Category: Events and Shows

1. 2014 LAUNCH FOR BIG KENT BIKE SHOW

   Posted on 7:15am Wednesday 3rd Jul 2013

   THE team behind some of Britain’s biggest and best motorcycle shows is consolidating this year’s programme before further expansion in 2014.

   Classic Bike Shows, organiser of events such as the International Dirt Bike Show and the International Classic MotorCycle Show, had planned to launch a new event this September in the garden of England – the Carole Nash Big Kent Bike Show.

   But, having already taken on successful new events at Lanark and Newark over the past year, the decision has now been made to reschedule the Kent launch for 2014.

   The Kent County Showground in Detling will remain as the venue, with the delay allowing for planned renovation work to get underway at the location, meaning enhanced and redeveloped facilities will be in place when the much-anticipated weekend arrives.

   Exhibition manager Nick Mowbray said: “Having expanded our portfolio of events in the last year, we have taken a decision that gives us the necessary time to inject the kind of quality into the Big Kent Bike Show that is expected of us by our visitors.”

2. 2013 VESPA WORLD DAYS - GREAT SUCCESS FOR THE WORLDWIDE VESPA RALLY

   Posted on 7:42am Wednesday 26th Jun 2013

   FOUR DAYS OF ADVENTURE, FUN AND LOVE FOR THE MOST FAMOUS TWO-WHEELED VEHICLE IN THE WORLD. THE 2014 EDITION OF VESPA WORLD DAYS IS PLANNED, WHICH WILL BE HELD AT MANTUA

   Hasselt (Belgium), 25 June 2013 – The most important Vespa concentration in the world, held in the green village of Hasselt in Belgium from 20 to 23 June, was a record breaking success with the public and registered participants: three thousand Vespa riders participated; 2,300 Vespas were registered; 173 Vespa Clubs participated from 21 nations. The most represented country was naturally Belgium with 722 registered participants, followed by Germany with 408. As always, Italy was also a key player with 318 registered participants. The Bel Paese was also the star of the activities scheduled in the rich programme this year: the Sirmione Vespa Club won the tourist competition Vespa Trophy, while the Rovereto Vespa Club took the wreath in the gimkana race.

   The perfect execution of the event is a direct result not only of the strong spirit of brotherhood that has always bound Vespa riders of all ages and all nationalities, but also by the punctual organisation of the host country Vespa Club. The Vespa riders from all over the world enjoyed the hospitality of the Hasselt residents, enthusiastic to welcome such a large, cheerful and peaceful group like the Vespa lovers.

   The unforgettable Vespa outings, including the one to the legendary Zolder circuit, had Vespas from all generations in the parade: numerous Vespa GTS 125 Supers participated which is, in Belgium, the best selling two-wheeled vehicle, various 1959 Vespa GS 150s and some Vespa 150 Sidecars dating back to 1955. For the 2013 Concorso d’Eleganza precious models and unique units at the show paraded, as well as some of the earliest Vespas produced, preserved or majestically restored, or the rare Vespa 400, the four-wheeled vehicle built entirely by Piaggio of which only 90 are in existence in Italy.

   Just how ingenious Vespa is was demonstrated once again: for a long time it has managed to transcend the common use of an urban commuter, becoming a true cult phenomena, loved and even revered. It is a transversal vehicle, able to excite different generations, at any latitude, in any place on the planet. One specific piece of information represents Vespas ability to reach the heart and ignite the passion of an extremely broad audience: the 74 years that separated the youngest registered participant in Vespa World Days 2013 (born in 2003) and the most senior (born in 1929).

   The 'Made in Italy' ambassador to the world, manufactured without interruption from 1946 to the present for a total of more than eighteen million units, succeeded on the occasion of Vespa World Days 2013 in moving spirit and body of enthusiasts hailing not only from opposite corners of Europe, but also from Russia, Macedonia and Malta. In order not to miss out on the event, many travelled over thousands of kilometres of roads astride their classic Vespas, like the Vespa rider who came from St. Petersburg, seventeen hundred kilometres from Hasselt, over two days of travel.

   Vespa as a means of daily transportation, Vespa as a philosophy of life, Vespa as a representative of Italian genius in the world; Vespa recognised and loved by all; Vespa as a tireless traveller; Vespa exciting with its timeless lines, Vespa that mobilises different generations, Vespa that strikes directly in the heart. Vespa that unites thousands of enthusiasts, joined by a single love for her.

   The long wave of success of the seventh Vespa World Days edition has not stopped and the appointment for 2014 has already been set. The most important Vespa concentration returns to Italy, in splendid Mantua.

   www.vespa.com

3. Vintage motorcycles display at South-West's largest festival of transport

   Posted on 7:45am Tuesday 25th Jun 2013

   The Gloucestershire Steam & Vintage Extravaganza, now in its 39th year, will take place once again at South Cerney Airfield, Cirencester.

   From Friday 2nd to Sunday 4th August 2013 the extravaganza will attract more than 15,000 visitors and raise money for local and national charities. The show has grown dramatically in recent years and is now widely regarded as one of the biggest and best Steam, Vintage and Countryside events in the UK. Attracting thousands of exhibits from all corners of the British Isles, as well as some from further afield ­ it really is the place to see 'The British way of life' at its best, and in a beautiful location in the heart of the Cotswolds.

   The show was originally conceived for steam enthusiasts, but the range of exhibits has grown year on year. It now boasts a huge array of vintage transport, from buses and coaches, commercial vehicles, classic cars and motorcycles through to military vehicles, tractors, engines and historic caravans. A live action arena will be an integral part of the show with interactive demonstrations taking place every day. Our fun fair at the Gloucestershire Steam Extravaganza is one of the finest collections of vintage rides. There is no shortage of thrills and spills that can be found by riding upon the 'electric yachts', the waltzer, the big wheel, the steam-driven 'gallopers' and, of course, the dodgems.

   Smaller rides are available for young people as is a traditional arcade and various side stalls. Hundreds of curiosity stalls should also keep visitors engrossed for hours with displays of Victorian memorabilia ranging from antique sewing and knitting machines and model dolls houses to vintage garden tools and 1940s to 1950s home wares.

   The Chairman of the Stroud Vintage Transport and Engine Club, Martyn Slater, says: “The Gloucestershire Steam & Vintage Extravaganza is the biggest of its kind run entirely by volunteers and I am proud to be involved. As well as raising money for local and national charities, our aim is to provide a safe and happy environment for everyone to celebrate our unique transport history, in hope that we can inspire future generations to get involved in the preservation of historic vehicles.”

   The huge motorcycle display area will include more than 130 models – manufacturers from England, Italy, Japan, India, the USA and other countries being represented. Among the marques on display will be Honda, Yamaha, Harley Davidson, Moto Guzzi, HRD, AGS, James, Triumph, Royal Enfield, Rudge, Baker, BMW, Norton, Velocette, BSA, Panther, Francis Barnett, Matchless and Greeves. The very popular Ken Fox Wall of Death will be included in the fairground again for 2013.

   Ken Fox Wall of Death, one of the last original Wall of Deaths dating back to 1929, having been handed down from three generations. Ken’s oldest son Luke Fox and his girlfriend Kerri Cameron are the main riders; together they perform tricks and acrobatics on their 1920’s Indian motorcycles their show culminates in the Hell Riders Race, a high-speed chase featuring three riders on the wall at the same time.

   The Gloucestershire Steam & Vintage Extravaganza is a show not to be missed and a great day out for all the family as children can have fun on the nostalgic fairground rides, see the distant Cotswold hills from the big wheel and get their heads in a spin on the waltzers while listening to music from yesteryear.

   Reduced advance tickets are available from here

   Admission Information:        Show opens at 10 am.

   FRIDAY                                    Adults - £7/Concession - £6/Junior - £4 (under fives free)

   SATURDAY or SUNDAY          Adults - £10/Concession - £9/Junior - £5/Family - £28 (under fives free)

   WEEKENDER                           Adults - £15/Concession - £13/Junior - £8/Family - £35 (under fives free)

   Notes: Family tickets              Includes two adults and two children.

   Weekender tickets                 Includes entry to all three days but no overnight camping.

   Discounted tickets are available to buy online at www.glossteamextravaganza.com or from Cirencester Tourist Information Centre, located next to the Corinium Museum. 

   A free vintage bus service will be operating around the perimeter of the show site, and to and from Kemble railway station throughout the show to connect with selected First Great Western Trains. For details of the bus schedule, please refer to the website www.steamextravaganza.com

   The Gloucestershire Steam & Vintage Extravaganza,

   South Cerney Airfield, Cirencester

   Friday 2nd – Sunday 4th August 2013

4. TT LEGEND PROVES A HIT

   Posted on 7:37am Tuesday 25th Jun 2013

   IT WAS an opportunity to get up close and personal with a true sporting great at the weekend, and thousands of people made the most of it at the brand new Carole Nash Newark Bike Bonanza.

   John McGuinness, fresh from completing a remarkable 20th TT victory at the Isle of Man event, spent hours meeting fans as well as participating in fascinating Q&A sessions with Newark Bike Bonanza compere Steve Plater on Saturday and Sunday (June 22-23).

   The ‘Morecambe Missile’ told organisers how great it was to be taking part: “I’ve had a fantastic time here in Newark. “I’m especially pleased to see such a varied crowd; we have the older, established bike fans as well as the new generation who are coming through, and that really is what it’s all about.”

   Along with McGuinness, the show featured many other top names from both road-racing and track disciplines with local riders Alex Lowes and Ben Wilson, TT starlet Conor Cummins and Samsung Honda ace Jason O’Halloran completing a superb line-up. The Classic TT, a much-anticipated event heading for the iconic island this August, also came in for discussion among the competitors.

   McGuinness shared his thoughts: “I’m looking forward to celebrating the history of the TT with this fun new event.

   “It wouldn’t do the TT justice if there wasn’t any competitiveness though and I know when I pull that helmet on the race instincts are bound to kick in.”

   The special guests also lent a helping hand at the Newark Bike Bonanza awards presentation where Chris Thompson’s 1981 250 Yamaha RD250 took the Best In Show accolade.

   Thompson and his Yamaha will now go into the Classic Bikers Club Bike of the Year 2013 online vote, which will be decided later in the year. The high-octane action came thick and fast throughout the weekend with champion-stuntman Steve Colley and extreme-mountain bike rider Danny Butler wowing the crowds with breath-taking displays.

   Ken Fox’s world-famous Wall of Death was on top form also, as the incredible team of dare-devils defied gravity to keep onlookers thoroughly entertained. Many worthy causes were highlighted too; the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance, Nottinghamshire Fire Brigade, the Lincolnshire Road Safety Partnership and Lincolnshire Blood Bikes were all at Newark Showground over the weekend, showcasing the vital work they undertake in road safety.

   A special charity auction held on Saturday evening saw more than £1300 raised, with the money being shared between the ambucopter and the TT Riders’ Association. With all of this and much more aside, the Carole Nash Newark Bike Bonanza lived up to high expectations and looks set to establish itself as a top summer event in the East Midlands region for many years to come.

5. MOTORCYCLES AND MUSIC COLLIDE FOR BILLING BIKE FEST

   Posted on 7:43am Monday 24th Jun 2013

   Motorbikes and music are set to collide as the Billing Bike Fest returns to Billing Aquadrome for a second outing on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st July.

   Promising something for every biking taste, the show also has an impressive line up of bands performing throughout the weekend.

   Supporting the Marco Simmoncelli foundation, Billing Bike Fest will host more than 250 riders taking part in their 2013 charity ride out, as well as having hundreds of bikes on show from motorcycle manufacturers. Motorcycle clubs will showcase everything from great British classics to modern day heroes, Japanese elegance to American icons.

   Motorbike Clubs are invited to join in the celebrations with the organisers offering free space for clubs bringing up to ten bikes, with each owner receiving two weekend passes and camping per bike. Clubs wanting to bring over ten bikes will get the first ten free and then pay £25 per bike, again with the owners getting two free show tickets, giving you a free weekend away if you’re part of a club stand!

   Take part in the Custom Concours competition where the very best customised bikes will be displayed in a purpose built marque with awards for outstanding examples. Concours categories include Best in Show, Best Trike, Best Chop, Best Street fighter and Best Classic. 

   Get some expert advice or watch the experts in action with live demonstrations, browse the extensive retail village or search the treasure trove that is the Bike Jumble for that elusive spare or part. Whatever you love about motorbikes can be found at Billing Bike Fest.

   Hear the roar of the engine and soak up the fumes as you enjoy live action in the main arena from our special guests The Bolddog Lings Mini-X Tour, uses Britain’s best motocross and extreme sports participants, introducing the mobile Mini-bike freestyle ramp. The Joseph Peace fire stunt show team will also perform their modern circus stunt show on Saturday.

   Live music will once again take center stage throughout the weekend; Bands already confirmed include Manchester’s The Rainband, a four-piece indie rock band predicted by Rolling Stone magazine as the sound of 2013. Last year’s headline act The Great Divide also return along with Sons of Icarus, Dionysus Unbound and Foo Fighters tribute band The Four Fighters.

   And what festival wouldn’t be complete without the fantastic camping facilities at Billing Aquadrome including an indoor aqua park for all ages, go karting, climbing walls and much more.

   Adult ticket prices start from just £10 when booking in advance or £12 on the gate. Children under the age of 16 get free entry when accompanied by an adult. Parking is also free throughout. The show is open from 10am to 5pm each day. Camping is £25 per adult and £12.50 per child. Camping can be booked by contacting 01524 781453 (8am-8pm weekdays).

   To book day tickets call 0844 8540064 the latest updates visit www.billingbikefest.com