This being the 5th ”Gathering” of 2014, and the last one for this year, we were expecting a downturn in attendance as the weather had been somewhat drab all week, and the evenings were drawing in fairly quickly now. The weather forecast had offered some hope of a pleasant evening, but all week it had not been that good. Well, we were again blessed with a beautiful afternoon and evening, and our supporters responded by turning out in numbers that again, exceeded our expectations. .
After the now customary slow start, the exhibitors and supporters started to arrive, with a steady stream from about 6:00pm. We reckon that we had around 130 vehicles turn up in total. Of these, there were around 20 classic bikes, 15 other bikes and scooters, around 40 classic cars and over 60 visiting cars, and again our red Routemaster bus!
Vehicles of note this time included a beautiful Model 20 Rover, a Lotus, a very rare Rover P6 3.9 estate car, a Lancia, a 3 wheeler v twin Matchless engine Morgan, a Humber Sceptre, a Triumph Vitesse, many beautiful Jaguars, an Austin Healey Sprite, a Ford GT40 replica, and many other favourites and new appearances. On the motorcycles we has several Moto Guzzis, a Triton (Triumph engine in Norton frame), a James, Harley Davidson, a few Triumphs and BMWs and many others. However, there was again the 1942 Jeep that Colin Easson Motors had restored and rebuilt for the Channel 5 programme “Storage: Flog the lot!” – which was screened on 19th September. We also had the pleasure of welcoming South Witham resident George Geeson, who at almost 104 years old was able to walk around and reminisce about his many years in the motor industry. George was treated to a “spin” around the field in the Matchless Morgan, which brought a great smile to his face.
A raffle was held in aid of Air Ambulance, and our thanks again go to Loreen for again persuading people to part with their cash and buy tickets. We would like to express our sincere thanks to those who donated the prizes: Maureen & Carol from the Teas and Cakes in the kitchen, and “Captain” Barry, and Mags Clarke
Well, that’s it for 2014 but we shall not be inactive during the winter. We shall be planning our 2015 series of “Gatherings” and will aim to increase attendance and our contribution to the Air Ambulance. We shall also announce how much we are able to give the Air Ambulance as a result of our 2014 “Gatherings” later this year, and will keep you further informed of all “Gathering” news via the “Gathering” website at www.greethamgathering.co.uk.
Many thanks to all of you who have come along and supported us – we appreciate it. Keep checking the website – and we’ll see you again in 2015.
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