Croft Nostalgia Festival visitors are truly in for a treat next weekend (6/7 August), as the north-east’s biggest and best retro racing extravaganza revs up for another high-octane feast of mesmerising motor sport, classic cars, vintage culture and military might.
Now in its seventh year, the 1940s-70s-themed Croft Nostalgia Festival is firmly established as a family favourite and a mid-summer staple, with something to keep everybody entertained from small kids to, well…big kids.
On-track, there will be non-stop lights-to-flag thrills courtesy of the Historic Sports Car Club, covering the full spectrum of motor sport magic from iconic sportscars and single-seaters to much-loved tin-tops from down the ages, including Mini Coopers, Ford Anglias and Lotus Cortinas. More than 225 cars are confirmed to-date – with entries continuing to flood in fast.
Off-track, there is just as much to grab the attention, with the paddock populated by some of the most well-preserved classic cars in the country from astounding Aston Martins to dazzling D-types, loveable Lotus’ and muscular Mustangs.
Classic and military vehicle circuit parades will be complemented by living history encampments in the paddock, with the World War Two theme enhanced by static aircraft, jeeps and trucks. There will be an iconic Sherman tank manoeuvring in the infield during the Sunday lunch break, as well as an Armoured Personnel Carrier FV432, a Stalwart amphibious truck and a ‘Rolling Armour’ display – fun for young and old alike.
Moving from the ground to the air, all eyes will be on the skies when the Twister Aerobatic Team takes flight on both days* to stun with a spectacular routine of high-speed, close-formation aerobatics.
Not only that, but fashion stalls will exhibit and sell clothing from a bygone era, while the atmosphere will be filled with evocative tunes from the Roaring Forties through to the Swinging Sixties. ‘ENSA’ entertainer Colin Bourdiec – AKA ‘George Formby’ – will once again serve as resident compere and master of ceremonies inside the marquee, where he will be accompanied in some old favourites by The Daisy Belles.
Spectators are encouraged to get into the spirit of the occasion by donning period costume, with prizes for ‘Best-Dressed Lady and Gent’ on both days adding to the garden party atmosphere and halcyon appeal of one of the most popular events on the north-east social calendar. And if it all becomes a bit overpowering, rest your legs and put your feet up with a glass of Pimm’s and a delicious clotted cream tea.
“We always look forward to Croft Nostalgia Festival,” enthused Croft Circuit manager Mike Cantelo. “It’s a throwback to a more carefree time, and that is reflected in the smiles on the faces of everybody who attends.
“The sight, sound and smell of cars that have not competed regularly in more than four decades is a delight to behold, and the on-track entertainment is matched by the off-track attractions, from a tremendous display of military vehicles to eye-catching classic cars, fabulous fashion and memory-stirring music. It’s a cracking weekend for all the family, and great value too – don’t miss it!”
Tickets are available in advance priced at just £10 for Saturday, 6 August and £15 for Sunday, 7 August, with weekend passes a steal at only £23. Accompanied children aged 15 and under are admitted free of charge. Gates open at 08:30 on both days.
For further information, visit http://www.croftcircuit.co.uk/racing/nostalgia or call 01325 721815.
For more information on Croft’s race meetings and driving experiences, see: http://www.croftcircuit.co.uk/
For season or individual race meeting accreditation, please e-mail: press@barc.net
*Subject to CAA approval