The BMF Show is once again upon us, all roads lead to Junction 17 on the A1M. Peterborough. The event continues to draw me there, even though most visits result in me saying “Won’t bother with that next year” and it must be worse if you’ve actually paid to get in?
Years ago it was called the BMF Rally, this was when camp fires were still allowed on site, and the associated alcoholic fuelled antics that went with them.
I first went to the BMF in 1987, I went for the next few years, it was only when I went alone without my older brother I realised you could actually just pay to get, not climb fences or pretend to be someone else.
During later years I joined the autojumble family, before ebay existed this was one of the best ways to clear out the slower moving stock from the ResCogs workshop, stack it high and sell it cheap, this was made even easier when I ended up living on the housing estate right next to the showground. Several trips were made back and forth fetching not just motorcycle parts but also friends, who would bunk inside the van like a Trojan horse.
The weekend falls in to two halves, by day it’s a show, you can search for a bargain, marvel at the factory seconds on sale and queue for a dodgy burger, there’s always some antics in the arena, Moped Mayhem being my favoured choice to while away an hour whilst resting my feet, a 99 with nuts and juice adds to the pleasure. There’s various bike clubs who make the pilgrimage, and set up camp for the weekend, years ago I’d be impressed by the bikes on display, these days I’m more envious of their catering efforts.
By night the show gets its party head on, there’s always a selection of bands to see, some are terrible other just worse, beer flows freely, bbqs fill the air with the stench of marinated dead animal.
It’s more than just a show, the BMF is a great social, you’re always guaranteed to bump in to someone you’ve not seen for ages, random friendships are made every year.
I’m looking forward to this years event, I might even have the odd Barcardi Breezer? I’ll no doubt buy another jacket I don’t need, only to discover the zip doesn’t work when I get back. The sleeping bag is packed and the camera is charged. If you’re going let us know, will be good to catch up.
Scottie
i packed your loo roll!!