Vintage vehicles rally through New Forest for Beaulieu Oak Run

AN array of vintage vehicles more than 100 years old rallied through the New Forest at the weekend.

A total of 23 cars, a penny-farthing and a safety cycle – all dating back to pre-1905 – took part in Sunday’s Beaulieu Oak Run.

The event, previously known as the New Forest Car Run, is now in its third year.

Vehicles set off from Buckler’s Hard at 10am, taking in forest and heathland before arriving by Hythe Pier.

Lord and Lady Montagu of Beaulieu were among those taking part, travelling in the most powerful car, a 24-horse power 1903 De Dietrich.

The least powerful was Gordon Cobbold’s 1898 Benz Velo – at just three-horse power.

Two steam cars were also driven by John Blackford and Anthony Lewis.

Organiser Lawrie Smith said: “The weather forecast said possible rain but the sun god was with us and it stayed fine all day.

“It was my pleasure to organise the event and I was delighted with the fantastic turnout of veteran cars and cycles and to receive many letters of thanks from the participants.”

Alan Titheridge, from the Hythe Pier Heritage Association, was on hand to give a short talk on the history of the landmark’s railway. Drivers and passengers also had the chance to ride the train.

Although most of the drivers lived within 50 miles of the start, determined competitor John Hough brought his 1902 Oldsmobile 170 miles on a trailer from Cornwall.

The vehicles next travelled 27 miles via Calshot and Lepe beach to the Beaulieu Estate where Lord and Lady Montagu provided a light lunch.

Visitors could see the fleet displayed outside Palace House and talk to the drivers.

Lord Montagu planted an oak tree, something provided by competitors each year as a gesture to help offset their carbon footprint.