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A total of 21 years of British motoring is being celebrated at the Elms today as the Tauranga British Car Club gathers classic and vintage cars with new models at a display on Mission Street.

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

Ted Horan with his 1967 Triumph Herald, that he restored from the Christchurh Earthqauke. Photos: Cameron Avery.

'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.

Earlier this morning, the club received a grant of $1500 from the Legacy Trust which went into the cost of hosting the anniversary.

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, worked 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.”