A display of military might at local Inn
HEATONS Bridge Military Vehicle Group is holding an open weekend with military vehicles and displays at the Heatons Bridge Inn, Burscough, on Saturday April 1 and Sunday April 2.
These events have now become half yearly gatherings at the Inn, courtesy of proprietors Steve and Jacqui Winrow, and this is the first event for 2017 (a ‘crank-up’).
The Heatons Bridge Inn has a great range of real ales and food all given names to reflect the military theme.
A spokesman said: “The vehicles which attend include Willys, Ford, Hotchkiss and Austin Champ Jeeps, Landrovers, ‘Whistling Rio’ and Bedford RL 4 ton trucks, a Saracen armoured personnel carrier, military motorbikes and military staff cars.
“Kevin Reilly will be bringing some of his range of ‘big guns’ which includes a mighty Howitzer, an Abbot self propelled gun, and the Mighty Antar tank transporter.
“We never know exactly what he will bring along so there’s always a surprise waiting!
“Members’ displays include a range of militaria including various firearms, bayonets and other weapons, uniforms, radio equipment and field equipment.
“A regular part of the display is also a 25 pounder field gun rig belonging to Frank and Angela Brown, our secretary, comprising a Morris Quad tractor unit, which tows an ammunition limber behind, and the field gun itself behind that!”
The spokesman added: “Frank and Angela provide demonstrations of the team operation of the field gun and have been known to take the entire three part rig across the off-road hill course at Burscough airfield. Quite something!
“The rig is featured on this year’s event ‘flyer’ for the crank-up.
“The Inn itself is located on the canal at Heatons Bridge and the grounds still retain the World War Two freestanding brick pillbox which formed part of the Home Guard defence provisions.
“We hope to set up a small Home Guard display inside the pillbox again to give some feel for how a guard might have had to hole up there.
“Why not come along and share the atmosphere of a military display for free with the enthusiasts who would be pleased to answer any questions you may have.
“The public are very welcome, admission is free and there will be a range of military vehicles on show of all eras from World War Two onwards.
“Anyone with a military vehicle of their own would be more than welcome to join us and camp here over the weekend.”
For more details phone Paul Connolly on 01704 545786 or email: pconnolly09@ btinternet.com) or phone group secretary Angela Brown on 01942 514738 or email: pegasus-drive@sky.com