217 replies to this topic

[Alan Cox]

The third Chomondeley 'Pageant of Power' will be held on the weekend of the 17th/18th July 2010. There will be further fine tuning of the layout following customer feedback and lessons learned by the organisers following this year's event, including widening of the Royal Engineers' bridge by the paddock entrance and moving of the car clubs to the field opposite the chicane. The organisers are always appreciative of constructive comments and suggestions on how the event can be improved, and what features people would like to see included.

I have heard that there are hopes for one single-seater to be seen in action for the first time in over 40 years, and that a number of themes will feature in the entry.

Edited by Alan Cox, 14 November 2009 - 22:17.

[elansprint72]

One feature that I would like to see added is wall to wall sunshine. I nearly drowned at both previous events and also at the press day.

There is still much work to do in getting Joe Public from one side of the track to the other; it was diabolical at the first event and though improved, still frustrating for them last time; there was a queue at least 250 mtrs long from the Car Clubs field to get over the footbridge at one point. Two bridges side by side with one way traffic on each would ease this. Having made a big noise about it being a family event, none of the track crossings were even remotely suitable for those with small kids in push-chairs.

Quite a few folks complained about the lack of access to the Bugatti display on the cricket field, this was reserved for the favoured few with the correct cardboard badge, rather than everyone who had paid to get in and also paid for paddock access.

I've heard a few gripes from the Vintage community, who were very thin on the ground this time around as a result; which I thought was a real shame.

Notwithstanding any of the above, I really enjoyed both events and will be there again next time.

[Morris S]

there was a queue at least 250 mtrs long from the Car Clubs field to get over the footbridge at one point.

I think that could be easily cured by having a marshall on the bridge to prevent punters blocking the way whilst they pear over at the track action .

Looking forward to the entry list for next year, let's hope they can attract a few more 'names'.

[elansprint72]

I think that could be easily cured by having a marshall on the bridge to prevent punters blocking the way whilst they pear over at the track action .

Looking forward to the entry list for next year, let's hope they can attract a few more 'names'.

They did have marshalls on the bridge. Ineffective, unfortunately. High sides to the bridge blocking out the view would work.

[Alan Cox]

High sides to the bridge blocking out the view would work.

I understand this will be implemented.

[Stephen W]

Certainly improvements in bridge access will mean that the track will not have to be closed to allow people to walk across it. This regular delay to proceedings effectively reduced the number of competitive runs each day. With the entry level they had this year it should have been easy to have achieved at least two practice and two timed runs each day. This would make the entry fees more palatable and also provide the spectators with more chances to see the cars & bikes at different points around the track.

I also thought that in places the spectator fences were way too far back especially given the speeds the cars were going.

Finally can someone tell whoever the commentator is that the event is a sprint not a hillclimb.

[Giraffe]

Oddly enough, the bridge was never an issue whenever I crossed it. However the water-crossing was a problem but that could be improved with better communication between the chaps controlling it or/and adapting a traffic light system to avoid log-jams.

[Alan Cox]

Oddly enough, the bridge was never an issue whenever I crossed it. However the water-crossing was a problem but that could be improved with better communication between the chaps controlling it or/and adapting a traffic light system to avoid log-jams.

As noted above, this will be doubled in width to ease flow.
The bridge in 2009

Edited by Alan Cox, 16 November 2009 - 16:01.

[Phil Rainford]

I also thought that in places the spectator fences were way too far back especially given the speeds the cars were going.

Although I was lucky enough to have a press pass, I must agree with Steve in some areas, i.e. by the stone bridge the spectators struggled to see over the fences/banking.

Any plans for temporary stands to allow fans to have a slightly more panoramic view?

PAR

[Alan Cox]

Instead of a Press day for this year's Pageant of Power, the organisers are arranging to publicise the event by bringing a number of competition cars to city centre Liverpool on the evening of the 25th May, when The Strand will be closed off, and various Pageant of Power entrants, including Le Mans-winning Bentley Speed 8 and Silk Cut Jaguar as well as Chris Williams' Napier Bentley, will sprint along the stretch between the police HQ and Mann Island. There will also be powerboat demonstrations on the Mersey and helicopter demos in Chavasse Park to tie in with the Pageant's land, air and water themes.
http://www.cpop.co.u...ypost020310.pdf

[Giraffe]

This is a great if hardly new idea to promote the Pageant. However, IMHO they would have been much better served to conduct the event in Manchester in terms of maximizing the catchment area of Cholmondeley.
However, Liverpool is a much better location from a spectator's viewpoint, and the streets are considerably quieter than Manchester, with far better parking availability, and someone always about to "mind yer car, mister?"

[Alan Cox]

However, Liverpool is a much better location from a spectator's viewpoint,

And, I gather, an easier place to arrange such an event. I believe they were hoping to have a similar show in Manchester.

[Giraffe]

And, I gather, an easier place to arrange such an event. I believe they were hoping to have a similar show in Manchester.

They are used to cars disappearing quickly in Liverpool............;) (I managed to lose two XR3is & a Cosworth Sierra there and only ever saw some of one of the Escorts ever again).

Edited by Giraffe, 16 March 2010 - 18:55.

[elansprint72]

........and helicopter demos in Chavasse Park .......


That is a very posh way of spelling Chavs.

I hope they don'y leave the choppers unattended on the ground. Some years ago the locals lit a fire under the Police 'copter at Speke. It was interfering with their TWOC activities too much.

[Brynmor]

Oddly enough, the bridge was never an issue whenever I crossed it. However the water-crossing was a problem but that could be improved with better communication between the chaps controlling it or/and adapting a traffic light system to avoid log-jams.

The problem with the bridge wasn't that people stopped it was just too narrow, I was so glad I hadn't brought my 2 year old in his pushchair. If the idea is to market to the masses then revamping the bridge and the surface to walk on in general in places would be good. The Bugatti saga was laughable if i'm honest, it was advertised as part of the attraction but you couldn't go near them.

This could be such a great event and I do hope it will be, the visiting clubs area was sadly largely ignored by the public as they wandered in through the edge of it, rather a lost oppotunity there.

One thing that would be good is if some more well known slightly newer cars were present to encourage future generations. I know of an ex Colin Mcrae Focus wrc within 15 miles of the venue for one plus some really nice historic spec Escorts etc etc Can't help but feel the historic rally angle is really being missed as the track would suit some of these vehicles far better. (and yes I did type a mail offering my assistance in 2008..;) )

Edited by Brynmor, 21 March 2010 - 13:43.

[Stephen W]

This could be such a great event and I do hope it will be, the visiting clubs area was sadly largely ignored by the public as they wandered in through the edge of it, rather a lost oppotunity there.

The club area is being reloacted for this year and will be in the middle not far from where the JCBs were last year. Liverpool Motor Club have already put in their request for space and are awaiting confirmation.

What I would like to see is less time spent closing the track so that people could cross over. If this could be resolved then it should be easily possible to have 2 practice and two timed runs each day with a Top Ten run-off at the end of the day for the fastest competitors.

[Alan Cox]

Clubs are also going to be positioned on the opposite side of the chicane, and there are going to be three runs per day.

........and helicopter demos in Chavasse Park .......
That is a very posh way of spelling Chavs.

Now, now, Mr Taylor. A little respect due here, I think
Chavasse Park is named in honour of Captain Noel Chavasse VC and bar, MC - a son of the Bishop of Liverpool and the only man to have been awarded two Victoria Crosses in World War l.
http://en.wikipedia....odfrey_Chavasse

[Phil Rainford]

Off on a slight tangent this is a picture I took last year of the D.Day memorial for the Green Howards at Normandy.

The gentlemen in the picture is Sgt Major Stan Hollis .... not only is he the only man to be awarded the VC on D-Day;but he would heve been awarded two VCs but for the fact that you cannot be awarded the medal twice on the same day

PAR

[Alan Cox]

Just a reminder about the Liverpool preview to those in the north-west who have some time to spare this coming Tuesday evening.

I understand that things start happening from about 6.30 (on water) and the cars will be doing their runs from about 7.15 until 8.30.
http://www.cpop.co.u...ageant-of-power

One of the main features of the Pageant proper will be a tribute to Tom Wheatcroft, and I understand that three of the Donington Vanwalls are scheduled to appear, including the rear-engined Intercontinental car from 1961 which hasn't been seen running since the early '60s.

[fbarrett]

What I would like to see is less time spent closing the track so that people could cross over. If this could be resolved then it should be easily possible to have 2 practice and two timed runs each day with a Top Ten run-off at the end of the day for the fastest competitors.

Why not let people cross the track during the runs? This would certainly provide additional excitement for both spectators and drivers. Bet they could sell more tickets, too!

Frank (nearly hit by a Liverpool bus in 1951)

Edited by fbarrett, 21 May 2010 - 23:07.

[Stephen W]

Why not let people cross the track during the runs? This would certainly provide additional excitement for both spectators and drivers. Bet they could sell more tickets, too!

Frank (nearly hit by a Liverpool bus in 1951)

My mother suggested that in 1963 as a way of enlivening motor sport. She said that "Formula one drivers have it easy, put in a zebra crossing or two and see how they cope then."

[elansprint72]

My mother suggested that in 1963 as a way of enlivening motor sport. She said that "Formula one drivers have it easy, put in a zebra crossing or two and see how they cope then."

Splendid idea.

A show of hands for who is going to Liverpool?

Apart from me, that is.

[Alan Cox]

I learned yesterday that the Pageant in July is scheduled to feature D Type Auto Union and Matra MS120C

Information which may be of use to anyone proposing to visit on Tuesday

Public Information
1.The waterfront route (The Strand, Strand Street, Wapping and Goree) will be closed between Liver Street and George’s Dock Gates.
2.Water Street will be closed between Tower Gardens and Canada Boulevard
3.Brunswick Street will be closed between Drury Lane and Canada Boulevard
4.James Street will be closed between Drury Lane and Canada Boulevard
5.Canada Boulevard, George’s Dockway and Mann Island will be closed
6.Essential access to and egress from St Nicholas Place will be maintained via New Quay and George’s Dock Gates
7.Essential access to and egress from the Three Graces and Pier Head will be maintained via Brunswick Street
8.Access into and out of the Albert Dock will be via Gower Street
9.The Queensway (Birkenhead) Tunnel exit onto New Quay will be closed
10.Churchill Way South (flyover) will be closed between Commutation Row and Dale Street

All closures will be signed and staffed and will remain in force only for as long as is deemed necessary. The diversion route around the waterfront closures will also be signed. There will be a requirement to introduce a lane closure on the northbound section of the waterfront route from the night of Monday 24th May 2010 and the traffic management for the above road closures will start to be introduced from around 5pm on Tuesday 25th May 2010. As such, you are advised to expect increased delays and therefore your journey times/travel arrangements should be reviewed.

[Alan Cox]

A well-organised event, for which a goodly portion of Liverpool seemed to have turned out. Nice to see city-centre streets closed for a motor sport demo. Only saw a select handful of TNFers (elansprint, AuroraF1, and Ian Titchmarsh on commentary duty).

Justin Law

Le Mans-winning Bentley

15-times TT winner, John McGuinness and Jason Minshaw leading a group back to the paddock from the Liver Building

Former 250F racer, Vic Norman, leads the Breitling wingwalkers over the River Mersey

Powerboat demonstration in Salthouse Dock

[David McKinney]

Thanks Alan
Encouraging to see so many spectators

[Giraffe]

Thanks Alan
Encouraging to see so many spectators

Spectators will always turn out in droves to see one particular form of motorsport...............................FREE motorsport.

[elansprint72]

It was a super evening; I could not believe the number of folks who were there. I'll post some photos of the view from the course on my website this evening.

[alansart]

All BBC North West TV showed this morning was a JCB and a Tank. No mention of racing cars at all

[Giraffe]

All BBC North West TV showed this morning was a JCB and a Tank.

That's probably all that wasn't nicked by this morning.

[elansprint72]

I can confirm that there were some racing cars present!

[Alan Cox]

A postscript from Chris Williams:

Wait until you see his new 54-litre special which is now ready to run...

I hear that the Tom Wheatcroft tribute in July will include the ex-Ascari Ferrari 500 and the ex-Nuvolari Maserati 8CM.

[alansart]

Nice one Pete. Just love the reflection of the Bentley Badge in the mirror

[Rob Lees]

Love the photos chaps - any chance of some more? Sadly I was working in London on Tuesday, otherwise it would've been walking distance from my office.....

Still plenty of burnt rubber on the road this evening when I came home.

[elansprint72]

A postscript from Chris Williams:

Wait until you see his new 54-litre special which is now ready to run...

Yes, I believe that Chis was rather underwhelmed by the performance of the Austin 7 special which he recently acquired, so he is thinking of fitting the Napier to that and slapping a decent motor in the Bentley.


Nice photos.

[elansprint72]

The gremlins are in my Photoshop; I've ordered a new copy, which might take a while to sort out; in the meantime I can't downsize the files to put on my website, or Flickr. So more photos will have to wait.

That Team Blower is a tight fit, I've sat in the driving seat of the Speed 8 pictured and there is far more room in there (once you have wriggled into it).

Now; where's my lottery ticket...............

[Pullman99]

That's probably all that wasn't nicked by this morning.;)

Stereotypes will never really go away! I remember helping at a commercial vehicle rally, featuring municipal operators in the North West, when a visitor asked where the Liverpool bus was. Before I could respond, one wag uttered (in a strong Merseyside accent): "That'll be the one up on bricksh with the wheels off."

[Twin Window]

The gremlins are in my Photoshop; I've ordered a new copy, which might take a while to sort out; in the meantime I can't downsize the files to put on my website, or Flickr. So more photos will have to wait.

No need to wait, Pete; download IrfanView for free and that will allow you to re-size...

[Giraffe]

Stereotypes will never really go away! I remember helping at a commercial vehicle rally, featuring municipal operators in the North West, when a visitor asked where the Liverpool bus was. Before I could respond, one wag uttered (in a strong Merseyside accent): "That'll be the one up on bricksh with the wheels off."

For a period at least, Merseyside deserved it's reputation. On visits there from my then southern base in the 80's, from locations in Crosby, Formby and Southport I was relieved of two Escort XR3is, and a Sierra Cosworth. I never saw two of them again and an Escort was cornered at Lime St. Station, ran a copper over and reversed back over him for good measure. I got that back 6 weeks later, and that dab-dust blew out of the airvents forever..........
My brother in Formby had his car pinched off the drive in the middle of the day. He was indoors at the time, reading his copy of the Police Gazette............

[Alan Cox]

I shall refrain from slagging off the host city of Tuesday night's bonanza - A few more pics in response to Rob's request.

If motorcycle racing is your thing, you should have been in Liverpool on Tuesday when a fine array of riders, past and present, was in town.
24 TT wins between them (if my count is correct) - Charlie Williams, John McGuiness and Stuart Graham



John McGuiness

Stuart Graham, and HM Plant Honda Superbike racer, Ryuichi Kiyonari, fresh from success at Cadwell on Sunday.

Eddie Stobart Escort

Liverpool FC Superleague car, driven by James Walker

The man from the Napier-Bentley

Edited by Alan Cox, 28 May 2010 - 19:20.

[alansart]

Thanks for the photos chaps. I was hoping to get there but that awful illness called work stopped me!

I'm intending to get to to the real thing at Cholmondeley as some consolation

[Giraffe]

The man from the Napier-Bentley

Without his bowler hat?!?!

[Phil Rainford]

Superb selection of photos chaps ....looking forward to July


PAR

[barrykin]

Here are photos from last year's event:

http://www.sportscar...-retrospective/

[Morris S]

Is it me or is there a slight lack of a buz about the P.O.P this year ? Haven't seen much publicity about the event either this time (other than from Liverpool). I would also say the entry list does look a little lacklustre this year and somewhat too familiar me thinks , with lots of cars enterred that have competed for the last one or two events, any thoughts ?

http://www.cpop.co.u...-cars-and-bikes

Edited by Morris S, 29 June 2010 - 16:18.

[Stephen W]

Sadly I will be absent from this year's Cholmondley PoP. I only get out of hospital on the Friday after knee surgery!

It should still be a good day out and I know that Liverpool Motor Club will have some nice cars on display.

[alansart]

Looking to go for at least 1 day (2 depending on the surgery to my wallet!)

[Phil Rainford]

Looking to go for at least 1 day (2 depending on the surgery to my wallet!)

It will take surgery to open it ;)


PAR

Edited by Phil Rainford, 29 June 2010 - 19:24.

[alansart]

It will take surgery to open it ;)


PAR

True

[elansprint72]

Is it me or is there a slight lack of a buz about the P.O.P this year ? Haven't seen much publicity about the event either this time (other than from Liverpool). I would also say the entry list does look a little lacklustre this year and somewhat too familiar me thinks , with lots of cars enterred that have competed for the last one or two events, any thoughts ?

http://www.cpop.co.u...-cars-and-bikes

Hardly the Goodwood of the North. VSCC are not happy, so I'm told. Too expensive for J.Public in this day and age.

[Giraffe]

Hardly the Goodwood of the North. VSCC are not happy, so I'm told. Too expensive for J.Public in this day and age.

£25 for a ticket with paddock access; £35 for my Goodwood (Friday) ticket. No contest, I'm afraid.