The Pied Piper Classic Cars & Family Show welcomed more than 4,000 visitors to Highnam Court on Sunday, delivering its most successful one-day event to date and raising £59,853 for Pied Piper Appeal.

The annual fundraiser brought together an impressive display of 440 classic cars, family entertainment, live attractions, food and drink vendors, and activities for all ages, creating a memorable day out for thousands of visitors from across Gloucestershire and beyond. It’s a proud moment to remember Nick Broady, former chair of the Trustees, who passed in December from MND and founded this show 16 years ago.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Highnam Court, the event featured hundreds of classic cars alongside children’s rides, games, animal encounters, the popular Colour-Me Car, and the entertaining human fruit machine, helping to create a festival atmosphere throughout the day. Thanks to Gloucester Rugby’s Lewis Ludlow and Jack Singleton who had fun spinning and taking part on the human fruit machine!

The record-breaking attendance and fundraising total mark a significant milestone for the charity, which supports sick and disabled children in Gloucestershire. Organisers have hailed the show as the best in its history, with exhibitors, volunteers, sponsors and visitors all playing a vital role in its success.

A prize-rich raffle, many cups of tea and slices of cake in the Orangery, games, stalls and retail opportunities delivered something for all the family, including farm animals, and sweet stalls. Acts on the traditional bandstand welcomed performances from the Rock Choir and Got2Sing who entertained crowds on the green.

Thanks to Roger Head OBE and headline sponsors, Malvern Tyres Group and APM Fire & Security, where at peak times all roads leading into Highnam Court had visitors queuing, but the APM car parking team managed the queues swiftly and effectively.

Chair of the Trustees, Julie Kent, said: ” I am absolutely blown away by the amount we have raised in one day. The Car Show Team have been meeting for 6 months, and everything came together: we had luck on our side with the weather and over 4000 people had a fantastic day out.

“We could not do it without the support from our sponsors, exhibitors and volunteers. Times are tough for charities at the moment and this £59k will make a massive difference to the children and families we support across Gloucestershire. It is an incredible result. Well done to all involved.”

The charity is grateful for the support from its main event sponsors: Malvern Tyres Group, APM Fire & Security, Cass-Stephens Insurance and Keyway Construction.

The 2026 car show winner’s trophy was proudly presented to Nigel Thomas for his beautiful 1923 Morris Oxford Bullnose.

Funds raised from the event will help the Pied Piper Appeal continue its work supporting children in hospitals, SEND schools, Wish holidays and work in the community throughout the county.

Following the overwhelming success of this year’s event, organisers are already looking ahead to making next year’s show even bigger and better. Save the date: Sunday June 13, 2027.