Sponsored by Tourism Ireland, and supported by the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs and Classic Car Weekly, the nominations were probably put forward by some of their personnel who were in Jersey over the Christmas period and visiting clubs the JOMC entertained during 2018.
The JOMC has been shortlisted from hundreds of entries in two of the six categories: Best Event in 2018 for the 50th Boxing Day 12 Churches Cavalcade, and JOMC president Graham Le Lay has been nominated for Unsung Club Hero.
Mr Le Lay commented: ‘It was a surprise for the club and to be shortlisted is an achievement in itself.
‘This event is the “Oscars” equivalent for national car clubs. However, I suspect that the golden envelopes will probably have oily fingerprints all over them!
‘With regard to the Boxing Day event, this is fantastic recognition for the club presidents and members who have organised it over the past 50 years.’
The Boxing Day Run is the Club’s flagship event of the year, and the 50th run on 26 December 2018 attracted some 90 vehicles, all registered pre-31 December 1950, with the route passing each of the Island’s parish churches.
Fittingly for the 50th anniversary, bright sunshine added an extra sparkle to the gleaming and highly polished coachwork of the vehicles.
Mr Le Lay is in his third year as president of the club, and has been closely involved with arrangements for various events in its calendar, including co-ordinating trips by overseas clubs to the Island and also off-island club tours.
Jonathan Scott Warren, the JOMC vice-president, commented: ‘I am delighted that the club and Graham Le Lay have been recognised in this way, and these nominations are a reflection of the high regard in which the club is held and the hard work and time that Graham devotes to the club.
‘Graham’s efforts have enhanced the reputation of the club, and his nomination for this award is well deserved. The Boxing Day Run is enjoyed not only by JOMC members but also is clearly much appreciated by the gatherings of spectators at the start and also at each of the 12 parish churches.’
