New motoring organisation makes bid to run worldwide classic events

“Organising events for people and people for events” is the role of The Classic Motoring Organisation, a new enthusiast-led initiative to be launched next month and designed to help classic car owners get the most from their vehicles.

CMO principals Rob Arthur, Christopher Belton, John Davenport, John Foden and Rick Smith will utilise contacts on every continent, to promote a wide range of events.

“The whole reason for owning a classic car is to have fun using it,” says MD Smith. “There are many events already, but participating in those which are inappropriate for either the car or the experience of the crew will quickly turn owners off. We will endeavour to provide the best guidance for fellow enthusiasts.

“The CMO is a club, but not a motor club,” stresses Smith, “and we are not in competition with Nick Brittan, John Brown or Phillip Young, all of whom have been running classic rallies for years. But if there is a job to be done, anywhere in the world, we will consider it on a commercial basis, with proper insurance and a high standard of excellence.”

Four major events, of very different character, are planned for 1998, one of which is in an advanced stage of development with a partner club. CMO is at Westcombe House, 7-9 Stafford Road, Wallington, Surrey, SM6 9AN. Tel: 0181 773 3404.