The Charles Clark Classic Car Rally is a very special local event, held in honour of the charismatic landlord of the Wiveton Bell pub Charles Clark.
Many people will remember the fully functioning E Type Jaguar engine in the fireplace of the pub which was often started up by Charles, much to the amazement of the customers. Sadly, Charles was lost at sea in a boating accident in 1998 but the rally continues in his memory and is now in its 27th year.
This year’s rally saw 83 classic and sports cars leave the Goat Inn, Skeyton on the morning of Sunday 10th July. From a 1936 Riley 9 Merlin to a 2017 Tesla, a wide range of cars of all ages were waved off in style by Charles’ mother, Dorothy Clark who, even at the age of 91, travels from Surrey each year to be part of the event.
Dorothy and her husband Dennis, who was not able to attend the rally this year, lived in Wiveton for many years and took over the running of the Wiveton Bell after Charles’ accident.
After a 75-mile trip around the lanes of North Norfolk, the cars on the 2022 rally finished at Brisley Cricket Ground. Tea and cake were in plentiful supply and the ladies from the club did us proud.
Awards were given for the car in the best condition, the most fun car and ‘most desirable’ which was won this year by a 1968 Daimler V8 250 owned by Mike Seppings from Little Snoring who has taken part in every rally since the event began in 1995.
Over the past twelve years the rally has raised thousands of pounds for local charities and this year supported the work of Ormiston Families. The organiser, Brian Monks, handed over a cheque for £1,514 to Emily Stansfield who represented the charity on the day.
Heritage are proud to sponsor this event that, year on year, raises funds for local charities and supports its community. The 28th rally will be held on Sunday 9th July 2023 and details will be posted on the website www.charlesclarkrally.co.uk later in the year.