Yet another summer now two-thirds through, it was time for the annual Gloucestershire Vintage & Country Extravaganza at South Cerney, writes Ian Thomas.
A wonderful three-day event as ever, and with another cracking summer this year, everything was in place for an enjoyable event. The event was staged from July 31st to August 2nd, and the crowds turned out in force, especially on Saturday, as the weather was a tad cooler at 25–26°C, whereas Sunday saw a high of 28–29°C and higher humidity. The layout was much as usual, making it so easy to navigate, with the show arena firmly in the centre.
Jill and I visited on the Saturday only this year, as the Vale of Berkeley Railway were running their Return to Sharpness trains, which took our attention on Friday and Sunday. With just the one-day visit, we concentrated on the vintage car section, which we thought this year had the largest turnout we had seen. Plenty of exhibits were well spaced out, and at least two hours were spent here. Then on to the Vintage Tea Room — a must for us!
Once refreshed, we moved on to the vintage coach and bus section before circling around to the commercial vehicles. As we did this, the emergency vehicles were entering the parade arena, and I was in the right place at the right time for some pictures. Incidentally, the county fire and rescue service were there with their appliances both to exhibit and to stand by for any outbreaks of fire in the extreme dryness.
Not quite so many lorries and wagons as in previous years, but nonetheless good. Also of interest was the motorbike and push-bike section, with a couple of penny-farthings on show. We concluded with, of course, the steam section, and it did not disappoint in any way.
There was plenty of action, with clouds of dust and steam. You need at least two or more days to take it all in, especially when you consider that this rally ranks in the top five in the country.
So, once again, our thanks go to SVTEC for the year-round organisation and, of course, to the helpful stewards on hand. With the good weather, I would say all enjoyed it, if a little heat-weary by the late afternoon. Indeed, my legs were brown with dust by then, and it looked like I had a pair of tights on! What a thought, eh? A brilliant day indeed.
Words and pictures by Ian Thomas
