Highlights From The Successful 2025 Western Group Of Motoring Writers Driving Day At Haynes Motor Museum

The Western Group of Motoring Writers recently held a successful Driving Day at the Haynes Motor Museum. The event featured 33 vehicles from 24 brands, offering a unique opportunity for PR and product specialists to drive each other's cars. It also allowed Western Group members to test some of the latest models they hadn't yet experienced. Over 30 PR guests attended on 21 May, with newcomers like Tesla, Xpeng, and Leapmotor showcasing their models.

Many brands sent representatives, including Ford, Honda, Kia, Mazda, Renault, Isuzu, KGM, Toyota, Ineos, Tesla, Xpeng, Polestar, and Kia. Event sponsors Suzuki also participated. Attendees enjoyed rides in a classic Mini converted to electric by Bristol-based Fellten. Handmade Bristol Glass trophies were awarded for the most driven car and the participant who drove the most cars. The Renault 5 E-Tech was named 'Car of the Day,' while Isuzu's Filip Czajkowski earned 'Driver of the Day.'

2025 Western Group Driving Day Highlights

A special "Legend" award was given to Gary Cuthbert from Ford's press garage as he retires this year. A charity raffle and auction raised over £500 for WOMAC and another South West charity to be announced later. Auction items included Goodwood Festival of Speed tickets from Honda and a Tamiya remote control Mazda3.

Feedback and Future Plans

Western Group Chairman Gareth Herincx expressed satisfaction with the event despite unpredictable weather and a date change from June to May. He noted positive feedback from guests and aims to expand the event in 2026. Herincx thanked Simon Perry of ID PR for managing the day professionally and acknowledged Suzuki's Alun Parry and Jess Grimditch for their sponsorship.

Herincx emphasized that manufacturer support is crucial for hosting such events annually. While not all can attend due to scheduling conflicts, he hopes more will participate in 2026 as plans are underway for future events. The provisional date for next year's event is Thursday, 4 June 2026.

For more details or inquiries about future events, contact WGMW Chair Gareth Herincx at 07771 808172 or via email at [email protected].

Article Published On: Thursday, May 22, 2025, 22:01 [IST]
Read more on: #global
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