Halkirk centre visitors’ book ‘full of glowing comments’ as numbers rise again

The volunteers who run Halkirk Heritage and Vintage Motor Centre have reported another year-on-year increase in visitor numbers and “very positive feedback” from the public.

At an end-of-season open evening on Friday, more than 50 people turned out for a last look at this year’s displays and exhibitions.

The centre in the old village school in Sinclair Street is operated by Halkirk Heritage and Vintage Motor Society SCIO. It is a showcase for vintage and classic vehicles while also having a strong focus on local history.

Visitor numbers from Easter this year until November 15 amounted to 1553, with a group visit still to come in December.

The centre had 1057 visitors in its first season, 2022, followed by 1509 last year.

Chairperson Lorraine Eyre said: “The whole committee is pleased to see visitor numbers increasing. It’s particularly gratifying to see so many local people coming back, some several times in a season.

“The centre is a very handy place to bring family and friends when they come up on holiday, especially on rainy days.

“We’ve had very positive feedback – our visitors’ book is full of glowing comments, and some visitors send us thank-you cards or letters. Group visitors always seem to enjoy themselves.

“We’re always hopeful of attracting new visitors. Locals are aware that some displays alter annually – the turnaround of vehicles seems to be a big draw.”

Mrs Eyre added: “Apart from the cars, bikes and motoring memorabilia, we’re keen for people to see the heritage side with its displays and exhibitions.

“This month we held an afternoon for family history research, an area we’re expanding on.”

The end-of-season gathering featured refreshments, a raffle and fun competitions. There was a contest to add a caption to a photo of the society’s 1959 Austin Healey Sprite taken by Glasgow-based professional photographer Gavin Macqueen at a location between Halkirk and Westerdale.

The Sprite had an afternoon away from the centre in September for Gavin’s photoshoot with model Francesca Flynn and props from the society’s vintage stock. A framed enlargement was on view and there are 20 limited-edition prints available to buy.

A selection of prints will be shown in the centre next year.

The centre reopens on Saturday, April 19, when visitors will be able to see a change to some of the vehicles and displays as well as new exhibitions.

This year’s main exhibition was Life on the Land, a look back at farming down the years in and around Halkirk. The theme in the heritage room was Childhood, with toys, books and games from through the decades.

It is likely that next year’s exhibition will be about Stephen’s Plastics, the English firm that was located in the building which is now the society’s home. The business manufactured and supplied plastic clothing to Dounreay and other workplaces.

The committee would be keen to hear from anyone willing to volunteer for duty in reception during opening hours. The centre is open from Easter until the end of October, two afternoons a week (three during May to September), from 2-4pm.

Secretary Janet Mowat can be contacted by email at halkirkheritage@btinternet.com

Over the winter (excluding Christmas and New Year), every second Wednesday, starting on November 27, the centre will be hosting Winter Warmer afternoons from 2pm-4pm.

Those attending will be able to enjoy the company of others, pass on local information or family history, look at old newspapers, play table-top games and have a hot drink.

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