A CELEBRATION of life on four wheels is coming to Reading this Sunday as the Berkshire Motor Show returns.
Prospect Park is once again the venue for the annual event that will see petrolheads gather to see rare vehicles, enjoy entertainment and mark the golden age of motoring.
This will be the 20th year of the event, and there is more than just wheeled vehicles.
Other attractions include hovercraft rides, a chance to learn more about what life was like in the Wild West, music from the Straight Eight Band, medieval reenactments, a dog show, face painting and a fun fair.
Classic cars and bikes will be on show, as well as trucks and car and bike clubs, with prizes for the best in show.
The event will raise funds for Berkshire Women’s Aid, this charity helps Men and Women in Domestic Abuse situations.
Show organiser Steph Awbery said the charity was close to her heart as she was a victim of domestic abuse in the past.
“No one really knows what you go through with the fear and hurt,” she said.
“You are kept away from family and friends, told you are no good and always putting you down, you never know if whatever you say is going to kick them off on one – you are walking on eggshells all the time.
“They drain you physically and mentally and take you over.”
She is no longer in that situation.
“I am happy to say I am now stronger than ever and wish to help others in the same situation by getting the word out about Berkshire Women’s Aid,” she continued.
“While I have been arranging the show, many people have come forward to say they also were abused. To me this is saying something – this must come out into the open more.
“Since covid, there have been hundreds of calls to the police and to Berkshire Women’s Aid Reading for help, not only them but also to West Berkshire council.
“Together we can all help those who are in danger, please come along to the show and support us with a donation. Every little amount helps the charity to help those in need.
“I was lucky to have close friends to help me get out of the situation and the police listened to me and helped.”
She added: “My aim is to let others out there know, you can have a better life after Domestic Abuse, and get the help you may need. No one has to suffer in silence any more, as life is too precious and we only get one.
“These Trained people are there for you, to help you, to listen to you, and for you to trust again and to relive your life again.
“We now need to be more open about domestic abuse.”
The event runs from 10.30am to 5pm. Entry is free, with a £2 donation asked for car parking.
Help is needed with marshalling. Anyone wanting to help should email: [email protected], or call: 07780 761779.
It is also not too late to rent a stand or sponsor the event, call Ms Awbery on: 07990 667503, or email: [email protected]
To contact Berkshire Women’s Aid, call its 24-hour helpline on: 08088 010882 or, in an emergency, call 999. The Men’s Advice Line 08088 010327.
