Get your motor running as Longford's Old School New School returns

Once again the Old School New School (OSNS) Motor Show returns to St Mel’s College grounds for a day sure to get engines revving.

This is the sixth gathering of classic and performance vehicles. Organiser Niall Gerety explained the popularity of the annual event: “Old School New School is probably one of the biggest shows of its kind in the country.

“Our event is dedicated to providing attendees with an unforgettable experience, showcasing the best and rarest vehicles from around the country.”

OSNS attracts car collectors, restorers, and fans from all over the country. Over the last five years, over 10,000 people have attended the event, with over 3,500 cars displayed, and Niall hopes this year's gathering will continue to grow those numbers.

‘Don’t say maybe, come to the Ukulele Céilí’ as Longford's festival season gathers pace

It may be a small instrument, but it has a massive following and Longford is set to continue its association with the Ukulele as the Ukulele Céilí returns this weekend.

 

A major part of the event is supporting local charities. Last year the organisers presented a cheque for €4,000 to DePaul, Longford and Ellie's Wish To Walk. Longford’s OSNS Motor Show has raised over €50,000 for charity since it began.

“We will be donating money to the autism unit of St Mel's College,” Niall said of the recipient of this year's profits, “We have supported a lot of charities in the past. Because St Mel's have done so much for us, we felt it was time we did something for them. The autism unit is underfunded and we hope to be able to help them out.”

Last year there were a large number of cars of all calibre taking part. From a 51 year old Datsun 240Z to a brand new BMW X7m, the showcase lived up to its Old School, New School moniker: “This year we will have over 300 cars of all makes and models.

“We have vintage, classic and supercars coming from all over Ireland. We are hoping to get around 2,000 visitors. With the Longford Festival also taking place this weekend that could be more,” Niall said.

Niall says there's a significant emphasis on providing entertainment for the younger visitors: “We have done a lot of work on kids entertainment. Hopefully a lot of families around for the Longford Festival will bring their kids down, because it's really going to be a family fun day.”

Longford and Lanesboro to host weekend dedicated to promoting wellbeing and sustainable living

A transformative weekend dedicated to promoting wellbeing and sustainable living will take place from Saturday, July 15 to Sunday, July 16 starting at 10am in the Temperance Hall, New Street, Longford N39 R9X8 and finishing in Lanesboro at 4pm on Sunday afternoon.

 

The OSNS Motor Show organiser says the passion of the exhibitors for their vehicles brings them all together: “The cars will be in pristine condition for the occasion. There's always a very high standard of vehicles on display. There could be €70,000 spent on the modification of these cars. The lads who build them put everything into them. You will never get the money you put into the cars back, but you will make friends for life.”

Niall says the show's continued success is down to the support of volunteers, exhibitors and those who attend: “Our event is made possible thanks to the support of our community and partners. We are grateful for all who continued to support us. We will have a range of trade stands on the day offering merchandise. Everything you would need for a car.”

As well as trade stands there will be coffee vendors, ice cream vans and food available: “St Mels have given us the use of their canteen. People will be able to get their Sunday dinner on site, which is quite unusual for a motor show.”

Niall says all visitors will be accommodated: “We are selling tickets online, but tickets are available on the gate on the day.”

The show will be staged at St Mel's College this Sunday, July 16.