If you’ve been in Colchester, Essex on the last Sunday of September this year, you might have noticed something rather extraordinary. Instead of the usual Sunday shoppers and families heading into town, the High Street was filled with classic cars, drivers in tweed suits, and the sound of applause from crowds who gathered to watch. This was no ordinary car meet—it was the Distinguished Gentleman’s Drive 2025, organised locally by Franks Motor Company in Colchester.

As a professional photographer covering PR and commercial events across Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk, and Cambridgeshire, I was lucky enough to be invited by Jon and the team at Frank’s to capture the day. And let me tell you—it was a perfect example of how charity events, brand values, and commercial photography can all come together to create something really special.

What is the Distinguished Gentleman’s Drive?

The Distinguished Gentleman’s Drive is a global classic car rally that takes place in cities all over the world. Think of it as the four-wheeled sibling of the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride—which focuses on motorcycles. Both events raise money and awareness for men’s health charities, supporting causes like prostate cancer research and men’s mental health.

Drivers take part in their finest attire, often in vintage or formal clothing, to bring a sense of style, heritage, and unity to the event. For businesses and local organisations, it’s more than just a drive—it’s a PR opportunity, a chance to give back to the community, and a great way to raise awareness for important causes.

This year was the first Drive organised by Frank’s Motorcycles, following their hugely successful Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride earlier in 2025.

Frank’s Motorcycles: A Local Brand with Global Values

For those who don’t know them, Franks Motor Company in Colchester is more than just a motorcycle showroom. They’re deeply rooted in the local community, bringing together people who share a passion for classic vehicles, craftsmanship, and tradition.

Supporting the Distinguished Gentleman’s Drive perfectly fits their brand values:

• Community engagement – bringing people together around shared interests.

• Heritage – celebrating classic vehicles and timeless style.

• Raising awareness – using their platform to shine a light on men’s health.

• Charity and giving back – raising thousands of pounds for good causes.

This is a great example of how a local company can align itself with a global charity event while still putting its own stamp on the day.

The Morning Atmosphere: Cars, Cameras, and Coffee

The day kicked off with a flurry of activity as around 50 classic cars began rolling into the Frank’s showroom car park. From Jaguar Mk2 and Triumphs to Bentleys, Rolls-Royces, and even a 100-year-old Model T Ford, the variety was breathtaking. There was even a vintage Mini, proudly celebrating its 40th birthday.

As the event photographer, this is where the challenge began—capturing each car and driver as they arrived. It was fast-paced, with vehicles lining up one after another, but with some support from the Frank’s team (and a lot of patience from the drivers) we managed to get personalised portraits of every participant. These images will be shared with drivers directly and used across websites and PR coverage, making sure the day lives on beyond the event itself.

And of course, like any good Essex gathering, there was coffee, tea, and light refreshments before the big drive out, giving everyone a chance to mingle, admire each other’s vehicles, and catch up.

The Procession Through Colchester

After the driver briefing from Jon, it was time to hit the road. But this wasn’t just any drive—it was a police-escorted procession through Colchester. Huge thanks must go to the Essex Police, who once again did a tremendous job keeping everything smooth and safe, especially with so many vintage cars (some slightly unreliable!) taking part.

I was even able to ride with the police escort for part of the drive, giving me the chance to capture unique action shots as the procession flowed through the town.

One of the highlights was the parade through Colchester’s High Street. The sight of 50 classic cars lined up, drivers dressed to the nines, while the town crier and local press cheered them on—it was something truly memorable. Shoppers stopped in their tracks, children waved, and locals applauded. It wasn’t just about the cars—it was about community spirit.

Why Commercial Photography Matters at Charity Events

Now, you might be wondering why I’m highlighting the photography side so much. The truth is, for events like this, commercial photography is essential. Here’s why:

• Raising Awareness: High-quality photographs mean charities and local businesses can share the story online, in print, and with the press.

• PR Events: Media outlets need professional, ready-to-use images. Without them, events risk missing out on valuable coverage.

• Brand Values in Action: For businesses like Frank’s, photography proves their involvement in the community, aligning them with positive causes.

• Social Media Impact: Striking images get shared, liked, and commented on, amplifying the message far beyond Colchester.

• Memories for Participants: Owners love seeing their cars captured professionally—it adds to the prestige of taking part.

As a photographer working across Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, and Cambridgeshire, I often tell clients that photography isn’t just about the day itself—it’s about the legacy. The Distinguished Gentleman’s Drive is a textbook case of that.

Back at the Showroom: Food, Fun, and Fundraising

After the procession, drivers and guests returned to the Frank’s showroom where the atmosphere shifted from formal procession to relaxed celebration. The burger van was doing a roaring trade, and conversations flowed as easily as the drinks.

Despite a few mechanical hiccups (inevitable when your vehicle is older than most of the drivers!), the majority of cars made it back without a hitch (and those that didn’t got recovered by the supporters with trailers. No man left behind). Everyone had a chance to unwind, admire the lineup again, and take in what had been achieved.

And let’s not forget the most important part: fundraising. Thanks to sponsorships, donations, and participant contributions, thousands of pounds were raised for men’s health charities. That money will make a real difference—and the fact that everyone had so much fun doing it only added to the success.

Reflections from Behind the Camera

For me as a photographer, the Distinguished Gentleman’s Drive 2025 was a reminder of why I love covering charity and PR events across the East of England. The combination of fast-paced logistics, emotional storytelling, and stunning visuals makes it such a rewarding challenge.

From capturing the frantic arrivals to riding with the police escort, and from photographing the parade in Colchester’s High Street to snapping candid moments back at the showroom, this event had it all. It’s also a great case study in why businesses should invest in professional photography—because without those images, much of the brand value and PR potential would be lost.

Looking Ahead to Future Events in Essex and Beyond

If this year is anything to go by, I’ve no doubt that Frank’s Motorcycles will continue to make waves with future Distinguished Gentleman’s events in Colchester. With growing attendance, increased fundraising, and ever more press interest, these events are set to become fixtures in the Essex calendar.

For other local businesses across Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, and Cambridgeshire, the takeaway is clear:

• Hosting or supporting a charity event doesn’t just raise money—it also boosts your brand’s reputation.

• Professional photography ensures your efforts are seen, shared, and remembered.

• Community engagement pays dividends—not just in goodwill, but in customer loyalty and PR impact.

Final Thoughts: Why Your Business Should Capture Events Professionally

The Distinguished Gentleman’s Drive 2025 wasn’t just about cars—it was about people, values, and community spirit. For Frank’s Motorcycles, it was a perfect example of aligning brand values with a global cause. For Colchester, it was a memorable Sunday filled with applause, smiles, and a sense of pride.

And for me, as a photographer, it was another reminder of the power of images to capture the heart of an event. Whether you’re planning a charity fundraiser in Essex, a corporate PR event in Cambridge, or a brand showcase in Norwich, professional photography gives your story the reach and impact it deserves.

If your business is planning an event and you want to ensure it’s captured in a way that reflects your brand values, raises awareness, and maximises PR opportunities, get in touch. I work with clients across the East and South East of England to make sure their events aren’t just seen—but remembered.

Links to the press useage….

https://www.gazette-news.co.uk/news/25512426.colchester-distinguished-gentlemans-drive-raises-10k-movember/

https://www.gentlemansdrive.com/drives/england/colchester