In 1971 a small number of enthusiasts wished to use their Pre War Austins for outings together on a regular basis. A number of them met in McConnell’s Pub in Doagh and eventually formed the Ulster Pre War Austin Club. At that time the cars were mostly Austin Sevens but the Club catered for all Austin’s registered before the end of 1939.

The first run was organised in August 1971. In those early days, events were very relaxed with tulip navigation and driving tests usually on public roads! We also had tests to see how you parked your car, driving round obstacles, the height of your running board etc. Legislation is more restrictive today and we no longer run competitive events. Initially it was only to cater for Pre War Austin’s but such was the enthusiasm from other old car owners to participate in our events that membership was extended to allow all cars up to 1977 to be eligible to attend events.

Early meetings were held at Killead Church Hall near Aldergrove and now our meetings are held at the Village Centre, Hillsborough during the winter months. We hold regular events there, including presentations from guest speakers. During lockdown we have held Saturday night zoom meetings with Quiz’s, films and share photographs of previous events and their popularity is steadily growing.

Now that we have reached our 50th Anniversary, the cars have got older and we run more relaxed events with no competitive element usually in the form of a scenic run to a place of interest. We place great emphasis on the social side and common bond that comes with using older vehicles.

We still have some members from the early days with us and cars belonging to founder members have remained in the Club and are used on a regular basis. Our membership remains constant over the years and recently we have great interest from the younger members that have joined to use their older cars.

If you have an eligible car, you are welcome to come along and join us and share the fellowship and enjoyment that comes with using old cars as part of a group of like minded enthusiasts.