‘Night at the Car Museum’ charity auction raises over £15,000 for SSAFA

27 March 2024

Cool cars and a good cause made for a splendid night of entertainment at the Night at the Car Museum on 29 February in Churt, Surrey, hosted by SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.

The evening was a rousing success thanks to Robert and Tanya Lewis, who opened their fantastic museum for attendees to enjoy. Sir Simon Bollom, SSAFA Trustee and National Chair, was instrumental in organising the event, as were SSAFA volunteers Alex and Harriet Wolfe. More than £15,000 was raised for A Driving Force, a biennial charity event that raises funds for SSAFA.

Alex said this of the evening’s success: “Growing up you are told not to talk to strangers. At the event, the generosity of strangers donating auction lots, raffle prizes, buying tickets and donations has made it an incredible evening. Robert and Tanya Lewis’ hospitality of opening one of the UK’s great car collections has raised funds for our veterans and given all attendees an unforgettable experience.”

Robert and Tanya’s collection features gorgeous cars from all sorts of countries and eras, including cars made by Ferrari, Lamborghini, Jaguar, Formula 1, Koenigsegg, and Le Mans, as well as vintage fuel pumps and other memorabilia from the automotive world. A charity auction also took place, including prizes such as one week’s usage of a stunning Aston Martin Rapide S, as well as a dinner at the private members’ club Annabel’s in Mayfair.

The generous donations will go towards this year’s first A Driving Force for SSAFA event, taking place from 30 July to 9 August. Over the course of 10 days, 100 lucky participants will take turns driving 50 cars around Spain and Gibraltar, enjoying epic vistas and staying in luxurious hotels.