Castle Drogo 2007

Well yet another fantastic event at Castle Drogo.  Although still very much a young show (Its only been running for 5 years), this years show was so well attended that there was hardly a space left in the grounds of the castle.

40 vehicles and 8 motorcycles turned up for the weekend with well over 200 personnel putting on various static displays, including a weapons demonstration talk and a battle re-enactment, and with just under 3000 visitors to the event over the weekend it was very enjoyable for all concerned.  Meal vouchers were provided by the National trust for a midday meal in one of the cafes, and our event organizers had a NAAFI which provided us with breakfasts and evening meals, aswell as coffee and cakes throughout both days.

Saturday started with Bacon and egg sandwiches, followed by the setting up of our display.  John Brown gave us a demonstration of the various types of small arms used by both sides during WW2.  This including firing off a few blanks for the entertainment of the public.  This was followed 2 hrs later by a full scale battle re-enactment (organized by Fordy senior).  We had 2 field guns firing blanks, a .50 cal machine gun mounted on a Dodge weapons carrier and  a set of quad .50cals AA guns (all gas firing), and many different types of blank firing small arms from the colt .45 to the German FG34 assault rifle.  I did have my Bazooka too but unfortunately due to a mix up with the pyro's and the amount smoke around the pyro charge was set off on the field before I had a chance to fire it.  

There was a croquet game organized in the evening for all the exhibitors to take part in, however we had a lot of gear to pack away from our display so we had to miss that one.  Evening meal was provided for us by the event organizers, which was a very nice Chilli and rice in the NAAFI, followed by a band playing various songs from all different eras.  Needless to say much alcohol was consumed (Oh and Fordy can't handle Vodka).

Sunday morning was started with a full English breakfast.  John gave his weapons talk again, which this time included my Bazooka as I had a charge left over from Saturday and it gave us the opportunity to test fire it.  We decided that due to the battle plan and the available weapons we (the Allies) would win the battle again on the Sunday (we usually take turns in winning), but we agreed next year the Axis can win.  This time I did get to fire my Bazooka.  After the battle we did a quick photo shoot for the National Trust's photographer.  During this shoot my already  injured knee collapsed, leaving me lying in the hedge.  I was then recovered (much to the publics enjoyment!) by wartime stretcher, placed on the back of a Jeep and driven back to our camp, where fortunately I packed my crutches just incase.  The Castle closed at 4pm so we were able to start packing things away, and we managed to get away at 1830.

This is probably one of the best shows of the year that I attend.  All that is left is to thank all those involved.  Graham Braund for masterminding the whole event and his wife Carol with the assistance of Jan and Paula for their work in the NAAFI.  I will definitely be back next year with the Chevy this time.

Pop Larkin