When it comes to showing the world just how cool, just how suave, just how ... dammit, successful you are, it’s your car that remains the last true status symbol.

And because most of us aren’t that successful or wealthy, we like to dream; you know, about the cars we would drive if we were all of the above.

Which is why this year’s Oxford Mail Motor Show is such a must-do entry for your diary.

Being held on Sunday from 10am to 4pm at Cutteslowe Park, North Oxford (postcode OX2 8LJ for those of you with a Tom-Tom), it promises to be a scorcher of a day out.

For the whole family.

Because let’s not forget, it isn’t only men and women who dream about driving; young boys and girls do too.

And indeed the event is, as always, a genuinely feel-good family treat.

Yes, there may be fast cars and outrageously expensive motors to drool over, but when your family need a break from all that horsepower and miles-per-gallon muscle flexing, you can relax by taking a pony ride, enjoying the fun fair, watching the fire brigade perform some exciting demonstrations or going up in a helicopter (now that WILL impress your kids – unless of course you leave them behind on the ground).

Remember, this is Oxfordshire’s motor dealers’ diary event of the year, and they’ll be exhibiting all their latest cars.

So whether you’re looking to swap your Ford Focus for a Mercedes or a Reliant, or if you just fancy a great day out among other like-minded petrol heads, this is the show for you.

For further information, call Rachel Legg on 01865 425358 or email rlegg@nqo.com