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2008 Show Report
The annual show went ahead on the 9th
of August. It was extremely wet for most of the day, but finally dried up
in the afternoon. This did not deter the public from coming to look at all
the nice shiny exhibits; a credit to the owners and drivers.
Alex Macdonald (Convener of the Western Isles
Council) opened the 2008 Annual Show. He gave a very encouraging speech,
commenting on the proposals for a new workshop museum and giving his full
backing to the venture. He also spoke about his own experience and fond
memories with transport over the years and commented on the excellent
presentation of the various exhibits on display.
The vehicle exhibits came from near and far.
One in particular came from as far away as Australia - the vehicle stopped
off in Lewis during a trip around the world. The owners were Mr and Mrs
Clash, who sold their house, and had all their worldly possessions in their
vehicle - an Australian Kit Car.
Edward Mackay appeared at the show again with
his Albion full of hay. The usual pristine classic cars had their own
displays despite the wet weather. Haulage contractors also had their
own display of vehicles, with a fine display by the civil engineering
contractors, showing off their lorries, diggers and small plant.
Additionally, there was a display of vans showing various kinds of livery -
always an interesting sight to see.
There was a competition for bicycles this year
- held in the big marquee, out of the rain. Calum Maclennan also
arranged a fine display of transport related photographs for the public to
view and discuss. New this year were horse rides by the local Lochside
Arena pony club. Refreshments, such as teas, coffee and home baking
was also on hand for exhibitors and spectators attending the annual show,
and a barbeque was also available for assorted hot snacks.
Lava’s Garage also entertained a large,
interested, crowd with a demonstration of vehicle recovery. This included a
demonstration of how an upside-down vehicle is pulled back up onto its
wheels and then taken onto the recovery vehicle - a stark reminder of the
dangers of road accidents and the need to drive carefully.
The committee would like to thank Alex
Macdonald for opening the show and presenting some of the awards; the Tea
Ladies for their hard work in keeping everyone refreshed and satisfied; the
BBQ and sweets squad for keeping everyone fed, and all the volunteers who
set time aside to help make this show happen. Also, HIAL for letting us
hold the Show on their ground, and especially all the exhibitors who made
this show a success - if it wasn’t for them, there simply would be no show.
This is
the last year we are able to use the airport site as HIAL have building
development plans for this area. Therefore, the next Annual WITPG Transport
Show will be held at the Tong Showground on 15 August 2009.
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2008 Annual Show Prizewinners
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