Commonwealth Car Club

The Commonwealth Car Club officially launched on 13 March 2024, but its story began two years earlier, with a powerful idea rooted in Birmingham’s heritage.

In early 2022, as Birmingham prepared to host the 22nd Commonwealth Games, organisers were seeking something unique for the Opening Ceremony on 28 July 2022—a spectacle that would celebrate not just global unity, but the soul of the host city.

It was Gemma Cartwright MBE, a passionate community leader and founder of the Pride of Longbridge event, who proposed that the ceremony showcase as many Birmingham-made cars as possible. Her vision was simple yet powerful: to honour the city’s world-renowned automotive legacy—from Austin and MG to Rover and Jaguar—and give it pride of place on a global stage.

Taking her advice to heart, the organisers launched a public call in April 2022, seeking 72 volunteer drivers who owned red, white, or blue Birmingham-built vehicles. These patriotic colours would form a Union Flag display during the ceremony. But participants had to keep their roles secret—even from family and friends.

Rehearsals began on 12 June 2022 at the historic Longbridge Works, a site once central to British car production. For many, just driving through the gates of Longbridge was a moving experience.

That day, the volunteers were introduced to Paul Swift, one of the UK’s top precision drivers and a household name in automotive stunt performance. Known for his jaw-dropping skills and appearances on BBC’s Top Gear, Paul was tasked with choreographing the vehicle movements that would bring the Union Flag to life inside the stadium.

Rehearsals moved to Alexander Stadium on 10 July, with dress runs held on 24 and 26 July. Finally, on 28 July 2022, in front of a global audience, the cars took to the field and performed flawlessly. It was a powerful and symbolic tribute—not only to the UK, but to Birmingham’s manufacturing might and community spirit.

The experience left a lasting impression on everyone involved. Bonds were formed, memories were made, and the seeds of something greater were planted.

From Ceremony to Community

Soon after the Games, the volunteer drivers formed the Birmingham Commonwealth Games Drivers Group to take part in car shows and share their unique experience with the public. Their first appearance was at Pride of Longbridge on 15 April 2023, where the vehicles—and the stories behind them—received an enthusiastic welcome.

As interest grew, so did the requests to join. However, out of respect for the original volunteers, the group remained exclusive. This inspired the creation of a new, inclusive club: the Commonwealth Car Club, officially founded on 13 March 2024.

Just a month later, on 20 April, the club held its first show at Alexander Stadium—the very place where many members had once performed. The turnout exceeded expectations. Visitors and drivers alike took photos at the stadium gates, reliving the spirit of 2022 in a new chapter of community connection.

A second show followed on 3 August 2024, where Jonathan Cotterill’s Mini won the club’s inaugural Best in Show Award, voted for by members and attendees. Both events featured a vintage Daimler bus, generously provided by National Express West Midlands, adding a nostalgic charm that captured the essence of Birmingham’s transport heritage.

The success of these gatherings led to the naming of the event series: Retro & Refined—a name that welcomes old and new, from classic British motors to American cars, motorbikes, and camper vans.

Our Philosophy: Fuelled by Friendship

At the Commonwealth Car Club, we aim to redefine what a car club can be. Our approach is grounded in one principle: inclusivity. Our slogan, “Fuelled by Friendship,” reflects our mission to build a warm, welcoming community where everyone feels at home—regardless of what they drive.

Rather than monthly meets, we focus on two major shows each year at Alexander Stadium, providing high-quality experiences without overwhelming schedules. We understand that not everyone can attend regular meets, so we prioritise impact over frequency.

More Than a Club: Connect & Roadrunner

To keep the community engaged throughout the year, we’ve developed two unique initiatives:

Connect

This programme highlights external shows and car events that align with the club’s interests. Instead of competing, we support other organisers and encourage members to attend great events across the UK.

Roadrunner

An adventurous series of social drives, road trips, and day outings. From scenic routes through the Peak District to theme park visits and countryside cafés, Roadrunner is about building friendships and having fun—whether your car is on display or not.

Driven to Give Back

Our community spirit doesn’t stop at car shows. The Commonwealth Car Club is committed to charity work, with our first fundraising event being a climb up Mount Snowdon on 6 September 2025. It’s our way of turning passion into purpose—supporting good causes while celebrating the things we love.

From a once-in-a-lifetime performance at the Commonwealth Games to a growing movement of friendly, passionate motorists, the Commonwealth Car Club is more than a car club—it’s a legacy built on pride, community, and the drive to do something different.