Vibrant Vehicles at the Transport Festival

Vibrant Vehicles at the Audlem Transport Festival.

Since 1999, when the Audlem Transport Festival was founded, the festival hasrevolved around the mystical world of unique vehicles of every shape, size and shade.

On Sunday 28th July 2024, the day commenced with the procession of vehicles.From Mercedes to MGs, Land Rovers to Lotuses, the excitement from both thecrowd and drivers was tangible.

People gathered in the village square, the softsunshine beating on their awe- stricken faces as crazy cars, vibrant vans andmarvellous motorbikes vroomed around the village.

As I neared the playing field, I was taken aback by the sheer multitude of vehicleslined up in ordered rows, my amazement accentuated with the rainbow of colours.

There were sports cars for every occasion, including a vivid orange Lotus Elise Cup250 that caught many an eye. Furthermore, there were race cars, motorbikes, acelebrity car, claiming it's fame by featuring in 'The Royal' TV show, andcommercial vehicles, many of which showcasing the vital roles their vehicle wouldhave played in the military. Such as the 1936 Morris C11/30 Ambulance, based offLord Baden-Powell, founder of the Scout Association, who sent his Boy Scoutsvehicles over to France to collect injured soldiers.

Furthermore, there were cateringvendors and a bar located at the festival to keep everyone's thirst quenched andstomachs satisfied.

As I continued down onto the canal, I was greeted with a gathering of historic canalboats, built between 1850 and 1960. Beneath their elaborate paintwork, these boatswere layered with rich history.
One boat that caught my attention significantly was ahorse drawn flyboat, that would have traditionally stored cheeses and fresh produceto sell, and simultaneously house a family of 5 to 6 people. It was joyous to see thecanal, a key feature of Audlem, bustling and lively.

This fabulous festival would not have been possible without ASET, Audlem SpecialEvents Team, and the assiduous volunteers who work tirelessly to bring these festivalsto life.

However, unfortunately due to rising costs and the implementation chargesfor both the car park and playing field it puts these events at risk. So, we must all doour bit to help keep the likes of ASET afloat, so they are able to continue thesespectacular events. Please visit www.audlem-ASET.org for more information.