Classic Monday…
Classic car shows are part and parcel of UK life, and they’re not just restricted to Summer events, with many of them continuing throughout the year. However, many of the larger presentations, such as the prestigious Buntingford affair in early September, where the main street is closed with the day resembling something of a carnival atmosphere, packed with hundreds of shining historic vehicles and crowds of intrigued admirers, are just annual happenings. However, the famous Barrington Classic Vehicle Car Rally is held on the village green on the first Friday of each month during the Summer, whilst Royston is treated to an annual meeting behind the Town Hall on May Day.
For the last eight years the landlord of the British Queen in Meldreth, Alan Tobin, has been organising an interesting gathering of real traditional machines on the first Monday of each month in the spacious grounds surrounding the pub. What makes this congregation distinctly different from many of the larger events is the fact that it is a much more intimate and informal affair. I have attended quite a number of these gatherings and invariably I am always made to feel at home.
This particular Monday (17th April), as usual, failed to disappoint the appetite of the ardent followers. Amongst the lineup of exciting and exquisite machines present was a very rare Italian Ceirano, whose owner, Nick Sloane, told me that it was powered by a 1.5-liter engine. It was in such immaculate condition that the vehicle belied the fact that it would soon be celebrating its 90th birthday.
There was a trio of the famous Riley marque with Will Elbourne proudly presenting his 1934, 124 Special Racing Car, whilst John Barrot brought along his green Monaco Nine from 1933. The ensemble was completed with an impeccable offering of a typical 1925 11.9 ‘Tourer’ of that celebrated Company.
The show was complemented with a sleek, Royal Blue A.C. Greyhound from 1959 belonging to John Goofe, with Guy and Jan Rackham proudly displaying off their Derby built Rolls Royce Bentley, a prestigious silver, elite Caterham, and at least a further 15 resplendent vehicles arriving by lunchtime.
Images and text, Clive Porter – Promotions
