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SOUTHPORT CLASSIC CAR MOTOR SHOW
YOUR intrepid
reporters arrived at the Victoria Park in Southport on Saturday, 23
June 2007. It was a cloudy morning, about 10am, warming up but with
a threat of rain in the air. For everyone it was fingers crossed,
for the coldish wind to drop and the clouds to clear. We felt some
rain drops, just the odd one or two, yet our hopes were raised by
the friendly greetings, smiles and jokes that greeted us as we
stopped at the St John Ambulance post.
Ahead of us, the pathways ran off in three directions and we could
see stalls, marquees, cars, food vendors and tents. Then the tanoy
burst into life welcoming everyone and extolling the delights to
come. At the far end of one of the aisle-ways, some late
participating vehicles were arriving and slowly driving to their
respective positions.
There was a fantastic collection of vehicles, with a few privately
owned military ones, four very different fire engines and some
specialist vehicles. The classic cars, in most cases, were in
pristine condition, a fine tribute to the owners. The motor bikes
really gleamed and shone proudly, even when the sun hid itself
behind some clouds. I saw virtually every make of classic car from
after the 2nd world war, and I cannot remember any makes from that
era which I did not see. What a pleasure it was finding some pre-war
vehicles, interspersed among the classics, like a Bullnose Morris,
and an Austin 7! It was exciting to see the motor cycles from those
days. They brought back memories of my days riding a 1938 Matchless
in the 50’s.
In the paddock area I found some old vehicular friends, and even an
owner I knew. It was wonderful to see a Lotus 7 and to talk with the
gentleman who had built it. Later in the day owners showed off their
paces round a circuit with tight corners, 2 straights and 2
chicanes. I suppose the star was the magnificent condition and
craftsmanship of the Ferrari Special Replica.
The crowds had plenty to see and do. The fairground attractions were
a big hit for the young children and some more senior ones too. A
very talented motor bike stunt man put on a stunning exhibition of
bike control, which held the spectators spellbound. I hope that none
of them try to do what he did on the public highway!
Most of the big modern car manufacturers had their latest vehicles
on show, and one even had a jazz quartet playing most of the time.
Then there was the rest area for the spectators where a brass band
played, at intervals, throughout the day.
Sunday again was fantastic... with the sun out and far more cars, it
was a very nice family day out. Also the Mayor of Sefton was on hand
at the end of the day with the Mayress to award the winners with the
cups.
Well done and thank you to the organisers for a smashing weekend,
well organised and so very entertaining.
The vehicle owners, stall holders, caterers and, in fact, everyone
connected with the event, are to be congratulated for such a
splendid show. I look forward to the next one.
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