The 2010 Cavalcade Rally had a slightly different layout this year insofar as the stationary engines moved to join the tractors in the back field, with the classic caravans taking their place, with the bygones facing the caravans in place of the charity stalls. However, as a bygones exhibitor it was noticeable that with no trade to draw people around, we saw precious few punters over the course of the weekend, although the rally was very well attended despite the inclement weather.

Full marks to the organisers, for when it rained on Sunday and Monday, they were not shy about shutting down the arena programme for an hour or so to preserve the ground conditions, and as the showground is quick draining, it soon dried and firmed up again. The usual displays of Bernese Carters, Duston Pacesetters and Up-&-Over Motorcycle Display Team complimented the vehicle & machinery parades.

The military vehicle section supported in numbers by the North London Barmy Army always throws up a few unusual vehicles and this year was no exception with many foreign manufacturers represented, including Volvo, Reo, Mack, Praga, Studebaker, Berliet, Renault, Deutz, GMC, Studebaker, Willys, etc., as well as the more usual AECs, Scammells, Thronycrofts, Bedfords, Austins & Landrovers.

The civilian commercials are always a little thinner on the ground due to several other events around the country, such as Truckfest, London-to-Brighton, and Llandudno amongst others. However, the cars came and went with a different selection each day as is the norm, and there was a good turn-out of scooters and motorcycles.

The steam section was perhaps the most comprehensive for some years and the number of large-scale models was surprising, with several for sale for around 40k! There are now a couple of free-lance full-size steam lorries on the circuit, very unusual to modern eyes.

Despite the weather forecast there were very few spaces vacant and the mix of stalls was excellent as always, as was the diverse catering facilities. The craft and model tents were well laid out and spacious with good displays and the Wild Bunch could be heard all over the site with their gunfire. Most sections were fully booked several weeks before the closing date, as predicted last year, as was our local rally Stradsett Park near Downham Market this year.