Shropshire Star

Italian car festival to return to Bridgnorth

Some of the world's most beautiful cars will be returning to the streets of a county town, with preparations well in hand for Bridgnorth Italian Auto Moto Festival.

Published
Last year's Bridgnorth Italian Auto Moto Festival.

The event, which will be taking place in the town for the second time, sees the town's main streets closed off to display a host of stunning cars and scooters.

Organiser, David Morris, said this year will also mark the 70th anniversary of the formation of the Ferrari company, the 70th anniversary of Lambretta, and the 60th birthday of the iconic Fiat 500.

Mr Morris said there would also be more Italian bikes featuring as part of the event, which takes place on September 3.

He said: "This year, Ducati riders will have their own dedicated display area on the town’s High Street, and we are hoping that the main Ducati Owners Club GB will be bringing their national show stand. A number of midlands-based Italian scooter clubs also arrived in very colourful and noisy 2-stroke convoys last year, and as more of these machines are now being restored, we think that 2017 will give us an even better show.

"While some of us are not used to seeing too many Moto Guzzis on our main roads, the Moto Guzzi owners club were able to ensure that a good many of their riders provided a stunning display of well ridden bikes: from the newest models through to several variations of the classic V7. They are also visiting again, and will be riding into town in convoy."

Mr Morris has also issued an appeal for people with Lancias, Abarths, and Fiats, interested in showing their vehicles to get in touch.

He said: "In 2016, Alfa Romeos gave us the widest range of models – from Duettos to Breras to a couple of the latest 4cs. However, this year, it would also be great to see more Lancias and Abarths: a good showing from FIAT enthusiasts would also be very welcome."

The event will also see the return of an open-air continental market.

Mr Morris said that the streets will be closed to all non-Italian vehicles from 7.30am, and that they are hoping that visitors will enjoy the town's other attractions on the day.

He said: "All visitors will be encouraged to check out the rides on the local cliff railway, and the Severn Valley steam railway, which will both be running on the day, and are very near to our display area.

"For motorcyclists, there will be a secure helmet and jacket crèche on-site."

Entry to the event will be free for IAMC members, and members are encouraged to contact Mr Morris on 01743 232651 or e-mail djmfastforward@hotmail.co.uk, if they require further information on entry.