Ralph Warburton of ASET writes: "This year's Audlem Festival of Transport gets under way on Sunday.
It promises to be the biggest ever that we in ASET have organised. Over
320 vehicles covering cars, trucks, tractors, motor bikes and scooters
will assemble on the Green at Hankelow from 10.30am onwards – our
traditional mustering point for drivers as they arrive from all points
of the compass to present their shining treasured and loved possessions.
"Les Wright and his team of willing volunteers will be there
masterminding the formation of the parade – which in itself is very
detailed ensuring that the procession is in year order and ready for the
start at 12.30pm for the drive to Audlem. One can imagine the scene as
cars arrive virtually each few minutes and have to be checked for entry
card and then directed to the right slot on the green. Remember – this
involves 320 different forms of transport!
"Inevitably, we have drivers turning up who have not entered the event and
sadly we have to turn them away as we are full. We just cannot
accommodate any more in Audlem for the static display.
"The White Lion pub join in with their mouth watering bacon and sausage
baps and add to the excitement of the occasion. We are very grateful for
the help that Hankelow gives to us in allowing the Green to be used –
for without this the event cannot take place.
"12.30pm and off goes the parade, led by Ken Jones of ASET in the control
vehicle and followed close behind by the Audlem Fire Tender. (Whilst all this is taking place, the RAF land their helicopter at 10.30am
on the specially marked spot on the Playing Field.)
"Into Audlem with traffic control in place for key junctions (we are
very glad that Cheshire Police help in this matter) and slowly through
the village – entering the Square to the crowds there – with Bill
Consterdine giving a car by car commentary from the Church Bank.
Parking on the Playing Field is controlled by the ASET team and their
very welcome volunteers so that all are in the correct place very
promptly and safely.
"Once all in place, the event is open – free – for all to come and enjoy
what is the very biggest show here in South Cheshire. Fun Fair for the
children.. hog roast and many stalls for all to sample. At 1430hrs (2.30pm), a
display by the RAF Spitfire will take place, with the familiar roar of
its Merlin Engines quickening hearts as it climbs and banks over the
field – a very special Ice Cream seller will be there to add to the
occasion.
"The Norman Proudlove Trophy will be presented to the car chosen by
members of his family as the car of their choice on the day.
"All in all, it's a very special day for us here and for all our visitors. If only we had a bigger playing field we could have even more cars and
others on show, for we have had to refuse many others who applied too
late to enter. For all those drivers who are here, may we say a huge
thank you. It is no small effort to get to such shows and much money
and time is spent in presenting their cherished vehicle in the best light.
"Finally, a big thank you to all those who have so generously sponsored us
by taking adverts in the programme and hopefully to all who give
generously to our bucket collection which helps us defray the
considerable costs we have to bear.
"Let us hope that the English Weather does not let us down!"
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