THE organisers of a popular car show in Wem have confirmed they hope it will go ahead following a public outcry that it may not.

Wem Vehicles of Interest has taken place in the town since 1998.

But those behind it had doubts over whether it could go ahead this year due to a shortage of volunteers leading to a public outcry.

Local businessman Ben Young confirmed that he and fellow organisers will be looking into what they can do to ensure the show does go ahead.

He said: "Wem Vehicles of Interest are putting a committee together as we speak.

"The first meeting will take place next week.

"We decided not to do it this year because we were so short of volunteers last year.

"But with the public outcry, we have got to try."

OTHER NEWS

Ben confirmed that many people have already come forward to offer support for the event.

He said: "Already, people are coming forward with funds. Other volunteers have come forward.

"If it is possible, Wem Vehicles of Interest will be going ahead this year.

"But we can't say that until we have a proper committee meeting which will be next week."

Last year was the first time the show had been held in the town since 2019, but Ben confirmed it had been busier in previous years.

He said: "Before Covid-19, it was twice as busy compared to what you saw last year.

"Last year was the first year we didn't send out invitations or advertise it because of Covid-19 and everything else.

"It was much smaller last year compared to what it has been."

Want to stay up to date with all the latest stories from Whitchurch and the surrounding area? Click here to sign up for our morning and daily email newsletters and click on the + for the 'Morning Briefing' and the 'Daily Catch-Up'.

Much of the financial support and volunteers came from businesses in the town but Ben spoke about how many have less staff and how it has affected available manpower for the show.

He explained: "The show is mainly funded by the businesses of Wem.

"Wem Town Council put up a small amount of money which helped greatly.

"But they also give their time and help as well as money.

"After Covid-19, we have six fewer staff in my business than what we had before.

"I had less time and other small businesses had less time and it really affected the show.

"Hopefully we can get over that this time."

Ben confirmed the show has drawn in visitors from outside north Shropshire.

He said: "It always has done.

"Everyone enjoys it and it gives the town a nice boost."