A PROCESSION of British transport made its way home in an oily blue haze after entertaining thousands of visitors at the 33rd Scottish Transport Extravaganza at Glamis Castle, while the organisers gave themselves a well- deserved pat on the back.

It was remarkable the show even went ahead.

“As the exhibitors and entrants started arriving during Friday’s torrential rain we feared it might have to be cancelled,” said show secretary Lesley Munro.

“Thanks to the tremendous help of local farmers Jim Arnott and Bill Orr—who lent tractors, tractor drivers Jim Orr and Adam Walker and an army of helpers—we were able to keep the show on the road.

“We towed people in and as the weather dried, got the rollers out to firm up the ground.

“They worked until late on Saturday night to get the show ground ready.

“It was a bit of a mudbath at one point and the wellie boot stall did a roaring trade, but with so many willing helpers—and thanks to the patience of everyone, the show has been a great success.

“We are very happy with the way it has gone.

“Saturday’s crowds may be down, but we could have made up for it today. Even two heavy showers failed to dampen the spirits of those who had filled the car park, determined to take advantage of the improvement in the weather.

“The magic of Glamis prevailed again —it always seems to come right in the end.”

The cars were the stars and the prize list reflected the distinguished history of the British transport industry—Albion, Austin, Alvis, Ariel, Bentley, Bedford, Matchless, Morgan, MG, Riley, Rolls Royce and Wolsley—with many other fine examples plucking nostalgic chords around the show ground.

As new generations come along, the term “classic” can now apply to cars manufactured before 1975.

Battling alongside each other for honours in the 1956-75 categories were a Ford Escort and a Ferrari Dino both of 1973 although the judges eyes were attracted to a 1967 MG Midget and a 1966 Ford Cortina Mk1.

Top honour of the day and the new Barnett Motor Group trophy for best in show went to Duncan Heeps from Stanley with his 1975 John Deere tractor.

Best motor cycle in show award went to B. West’s 1930 Ariel, with the best car trophy going to A. Sutherland’s 1909 Ford Tourer, while the best commercial vehicle was C. Milne’s 1960 Austin pick-up.