Millport Classic Car Event – Saturday 13th May 2023

Words and pictures: Ken Graham Scottish Chapter Coordinator

It was an early start for four Figs and their owners on Saturday 13th May as they headed for Largs in Ayrshire to catch the 8.15 am ferry for the short 10-minute crossing to the beautiful Isle of Cumbrae. And just as well they did! – Whilst the weather forecast was good for the day with sunshine predicted, it was a typical foggy morning on the Clyde and after our 8.15 sailing had completed its trip the crossings stopped for safety reasons due to the fog. This resulted in quite a few show participants being stranded in Largs for an hour or so until the weather cleared, some not arriving till after 12 noon. Fortunately, all the Figs had made it across and were happily setting up the stand ready for the public coming in at 10 am.

The Millport show started in 2014 (although this was only our 2nd visit) and the publicity from their first event says that ‘the event attracted a lovely crowd who enjoyed the 18 cars on display’ – It’s a testament to the event’s ongoing success that they now need to limit numbers to 150!!

Myself, my son Alex, Lee & Craig Smith, Heather and Reid Martin and Bob & Liz Hughes were all quickly engaged with enthusiastic members of the public keen to either know more or find out what on earth these cars were! I’m still amazed at how many people have still never seen a Figaro in the wild! We were also approached by a number of people who said ‘There’s someone down near Stranraer who’s got about six of these in his drive’! I was happily able to advise that this wasn’t a new Figaro dealership being established, but the lovely Gwyn and Marc our newest Scottish Chapter members who have now relocated North of the Border. Once they’re settled I’m sure they’ll be heading to events like the rest of us!

The sun did shine on us most of the day, with the only spot of drizzle around 3.30 pm as the event was winding up. I headed for the ferry as did Bob and Liz, whilst Heather and Reid had booked overnight accommodation to enjoy the Millport festivities. No such luxury for Lee and Craig who had planned an overnight ‘wild camping’ expedition!!

Another fantastic day and we’re already looking forward to Millport 2024 which promises, as their 10th Anniversary Show, to be something special!