A major star of the show is the magnificent steam section, which is packed with 30 miniature steam engines, 70 stationary engines and 60 full-size steam engines of all descriptions. For many visitors, seeing the fabulous line-up of showmans’ engines, with their gleaming, twisted brass, really is a highlight. The ‘Demonstration Arena’ puts the mighty machines to the test, and there’s even the opportunity to drive one. Also, don’t miss the grand parade of miniature steam in the Alec Tanner arena, and be sure to check out the steamrollers in action.

Every mode of vintage transport is represented, and in motion – from a huge display of heavy haulage commercial and industrial trucks, mixed with classic plant and machinery, to more than 160 military machines, American auto trucks and ex-emergency services vehicles. You might even get a bit wet from the fire-tender demonstrations!

The tractor display is second to none, with many clubs choosing South Cerney as their national event. The display is filled with more than 200 tractors, showcasing a wonderful selection of agricultural machinery.

But the event isn’t just about transport…

The Animal and Countryside Arena – From falconry displays, ferret racing, rare breeds, shire horses and horse-logging to beehive-making – it’s all here among the rural displays and educational demonstrations. The popular fun dog show will make its return each day, with all money raised going to Teckels animal shelter – and with 2024 being the International Year of Camelids, ‘Camels through the Ages’ will be making its event debut. This entertaining show features fabulous costumes and informative commentary, to provide an insight into the long history of camel use and culture.

Kids of all ages will love it too – Don’t forget the vintage fairground attractions, some of which are powered by the steam engines. Take a ride on the steam-driven ‘gallopers’, Waltzers or The Yachts – the white-knuckle ride of the 1920s. Drive on the dodgems, see the fair from the air on the Carnival Big Wheel, or have a go on the traditional penny arcade games. You can take a sedate ride on the beautiful Carousel while listening to the fairground organs playing melodies from yesteryear, or board a 10¼in scale steam locomotive or ‘Chuffy the train’ for a passenger ride. Professor Collywobbles returns with his traditional Punch and Judy Show, and the model tent is a ‘must do’. Step into the world of miniature engineering with its models and diorama displays. Making their debut will be The UK Association of Circus Model Builders.

NEW FOR 2024: Swinging you back in time - Be sure to visit the new FREE vintage entertainment tent, featuring live swing music, lindy hop dancing, hair demonstrations by Vintage Victory Roller, retro fashion show, an introduction to Burlesque to dance lessons with ‘Just Jive’ Swindon. Why not dress up in your vintage finery and enter the ‘Best Dressed’ competition? Guest musicians include one of the premier Big Bands in the South West: The Midwest Big Band. This 18-piece Big Band has within its ranks some of the very best local talent – including professional conductor Bob Cutting (ex-Herb Miller band) – and will perform music from Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, Count Basie, Duke Ellington and golden tracks from the legends of swing.

Massive trade stand zone - Featuring more than 100 curiosity stalls and an autojumble to rummage around, it’s a great opportunity to find a bargain. Or visit the huge craft marquee housing a range of rural crafts and artisan small stalls. Meet the experts and learn about the skills and pastimes that have survived for generations and continue to thrive today.

Food & drink – There are plenty of food and drink ‘pit stops’ across the showground. A firm favourite is the We’ll Meet Again Tea Room, a vintage-themed tearoom set in the 1940s with vintage crockery, props and live music from the fabulous vintage performer Miss Em. It’s a great place to soak up the atmosphere and relax with a cuppa and delicious homemade cake.

There's also the ever-popular Beer Tent located near the vintage fairground featuring live music throughout the weekend. We are delighted to welcome back the Cricklade Brass Band. The band was formed in 1887, and are the oldest established, continuously active association in Cricklade. Often assumed to be a professional band, their team of young-at-heart musicians prefer to concentrate on being an up-to-date, entertaining community brass big band playing a set list of well-known tunes. The Cricklade Brass Band can be seen Saturday and Sunday in the Beer Tent.

FREE vintage bus rides – These operate around the perimeter of the show site, and to and from Cirencester town centre and Kemble railway station to the showground. The vintage bus service connects with selected First Great Western trains including Stroud, Gloucester and Cheltenham. Please check the timetable on the website.

Steam trailer tractor rides - operated by Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue to help raise funds for the Firefighters Charity. The charity provides mental, physical, and social needs of all serving and retired members of the UK's fire family. Members of the local service will be on hand with a fire engine too.

The steam trailer tractor rides are by donation and are another way in which the Gloucestershire Vintage & Country Extravaganza supports charities, preservation projects and community initiatives.
For further information, please visit: www.glosvintageextravaganza.co.uk

Gloucestershire Vintage & Country Fair Extravaganza
Dates: Friday 2 to Sunday 4 August 2024
Venue: South Cerney Airfield, Northmoor Lane, South Cerney, GL7 5QD
Times: 10.00am until 5.00pm

Ticket Prices
Advance tickets available until Thursday 1 August.
Visit: www.glosvintageextravaganza.co.uk

The British Motor Museum is to open a new, groundbreaking exhibition. ‘From Sketch to Street’ will open to the public on 19 July and will run until April 2025.  This unique feature exhibition explores the art and engineering involved in historic British car design, while inspiring hope for the industry’s future.

From Sketch to Street will showcase the creative and technical processes behind iconic and innovative vehicles across Britain's motor manufacturing past through five key themes: interior design, exterior design, functional design, materials, and trim. Visitors will be able to unpick the processes and people behind the cars and see how their own design ideas could shape the future.

Highlights of the exhibition include designers’ initial sketches, items on loan from luxury car brands and even a highly anticipated modern clay model.  There will be hands-on interactives, inviting visitors to solve design problems or think about what would matter to them when designing a car. This all comes together to form a memorable opportunity to discover the artistic and engineering visions that bring together beauty and function.

Cat Boxall, Curator at the British Motor Museum said, "We are thrilled to bring this unique and groundbreaking exhibition to the Museum. It will celebrate the rich history of car design and look at the innovative and creative spirit that continues to drive the industry forward. We look forward to seeing what our visitors think as they join us on this fascinating journey and uncover the treasures of this new exhibition.”

Access to the exhibition is included with standard Museum admission tickets. Museum entry is just £43 for a family in advance or £49 on the day, £16 for adults in advance or £19 on the day, £14 for concessions in advance or £17 on the day, £9 for children (5-16 years) in advance or £10 on the day and under 5s are FREE. There is also the option to Gift Aid or donate your entry fee and get an Annual Pass in return at no extra cost.  To find out more information about the exhibition, please visit the website at www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk/explore/from-sketch-to-street

The Scottish Government and Road Safety Scotland's ‘Live Fast Die Old’ Motorcycle Safety Campaign returns for the 2024 motorbike season.

Despite accounting for less than 1% of all road traffic in Scotland, bikers account for 17% of road deaths, with negotiating bends and overtaking among the riskiest manoeuvres.

The campaign, which will be live until 29 September 2024, features a series of films which highlight the thrill of riding in beautiful landscapes, while also reminding bikers to enjoy Scotland’s roads safely.

The dedicated ‘Live Fast Die Old’ website and Facebook page house the campaign films and offer other rich and engaging content, with films and blogs from Scottish bikers sharing first-hand experience and tips with peers, as well as route inspiration and best practice advice.

The campaign will be live on digital, social and outdoor channels supported by PR. Representatives from the ‘Live Fast Die Old’ campaign will also be attending this year’s Thunder in the Glens Festival in Aviemore (23 to 26 August 2024).

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The motorbike community in the UK is a dynamic and passionate collective, thriving on the adrenaline of the open road and the camaraderie of fellow riders. This article explores the multifaceted aspects of the UK's motorbike culture, from historical significance and club dynamics to economic impact and prospects.

The Historical Significance of Motorbikes in the UK Motorbikes have a rich history in the UK, with their roots tracing back to the early 20th century. The British motorbike industry boomed in the 1950s and 1960s, with iconic brands like Triumph, BSA, and Norton leading the market. 
Triumph, founded in 1902, became synonymous with British engineering excellence, producing models like the Bonneville, which remains a classic to this day.  

Over the decades, motorbikes in the UK have evolved significantly. From the post-war era’s robust designs to the sleek, modern machines of today, the UK motorbike industry has continually innovated. In 2020, the UK registered 104,467 new motorbikes, highlighting the enduring popularity of motorbiking as both a hobby and a means of transportation.

Motorbike Clubs and Groups

Motorbike clubs play a crucial role in fostering a sense of community among riders. The UK is home to numerous clubs, such as the British Motorcycle Federation (BMF) and the Motorcycle Action Group (MAG), which advocate for riders' rights and organize events. The BMF has over 80,000 members and hosts various events, including the annual Lucky Cup Rally.

These clubs also organize social and charity rides, bringing together riders for a cause. The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR), for instance, is an annual event that sees thousands of riders dressed in dapper attire, riding classic and vintage motorbikes to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health.

Iconic Motorbike Events

The Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy) is the most famous motorbike race in the world. Held since 1907, the race attracts competitors and fans from around the globe. With over 37 miles of challenging road courses, the TT tests riders' skill and bravery, making it a hallmark of motorbike racing.

Motorcycle Live is another major event, held annually at the NEC in Birmingham. It displays the latest models from leading manufacturers, attracting over 100,000 visitors each year. The event provides a platform for enthusiasts to experience new bikes, gear, and accessories firsthand.

Economic Impact of Motorbiking

The motorbike industry significantly contributes to the UK economy. In 2019, the industry was valued at £5.3 billion, supporting over 45,000 jobs across manufacturing, retail, and maintenance sectors. The export of British-made motorbikes and components also adds to the economic impact, with brands like Triumph exporting 85% of their production.

Motorbike tourism is another economic driver. Regions like the Lake District and the Scottish Highlands attract riders with their scenic routes. Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and service stations, benefit from the influx of motorbike tourists, generating substantial revenue.

Technological Advancements in Motorbiking The rise of electric motorbikes marks a significant technological advancement in the industry. Brands like Zero Motorcycles and Harley-Davidson’s LiveWire are leading the way in producing high-performance electric bikes. In 2020, sales of electric motorbikes in the UK increased by 35%, reflecting a growing interest in sustainable alternatives.

Modern motorbikes are equipped with advanced safety features and connectivity options. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS), traction control, and smartphone connectivity are becoming standard. These advancements enhance rider safety and provide a more integrated riding experience.

Sports betting has become an integral part of the UK's motorbike culture. These Betting Sites from the UK provide platforms for enthusiasts to engage with motorbike races by predicting outcomes and following their favorite riders. This adds an exciting dimension to the sport, attracting a broader audience and increasing engagement.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

The UK has implemented stringent emission regulations to reduce the environmental impact of motorbikes. The introduction of Euro 5 standards in 2020 mandates lower emissions of pollutants like nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons. These regulations are driving manufacturers to produce cleaner, more efficient engines.

Promoting green riding practices is essential for sustainability. Initiatives like the Green Motorcycles scheme encourage riders to adopt fuel-efficient riding habits and maintain their bikes to reduce emissions. Such efforts are crucial in balancing the thrill of riding with environmental responsibility.

Women in the Biking Community  

The participation of women in the motorbike community is on the rise. The Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) reports that the number of female riders has increased by 20% over the past five years. Women-specific riding clubs and events, like the Women's International Motorcycle Association (WIMA), are contributing to this growth.

Female role models are inspiring more women to take up motorbiking. Riders like Maria Costello MBE, who has competed in the Isle of Man TT and holds the Guinness World Record for being the fastest woman to lap the course, serve as inspirations. Their achievements highlight the growing diversity within the motorbike community.

Custom Motorbikes and Modifications

Custom motorbikes and modifications are a vibrant part of the UK motorbike scene. Custom builders like Old Empire Motorcycles and Untitled Motorcycles create bespoke machines that reflect the individuality of their owners. The annual Bike Shed Show in London highlights these unique creations, attracting thousands of visitors.

Popular modifications include café racers, bobbers, and scramblers. These styles harken back to the golden age of motorbiking, blending retro aesthetics with modern performance. Customization allows riders to express their personality and enhance their riding experience.

The Future of Motorbiking in the UK

Making motorbiking more accessible is key to its future growth. Initiatives like the Get On campaign, which offers free riding taster sessions, aim to introduce more people to motorbiking. The campaign has already introduced over 100,000 new riders to the joys of motorbiking.

Innovation and sustainability will shape the future of motorbiking in the UK. Continued advancements in electric motorbikes, combined with a focus on reducing emissions and promoting green practices, will ensure that motorbiking remains a viable and exciting mode of transport for future generations.

The motorbike community in the UK are a dynamic and diverse collective, rich in history and culture. From the early days of British engineering to the modern era of electric bikes and technological advancements, motorbiking continues to thrive. With strong community support, significant economic contributions, and a focus on sustainability, the future of motorbiking in the UK looks bright. Enthusiasts and newcomers alike can look forward to a vibrant and evolving motorbike culture that celebrates the freedom of the open road and the bonds forged among riders.

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