome Trust's headquarters on Thursday for the Eglinton Classic Club's announcement that the FDST will be their chosen charity for this year. Included are FDST staff and members and volunteers from the Eglinton Classic Car Club. (Photos: Jim McCafferty Photography)