Historic Stratford-upon-Avon to host Spring Festival of Motoring

Stratforward is delighted to announce the launch of the Stratford Festival of Motoring in 2013. The inaugural event will take place during the early May bank holiday, on Sunday 5 and Monday 6 May.

More than 200 classic and special interest vehicles are expected to be on display throughout the historic town during the two-day festival which will also feature two “runs” through stunning Warwickshire and Gloucestershire countryside for all entrants.

The Test Hills Run on the Sunday will challenge entrants’ driving skills as it snakes for nearly 60 miles throughout some of the steepest Cotswold inclines. Tracing a well-driven route used by Midlands’ motor manufacturers to test vehicle pulling power and braking ability in the days before purpose-built test tracks, the run passes through some of the UK’s most picturesque towns and villages including Edgehill, Chipping Campden, Mickleton and Broadway. Monday’s less daunting but scenic drive will see participants motoring through towns and villages to the north of the town, searching for clues to complete the light-hearted Treasure Trail. The “runs” are organised by Tony Merrygold from Shakespeare Country, co-organiser of the festival.

Much interest has already been shown in the event by enthusiasts with vehicles from the Veteran, Edwardian, Vintage, PVT and Classic eras, whilst by contrast some of the world’s most famous modern supercars will be on display.

These are likely to include cars such as world-renowned Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati as well as the more unusual supercars from Spyker, Brabus and Ultima. The British contingent is also well represented by the likes of Aston Martin, Jaguar, Jensen, Lotus, Noble and Bentley. Microcars will feature too and the diminutive delights on display are likely to include the Bubble Car, Bond Minicar, Goggomobil, Heinkel and Messerschmitt. Lovers of two wheels won’t be disappointed with the range of vintage and classic motor cycles on display which, it is hoped, will include Matchless, AJS, BSA, Royal Enfield, Ariel, Triumph, Norton, Moto Guzzi, BMW, Suzuki and Harley Davidson.

Event organiser, Adrian Grubb, from Stratforward says; “The Stratford Festival of Motoring promises something for everyone with at least a drop of petrol running through their veins. And what better way to spend the May Day bank holiday than in the picture-perfect location that is Stratford-upon Avon, surrounded by fascinating vehicles and fellow motoring enthusiasts?”