VANWEST 2007

For many people the weekend was like any other, but for hardy dubbers it will be remembered as the one when thousands of determined die hard VW enthusiasts braved the elements and descended on the Haynes Motor Museum for a great weekend.

An overcast Friday saw a steady stream of buses set up camp and fire up their barbies, while the trade arena and food courts prepared. Darkness fell and avid fans packed the halls to revel in the musical talents of local rock band “Sixteen Stone Pig”. Beer flowed, people danced and the wet outside was forgotten. Saturday morning saw a bustling trade arena with club displays of all generations of transporter. Local dealers VW Heritage came to support the event, and showed off the California and Sportline models, bargain hunters prowled the stands and auto jumble to the sound of screeching rubber from the test track, made even more exciting by several downpours of blighty’s finest.Excited youngsters competed in Charlie’s treasure hunt while others showed off their colouring and competition skills in the main marquee. Now parents could relax and develop their own skills in the Black Art of “Pinstriping” with Rob 75 and Prosign’s Neil Melliard. Competitions rained over the PA whilst the rain encompassed the competitions. By mid afternoon “Druid's Brew” hammered their strings and brought the sun back to a chilled out crowd, Gasure UK educated us in LPG conversions and themany other specialist traders sorted everyone else’s demands.

Early evening, the halls were bustling with the family party and yet more children’s competitions: even the dads showed off their hula-hoop skills. Headlining punk band “God Save The Queen” took over in frenetic style to ensure the roof was rocking to the likes of “Gordon is a Moron ” and “Frigging in the Rigging” (which sent the crowd wild). An impromptu open mic night followed leading onto the legendary nude midnight track race?

Sunday was a mixed day, mostly rubber, grass, cats and dogs, the trade area was steady and I do believe someone bought a kayak – useful! Visitors lined up in an impressive display on the track and Mr Melliard mesmerised the crowd, the competitions continued and spirits remained high among the impressive new “splash look” display entrants, demonstrating that this show is definitely “on the edge”. Eventually the droplets won through and the event was concluded with an action packed 4x4 syncro display and random van push demos.

All things considered, a great Vdub weekend with lots to do, good music, nice facilities and a great atmosphere. Be sure not to miss it in 2008!!

The whole Vanwest crew would sincerely like to thank everyone for their support and understanding throughout, we always do our best to ensure your needs are met and this doesn’t always go according to plan. Ultimately, however, it’s you guys who enable the show to grow into what we believe is a tribute to the attendees, and this year’s event has clearly shown that – thanks again!