Gary's Report on the British Motoring Festival

      Our small group of 6 vehicles made their way to Windsor on Friday from 4 separate directions. Curry and Sherry, John and Shirley Anne drove in from a week's travel covering Cape Breton. Bob and Diane Earl drove and ferried in via the Bay of Fundy ferry, Gary and Barb traveled partially with David via route 104 and then down through the Rawden Hills and finally topping it off Bob and Donna Grant joined us Saturday driving in from Kentville. So while our numbers were small our resolve to get there coming from all directions made for some great travel dialogue. Bob and Diane had a spectacular time crossing on the ferry so much so they traveled back the same way and intend to do it again next year. Curry and Sherry with John and Shirley Anne has great stories of their almost week long trip to Cape Breton and the rest of us seen great scenery on our travels. Joe Hine attended as well and while not with British car brought his abilities and loaned a hand with parking all day on Saturday.
       Our Friday evening reception at the Kings Edgehill School was very much appreciated after much driving by everyone.There was plenty of finger food, wine and beer tasting from a local vineyard and brewhouse. It was just a great time to meet and mingle with old and new friends. We all had a great time.....so much so that several continued with it later at the "Spitfire Pub" where I'm sure "good times" were had by all.

      The forecast for the car show on Saturday was to be overcast and showers. I have since learned that the definition of showers in that part of Nova Scotia is far different then the definition here. The showers turned into a good constant rain through out the entire day! While this was disheartening, it did not ruin the day due to the resilience of participating folks as well as to the wonderful organization behind this event. One particular event, a live skit in the field featuring renowned "Mr. Bean" played by a local fellow made everyone watching forget the confound weather and brought many laughs to those damp spirits. It really was a sight to see and one to remember.

      There was 115 cars on the field. While smaller numbers then last year, when one understands the weather situation, it really was a good turn out! There was a good variety of all marquees and models and a good opportunity to see new cars, meet new enthusiasts and to make new friends. Huddled in small groups under tents tends certainly helps to make new friends and meet old ones as well.

     Most folks stayed with it until later in the afternoon. Of course that's when the rain stopped!

     We all headed back to the school that evening for the banquet where we we were treated to a fine banquet of lobster or beef or ham. I can only speak for the lobster selection. It was delicious as was the rest of the meal.

     We were entertained, made to feel very welcome, fed till our bellies were full with delicious food and to top it all off they had a surprise and wonderful fireworks display. This is truly a wonderful event that was organized by people who obviously cared and who put their heart and soul into it.  While the rain may have dampened some of the activities the passion of those who put this together shone brightly through the clouds and for me only makes me eager to come back next year. Just think what they could do in good weather!

     My recommendation for our club is to make this an event to attend next year. Lets start our own planning to do that now.

 For more details as to prize winners please see the British Motoring Festival site:

     http://www.britishmotoringfestival.com/

 Thanks,
   Gary