The Gathering went really well, pleasant weather, cloudy with sunny spells - & although we could afford only the most sketchy of advertising, we had enough public through the gate to more than cover our costs, plus laying a good foundation for next year.
Most importantly, almost everyone who said they would come did so and there were 96 engines on show. Separately from the stationary engines, there was a display of engine driven vintage wood working machinery & a working hay elevator.
A long double line of tractors, & another of vintage commercials, cars & motorcycles.It was what the member's had asked for - a "proper" rally and to their credit they turned out in numbers to support it.
It was very noticeable on Sunday that whilst there were a fair few public about in the morning (I counted 100 in half an hour walking past my patch) there were very few about in the afternoon. No doubt most had come, seen & gone in time to watch the Big Race at Silverstone!
Naturally, we hope to build upon this success & to make this event into a regular fixture .
I exhibited a bunch of electrical stuff running off my Tiny Tim that I bought at Enstone in April. Runs a bit rich, but ran all day on a tankfull (about half a gallon) and caused a lot of interest. Alan Rogers very kindly brought me three rotary converters gratis & even an aircraft electric pump for good measure!
Regia put on a Viking & Saxon battle that entertained the crowd & drew some interested comments. We all had a good time around the fire on Friday & Saturday evenings & I met some people I've not come across before.
Hazel, Daughter Al & Adam her partner turned up to say happy Father's Day & brought lunch as well as good cheer.
Looking forward to Astle Park & don't have to pack for it now!
Regards,
Kim Siddorn