Wales’ only car manufacturer, Gilbern, once again took pride of place at this year’s Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show at the NEC Birmingham, held from 7–9 November.
The Gilbern Owners Club returned with its own dedicated stand, proudly flying the flag for Welsh motoring heritage and keeping the story of this historic brand alive for a new generation of enthusiasts.
Founded in the late 1950s by Giles Smith and Bernard Friese, Gilbern was based in Llantwit Fardre near Pontypridd and produced a small number of hand-built sports cars including the GT 1800, Genie and Invader. Each model reflected a unique era of British craftsmanship, but with a distinctly Welsh identity.
The Gilbern Owners Club’s stand at this year’s NEC show was a real highlight. It was packed with fascinating history, period photographs and detailed information about how these cars were built. Visitors could explore original factory photos, marketing materials and memorabilia while admiring beautifully restored examples of the marque. It wasn’t just a display, it felt like stepping back into a proud chapter of Welsh automotive history.
As a Gilbern owner myself, it was brilliant to see the attention the brand received throughout the weekend. My own 1966 Gilbern GT 1800 shares that same DNA as the cars on show, elegant, characterful and built with care.
One of the highlights of the weekend was meeting Christopher, another GT owner, and chatting about the differences between his car and mine. From small design details to how each has aged and been restored over the years, it was a reminder of just how much personality each Gilbern carries.
The Gilbern Owners Club is an active and friendly community, hosting regular meet-ups and shows across the country. Whether it’s a small local gathering or a major event like the NEC, the club gives owners the chance to share advice, stories and plenty of laughs. That sense of camaraderie is a huge part of what makes keeping these cars on the road so rewarding.
This year’s NEC Classic Motor Show also coincided with Remembrance Sunday, which gave the weekend an added sense of reflection. The halls were filled with touching tributes and a large military display, which felt fitting as it wasn’t too far away from the Gilbern stand, both celebrating history, pride and craftsmanship in their own ways.
Seeing the Gilbern badge among thousands of other classics was a proud moment. Thanks to the dedication of its owners and the passion of the club, the Welsh-built sports car continues to capture attention decades after the last one left the factory.
The Gilbern story is a reminder that Wales once built cars and that legacy is still very much alive today.
