SUMMER SCENE

By Chris Dugdale

I believe its Summer again, but looking outside as I write this you could be mistaken for thinking so, but sun or not the Vintage motoring season is now well under way with Rally’s, Gatherings, Village Fetes and Vehicle Runs taking place throughout the Country.

Being based in the glorious Westcountry I am naturally more attuned to what is going on in my patch than elsewhere. If you do not live in the area but will be coming down for a break or holiday and you are interested in vehicles then there is plenty to keep you occupied. One place well worth a visit is “The World of Country Life” at Sandy Bay just outside Exmouth. Packed with Vintage cars, Traction Engines, Early Farm machinery and a period Village Street with shop windows packed with items of the era, the place is really a “must” and a great day out for all the family.

The third Sunday in July (16^th) will see the annual Devon Coastal Run, now in its 22^nd year, organised by the Historic Transport Club. Over 300 vehicles (some travelling long distances to take part years after year) from the Edwardian age to the early 1960`s and encompassing cars, lorries, buses and coaches converge on Granada Services, Exeter for the 8.30 a.m. start, the beginning of the run which travels through Exeter, then down the side of the River Exe, through picturesque Starcross on the way to Dawlish and Teignmouth, then following the River up to Newton Abbot and thence to Totnes, Ashburton and on to Mill Marsh Park at Bovey Tracey where all the vehicles gather for a Rally in the afternoon. The first vehicles arrive around noon. Some of the best places to watch the cavalcade are to be found between Starcross and Teignmouth. On arrival at Teignmouth the vehicles drive onto the Seafront where most stop awhile for a coffee break and to be greeted by the local Mayor A great place to wander amongst the cars and talk with their owners, everything being low key and friendly.

The Historic Transport Club hold monthly gatherings at the Gipsy Hill Hotel, Souton, Exeter on the third Tuesday of each month from 8.30 with talks, slide shows, model evenings etc. anyone interested is always welcome to attend. (June are August excepted when there is a evening run and club barbecue).

That’s all for the moment, happy motoring!

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