Classic and vintage cars will join newer models in a display at the Elms as part of the Tauranga British Car Club's 21st anniversary later this month.

Thanks to a $1500 grant from Legacy Trust, the club is now planning to mark the celebration on January 18 some 21 years since the first club started.

Paul O'Brien (left) receives his Legacy Trust grant from Don Hoult.

Avid car enthusiast Paul O'Brien says the celebration will be a special occasion, with the exhibition of classic and vintage cars as well as some current models.

'The Elms is a hidden gem in our city and we're using the location as the perfect backdrop for the classic vehicles we'll have on display,” says Paul.

'We're very grateful to Legacy Trust for the $1500 they've given us to implement the planning.”

The quality demonstrated in the manufacture of many British cars is extraordinary too, says Paul.

'Skilled cabinet makers were used for models like the Alvis and Morgan and the styling is exemplary,” he adds, 'so we're hoping that the public will enjoy the displays we have planned.”

Bay of Plenty British Cars Club president and chairman of the Friends of the Elms, Ron Harvey, is working with Paul and his organising committee to ensure that the event is memorable for the public and exhibitors.

'We're a charity organisation and use displays and outings to help raise funds for the Tauranga community,” says Ron.

'We have models from Austins to Zephyrs, so there's something for everyone.

'Our members reside all over the Bay of Plenty too and they're looking forward to displaying their cars.”

The focus on the community is especially appealing to the Legacy Trust when making a grant to Ron and his team.

'We believe in giving back to the community in which we live in and this event provides a positive contribution to many other charities in our city,” says Don Hoult from Legacy Trust.