Classic dirt champions

The Classic Dirt Bike Show, sponsored by Hagon Shocks, will be back with a bang on February 16-17, 2019 with two iconic all-time off-road champs confirmed as the guests of honour. Multiple world, indoor and British Trials champion Dougie Lampkin will be a star guest at the popular off-road show, held at Telford International Centre. The off-road legend will be appearing on stage with commentator Jack Burnicle, who will probe into the highs and lows of Lampkin’s long and successful career. Representing motocross, or perhaps that should be scrambles, will be John Banks, former BSA factory rider, who won four British Championships and narrowly missed out on two World 500cc titles. Once again, Jack will interview Banks on stage each day, as he shares a first-hand account of his years in Europe, including how Bengt Åberg beat him to the 1969 crown and of his experiences with the BSA competition shop until its closure in 1971. This year the show will be celebrating the off-road machines of 50 years ago, with the clock turned back to 1969 and show consultant Alan Wright is seeking bikes from that year. He can be contacted on 01789 751422. They do not need to be concours; just solid examples of that particular year’s offerings. Dozens of clubs and private owners will be showing off their beautifully prepared off-road machines at the show alongside the Classic Racer Pits, while hundreds of traders will be offering dirt biking kit, from new bikes, parts and accessories to riding gear. And the outside autojumble, which starts at 9am, will also offer some great bargains. On the Saturday evening of the show, at the adjacent hotel, the two star guests will recount memories of their exploits to assembled guests during a three-course meal. Tickets cost just £33. Exhibition manager Nick Mowbray said: “Guests will hear fascinating tales from legends in the off-road industry during the course of the meal. The Classic Dirt Bike Show dinner is an exceptional evening in the off-road scene that’s not to be missed!” Further details of advance ticket sales for the show and of the dinner can be found at www.classicbikeshows.com Photograph: Gary Chapman