Cutbacks are made at Chasewater Transport Show
Organisers of a major transport show that attracts thousands of people to a Staffordshire beauty spot have been forced to cut back part of the event following weeks of bad weather.
But they confirmed that this Sunday's Chasewater Transport Show will go ahead despite fears that a sodden site might make the event unviable. Around 500 vehicles are expected to take part.
Melted snow and rain has caused the reservoir at Chasewater to overflow across part of the ground and left other parts of the ground saturated. The entertainments arena has been cancelled and a vintage HGV section called off because the vehicles' weight would churn up the surface.
Cars normally positioned near the water's edge will now be displayed in the area vacated by the entertainments arena.
More than 6,000 people regularly attend the spring show at Chasewater Country Park. Last year, figures almost doubled previous visitor records, with 10,000 people attending.
Promoters revealed it had been touch-and-go as to whether the popular parade of classic, vintage and modern vehicles would take place. They made their decision yesterday after a site inspection.
Cannock-based chief organiser Helen Borton said she was relieved after days of speculation.
"I'm a little disappointed that we've had to cut part of the show but only a very small part – the music and a dog agility team, and just 15 heavy goods vehicles, such as the vintage fire engines.
"It's a shame but the main show will be unaffected. It will go ahead no matter what.
"There's been a good wind over the last couple of days which has helped to harden the ground whatever the next few days brings. Our only concern is that if the ground does get damaged that Lichfield District Council, which owns it, will send us the bill for it."
She said that all the traders' and catering stands would still be there.
