Turvey Steam Rally (September 16th - 18th, 2022)
This is one of a series of pages I have uploaded to illustrate facets of the steam rallies we have attended in the UK. Click here for the 2022 introduction and overall index.
The Old Warden Steam Rally is
Dead
Long Live the Turvey Steam Rally
The world has changed in the last 4 years and it is pretty pointless in comparing old and new in detail. Suffice to say that, for me, the Bedfordshire and Lincoln events no longer rank second and third behind Great Dorset and their places have been taken up by Welland and Weeting. This was, to quote another enthusiast, "a larger than average provincial rally". By common consent, it was overpriced at £20 a head for casual admission although discounted online tickets were still available during the event. For that kind of money I would expect some stage entertainment beyond the ring events but I fancy the society reserves were not sufficient to underwrite such things, certainly I was told by one owner that no 'diesel money' was available to lure the reluctant and this may have been a factor in the absence of many of the Old Warden regulars.
I have to say that Friday was a dire experience with few visitors and little atmosphere despite the absence of any prospect of rain. Fortunately, Saturday was much better all round with more punters, a great atmosphere and plenty of movement even if much of it was to and from the bar tent! Like most rallies this year, there were fewer traders than previously and sales did not appear brisk. Going home west the weather was bright on Sunday so hopefully the punters will have rolled in again. Despite all the above, there were 8 new engines for me, when this happens I conclude that an organiser is doing their homework!
This was Yuehong's prize exhibit, a 1970 built Fiat 500L, a predecessor of today's version, one of which graces our parking area at home. People were rather smaller in girth 50 years ago.
Foden 14078 brought its own toy to the party, it looked rather more attractive than the single load provided in the Playpen.
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