This annual event started a long time ago as the Teesside Airport Fire Engine Rally (hopefully somebody will tell me exactly when as my memory isn't too good these days) and since then it has grown from something mainly for Fire Service enthusiasts, to a super couple of days for all the family.
As well as fire engines of all types and ages, there are displays of cars of all ages, craft displays, model displays, arena activities, and rides of all types for the children. I'm sure I've missed something but I only had a couple of hours to spare and couldn't get round it all.
As well as fire engines of all types and ages, there are displays of cars of all ages, craft displays, model displays, arena activities, and rides of all types for the children. I'm sure I've missed something but I only had a couple of hours to spare and couldn't get round it all.
Unlike last year when it poured with rain and washed the event out, today was bright and sunny when we arrived about half past one, but breezy and a little chilly when the sun went in. Everybody we saw seemed to be enjoying themselves, with plenty for all tastes and food for all tastes as well.
I only saw a few MGs.
This lovely and rare1967 MG1100 Mk1, owned by Alan Channing of Spennymoor has it's certified copy of its factory record showing that it was built 5-6 January 1967.
I only saw a few MGs.
This lovely and rare1967 MG1100 Mk1, owned by Alan Channing of Spennymoor has it's certified copy of its factory record showing that it was built 5-6 January 1967.
A very nice MGBGT, looking as good as they always did.
T230, an MGBGT, ex Sussex Constabulary, now extensively restored and equipped. It's looking good but I can't help thinking that the 'aerodynamic brick' on the roof must hamper the performance a little.
The MG TC on the right is another ex police car, now owned by Bill Tonks of Wingate.
I didn't feel the slightest bit guilty lighting up a cigar next to this.
An impressive line up. Given the cost of fuel theses days and the few miles per gallon these vehicles do, I was very pleased to see so many 'in attendance'. I don't know if the numbers are up or down on previous years, but this year is a good turn out.
A few more than three steps to heaven.
Inside the marquee I found some wonderful examples of model engineering by Keith Hay. It's good to see craftsmanship still survives.
Meanwhile, back in the arena, a display by the Young Firefighters. Young Firefighters is an initiative run by some fire stations, who take youngsters between the ages of 13 and 18 and give them training one night a week. They train to use all the equipment, from branches to cutting gear, in just the same way that firefighters do. I think it's a briiliant idea and it will hopefully raise awareness with the youth of today of the real value of the Fire Service. If it stops some from setting fires and stoning the crews who attend, then it can only be a good thing.
I really wish that I'd had time to see more, but what I saw was as good as ever and a credit to the organisers and those who attended with the displays of all types.
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