Newbury town centre was brought to life in spectacular style on Saturday, 26th July as the very first Italian Auto Moto Festival made its debut, drawing car lovers, families, and curious visitors into Newbury town centre on a beautiful summer’s day.

Organised in partnership by Italian Auto Moto Club, Newbury BID, and Newbury Lions Club, the free event saw 65 classic Italian vehicles line Northbrook Street, ranging from vintage Fiats and Alfa Romeos to sleek Lamborghinis and Ferraris. The vehicles spanned more than a century of Italian automotive design and passion, with over 100 years of motoring heritage on display along Newbury’s Northbrook Street.

The town was buzzing as visitors made the most of the sunshine, chatted with proud vehicle owners, and soaked up the vibrant atmosphere. And it wasn’t just for car enthusiasts – families also enjoyed meeting Roary the Lion, the mascot of Newbury Lions. The event helped raise over £500 in support of the charity’s ongoing work in the local community.

Judith Colby, Vice President of Newbury Lions Club said:
“Newbury Lions are delighted to be involved in bringing this new event to the town and were pleased to see so many people out in the town enjoying the magnificent display. In a year that saw us having to cancel our Speen Fete due to the amber weather warning, we are grateful to be the beneficiaries of this event. The money raised will help us to support those in greatest need in the community throughout the coming year.”

The Mayor of Newbury joined early in the afternoon to meet car owners and help judge two prize categories.

Ben Beardmore-Gray, Marketing Manager at Newbury BID adds:
“It’s been a real pleasure working with the IAMC and Newbury Lions on this brand-new event – it was a fantastic day and one we’d love to see become a regular fixture in the local calendar! We’re always keen to support unique, free events like this, as they help boost the town centre economy by driving footfall, offer locals some great free entertainment, and leave visitors with a brilliant first impression of Newbury.”

This brand-new event is hoped to become a regular fixture in Newbury’s calendar, following such a strong and positive response from both visitors and participating vehicle owners.

To keep up to date with the latest events taking place in and around Newbury, head to visitnewbury.org.uk or follow @visitnewbury on social media.