Glamorous ladies and dapper gentlemen, mingled amongst the cars who were the stars in the National Motor Museum, where the B100 Annual Black-Tie dinner and Auction bought members together for the first time since their last dinner 2 years ago.

Their welcome entryway into the museum via a red carpet, was looked upon by Edward Lord Montagu, adorned in a racing wreath in acknowledgement of the clubs 10-year anniversary and the Museum approaching its 50th.

As they strolled among the cars, Hambledon Cuvée in hand, they marvelled at the magical Roger Lapin’s sleight of hand, whilst a mix of Blues music and Hendrix riffs by Rob Berry, lured them further into the museum. Photographs were taken, stories exchanged as the members caught up with each other.

The dinner gong commenced the evening where a stunning 3 course meal, followed by cheese board and chocolates sponsored by Colin and Fay Hampson were washed down with more Hambledon Cuvée and a choice of fine wines. The table’s centres that echoed the racing wreath were sponsored by NFU Mutual New Forest Isle of Wight and Bournemouth and a guest at each table got to take this home with a surprise card under their chair denoting them the lucky recipient.

In his welcome speech, MC for the evening and B100 Council chairman, David Shaw, introduced the chairman of the trustees Christopher Macgowan, who updated the members on how the museum fared during the pandemic and the great changes in store to carry the museum through its next 50 years.

Five members who have been with the club from its inception were acknowledged. Unfortunately, John Bentley and Ted Fort were unable to make the dinner, but Bill Rich, Nigel Taylor, and a special mention to Mike Timmins who masterminded the idea of the Beaulieu One Hundred, all stepped up to receive a certificate and a 10-year-old Port in recognition and appreciation for their support of the club.

It was then on to the after-dinner speaker of the evening, the Museum’s manager and Chief Engineer, Doug Hill, who regaled us with stories of his 48-year career with the museum, the logistics of a growing collection competing for space with exciting exhibitions, as well as keeping the cars in running order! And on that note, amusing stories of his rallies with Edward Lord Montagu! He acknowledged the future technology fast approaching us, with a nod back at the past and how fast technology has changed within the motoring industry to date.

Covid still waggled its fickle finger when our resident auctioneer had to self-isolate for 10 days, and was gutted to have to bow out at the 11th hour! We were blessed to find a very capable and humorous Jeremy Lamond from Woolley and Wallis take up the gavel, bringing it down on a final total of just over £4500 for the nights auction takings. With the above sponsorships, as well as tables from Hagerty, Brookspeed and Douglas Samuel, the final takings rewarded the NMMT with over £8000! A resounding evening!

Special mention goes to;
Penny Wade and Ian Nicolls for photography
Kevin and Les our Museum Stewards on the evening