The weather forecast had predicted rain for the opening Saturday and sure enough it arrived. With it however came thousands of caravanners who proved that rain or shine they are there for the journey and the experience. Caravan Times was in attendance at the 84th National Rally of the Caravan Club, and witnessed fantastic entertainment as well as made many new friends.
Despite heavy showers until lunchtime, the Grand Opening of the event went ahead as scheduled, with a parade from the Gurhkas division of the Army one of the most notable events in a display of traditional pomp and pageantry. Crowds amassed under umbrellas and macs in their hundreds to watch as former Director General of the Caravan Club Trevor Watson stood next to his succcessor Nick Lomas to formally open the event, held this year at the grand stately home of Weston Park in Shropshire.
The weather couldn’t dampen the spirits of those in attendance who were treated to a thrilling show from the Cheshire Dog Display Team. The dogs on display demonstrated their agility by jumping through burning hoops and subduing “attackers”. Meanwhile the various Centres from around the country took part in the traditional sports competitions, with the tug of war being strongly contested by Cheshire and eventual winners Derbyshire.
A number of stalls and outlets selling traditional English food helped rain-soaked caravanners stay warm, while many caravan owners chose to defy the rain and put on their own events. We spent Saturday afternoon at the hospitality of the Scottish Caravan Club who were starting up their own barbeque, and who introduced us to their events.
You can see our photo diary from the Bank Holiday weeekend at the National Rally here.
