Out of interest, as member of joe public and a regular visitor to this rally in recent years I have to ask why have Steam parades been stopped in the main arena?
don't know the correct answer but i suspect it is because the organizers run a Dorset style system so the engines are driving around fairly freely and those which go around the play pen are then commentated on. personally i prefer this way as the public can see steam moving around all day.
like i say don't know if that's the real reason but that's how i read the situation.
Yes Dave, it would be nice if the gates were open at 9 AM, I'm travelling from Ashton - in Makerfield (Wigan)
for the day, but all the same I will be on the car park early doors Saturday.