The Vintage Car boot sale on 14th and 15th March had more than 100 classic vehicles on display.
By Fabeha Syed subedited by Qiwei Wang
Mr. Thatcher, a trader had all his collectibles and paintings displayed on his van.
Among the traders and proud owners of Vintage cars, many collectors were also among the crowd displaying their antiquated collection near the Southbank this weekend. These collections ranged from vintage fashion, heir looms, clothing, accessories, books and many other forms of collectibles.
“There are many retro lovers who can willingly pay anything to own a piece of old world charm. It’s my job to sell the collection I’ve got over the years” said Danny on asking if he feel awkward selling what many people consider treasure. His 1960s Mini Cooper had displayed heirlooms, a bunch of old paintings and books.
“One man’s trash is another man’s treasure” drives the concept of car boot sales. The Classic Car boot sale is the biggest in London and was launched in October 2013 by Wayne and Gerardine Hemingway. The designers developed a concept of Vintage festival to celebrate the history of British creativity. Since then every year they organise a two-day event on Southbank which showcases various vintage collections on display.
“I am driven by my compulsive buying, so you can say I am not retiring and I won’t go home this evening and won’t work again. It’s not that brilliant.” Mr. Thatcher quipped on asking whether the sale brings him any profit.
With a ticket of 4 quids, the festival welcomed the children below 12 for free. A bar on the wheels hosted the guests who enjoyed the drinks and street food at the event.
Neil who is a regular visitor of the festival who said he never missed a single Vintage festival. “This you may call as my guilty pleasure. Last year I had spent over 300 pounds and this year I can only bury my face before telling you the exact amount” he joked.
The Car boot sale is a viable business in London as explained by Mr. Thatcher. Events like the Vintage Classic car boot sale is an annual affair but there are some weekly and daily market which sell their collectibles to resurrect a fading retro pulse.
Weekly Car Boot Sales in London
Picture gallery:
Picture Credits: Fabeha Syed
