We reported in our 7 February issue how Chichester District Council (CDC) had banned the Manhood Classic Car Club (MCCC) from meeting informally at East Beach Selsey public car park – something that it had done for more than 13 years without any problems – despite the group paying the requisite parking charges.
The Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs (FBHVC) contacted CDC about its decision and MP Gillian Keegan came up with a policy to enable the club to apply for a licence and advised hire charges to enable the club to return.
MCCC chairman, Leslie Payne, said: ‘Two months of risk assessments and revised applications took place but the regulations and charges due for what the CDC classed as an event made a return unviable.
'The club will meet on the third Sunday of each month'
‘The club has since found a new home three miles away at the village of Sidlesham four miles south of Chichester. The Sidlesham Memorial Recreation Ground and community hall has welcomed the club with ample parking spaces and a kitchen to be manned by club members. As before the club will meet on the third Sunday of each month 9am-midday.
The club is now reconstituted with affiliation to the FBHVC, which has helped during this difficult period.’