Sam’s Diner

American cars are great, and American diners are great too. Put them together and you have greatness guaranteed.

Introducing Sam’s Diner, which is located next to Par Market in St Austell. And guess what? It’s great.

Established since 2016, until the dreaded lockdown came along it used to host monthly car evenings. After things got back to normal, Sam’s manager Sarah was interested in having a show at the diner.

Enter the dynamic duo that is Jason and Emma Goss. They help organise regular events and rallies down here in Cornwall and also run the South West Classic Events Calendar page on Facebook, which posts event details to keep you up to date with what’s going on.

The date was set, with the time from 1pm until evening. As the market and other stores nearby were open and using the car park, only a small section was sectioned off for show cars which meant just 40 spots available. The guys asked

Left: This Chevy panel van has been out and about on the south-western show circuit for a while. I’ve seen it a few times but never caught up with the owner… however the paintwork is stunning

Below left: Barry Aimable drives this ’64 Thunderbird with billet rims

Below: Steve Harrison turned up in his moredoor Ford Zephyr with 302 power

Mark Jones has owned this patinated Chrysler 300 for a number of years

for pre-entry by submitting information on the car so they could keep tabs.

A great variety of hot rods, classic Americans and retro cars turned up, despite the weather being a bit dismal. Local band Play it Cool played throughout the afternoon and a local dance club threw some moves to the tunes. All in all, it was a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon and everyone went home happy after thoroughly enjoying themselves.

Was this the start of something bigger? During the day, discussions took place on the subject of further events at both Sam’s and Par Market, so keep an eye on the socials and the South West Classic Events Calendar page for future details CC