West Cumbria Vintage Rally 2001

West Cumbria Vintage Rally had a change of scene this year. Due to foot and mouth restrictions it was not possible to hold it at the usual venue of Hayescastle farm at Distington. Originally it was going to be cancelled but it was then rescheduled and re-located to Whitehaven harbour. With Whitehaven Carnival the previous week and the Maritime Festival not long before these events have been great for promoting Whitehaven's recently revamped harbour with its restored quaysides and new marina.

Although the problems meant there were far fewer exhibits than normal, the location did have many advantages not least the artistic and architectural surroundings but also the hardstanding for the vehicles. This would have also been an advantage had it rained but once again despite some menacing looking clouds the sun shone all day.

Border television's Eric Wallace was there to cover the event which included the fire brigade's usually spectacular demonstration of why not to pour water on a chip pan fire. The heat created when the fat flames explode after adding such a small amount of water should be enough to remind everyone of the dangers of having a late night fry up after a heavy drinking session.

Another bonus of being set on the harbour side was some new attractions. This included the local radio model club demonstrating their remote controlled yachts which they race in the inner harbour. The festival also coincided with the visit of the Fitzcarraldo, a theatre ship used by Walk the Plank theatre company. This years production was Moby Dick which had been brilliantly condensed and adapted to a four-handed play by Jim Burke. The four actors did a marvellous job of portraying this epic story on such a small stage with a very energetic performance. For those who also saw the superb gig by Francis Dunnery at the Civic Hall in the evening it was an entertainment packed day.

The Hub also fulfilled its purpose as a venue for entertainment at such events. This included performances by Solway Jazz band and a historical re-enactment by local school children.

Music was also provided by a couple of traditional fairground organs plus this smaller hand cranked version raising money for the lifeboat association. Another surprise figure at the vintage rally this year afforded by the sea front location was a very tall, Long John Silver who was followed by an amusing seagull.