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Western Group's Driving Day At Haynes Museum: A Showcase Of Automotive Excellence
This year's Western Group of Motoring Writers Driving Day marked its third and most successful event at the Haynes Motor Museum in Somerset. A total of 38 cars from 25 brands were available for driving, making it a unique date in the automotive calendar. The event provided PR and product specialists a rare opportunity to drive each other's cars and allowed Western Group members to experience some of the latest models.
The Western Group welcomed over 30 guests, with vehicles from newcomers Omoda, BYD, and INEOS. While most brands sent personnel to attend, others sent cars ahead on transporters. Stellantis and BYD were among those who opted for this approach. Representatives from Ford, Genesis, Honda, Kia, Mazda, MINI, Volvo, Subaru, Isuzu, Maserati, Range Rover, KGM, Toyota, Lexus, Porsche, and sponsors Suzuki attended the event.
By the end of the day, guests and Western Group members completed a total of 215 drives. Participants enjoyed an excellent selection of roads and free access to the Haynes Motor Museum's collection of around 400 cars and motorcycles. Handmade Bristol Glass trophies were awarded for the most driven car and the participant who drove the most cars. The 'Car of the Day' was the Porsche 911 Carrera T, while Ford’s Andy Benson and Len Keen jointly received the 'Driver of the Day' trophy.
A charity raffle was held alongside an auction featuring a limited-edition bottle of Scottish whisky donated by Genesis and a signed England rugby ball courtesy of Honda. "We’re delighted with the response from manufacturers for this year's event," said Western Group Chairman Gareth Herincx. "It's our third year at the Haynes Motor Museum and we couldn't be happier with the venue."
Herincx added that feedback from guests was positive and plans are already underway for a bigger event in 2025. He highlighted the location's accessibility via the A303, local accommodation options, good driving roads, museum facilities, and a delicious lunch as factors contributing to the day's success.
Herincx also expressed gratitude to Simon Perry of IDPR for managing the day professionally and thanked Alun Parry and Jess Grimditch of Suzuki for their sponsorship. "Ultimately, we couldn't stage our annual Driving Day without the support of manufacturers," he noted. Despite potential event clashes preventing some from attending, he hopes more will participate in 2025.
Following this year's success, the Western Group is already planning next year's event with a provisional date set for Thursday 5th June 2025 at the Haynes Motor Museum.
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