It is with great pleasure that the FBHVC has announced it will run the 2021 Drive it Day in support of the NSPCCs Childline service.

The Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs introduced Drive it Day in 2005 with the aim of getting the nations transport heritage out on the roads and seen by the public. Since then, the national celebration of Historic Vehicles has successfully increased public awareness of the historic vehicle movement whilst bringing a sense of togetherness to the thousands of owners and enthusiasts who attend events and runs up and down the country. Those events, held by over 500 member organisations and clubs that make up the Federations membership, are as varied as the vehicles taking part and often include Drive Outs, Rallies, and meetings at local beauty spots or historic sites.

As the role of the FBHVC and of the historic movement evolves and we become ever more aware of all our duties to contribute to wider society, the Federation has been exploring ways to develop National Drive it Day and re-position the event so that, as well as fulfilling its aims to raise awareness of the historic vehicle movement, we can also use it as an opportunity to contribute to society.

During the current pandemic, the NSPCCs Childline service has become even more significant as a vital lifeline for those children who feel they have no one else to turn to, holding 19,000 counselling sessions a month since lockdown began. Over half of all conversations related to mental and emotional health (including suicidal thoughts and feelings and self-harm), and more children under 11 contacting the service.

As children adjust to returning to school and the effects of the pandemic continue to be felt, Childline will continue to be a vital resource during these times of uncertainty, but they need our help to fund these vital resources. It costs just £4 to answer a contact from a child or young person reaching out for help, you can make a donation here or hold your own Drive it Day event or activity to raise funds for Childline - and all support will be gratefully received and hugely appreciated.