The place was packed. Over 700 classic cars from 32 clubs surrounded the arena and it was a carnival atmosphere all day. BBQ's where cooking in many of the club areas and we were once again lucky with the weather (it didn't rain!).
The public turned up in droves, at one point we ran out of parking space for them and even considered using the cricket pitch! -
Friday and Saturday was busy setting things up. For the first time in 12 years I wasn't involved but thanks must go to those that helped out. It certainly makes things easier. We had teamed up with the Kimbolton Rotary Club once again. With most of us having moved away from the Cambridgeshire area we couldn't get together regularly. Things were done via e-mail with most of us continuing with the same tasks we have done in previous years. It all came together fantastically. A change to the layout meant getting the cars and 100 plus trade stands onsite a lot easier.
Sunday dawned chilly and I was able to arrive at about 9am with things well underway from those living nearby. A few thing to help out with and a bit of marshalling the classic cars meant I had a relaxing day. The public were pouring in and for the first time ever we sold out of programs! The arena was engulfed with crowds six deep most of the day watching the events take place. The Bears went in to publicise Dream Rides and that set the trend for a continuous stream of 'customers' wanting rides in the 26 cars available. Many thanks to those drivers that gave their time most of the day. We gave over 130 rides in the afternoon raising nearly £700 in 5 hours. The arena events were so busy that we had to move the 'Enthusiasts Choice - Car of the Show to the area by the beer tent (we should do it there more often!). This was won by Warren Kennedy with his lovely Talbot. Best Club stand was difficult to judge this year with so many great displays. The Huntingdon Mini Owners Club took it through sheer enthusiasm and some influence from my 14 year old Mini mad son! I've never seen a group so happy to take the trophy for the year. We managed to find 5 minutes for them to have a lap of honour in the arena before the flypast.
The Fly Past was later than anticipated but well worth the wait. A fantastic site that pictures don't do justice. After that it's time to tidy up. Again plenty of help from Bears, the Rotary Club volunteers. and our children, now teenagers, that were mere toddlers when we started this show at Wimpole Hall in '91, I think the total raised over the 12 years amounts to nearly £100,000. this all started with a 'why not have a picnic ant Wimpole?' comment from Andy Mitchell and I think we can safely say we are pretty good at it now. Next year? No reason why not. We have proved that we don't need to get together regularly to organise it and with e-mail and the internet we can keep on top of the tasks. Of course help over the weekend is still needed and much apprieciated. If you'de like to help out, get in touch. The number is 01743 851297, ask for Mike Norton |
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