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Peter James Insurance Welcomes UNESCO Approval for FBHVC’s Historic Vehicle Movement Recognition

9 January 2026

Peter James Insurance is proud to celebrate the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs (FBHVC) on achieving UNESCO approval to advance its application, recognising the UK’s Historic Vehicle Enthusiasts’ Movement as part of the nation’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. 

This landmark step acknowledges the vital role enthusiasts play in preserving and sharing our vehicle heritage. The approval from UNESCO allows the FBHVC to prepare a full submission to have the historic vehicle movement officially recorded and safeguarded as living cultural heritage in the UK — a status shared with traditions such as bell-ringing and Highland games. 

As a long-standing insurance partner to the FBHVC, Peter James Insurance warmly congratulates the Federation’s leadership, volunteers, and members whose passion and commitment have brought the movement to this point. Enthusiasts from across the UK — attending events, maintaining vehicles, and nurturing knowledge — are the heartbeat of our classic scene. 

David Whale, FBHVC Chairman, reflected on the community’s excitement about the next phase of the UNESCO process, highlighting the importance of recognising millions of enthusiasts who attend events and keep historic vehicles on the road. “The authority to proceed with a full submission is an exciting prospect indeed. Every year, 4.3 million enthusiasts attend events supported by our 534 member clubs. By enjoying and learning about historic vehicles, and sharing their knowledge, enthusiasts play a vital role in helping keep our heritage alive – which is precisely why we are keen to see the UK historic vehicle enthusiasts’ movement officially recognised as an example of our nation’s living heritage.”

“At Peter James Insurance, we’ve always believed in the cultural and social value of historic vehicles — not just as machines, but as carriers of heritage and community,” said Dave Youngs, Head of Classic at Peter James Insurance. “We’re proud to support the FBHVC and the ongoing effort to secure recognition that reflects the contribution of enthusiasts up and down the country.”

Peter James Insurance continues to back the FBHVC’s work to protect owners’ freedom to use and enjoy their vehicles, and to strengthen the UK’s historic vehicle movement for future generations.

For more on the FBHVC and its UNESCO submission, visit fbhvc.co.uk.

More details about Living Heritage in the UK: www.livingheritage.unesco.org.uk

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