EX-WORLD Superbike star Aaron Slight showed that he really is ‘The People’s Champion’ as thousands of visitors packed into the huge annual event to meet their hero and take advantage of the autumn sun.
Compere Steve Plater spoke to Slight about his career, life as a WSB rider and teased out some entertaining stories during on-stage interviews at the Carole Nash Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show over the weekend of October 14-15.
Also attracting a lot of attention were Barry Sheene’s two world championship-winning RG500s in the Suzuki Village at Staffordshire County Showground. These same bikes wowed the crowds when they were fired up in the Classic Racer GP Paddock on the Sunday, along with a handful of replica Aaron Slight Castrol Honda RC45s.
And it was a Bridgestone which stole the headlines in the event awards, with Bill Millar’s rare 1967 Bridgestone 350 GTR – displayed in the private entries area – scooping the honour of Best in Show.
The Bonhams’ auction autumn sale, another Stafford favourite, once again demonstrated the strength of the classic bike market as a 1914 Henderson 1068cc Model C Four sold for £113,500, contributing to a sale total of £2,752,416.
Hundreds of trade stands did a roaring trade while enthusiasts enjoyed live action during the weekend from the GP Paddock, Classic Dirt Bike Experience and the Cavalcade. The Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club also offered expert advice and entertained in the Restoration Theatre.
Exhibition manager Nick Mowbray said: “It was superb weekend and we had great weather for the duration. Aaron Slight really caused a stir on the main stage and we saw long queues after each interview with people wanting to meet Aaron and have items signed. The quality of bikes on display was unprecedented and we would like to thank everyone for bringing their amazing machines along.
“All in all the show has been an undoubted success, and we look forward to returning in April for yet another Stafford classic.”
Events manager at Carole Nash, Kirsty Garner, said: “We were the proud sponsors of the 24th Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show. With surprisingly lovely weather for the time of year, this was a successful show for traders and visitors alike. Can’t wait to see you all again in April!”
Two-wheel action returns to Staffordshire County Showground on April 21-22, 2018 for the Carole Nash International Classic MotorCycle Show. Details for that, and other events, can be found at classicbikeshows.com.
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