Managed to get to Beltring this morning for a 'preview' of my usual Saturday visit. Good weather, and not quite so crowded as the weekend will be. Here are a few snapshots.... Lastly, you can come across some unusual sights at Beltring. This is, indeed, a David Irving book-signing.... ...I couldn't tell if he was trying to log on to the WWII Forums..... And I actually found the Leger Travel stand but no 'Sommecourt' ; never mind - I'll be back !
Was that actually Irving? Blimey, he's got a cheek. If, on your visit on Saturday Martin, you notice exhibits missing, it's probably VP nicking things Watch out for any posts about him having "acquired" a new Bren!
Thanks for these photos Martin, as always you supply images that are worth well more than 1,000 words. Interesting that D. Irving fellow. If I were there Martin, I think I'd have to get a signed book from him just for the raw novelty of owning one. He's a quack, and to have his book on the shelf would be a curiosity I'd like to have.
Er, actually, I have to admit that I already have a couple ( purchased secondhand ).....he doesn't seem like a born salesman ; I went up to his stall and started looking at the books and he just sat there glowering at me..... ......so I walked away quickly !
Great pictures Martin ! In picture #1, what is that vehicle called in the backgroud that looks like an armored VW Beetle and is painted grey ? It looks like it would be fun to drive down the highway.
SdKfz 222 I think: german armored cars I wouldn't be suprised if it is the 'reproduction' version built on a landrover chassis.
I hear that the show is one giant mud-bath now after the very heavy rain we've had in the UK. Should mean we should have some interesting photos to see soon.
I went today and, well....I'm not usually a weather-wimp and I've been to some very muddy outdoor events in the past, but Beltring today has been awarded the MB Mud Award With Swords, Oakleaves and Diamond Cluster.
..sorry about the subject matter & image quality...but this gives a good idea of what conditions were like yesterday ...sleeting torrential rain and a sea of thick mud...I went in my trainers and shorts, having been told by the forecasters that Saturday promised to be the best day of the weekend....never again..
Real pity about yesterday - it'd have been nice to meet up, but walking even a few paces was a nightmare. Luckily I'd taken waterproof boots, but in 10 years of going to Beltring, this was the first time I'd had anything other than hot and sunny conditions...... Still , I did manage, as usual, to buy a few items of 'nonsense' to keep myself quiet.....
Just back after 5 days there. Seemed to have missed you somehow Martin. I now have 'trench feet' with all the mud and rain! It was unreal - the worst ever weather at W&P!! Will post a photo when I have downloaded them.
With apologies for the repetition to those who also frequent a.n.other forum, here's some more shots I grabbed at Beltring. The mud really seemed to give the vehicle owners a lot of fun, a fine show and it seems likely the main heavy metal display was the largest collection of privately owned running armour to ever gather in one place. Cheers, Adam.
A very unique occasion to definately check out the efficiency of wide T-34 tracks vs Panther on muddy ground ! Awsome pictures ! Thanks !