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Set in the green and pleasant parkland of Cholmondeley (pronounced Chumley) Castle grounds in the North West of England. This year’s event apparently attracted some 50,000 spectators and for a pleasant change I didn’t know any of them!

Visitors braving the weather were rewarded with a fascinating collection of automotive oddities, owners alike, and a multitude of motor driven devices from land, air and sea. Straw bales marked the 1.2-mile circuit where spirited action and slippery conditions witnessed a few mishaps as competitors battled for fastest time of the day.

Edison-Puton Monowheel 1910 driven by a 150cc De Dion Buton…. marvellous, but so many reasons why not! 

Continuing with the extraordinary were the friendly rivals of Brutus and Mavis. Brutus the Porsche designed Second World War Schwimmwagen (demonstrated by the German Sinsheim Museum)  a 12 cylinder, 46-litre BMW aero-engined special. This fire-breathing monster was in close competition with Chris Williams’s 42-litre Packard-engined Mavis for the best flames.

The fire-breathing monsters Brutus and Mavis

Motorcycles many and varied:

At first I thought this was another of Chris Williams dastardly constructions but later investigation led me to find that the Böhmerland was a motorcycle produced in Czechoslovakia from 1924 until World War II, notable for producing the motorcycle with longest ever wheelbase, 10.5 feet !

Chris Williams pilots four-up!

As part of the Ac Cobra’s 50 year celebrations these Northern fields saw the largest gathering of the Anglo-American sports car in the UK this year. Marked by special display entitled ‘Cobras at the Castle’ and with a special race category – the ‘AC Cobra 50th Anniversary Class’ – fifteen Cobras gave parade laps, of which Justin and Don Law’s 289 was quickest in the timed runs.

Cobras at the Castle

As shows go this was something different for us too. Our previous show was in sunny Dijon were temperature on the stand approached 30C. This made selling our wonderful Belstaff Jackets a little testing, so a little rain was almost welcome, although Adam and Tania are still drying the tent in time for Classic Le Mans, where stand temperature reached 35C in 2010!

The new Instant Marquees Holden stand and flags, in a brief moment of sunshine.

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The start of the Bromyard Motorcycle Club’s annual road trip. This year included Bob Bemand’s stag event and a Holden Vintage and Classic exhibition at Coupes Moto Legende Dijon France. 23/05/2012

Richard Leveson – Roger Garness – Stuart Dawson – Jeremy Holden (sitting) – Bob Bemand – Adam Jones – Henry Topham – Bob Bouston

Witnessed here the unsightly clutch of ‘half drinkers’. This action is discouraged in Bromyard as considered to be the first signs of the on-set of homosexuality

Bob’s first of several ‘on the house’ cocktails …..a moment of gay abandon for a keen pint drinker, tractor spotter and amateur welder.

Henry Topham shows how not to drink halves while John Clayton keeps an eye on the stag and ponders free drinks for the best man.

Cocktails having taken effect, the brace of Bobs impress locals with the YMCA routine. Fortunately the two conjoined twins, born on different days, made it back to the hotel where they tried on the Madams bra for use as a crash helmet.

John Clayton amused but cannot understand why English menfolk like dancing together and suggests that the groom should try on his kilt.. Bob’s display of air guitar soon became infectious and turned into a perfect example of air accordion, in honour of our French hosts.

Arrival at the campsite overlooking Dijon,, home of the insipid mustard, a poor relation of English mustard and another example of why we are better.

The Holden stand and customers. Holdens have spared no expense to make their stand the premiere event display at such meetings. The frame of ‘The Pavilion’ was made of condensed bees wings, for lightness and strength, while the Holden green cover was carefully fashioned out of the finest rare Yangsee fresh water dolphin skin.

Camp dinner Saturday evening.  The evening meal, cooked by master chef and petrol head Richard ‘Bone’Leveson, comprised un assiette of herons legs, served on a very long thin plate with a Chameleon garnish which a lot of campers found hard to find.

Bob the Cider admires the view whilst adopting local customs. Bob can be seen balancing on two pint glasses which he had previously painted hearing aid beige for his role as Long John Silver and his two peg legs, coming to a theatre near you!

As the sun goes down the talk turns to fire,which is French for bollocks.

Simon Holden relaxes around the camp fire. This is despite temporary blindness after drinking Cider Bob’s cunningly named ‘English Piss’ (105 octane) tour brew.

Yet more customers arrive at the Holden stand. This customer having purchased his Belstaff jacket off the web asked if it was possible to change the next size up. As it happens we could and hope to visit him one day at his campsite in the Alps: www.werners-bikercamp.de

Mad dogs and English men selling Belstaff jackets go out in the mid day sun! By afternoon the heat had reached a temperature of 30c – this dissuaded all but a few, and the foreign legion!

Trying to find breakfast in France on a bank holiday Monday took us to Fontainbleau. Coffee and a cake in front of the Chateaux then open, car free roads in the early morning sunshine was a harsh contrast when joining the motorway in Portsmouth, as was the full English breakfast!

Holden

www.holden.co.uk

24th May will see them en route from Bromyard, England via Caen for a leisurely ride to Beaugency. Arriving mid afternoon in preparation for celebratory dinner that evening, this to mark the pending marriage of confirmed bachelor and Triumph rider Bob Bemand (56) who is getting married to the lovely Tracy Whiting in July this year.

25th May – we ride to Dijon and set up Holden’s Belstaff stand (B100) and club camp site. This will be the base for the weekend’s events. Potential customers will be able to choose from a full range of Belstaff jackets and have the opportunity of being served by some of Bromyard’s finest monosyllabic linguists!

All purchasers of Belstaff Jackets over the weekend will receive free Herefordshire Cider.

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Pour mélanger des affaires et le plaisir, la plupart des personnes pensent que c’est une bonne recette, et le cru de Holden Vintage and Classic feront juste cela avec le Bromyard Motorcycle club, à la Club légende de Moto cette année . Environ 20 des membres voyageront avec le Holden Belstaff à Dijon ce mois.

Ils laissent Bromyard en Angleterre le 24 mai pour un tour insouciant à Beaugency passant par Caen.

ils arrivent mi après-midi en vue du dîner de célébration cette soirée pour marquer le mariage en attente du célibataire perpétuel, (Triumph rider) Bob Bemand (56) qui se marient en juillet.

25 mai. arrivez à Dijon au camping.et installé l’exposition pour de Belstaff – Holden Vintage and Classic. Ce sera la base pour les événements du week-end. les abonnés pourront choisir d’une gamme complète de vestes de Belstaff, et ont la possibilité d’être servi par les plus bons hommes de Bromyard !

Tous les acheteurs des vestes de Belstaff au cours du week-end recevront le cidre libre de Herefordshire

Holden

The fact that all petrol now contains a small percentage of ethanol raises two very important issues :

Ethanol is hydroscopic which leads to a separation of the ethanol and petrol, with the ethanol going to the bottom of the tank/fuel pump/float chamber etc;

and,

Ethanol is not compatible with a range of materials such as­ aluminium, brass, natural rubber, etc. See full list below(link).

Shell UK have advised as follows ­:

“The fuel we sell will continue to comply with the relevant fuel standards and specifications as it did previously. The finished petrol will meet the UK gasoline standard EN228, and the maximum amount of ethanol blended into the fuel will be in line with this and the RTFO (renewable fuel transport obligation – 5% max). However that doesn’t really help owners of vintage vehicles. There are several things you can do to minimise the effects of ethanol. Firstly run a non-alcohol based fuel stabilizer all year round. Older engines were designed primarily for straight gasoline, and using ethanol without protection may cause corrosion of some metals in the engine. It also may damage natural rubber and cork parts. Fuel Stabilizers contain additives to protect against rust and corrosion caused by ethanol fuel blends. If practical Install a water separation filter and fuel filter, and replace fuel lines, gaskets or o-rings with new ethanol resistant materials. Similarly replace the fuel tank if necessary with one made from an ethanol resistant material.

In terms of laying up the vehicle; Assuming the above measures are in place (we cannot make a laying up procedure if they are not, as it simply would not be advisable with fuel containing ethanol), we would suggest filling the fuel tank to about 95% of its capacity with fuel, rather than leaving the fuel tank low. This minimizes; the tank-breathing effect, the loss of volatile components and the ingress of moisture into the fuel tank. The latter, in extreme cases, can cause the appearance of free-water in the fuel.

If a fuel is to be stored in a motor vehicle fuel tank, then maintaining fuel quality is important in order to maintain good start-up and a good level of vehicle drivability. When an engine fails to start after a period of lay-up, it may be less to do with fuel deterioration, and could be related to un-seasonal fuel, which may not be sufficiently volatile to start the engine from cold. Non volatile residues are often observed in the fuel tank, delivery system and/or carburettors in cases of severe evaporative loss of a gasoline. The residue can manifest itself as either a gum or lacquer-like film or deposit, or a gel-like substance. This residue would be a combination of low-volatility constituents and detergent additives that are found in gasoline, but concentrated after evaporation. We do not advise storing fuels in vehicles for more than 6 months. You should also take into account the differences between summer and winter grades of petrol. Petrol has a higher volatility in the winter in order to enable cold starting. For this reason it is better to fill the tank with a winter grade fuel (16th October – 14th April) rather than a summer grade.”

This list is not comprehensive and the quality of the material must be appropriate for the intended application. More information can be found at http://fbhvc.co.uk/bio-fuels/

At Holden Vintage and Classic, we are happy to be able to recommend (and we use) these new products from Millers Oils:

VSPe POWER PLUS
DESCRIPTION:
An “all in one” fuel treatment providing ethanol protection, lead replacement and an octane boster for unleaded fuel.

£7.66

APPLICATION:
Recommended for all classic engines previously requiring leaded fuel and now running on unleaded fuel.

USER BENEFITS:
• Adds up to 2 octane numbers (20 points) to unleaded fuel
• Prevents valve seat recession when used with unhardened valve seats
• Prevents detonation, hot spots & running on
• Prevents fuel system corrosion helps protect components
• Combats the adverse effects of ethanol in fuel
• Carburettor anti-icing formula
• Contains anti oxidant to improve fuel life

TYPICAL CHARACTERISTICS:
Specific Gravity@15°C … 0.813
Flashpoint °C …75
Colour …Clear

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MILLERS EPS – ETHANOL PROTECTION
£6.31 (ex VAT)

RECOMENDED FOR:
Rebuilt classic engines / vehicles with hardened valve seats previously requiring leaded fuel and now running on unleaded fuel and where an octane improver and lead replacement is not required.

Combats the adverse effects of ethanol in fuel

Prevents fuel system corrosion/helps protect components

Carburettor anti-icing formula

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MILLERS VSPe – ETHANOL PROTECTION/LEAD REPLACEMENT  £6.71 (ex VAT)

RECOMMENDED FOR:
All classic engines previously requiring leaded fuel now running on unleaded fuel and where an octane improver is not required.

Prevents valve seat recession when used with unhardened valve seats

Combats the adverse effects of ethanol in fuel

Prevents fuel system corrosion/helps protect components

Carburettor anti-icing formula

Contains anti oxidant to improve fuel life

_____________________

POR-15 FUEL PRESERVATIVE & STABILIZER
£11.20 (ex VAT)

When you are not using your car or motorcycle the fuel in the tank and system breaks down chemically and can cause problems.

When you pour FUEL PRESERVATIVE & STABILIZER in your tank, oxygen is chemically isolated (preventing oxidation) and corrosive compounds are neutralized (stopping rust formation).

The special dispenser bottle will measure exactly for you with no waste. Use 1 ounce per 3 gallons for normal maintenance, or 1 ounce per gallon to thoroughly clean your fuel system.
Contains NO alcohol

_____________________

Please note:
Castrol and Morris Oils are currently reviewing their ethanol product range.

Fuel guide type/octane/RON guide (octane and RON are one and the same)

2 star = 92 octane/RON
3 star = Ordinary Unleaded =  95 octane/RON
4 star = Super Unleaded = 98 octane/RON
5 star = 101 octane/RON

Holden

Now that the weather has improved and the salty winter roads are but a distant memory, thoughts are surely turning towards unearthing your cherished classic from its winter hibernation, shaking the cobwebs out and returning it to the road.

We have several useful pointers for you, before venturing out on your first journey.

Tyre pressures - if you over-inflated the tyres prior to winter storage, check and return them to their normal operating pressure. Inspect your tyres for wear or any damage, and check the wheel nuts / spinners are tight.

Tyre Pressure Gauges     Hammers & Mallets     Wheelbraces

Coolant

Check the coolant level and replenish as necessary.

If the car has been stored for an extended period, it may be necessary to flush the cooling system thoroughly and refresh the coolant altogether.

We recommend, and indeed use in our own classic cars, 4Life, which is an advanced coolant, providing a greater temperature range, and improved corrosion resistance when compared to a traditional water/anti-freeze mix.

Go to Coolant, Anti-Freeze, Radiator Fluids

Electrics

With an assistant, the long-suffering wife, girlfriend, or even a mirror to help, go through all the lights and make sure everything works as it should, paying particular attention to brake lights and indicators, as these are safety items.

Check electrical contacts and bulbs, replacing where necessary. At the same time, ensure you have a small kit of spare bulbs.

This is mandatory in some EU countries and is highly recommended.

Go to Bulbs & Warning Lamps

Oil

Check and top up oil to the required level with the correct grade of oil.

Ensure that you use the same grade of oil that was put in at the last oil change.

Go to Oils, Grease & Fluids

Braking System

Check fluid levels where necessary (if your car has cable or rod operated brakes, visually inspect the system, lubricating joints and pivot points)

Brake & Clutch Fluids        Oil Cans, Funnels, Guns

Disconnect and store your battery conditioner, and re-attach the battery leads if you removed them, paying attention to ensuring cleanliness of the battery posts and terminals.
If your battery is not of the ‘dry’ type, check the level of the electrolyte, topping up with de-mineralised (distilled) water if required.

You could try recycling water collected from your condensing tumble dryer, or from the collection tray of your fridge. (We believe both of these sources provide a de-mineralised water, but would welcome any feedback on this.)

Lastly, smear a light coating of grease on the terminals to prevent corrosion.

Battery Anti-Corrode

MOT, Insurance & Tax – Check to make sure that all the necessary paperwork is in order, paying attention to the renewal dates. Whilst insurance companies will send you several reminders that your policy is reaching its expiry, VOSA do not, so check and note the expiry date of your MOT.

Once you have carried out a detailed check of the car, now arrives the moment to start the engine.

Once running, allow the engine to warm through before setting out too far. At this point, depress the clutch and ensure you can engage gear – this will give you a clear indication if your clutch has seized. This is something which is not uncommon if your car has been stored in slightly damp conditions.

Having satisfied yourself that all is well and whilst waiting for the temperature gauge to register an acceptable reading, take the opportunity to have a look around the engine bay for leaks, listen for any unusual noises or signs of problems.

Once satisfied, remember to secure the bonnet before moving off.

Inspection & Working Lamps

Possibly head for the petrol station and put in some fresh fuel, not forgetting fuel additive if required. It is important to note that modern fuel contains ethanol, which can be harmful to classic fuel systems.

Once fuelled, give the car a reasonable run, 2-3 miles simply isn’t enough.

Pick a favourite route and go for a sensible run, 20 miles or so will be enough to warm the engine and transmission oils thoroughly, and re-acquaint you with some of the ‘peculiarities’ of your car.

Fuel Additives

Maybe now is the time to consider those little maintenance jobs that “I’ll do over the winter” but you never got round to, (mainly because the prospect of spending time in the colder environment of the garage is not very appealing). Your first trip out will remind you of things that may need attending to.

Finally, enjoy your seasons motoring, whether competitive or otherwise.

J Holden.

www.holden.co.uk

14 years later, even without the sound of the merlin engine and the tear in my father’s eye, press day in front of Goodwood House was as special. The 100 plus top draw cars ranging between a 1904 Mercedes to Ferrari 250 GTO/SWB, half a dozen Cobras, motorcycles, bunny girls, hospitality (cottage pie on silver trays) and bunny girls, did it for me!

Interestingly, the Earl of March was showing his Kellison, a late 50’s early 60’s V8 Coupe from the USA. A stunning looking machine (all be it with fuelling problems) during the afternoon. It looks however a formidable contender for the TT race in September.

Last week, I was lucky enough to hitch a ride with Mathew Humphries, Morgan’s chief designer. We ‘smoked rubber’ (in a gentlemanly fashion) in the stonking new Plus8 during a brisk demonstration running the full length of the hill climb course (front drive) – how nice it would be to be back next year with a light-weight race version!

Below you will find a selection from the 359 photos I’ve taken and a selection of our British-made. weather proof picnic rugs, in case you fancy one for a Goodwood occasion!

Holden at Goodwood Press Day

Browse Perfect Picnic Rugs for any Occasion:

http://www.holden.co.uk

I had wanted to do this peculiar and oddly popular event, held at Silverstone and run by the VSCC for the last 15 years, or more.

Since its launch 60 years ago, the “Pom” earned a cult status. Truly a one-off with multiple driving tests, hood and suitcase tests, followed by a 40minute Regularity Trial.

Why was this normally sub zero event so popular? I had no idea but at long last I was about to find out, and very unexpectedly in the sunshine too!

Why I had I failed to enter in the past? Maybe that is easy to understand, with plenty of excuses coming to mind. The fact that it is the first track event of the season, with car prep taking place alongside trials repairs, end of year tax bills, snow, rain and ice, is just a start to understanding why not.

Why so popular?  I guess the extraordinary diversity of the cars, wacky formulas and likewise people make it special. Would I go next year? Well, until the results appeared I was not convinced. But being only 3.1 points away (348.1 v 351.2) from an award and with the knowledge that fitting old fertilizer bag as a roof and a Tesco’s basket for additional luggage space would have gained me another 30 points….well, as it is said, I will be back!

www.holden.co.uk

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