Great Northern Classics, Derby’s premier heritage motoring destination, is excited to announce its 2026 programme of ‘Evenings With’ events. This series will feature engaging conversations with prominent automotive celebrities, hosted by renowned TV presenter Paul Cowland, offering enthusiasts a unique opportunity to delve into the stories behind some of the industry’s most iconic figures.
Paul Cowland is a celebrated TV presenter and automotive enthusiast, best known for co-hosting Discovery Channel’s, ‘Salvage Hunters: Classic Cars’, where he restores and sells classic vehicles with his signature blend of humour and expertise. With a career spanning over three decades, Paul has worked as a writer, photographer, tuner, and collector, amassing an eclectic collection of nearly 90 cars.
The programme will feature one guest each month, held at Great Northern Classics’ historic venue in Derby. Attendees can expect insightful discussions on automotive history, design, and personal passions in a relaxed setting.
Great Northern Classics have confirmed the inaugural guest, for the first event on Saturday 28th February is ‘An Evening with Simon Gregson’.Simon is a beloved TV actor renowned for his long-running role as Steve McDonald on Coronation Street since 1989, is also a dedicated car enthusiast. He has participated in prestigious events like the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, expressed a dream of becoming a rally driver, and has owned dozens of classics including Lotus, MR2s and Renault Alpines. Simon has shared his love for cars on podcasts like ‘Fuelling Around’, highlighting how models like the Renault 5 Turbo sparked his lifelong passion.
Dates for the end of March and April are to follow for esteemed guests:
Ian Callum CBE, the celebrated car designer, is best known for his transformative tenure as Director of Design at Jaguar, where he oversaw the creation of groundbreaking models like the F-Type, F-Pace, and I-Pace, earning World Car Design of the Year awards. His notable achievements include designing the Aston Martin DB7 and Vanquish, as well as contributions to Ford’s Escort RS Cosworth and Nissan R-390. Ian has recently been honoured with the ‘2025 EyesOn Design Lifetime Achievement Award’ for his enduring impact on automotive design.
Peter Stevens, another celebrated car designer, is famed for penning the iconic McLaren F1 supercar, and is widely regarded as one of the most influential designers. He’s also wonderfully candid!
His achievements span designing the Lotus Elan and revised Esprit, the Jaguar XJR-15, and contributing to the 1999 Le Mans-winning BMW V12 LMR. With a career at top brands like Lotus, McLaren, and Lamborghini, Peter has twice been runner-up for the Prince Philip Designers Prize and continues to influence the industry.
Tickets for each ‘Evenings With’ event are priced at £25 for the evening session or £37 including a curry, side and a drink, providing excellent value for an unforgettable experience. Tickets can be purchased directly through the Great Northern Classics website at Doors open 5.30pm, food is served from 6pm, and the entertainment starts from 7pm.
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Automobile Magazine-UK
