The Standard International Rally at the end of June was conducted in the obligatory-for-2018 wall to wall sunshine. The three-day format saw the cars gather on Friday lunchtime at Mary Arden’s farm, near Stratford on Avon. The members were delighted to be greeted by staff members dressed in Tudor costume, who demonstrated their rural crafts using the period vernacular. A short road run followed back to the event hotel, Walton Hall, where a buffet was served in the dining room of the old Manor House.
Saturday gave owners the chance to fully exercise their cars on a 60 mile road run, which took them to Sudeley Castle where coffee was served and a tour of the castle was provided. Returning to base, Saturday evening was marked by a full gala dinner where participants were entertained by an after-dinner speech from Graham Robson, who stayed over to witness the static rally on Sunday.
This was conducted on the spectacular lawns in front of the Hall, overlooking the lake. With 110 cars in attendance this also made it the largest gathering of Standards in 2018. As the afternoon concluded, Graham Robson presented prizes in the various concours classes before everyone returned home delighted with the weekend’s proceedings, if not more than a little sunburnt.
Next year’s event will be on 21st-23rd June 2019, based on the Oxford Belfry Hotel. This will be a diamond jubilee event – the 60th consecutive annual running of the rally by the Standard Motor Club. Put the date in your diaries now, as all Standards and Triumphs are most welcome.
A Vanguard Luxury 6 brings a touch of 1960s glamour to majestic Walton Hall.
