The Manchester to Blackpool Veteran and Vintage Car Rally of 1964 stands as a remarkable moment in the history of classic motoring events. Organised by the Lancashire Automobile Club, which continues to thrive today, the rally was a celebration of automotive heritage. That year’s event featured over 160 entries, drawing enthusiasts from far and wide to showcase their treasured vehicles. A standout scene from the rally, immortalised in photographs, showed a Ford Model T Fire Engine making its way along the Blackpool seafront, with the iconic Blackpool Tower providing a fitting backdrop. This annual rally, a highlight of the motoring calendar for decades, brought together an extraordinary range of vehicles. Among the 1964 participants were no fewer than 21 vintage Bentleys, as well as numerous fine examples of veteran and Edwardian cars. The oldest vehicle to take part was Denis Flather’s 1897 Daimler, a true testament to the longevity and craftsmanship of early automotive engineering.
Originally limited to cars manufactured before 1931, the event maintained its focus on authenticity for many years. However, as participation began to wane and sponsorship declined, including the loss of significant backing from The Daily Telegraph, the organisers extended eligibility to include later “classic” cars in an effort to bolster numbers. This shift marked a gradual departure from the rally’s original ethos, but during its peak years, the event was a spectacular showcase of pre-war motoring. By 1969, the rally had reached its zenith, attracting nearly 50 pre-Great War cars and over 150 vehicles from the 1920s. It offered a vivid reminder of the evolution of motoring, from the elegant, horse-drawn-inspired designs of the Edwardian era to the more streamlined and powerful machines of the Roaring Twenties.
The Manchester to Blackpool V&V Car Rally not only celebrated historic vehicles but also created enduring memories for participants and spectators alike. The sight of these beautifully restored cars rolling into Blackpool was a nostalgic tribute to the golden age of motoring, with the resort’s vibrant atmosphere adding to the charm. While the event eventually faded after 25 to 30 successful years, it remains a cherished chapter in the history of British automotive rallies.
