Hats off to scorching summer vintage show (From Wharfedale Observer)

Hats off to scorching summer vintage show

12:11pm Friday 14th September 2012 in Local news By Jim Jack

Thousands of people flocked to Otley at the weekend to enjoy the 2012 Vintage Transport Extrava-ganza under the scorching Indian Summer sun.

The annual fundraiser was so busy on Sunday, organiser, Nigel Francis, and his team of stewards even ended up having to turn people away – advising visitors to use alternative car parks and then walk to the site.

About 6,000 people turned up at Knotford Nook, off Pool Road, during the day to enjoy a display of some 500 old steam engines, cars, lorries, buses, static engines, tractors, army vehicles and bicycles.

Crowds were also entertained by live music, courtesy of the City of Leeds Pipe Band, Hall Royd brass band and the Knaresboough Accordion and Fiddle Band. There was also a variety of stalls and children’s attractions.

Otley town councillor and former mayor, Mr Francis, whose children’s charity – Hang On To A Dream – receives any profits from the extravaganza, said: “It was so busy it was manic.

“I think because it was sunny, but also because there have been so many shows and carnivals cancelled this year due to poor weather, people were dying to go and enjoy their weekend in the sun.

“It was a little chaotic and we ended up filling the field and had to turn some people away to park elsewhere. Health and safety had to be paramount, and by mid-morning, we had reached the maximum number of vehicles we could have on the field, while still safely staging the event and keeping the access roads around the site clear.

“It was certainly one of the busiest extravaganzas of recent years, and should hopefully bring in some good money for Hang On To A Dream.”

Based in Otley, Hang On To A Dream provides special holidays and equipment for terminally and seriously ill children and young people across Yorkshire.

Coun Francis was also keen to high-light the contribution of everyone who played a part in the day’s success, by taking their vintage vehicles along, giving their time by stewarding or lending equipment at discount rates or for free.

He added: “We are very lucky because we still have a lot of people who help us by doing things for a reduced rate or free, otherwise it would cost us a fortune to stage this.

“I’d like to thank everyone who helped or brought their vehicles along, and I’m sure everyone would agree it was a fantastic day.”

Visitors also enjoyed a model steam railway and a Bernese Mountain Dogs display.