THERE’S a stellar intergalactic new addition to the Isle of Wight International Charity Classic Car Extravaganza — Star Wars costume group, Vaders Raiders.

This giant annual classic car show on September 3 and 4 will be celebrating 21 years this year and the event is set to be bigger than ever.

During the past two decades, the classic car extravaganza has grown into a massive international event attracting every type of classic, retro and historic vehicle from all over mainland Britain, Europe and beyond.

Organiser Vic Gallucci has a record number of bookings and is expecting around 1,000 vehicles to line Ryde Esplanade on both days.

Vic, who was a Star Wars extra, said Vaders Raiders members will be in character costumes and will be mixing with members of the public and helping to collect much-needed funds for the event’s two Isle of Wight-based charities — Mountbatten hospice and the Isle of Wight Round Table.

There will also be a children’s section where kids meet the Stormtroopers.

Vic said: “I have seen this group in action at events and they are a big crowd attraction, so it should be great.”

Also new for this year’s show, television’s classic car star Sarah Crabtree will be on hand both days to meet visitors.

Most classic car enthusiasts will know Sarah for her appearance in the very popular television series, Bangers and Cash.

Vic said: “Sarah Crabtree has a lovely personality and will be a great asset to our show.”

To mark the show’s coming of age, Isle of Wight-based celebrant, Elaine Cesar, is offering a great competition for one lucky couple to renew their vows at the classic car show on Sunday, September 4.

This is open to exhibitors and to the general public and the vow renewal will take place next to the car of your choice — or it may be your own vehicle, or even on the beach.

Elaine will write the winners’ personal service for them, and the lucky couple can enjoy a heartfelt celebration of their love and reaffirm the promises and commitment they made to each other on their wedding day.

All you have to do to enter the competition is email: elainecesarcelebrant@outlook. com stating how many years you have been married, and the reason for renewing your vows, to celebrate your wedded bliss.

The closing date for entries is Sunday, August 14, and the organisers look forward to hearing your love story!

This year’s event will also coincide with Ryde’s illuminated carnival procession on Saturday, September 3, so there is double the reason to head to Ryde and make a proper afternoon and evening out.

As ever, admission to the car show is free, but donations to the charities are encouraged, and the event is open from 11am to 5.30pm both days.

The car show is supported by Wightlink, Isle of Wight Council, Ryde Town Council, Isle of Wight County Press, Gallagher Insurance Brokers, Corralls Coal, Island Roads and many more local businesses.

  • Entries for the car show are coming in thick and fast and anyone who wants to display their vehicle must register in advance by calling Vic on 020 8439 7871.