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The “Bears”, as they are affectionately known, are a dedicated group of classic car and sports car enthusiasts. Since the club was formed in 1989, their primary aim has been to raise money for children’s charities through their own social, dream rides and touring events, and to support other charitable events.

The club is renowned for offering their ‘Dream Rides’ at numerous shows throughout the year including Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show, with Discovery. Members kindly donated their time, and car, and wearing their distinctive orange fleece offer enthusiasts the chance to be their passenger in a 10 mile ride for a charitable donation. To date they have raised over an incredible £2,400,000 for children’s charities in the UK.

Last year the club was thrilled to announce Mike Brewer, friend of Lancaster and TV presenter of shows such as Wheeler Dealers and Wheeler Dealers: Dream Car, as their club patron and presented him with his orange fleece at the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show 2019.

Benefits for members

The annual subscription is £20 a year and this supports the overheads for the club, meaning all monies raised from Dream Rides and other events goes directly towards the chosen charities.

Each member can enjoy:

• The Bear Facts - the club’s quarterly magazine containing items relating to interesting cars, stories about events that have taken place, and other motoring highlights.
• Discounted insurance – as exclusive insurance partner for the club, members can enjoy up to 25% off premiums with Lancaster Insurance and cover for ‘Dream Rides’ can be included.

The club has eight regional groups; The Midlands, Northamptonshire and surrounding counties, The North West, The North East, Southern England, South West England, Northern England & Scotland and The Isle of Wight. Each group organises its own events and club nights are a regular feature, usually for a noggin and natter.

Dave Youngs, Car Club Manager at Lancaster Insurance, comments: “The Bears’ passion for raising money for children’s charities up and down the country is inspirational. Over the years, we’ve taken part in ‘Dream Rides’, welcomed a number of members to the Lancaster offices as part of our annual charity day and we look forward to the partnership continuing for years to come.”

Alan Moss, Chairman at Sporting Bears, comments: “We have a fantastic relationship with the team at Lancaster and their support in helping us achieve our goals is invaluable. We’re thrilled to have been awarded their ‘Club of the Month’!”