Organisers revving up for Ilkeston classic vehicle show
Preparations are well advanced for a popular heritage and classic vehicle show that has become an established part of Ilkeston’s annual social calendar.
The fifth show organised by enterprise agency Erewash Partnership will bring the sights and sounds of yesteryear to the town’s historic Market Place next month.
The free show, which attracts exhibitors and spectators from a wide area, and appeals to family members of all ages, will take place on Sunday August 13 in the square and surrounding areas from 10am-4pm.
Last year’s event attracted around 7,000 visitors and so this year the Partnership has catered for expansion of the exhibitors’ area to include the whole of Pimlico car park to make the show even bigger and better.
So far participants have booked in more than 200 exhibits and organisers expect this to rise to almost 300, beating previous totals.
The oldest exhibit entered is more than 110 years old. The 1904 car was made by the American Brennan Motor Manufacturing Company which qualifies it for Bonham’s London-Brighton veteran car run, where it is a regular participant.
So far more than 16 classic lorries have been entered, along with classic and sports cars, motor-bikes, buses – reminiscent of the days when services operated by Trent, Barton, and Midland General ran to and from the Market Place – and steam engines.
Owners are not just keen to show their gleaming pride and joy, but also hoping to win prizes sponsored by various firms, mainly from the motor trade. New headline sponsors include the Porsche Centre Nottingham, and Vauxhall Repair Centre, Ilkeston.
Ilkeston car dealership Ron Brooks will again be awarding a prize for the car of the show, and the there is also an Erewash Mayor’s award for an exhibit of their personal choice.
Last year a number of people attended in appropriate period dress to match their vehicles, so the Partnership has decided to embrace this idea and award a prize for the best dressed owner. This is sponsored by new Bath Street shop Fabulous Things.
Two special attractions will make their fourth appearance – characters from the Star Wars film in the guise of 501st Legion UK Garrison will storm the area, much to the delight of younger visitors, and mystery man The UKG Stig will also be present.
There will also be a craft fair, music from Ilkeston Brass and St Mary’s Church will be open. The event gives local businesses nearby an opportunity to open up, and two charities Ilkeston Hospital League of Friends and Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance will benefit.
Partnership chief executive Ian Viles said: “We are delighted to again be hosting this show which has become a firm favourite in Ilkeston and for people from miles around.”
Roads around the Market Place will be closed to normal traffic as vehicles start to arrive. Closures will be in place from 5.30am – 6.30pm on Sunday. Bath Street from East Street to the Market Place, Wharncliffe Road from Albert Street and South Street from Coronation Street, plus Pimlico between New Lawn Road and Burns Street are the affected routes. Parking in Erewash Borough Council car parks is free on Sundays.
