Come half past eight we were off, it would have been quicker, but one Mini refused to start and had to be pushed out of the park. I didn't go over 55 mph as there were vibrations from the Neon's front wheels at speeds above this. Even so I got to Brighton early enough to drive straight through the Town centre without encountering gridlock, only to be rewarded with a lousy parking spot on arriving at Maderia Drive, and half an hours walk from any trade stands and the main show.
Minis who hadn't queued up properly (something LSMOC wanted to stop, remember) had the best parking spot. Not only that, I'd brought £150's worth of spares to sell, I wouldn't be selling anything here today. Thank's a lot guys; I'm not the only one moaning - the very same situation in 2007 led to a major argument between marshalls and one particular club. Haven't the organizers learnt anything??
In the Four & half hours I was at Brighton, half that time was spent walking to and from the car. I bought loads of bits for the clubman - lights, carpets, master cylinder etc, but, come 2 O'clock in the afternoon, I'd had enough of the trek to the traders and moved the Neon nearer the show area - stuff the marshalls. Best car? Well, my favourite had to be a yellow 1275GT and trailer that's been around the world twice. This mini has a satellite phone aerial pod on the roof, and a few thousand pounds worth of GPS and communications gear on board. Come 3 O'clock I'm off. As I leave I notice cars parked both sides of the entrance ramp (Dukes Mound), I'd be furious if that was me.
The run home was tedious as the Neon began to run hot: the heat coming through the floor was incredible. Next year, though, I'll go for the last time, I'll take the Clubman, stick it in Concours, and get a prime parking spot. It won't win of course, but I don't care - I'm not putting up with today's shambles anymore. "2100" Minis; Far too many..............Southern correspondent 2008