Select Military Vehicles at Operation Market Harborough: Honouring History and Heritage

Earlier this month, Select Military Vehicles along with B&E Boys proudly took part in Operation Market Harborough — an outstanding annual event in Leicestershire dedicated to celebrating military vehicles, living history displays, and the passionate people behind their preservation. This gathering brings together collectors, restorers, and enthusiasts united by a shared commitment to keeping the stories and machines of military service alive.

The 2025 show was a tremendous success, drawing tens of thousands of visitors eager to see vintage tanks, armoured vehicles, and meticulously recreated military scenes. The atmosphere buzzed with a unique mix of education, nostalgia, and lively conversations — all set against a backdrop of plenty of good old-fashioned mud!

We were thrilled to showcase our fully restored 1978 air-defence Flakpanzer Gepard tank alongside the innovative Buggs Bar, a custom-built bar crafted from reclaimed Gepard tank parts. Both proved to be crowd favourites, drawing admiration for the skill and dedication invested in their restoration and creation. It was especially fun to see how many World of Tanks players immediately recognised the iconic Gepard!

Events like Operation Market Harborough wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of many partners and individuals. We extend our sincere thanks to Northern Whisper for their ongoing sponsorship, Buckhurst Plant Hire for expertly transporting both our tank and the Buggs Bar, and Rossendale Sheet Metal for their exceptional craftsmanship on the bar itself. Of course, a huge shout-out goes to our dedicated team who gave up their weekend to engage visitors and ensure everything ran smoothly.

We also want to acknowledge the event organisers — Seb Brady, Mick Crook, Joe Hewes, and Christian Baker from Midland Military Vehicles — whose hard work and vision brought this remarkable event to life with professionalism and heart.

A special note of gratitude goes to Warwick Boulton, whose passion, expertise, and meticulous restoration work breathe life back into these historic vehicles. Warwick’s commitment is deeply respected throughout the community and crucial in preserving these wartime machines for future generations.

While Operation Market Harborough is a fantastic day out full of education and fun, it’s important to remember the serious history behind the vehicles on display. These machines were built for war and defence, operated by brave men and women who made immense personal sacrifices in pursuit of freedom and peace.

In honour of this legacy, Select Military Vehicles is proud to support SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity providing lifelong assistance to serving personnel, veterans, and their families, helping them rebuild their lives long after active duty.

To everyone who visited, supported, and worked tirelessly to preserve military history — thank you. Most importantly, our heartfelt gratitude goes to all those who serve or have served in our Armed Forces. Your courage and commitment inspire us all and will never be forgotten.