This year’s gathering of Jaguars in the New Forest was again bathed in sunshine as the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu hosted Simply Jaguar. The Peter James team joined our club partners, the Jagaur Enthusiasts’ Club, to put on another impressive display of Jaguars from all eras – packed into the museum’s grounds.
The central arena area, directly outside the museum buildings, was home to the Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club marquee. Club partners AFWM and Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club Insurance (Peter James) were all available to assist and chat with members. From the moment the gates opened, it was packed with enthusiasts making the most of the opportunity to meet old and new friends, access member services, and pick up a few items of club merchandise.
Milestone Displays
Surrounding the club marquee was the first of a series of unique displays celebrating several vital milestones and anniversaries within Jaguar’s history. XK140s were marking 70 years, S-Types marked 25 years, and, of course, the X300s with their 30-year anniversary.
The regions of the JEC put on a superb display with gatherings representing a range of areas around the UK. They parked together, enjoying each other’s company in the warm and sunny surroundings of Beaulieu’s stunning parkland.
Within the museum itself, there was much to see and enjoy, including many specific Jaguar displays. This included the TWR XJR-8 Jaguar Group C show car, a replica of the chassis Raul Boesel drove to victory alongside Eddie Cheever to win the 1987 World Sportscar Championship.
A handful of trade stands offered memorabilia and car accessories, while the museum’s catering outlets kept attendees fed and watered. A relaxed and sociable atmosphere descended on the event as the Jaguars basked in the afternoon sunshine.
Friendships were rekindled, and lots of enthusiasts enjoyed the show, grounds, and museum. It was great to see so many club members soaking up the incredible atmosphere, enjoying each other’s company, and making the most of the museum facilities.
Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club
Overall, the day was a tremendous success for the National Motor Museum and Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club. Just as in the year before, the many Jaguar enthusiasts who had not met the club before were introduced to the JEC family for the first time opening the club to a broader audience in that part of the world.
The quality of the Jaguars on show and the enthusiasm shown in their preparation showed what a strong following for the Club and Jaguar exists in this part of the UK. For us, it was also a great opportunity therefore to explain the benefits of Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club Insurance and some of the unique benefits that the scheme offers.
Simply Jaguar Awards
The day rounded off with the show’s commentator, Tim, presenting the awards for the people’s choice, and it was down to three finalists.
- Paul with his Jaguar F-TYPE
- Julian’s stunning Mk2, which was celebrating its 60th birthday during the show, and,
- The winner was Jeffery’s 2007 Jaguar XKR.
Watch out for Simply Jaguar, Beaulieu in 2025 and join us there!
