Nostalgic Southend seafront car meet draws huge crowds

Southend seafront roared back to life last night as hundreds of car enthusiasts gathered for a nostalgic celebration of the 80s, 90s and early 2000s car scene.

The ‘Old Fellas’ car meet drew car enthusiasts from across the country, with some petrolheads travelling from as far as Scotland to take part in what was described as a “trip down memory lane”.

Ford RS Turbos, Cosworths, Cavaliers and other retro classics lined Southend seafront, recreating the sights and sounds of an era when the city was a national hotspot for car culture. For many, it was more than just a showcase of vintage motors – it was a chance to reconnect with old friends, share stories and relive the buzz of nights gone by.

The organisers of the event from the Old Fellas car club said: “Thank you to everyone for making the night a huge success! The weather didn’t spoil the fun. We’re true car enthusiasts, we’re petrolheads and we miss these old skool vibes. Southend for us is THE place to host this. On to the next one!”

The event was praised for being respectful, with no incidents of disorder being reported. Attendees were keen to emphasise the positive spirit of the gathering.

However, car meets on Southend seafront remain a sensitive issue. Southend Council currently has a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) in place that specifically targets car cruising. The order, which covers the entire seafront area, gives police and council officers powers to issue fines for behaviour associated with disruptive or dangerous gatherings.

Only last weekend, Essex Police took enforcement action at a different car event, seizing three cars and a motorbike. A spokesperson for Essex Police said: “When groups of car enthusiasts gather, the majority of meets pass off safely and without incident. However, there have been occasions when our officers have been forced to take enforcement action when drivers have put other road users and spectators in danger.

“When there is racing, drivers performing burnouts or doughnuts, excessive engine noise leading to complaints, or roads being blocked off, our officers have no choice but to act.

“Southend is covered by a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), and any breach of that could land you with a fine – follow the link in the comments for more details.

“We understand people love their cars but that cannot be at the expense of other people’s safety or local residents’ quality of life.”

Southend’s history of car meets stretches back to the 1980s and 90s, when the seafront became a magnet for drivers and spectators alike. Last night’s event proved that passion for the scene has not faded – but it also underlined the tightrope organisers walk to keep these gatherings fun, safe and within the law.

For many who came of age in the Max Power era, the night felt like a reminder that the culture which once defined a generation is still alive and kicking.

Photos by Aaron Chesham and Michael Sumner.