Vintage vehicle fans are gearing up for Loanends on June 2

THE third annual vintage tractor and car road run and summer fete taking place at Loanends Presbyterian Church on Saturday, June 2, has attracted an overwhelming response from vintage enthusiasts throughout the Province.

Organisers have been inundated with enquiries about the event.

“Everyone is welcome, and we are planning a fun filled afternoon with attractions for visitors of all ages,” said organising committee member, Robert Wallace.

The vintage cavalcade will assemble at the church car park from noon onwards. The vintage tractor road run will depart at 1pm, taking a 15-mile route around country roads and farm lanes; while the vintage and classic cars will depart at 2pm and complete a 25 mile scenic drive.

The entry fee is £10 per vehicle, which includes lunch for the driver. Participants will receive a commemorative medal, and there is a prize for the best presented car.

The event has received generous sponsorship from NFU Mutual agents, Dawson, Birnie and McClure based in Crumlin; Ulster Bank, Antrim; and Glenburn Veterinary Surgeons. Nutt’s Corner-based agricultural machinery dealership Erwin Agri-Care, is sponsoring the vintage tractor section; while The Eye Care Clinic in Templepatrick is offering financial support to the vintage and classic car section.

This year’s vintage tractor and classic car road run is coinciding with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Celebrations, and as a community event has attracted funding from Antrim Borough Council.

As well as a display of stationary engines, the church car park will also be the venue for a summer fete. Attractions include a variety of stalls and slideshows, a pet show, flying model aircraft display, a primary schools art competition, the Ollar School of Irish Dancing, and the Ballywalter Clickers Dancing Dogs. Refreshments will be available throughout the afternoon.

Loanends Presbyterian Church is situated just off the Seven Mile Straight, near Antrim. For further details contact Robert Wallace on tel: 028 9443 2753, or Norman White on tel: 028 9443 2269.