Providing a unique opportunity to see the World's
longest established sidecar factory, as well as the current range of
motorcycles on offer from Royal Enfield, the annual Open
Weekend at the Watsonian-Squire factory is a great day out for any motorcycle
enthusiast and continues to draw large crowds - approximately 2000 came
over the two days in 2009.
In spite of the large numbers, the Open Weekend has
retained its informal atmosphere; catering is provided by the Shipston-on-Stour
Sea Scouts, (who cooked a choice of three curries in addition to more
traditional hot food), locally produced ice creams were available and
there was access to the Watsonian factory, where sidecars continue to be
manufactured by British craftsmen.
In addition to test rides
on Royal Enfields, many visitors took test rides in a Manx outfit, powered
by the new Royal Enfield Bullet Classic.
Jim Reynolds was master of
ceremonies, interviewing many interesting people, including star guest,
Stan Dibben, who won two world sidecar world championships in the 1950’s
on Watsonian sidecar outfits.
Plenty of money was raised for worthwhile causes; Ian Aspey
was promoting his charity ride from Lands End to John O’Groats, which he will be
making on his Bullet Sixty-5 this September, and £275 was raised for the CJ
Riders Fund by raffling a giant chocolate bar.
Dates for next year's event will be
confirmed shortly.
Local Information
