Bulldog attendance up despite Police “threats of violence” claims
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Tens of thousands of bikers and music fans partied at Bulldog 23, making it another safe and successful event at the Long Marston airfield, near Stratford. Initial gate figures put attendance at more than 23,000, over the three days which is well up on last year. ACC Bill Holland’s recent attempts to stop the show seem to have encouraged Bulldog fans to support the festival. Bulldog organiser Bilbo said “Bill Holland said he wanted to protect the locals; yet we have had more locals than ever, they turned out in their thousands, despite claims that members of the public faced a serious risk of violence, this just goes to show that they are happy for the event to be here”. |
Motorhead proved that the old war pig can rock harder that ever, showcasing classic tracks including Killed by Death, Ace of Spades, Bomber and Overkill – as well as their latest work including Motorizer: title track of their new album, which crashed in to the top 30 on release.
Bulldog music fans have been treated to a full weekend of classic rock including Oliver/Dawson SAXON and UFO on Friday night. Away from the main stage, up and coming bands entertained the crowds on the Area81 stage. Tribute bands warmed up festival goers on Thursday night. Dance music fans grooved the night away to a host of the top DJ’s – the highlight was a live set form Lab4’s A+D+A+M.
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On the dragstrip records fell all weekend. On Friday Eric Teboul rode his monstrous hydrogen peroxide powered rocket bike at a speed of 233mph in 5.48 seconds, and then on Saturday Eric broke his own record setting a tyre blistering time of 5.30 seconds at 243mph. Another record fell as Martin Hill flew up the quarter mile in his Fireforce jet funny car, setting a track record of 282 MPH in 5.9 seconds.
The tenth anniversary of the Bulldog custom show saw Europe’s finest bike builders heading for Shakespeare County Raceway. “Best in Show” award was won by Vic Jefford with his awesome “Highroller” trike, which also featured the “Best Paint” seen at the show and bagged him a runner up prize for “Best Engineering” . “Best Alternative” class was won by “Lindsay” for his Diesel powered twin cylinder “Harley-Dieselson” special. In a new category for 2009 Rebbecca Thompson won the “Best Ladies Build” for her Servicecar 45 Trike. |
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The Red Devils Parachute Display team dropped in on the Bash highlighting the work of Help for Heroes, the event’s nominated charity. The team spent time raising awareness and much needed funds for our injured services personnel. They joined Hells Angels member “Red” to make a special presentation to well known local councillor Brian Slaughter. Brian (75) received a ceremonial baton, which had been handed between the skydivers on their descent, to acknowledge his tireless charity work at the Bash and unwavering support for the event. Brian said “This is brilliant; it’s the icing on the cake for me, a gift to the district really.” He continued “The Bulldog organisers put so much into the show; I’m so pleased it went ahead.” |
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