Popham Mega Bike Meet 2011

I think Paula's already mentioned the dates for this years meet but I thought some may like to see my report of last year's meet.

Had a great weekend. We decided to travel up in the wobblybox as the organisers had told us we could camp there for the night (or longer if we wanted) - for free! Good job too as it p*ssed down with rain all the way there. We arrived at a very wet airfield to find a few stalls trying to set up in the deluge. Eventually the rain stopped and we found a nice quiet corner to park, got the bike out and went for a ride, eventually ending up in Winchester. The weather was now glorious and you wouldn't have known it had been pouring down earlier on! Back to the van and we sat in the evening sun, enjoying a nice bottle (or two) of wine whilst watching the planes coming and going.

Next morning we were up early to get the bike in the arena before wandering around the site before the crowds came. It was estimated there were approx 4,000 bikes there of all ages. I've attached pictures of just a few. It did rain again but only for about half an hour. It's amazing how many folk can squeeze into a marquee! Once again the sun came out and it was nice to be able to walk around amongst the vintage planes. There was a very informal laid back atmosphere and it made the whole day really appealing. Some of the stalls had some real bargains, some the usual heaps of junk (that someone may find useful)! We eventually packed up and left around five o'clock and were back home around seven.

We'll certainly go again next year. It would make a nice spot for some of us to meet up for a weekend. If you enter a bike over 30 years old you get a free pass but if not it's only £6.00 on the day but if you turn up the night before the camping is free!

Next year's date is 19th August so make a note in your dairies!