S MALLBROOK, NATIONAL T REASURE
Admittedly there’s a commercial element to the IoW that sits uncomfortably with some. This is part of the reason VFM made the choice to move the National Rally to Smallbrook. At the Ice Rink they’d become music promoters. Moving out of Ryde enabled VFM to concentrate on what they do best, providing good value facilities and entertainment for rally going scooterists. Judging by the healthy increase in both weekend and day tickets sold this year the move can be judged a success.
For those in search of the ‘traditional’ National, it’s possible to pitch a tent and stay all weekend without getting bored. There’s a large dealers’ fair and fast food outlets serving up food that’s actually worth eating. The rugby club bar does a roaring trade all weekend and the £5 breakfast put on by their staff is one of the weekend’s great bargains.
Given the eclectic musical tastes of scooterists it’s almost impossible to please everyone but VFM should be congratulated on finding a mix that packed the main arena every night.
On Friday I’ll admit to being slightly confused when three refugees from a spaghetti western stepped on stage, but from their opening number Basketcase filled the dance floor, setting a high bar. The Extra Specials also didn’t disappoint, producing a range of crowd pleasing two tone classics.
Saturday evening was opened by The Corsairs with their ‘punkabilly’ take on classics by artists such as The Undertones, Adam Ant, Tenpole Tudor and Bucks Fizz (no – that’s not a misprint). For sheer entertainment value they were my favourites of the weekend, although ska fans spoke highly of former Bodysnatchers singer Rhoda Dakar who closed the live entertainment.
With DJ sets between bands in the main arena and two rooms pumping out soul/1960s and club classics respectively, it was hard not to be entertained on site. However those wanting something different, or just a breath of sea air, weren’t forgotten and could take advantage of the free shuttle bus between Smallbrook and Ryde.
All things considered, VFM delivered exactly what their name promises, value for money.