For more than thirty years, the Cumbria Steam & Vintage Vehicle Society has been bringing together vintage and steam vehicles from across the world for one massive summer event, just outside Grange over Sands. This year the 2007 Cumbria Steam Gathering is as huge as ever with more than 1,200 classic exhibits, a traditional fair, displays, specialist caterers and crafts.
Held on 28th and 29th July 2007 on Cark Airfield, Flookburgh, the Cumbria Steam Gathering is a colourful and noisy weekend summer event that has a whole host of entertainment, with majestic steam ploughing engines and commercial vehicles of yesterday, as well as hundreds of classic transport favourites like motorcycles, bicycles and stationary engines. This family day out also has plenty to keep the children entertained with a Punch and Judy show, magic shows and the traditional fairground (which boasts a huge 60 year old wooden helter skelter).
A popular highlight are the arena displays. Two arena areas bring a constant parade of vintage treasures and brilliant shows along with fantastic commentary. Witness wrestling from the Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling team, ploughing demonstrations and amazing kite flying displays. For the more adventurous, there’s the opportunity to drive a traction engine and even have a ride in a helicopter!
This year’s headlining entertainment is the Kangaroos Gymnastic Display Team. These gymnasts are recognised as one of the leading gymnastic teams in Europe and hold many world records. Elsewhere, crowds of families will be enjoying the wonderful sheep display from charismatic New Zealander, Richard Savory, exciting chain saw carving displays and this year sees the return of the only travelling Wall of Death.
Tim Holt from Hutton Roof near Carnforth was one of the club’s founding members. He was chief steward at the very first Cumbria Steam Gathering and is now the event’s main organiser heading a team of 10 which themselves lead almost 500 volunteers.
Tim said “My enthusiasm for this wonderful event has never waned, even after all these years. I am very excited to welcome the French Market, which will be here for the first time this year. It promises to be a fantastic weekend with marquees full of working models, fascinating automobilia enthusiasts who are happy to be sharing their collections with other enthusiasts, and regular favourites like the huge craft tent with demonstrations throughout the weekend.”
With full facilities for the disabled and many different catering outlets, including cuisines from around the world, healthy offers, Made in Cumbria food stands and fully licensed bar areas, the Cumbria Steam Gathering is the perfect way to taste the sights, sounds and smells of a nostalgic family day in Cumbria.
Cumbria Steam Gathering takes place from 9.30am – 6pm on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th July 2006, at Cark Airfield, Flookburgh. Car parking is free.
Admission prices are: Adults £10, Senior Citizens £7 and accompanied children under 16 are free. For further information call 015242 71584.