Thurles District Vintage Club

The Thurles and District Vintage Club was formed following the enormous success of their millennium celebrations in 2001. Over the past ten years the event has grown considerably and has now become one of the top annual attractions in Tipperary, drawing visitors and vintage machinery exhibitors /collectors from far outside its local natural environment.

In 2001 the club started with three members and today membership has grown to over eighty three, not just from all over North Tipperary, but from surrounding counties such as Co. Limerick and Co. Laois.

The clubs main aim is to promote the collection and restoration of all types of vehicles and memorabilia, thus preserving past heritage and providing valuable primary sources for lovers of rural Irish history.

Our world, over the past ten years, has observed more change and experienced more rapid progress than in the previous one thousand years of man’s existence, so it is extremely important that we display not just our old rural artifacts and labour saving devices, but that also we demonstrate the skills required to operate these devices.

Between annual events the club organise different charity fun events, raising large sums for various designated local and national charities.

The highlight of their year, however, is the clubs Annual Vintage Rally which normally takes place in Corbally, Thurles, Co. Tipperary and already the club have begun planning for this event, and of course are always on the lookout for willing volunteers and helpers, whose assistance is very much appreciated.

We learn from club chairman Mr Jim Fogarty that two, up and coming, events for are already well into the planning stages and worthy of note for those who love to travel back in time and reminisce.

Note : Thurles Vintage Rally is planned for 12th June 2011, while their Thurles and District Road Run will take place on the 17th July 2011.

The  club is affiliated to the Irish Vintage Engine and Tractor Association and last year they had the honour of hosting the I.V.E.T.A. National Rally.
For further information on this clubs activities contact Paddy Kelly, Thurles, Tel 087 9678114 or Jim, Tel 087 9678114 or 086 2743442.

For all of their great work and effort, this organisation is truly worthy of Tipperary’s full support.