How We Started
How We Started
The Otley Vintage Transport Extravaganza was first held in 1996 as part of the Otley Town Mayor, Councillor Nigel Francis's Charity Appeal...
Held at bridge end in Otley, around 100 vehicles attended and the event raised around £500 for charity. It was only going to be staged once, but due to its success and mounting pressure, a second event was planned but a new site had to be found.
Wharfedale farmers auction mart stepped in and offered the use of their fields at Knotford Nook, Pool Road, Otley and for the last 24 years the event has taken place on this site (except one year due to foot & mouth, one year because the field was flooded and two years due to the COVID Pandemic).
Over the years the O.V.T.E. has grown to around 500 vehicles, with everything from large steam engines to push bikes. It has become very much a family event and over the years the attendance has gone up to around 7,000 people visiting the show.
All profits raised from the event go to the charity 'Hang on to a Dream' which to date has granted 'dreams' for around 90 young people. The event has also raised money for other larger and smaller charitable donations over the years such as the Avro Memorial Appeal who are working with Leeds Bradford Airport to build a memorial for the people, planes and pilots connected to the Avro Works, the Olivia Payne Appeal and the Otley Town Mayor's Charities.
