Photographs Courtesy: Tom Benson Photography & Car-Tography

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Pendle Powerfest returned to Nelson & Colne College in Lancashire on Sunday 26th May with their 7th annual Family Motorshow.

Bringing an eclectic mix of fantastic vehicles, a new live arena, music & entertainment, food village and lots to entertain the family plus special guest Superbike Racing legend and King of the Jungle Carl Fogarty MBE.

Unfortunately after many years of great weather, this year the heavens opened and torrential rain poured for most of the day. In true British spirit the team of committed volunteers were determined to make the best of the show that they had spent all year preparing. 

The show's aim was to raise funds and awareness for the jamiearnold.org campaign fundraising for St Rocco’s Hospice and the Community Champion Outcry Theatre Company, Based in nearby Colne.

 

Having been on site from 6am to set up the show, the team remained upbeat as they waited to see if anyone would brave the weather.

What happened was nothing short of astounding, through heavy downpours a steady stream of traders and vehicle owners trickled through the gates. From the priceless Jaguar XJ220 and Peugeot 205 T16 through vintage and sports cars to the caterers and traders the show began to fill.

Unsurprisingly due to the weather at least half of the planned content didn’t attend but the team’s spirits were continually lifted by the commitment of local people bringing their pride and joy out to support the event.

 

“It might not have gone to plan but the organisers have done an amazing job, given how much the weather interfered” – SRD Design Works, a car exhibitor, Wigan.

 

As the gates opened the crowds still came, albeit in reduced numbers, but their faith in the Pendle Powerfest name was heart warming to see. Families and couples explored the assembled displays including the Eddie Stobart Truck, Lightning McQueen and supercars from Lloyds BMW and Stratstone Aston Martin Wilmslow.

“It was fab. We got soaked but it didn’t dampen our spirits. We stayed for about 3hrs altogether. First time we’ve been and definitely won’t be the last. Well done to all. My son said it was the best day ever. Big thank you from two happy kids." – Rachel, 1st time visitor.

 

“An absolutely fantastic day out. Such effort had been put in to making everything family friendly. The cars on display were brilliant, such a range to see. My son loved looking at all the different cars and modes of transport. Food and drink was delicious too. Lots to choose from. 
A really well organised event. I’ll definitely be looking out for the next one. We had such a ball. Thank you Pendle Powerfest” – Sarah Jayne, 1st Time Visitor, Poynton.

 

Welcomed to the show for the first time was local celebrity and motorbike star Carl Fogarty. Racing since the age of 14, Carl has gone on to become the most successful World Superbike racer of all time in terms of the number of championships. Carl was there all day greeting the fans, signing autographs and taking selfies. He also presented the prizes for best bikes to those brave souls who battled the elements to be there.

The show was hosted from the new arena, supported by Ribble FM, by Tristesse James and Kev Furber. A new venture for this year, it brought a mix of entertainment and interviews including a fascinating chat with Carl about his career’s ups and downs that drew in the crowds. It also featured some of the more exotic examples on show including the Praga R1t racing car. The team from Ribble FM kept everyone’s spirits high and made the most of the late afternoon sunshine that brought a welcome break in the weather.

Even the new Mayor and Mayoress managed to find a break in the weather to be shown around.

“The weather was a bit inclement, but Pendle Powerfest lived up to its normal high standard. Some weird and wonderful engineering was on show and a wide selection of cars and bikes to suit every taste. Deborah and Stuart were the perfect well informed hosts who outshone the weather with their brilliance. Pendle Powerfest’s efforts for charity are much appreciated.” – Cllrs Ken Hartley & Jayne Mills.