Large crowds of spectators turned out to watch more than 140 classic vehicles arrive on Burnham-On-Sea’s seafront on Saturday evening (June 7th) for the 21st annual Vale of Avalon Vintage Vehicle Road Run.
Despite earlier forecasts of rain, the weather stayed sunny and dry for the popular show, which featured a wide range of vehicles, from cars, lorries and military vehicles, to emergency service cars and motorbikes.
Burnham’s Mayor, Cllr Martin Cox, presented the overall Mayor’s Award to a 1937 Lanchester 14 Roadrider, pictured right, owned by East Huntspill resident Paul Chamberlain, who said he was “absolutely delighted” to have been chosen. He is shown being given his cup by the Mayor and Cllr Dennis Davey.
The run began in Glastonbury and the vehicles then drove in convoy to Burnham’s Morrisons Car Park where large numbers of spectators got the chance to see them up close, as pictured here.
Other winners included best emergency vehicle – a Leyland Tiger fire engine owned by Don Morgan of Sharpham; Best American vehicle – a 1970 Ford ‘A’ Seden owned by Arran Wynn of Bridgwater; Burnham residents choice – a 1969 Morris Cooper Mark 2 owned by Mrs J Wicham of Weare.
And the trophy for the Burnham councillors’ choice went to a 1937 Austin Ascot Cabriolet owned by George Bryne of Somerton, pictured on the right with Cllr Davey and Town Crier Alistair Murray.
This year’s event was particularly special as it was dedicated to one of the show’s founders, Daphne Stone, who passed away in March.
Her husband and co-organiser, Dennis, said he is still trying to come to terms with the loss of his wife of 57 years, but decided this year’s road run should go ahead in her memory.
Her neice, Hayley Kirkland, stepped in to run the event and says she will ensure it continues in future years.
Mayor Cllr Cox, pictured with Mr Stone, said the evening had been a huge success, telling Burnham-On-Sea.com: “It was great to see such a large crowd of more than 1,500 people attend this superb event.”
“The weather stayed fine and showed the vehicles off to their very best, making my decision to choose a winner very difficult! I congratulate all involved with the event.”
The event is estimated has now raised over £50,000 for charities and good causes throughout its history and this year’s event raised money for Help for Heroes.
