Austin Ten Drivers’ Club National Rally – 6th 8th August 2021
As some people are aware, last year’s National Rally due to be held at Cirencester Agricultural University had to be cancelled due to Covid.
However, the Austin Ten Drivers Club are able to go the University this year and plans are well underway for what we hope will be a very enjoyable weekend. We have a large area for display of our vehicles and driving tests in front of the very impressive main building.
The weekend is the opportunity to get together with fellow Austineers, friends whom you may not have seen for some time and to make new friends. As important of course, this is where you can “show” your car no doubt having spent many hours polishing and perfecting it in order to be considered for one of the trophies given out for the best vehicle in its class.
Accommodation is in the student rooms which are all ensuite either twin or single and spread over various buildings in the University. Unfortunately, there are no lifts so please let us know if you require a ground floor room. There a few videos about the University on YouTube which will give you an insight on the accommodation and area. Refreshments are available from either the café on the Friday or the Servery for the Saturday and Sunday. Meals can also be booked via the entry form.
Friday night is Quiz Night – a light hearted Quiz where you will have the opportunity to get together with groups of six or eight to tax your brains. Prizes will be given for the best answers.
Saturday is the opportunity to explore the area and take part in either the Scatter Run or the Scenic run or both if you have time. Alternatively, you can take part in the driving tests on site, you can join a guided walk around Cirencester or just relax and wander round the Roman remains and explore the town yourself.
A dinner is planned for the evening followed by dancing to the “Heartbeats” which is the same group who played for the 2016 rally in Chippenham (for those who remember dancing till late then!).
Sunday is the day to display your vehicles whether being judged or not. This isn’t compulsory so just come along, learn about your own and other vehicles and meet like minded people.
Driving tests are going to be held with observation, driving skills and knowledge of the Highway Code are just some of the elements to be considered.
During the day a Ukulele Band will be playing, a Vintage clothing stall and a selection of costume jewellery will be available view and purchase. Two workshops one to “How to make paper flowers” and a Genealogy class are also being run in the main building for those who want a break from Austins.
Unfortunately, the University is unable to providing any seating or tables so do bring along your own garden or beach chairs to enjoy the sunshine which we have on order!
Also, we ask if all groups would like to contribute to the Tombola either with goods or a contribution for the purchase of prizes. The Tombola helps towards the cost of running the weekend.
The rally is run by a small band of volunteers so if you have time to spare, do join us in one of the many roles that we will need help with such as the driving tests, being a Judge (a number needed), gate duty, setting up, taking down or generally keeping the site clear or just being there when needed!
We are looking forward to the Rally and hope you will find it an enjoyable weekend or just a day if you can only manage attending on the Sunday.
Cirencester Agricultural University
The University is situated on the edge of Cirencester and entrance is via the Stroud Road (A419) – look out for the ATDC signs. The University, originally a college, was established in 1845 and has an interesting main building and extensive grounds.
Registration for both the rally and accomodation will take place in the Tithe Barn on Friday and Saturday and follow the signs for the Sunday registration which will be on the rally field.
The student bedrooms, either or single with en suite facilities, are in the accommodation buildings located a short walk away from the main building.
The Servery is to be found in the main building close to the dining room. Both the Friday night quiz and the Saturday evening’s meal and dance will be held in the main dining hall.
The rally field is at the front of the main building extending down to the main road where there are impressive large entrance gates (for trailered vehicles only).
Cirencester
There is a lot to do in this historical town which is famous for its Roman history. All tourist attractions should be open by August so do take the opportunity to visit the Roman Amphitheatre, the Corinium Museum or the Abbey Grounds. Alternatively, just have a wander around the town or some of its many shops.
You can join the guided walk which leaves the centre of town on Saturday afternoon if you wish (contact details on the Entry Form). There are many attractive villages locally if you wished to drive around this scenic area – no doubt you will visit some in either the Scatter or Scenic run.
The long distant footpath, the Monarch’s Way which runs for 615 miles, passes through Cirencester and the University Grounds. You may wish to walk part of it during the weekend?
Information about the town and the area can be found on the internet or contact the local Visitor Information Centre on 01285 654180. Details of local attractions will be in your information pack.
The Rally
Do consider volunteering over the weekend everything from judging, car parking, help with the Driving Tests, Registration, assisting with the Tombola or simply being there just in case you are needed. Simply complete the entry form. All help is gratefully received.
Driving Tests
For those who have not participated before, this is not a speed test around a fast circuit. This is a test of your observation, knowledge of the Highway Code, dexterity, technical knowledge and yes, driving skill does come into the test. Do consider taking part. An audience is welcome as well.
Bring and Buy Stall
The SNAILS group have kindly offered to run this stall. Bring along your unwanted parts or tools (details on Entry Form). For £5entry fee and 10% of the amount made, you may be able to sell something that has been on your garage shelf or cupboard for some time. Perhaps you have something you no longer need as you have changed your vehicle? Do bring it along and help raise funds to run the event.
ATDC spares stall
There will also be our own spares stall with a selection of stock from our warehouse. If you wish to order something beforehand, especially larger items, it may be possible to bring them to the show for collection.
The Tombola
The proceeds of the Tombola goes towards the cost of running the rally so we would be very grateful if all groups could kindly either donate something towards the purchase of the prizes, donate goods or alternatively bring individual prizes. You could win anything from a tin of beans to bottles of wine or perfume; there may be a few surprises in the mix of prizes as well!
Camping
Unfortunately there are very few camp sites close to the venue. A search revealed a few which are detailed in the magazine. There may be more sites? Early booking is recommended.
This weekend is your opportunity to catch up with old friends and make new ones. Do come along if you can, either for the whole or part of the weekend or just on the Sunday. If your Austin isn’t on the road or you don’t have one, come along anyway. We look forward to seeing you there.
Sheila Martin, the Wiltshire Moonraker Group and other volunteers.
Details of the event and booking forms have been circulated to all members with their May Club Magazines
Entry forms should be returned by 15th June. Please see the booking forms for other key dates.
Documents
- - Entry Form - (.pdf : 297.84 kb)
- - Judges Wanted - (.pdf : 265.59 kb)
- - Scenic Run and Scatter Run - (.pdf : 263 kb)
