Billed as 'a day for all of us to celebrate cars, drivers and old soldiers', there is little about this automotive bonanza which isn't legendary. For a start, Chelsea Autolegends is a celebration of Le Mans, the thrilling 24 hour endurance race which has fascinated petrolheads since 1923, and will be displaying cars from all periods of the race's history, including Steve McQueen's 1970 Porsche 917, the Jaguar D Type XKD505 and the 1923 Blower Bentley, ‘Little Red’. Additonally, many of the drivers who steered these cars to victory are set to attend and Sir Stirling Moss (who never won but is nevertheless fairly good behind the wheel) will be opening the event.
Not only are the cars legendary, but Chelsea Autolegends will take place in the stunning grounds of the Royal Hospital, which has been providing care for wounded soldiers for over three centuries and is, quite rightly, a cherished institution in itself. A significant amount of money from the event will go directly to the charity and, if you're feeling particularly flush, look out for the charity auction that includes prizes donated by stars such as Jodie Kidd.
Chelsea Autolegends runs from 10am - 4pm this Sunday, with Sir Stirling opening the event at midday, and tickets are £12 in advance or free for under 16s. With 600 cars to ogle, stalls to browse, entertainment to watch and both celebrities and Chelsea Pensioners to chat to, this event is both a fantastic way to support a good cause and the perfect thing to distract us from the fact that our 'I am the Stig' t-shirts have suddenly gone out of fashion...
Chelsea Autolegends takes place between 10am-4pm on Sunday 5th September at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, Royal Hospital Rd, London SW3 4SR. Nearest tube Sloane Square. Tickets are £12 in advance or £15 on the gate.
