Beaulieu’s Simply Land Rover was the biggest and best yet, with record numbers of Land Rovers and rally participants turning out for the busy event which saw the return of the popular Simply Rummage and a fully-booked Forest Drive.
542 Land Rovers of all ages and varieties rumbled into the grounds of the National Motor Museum for the rally on Sunday June 23rd, an increase of 8% from 501 vehicles in 2018, while the total of 1,285 rally participants was 18% up on 2018’s 1,091 show-goers.
The much-loved Discovery was well-represented in its 30th anniversary year within the varied Simply Land Rover line-up, from Spartan early three-door versions up to the modern-day Discovery Sport SUV. Also on show were examples of the rugged Land Rover Series I dating as far back as 1949, the latter-day Defender, luxury Range Rover and even the military Land Rover 101 Forward Control.
Beaulieu’s Forest Drive was fully-booked with enthusiasts eager to put their off-road driving skills to the test. Held in association with Land Rover Experience West Country, this action-packed feature took in a newly-extended course as Land Rovers of all ages were put through their paces.
Returning due to popular demand was Simply Rummage, a Land Rover-themed autojumble that made its successful debut at last year’s show. Buyers snapped up bargains amongst the spares and accessories on offer, which ranged from seats, wheels and body panels to a rolling chassis. There were even complete vehicles for sale at the show, including an ex-Manchester Police 1973 Range Rover restoration project.
Winning the People’s Choice Award with the most votes from show-goers were Michael Jones and his son Louie for their 1993 Land Rover Defender 90. Michael from Eastleigh had carried out a lot of work over the past three years to equip the 4X4 for off-road adventures, including fitting an impressive roof tent. “Really it’s just a big Tonka Toy,” said Michael. They were presented with a Beaulieu trophy and Autoglym car care pack by Beaulieu’s Commercial Director Stephen Munn.
Also scoring highly were runners-up Adrian, Kirsty and Tom Paget from Malmesbury, Wiltshire, and Fred Barclay from Devon. The Paget family’s immaculate 1966 Series IIA had a fascinating tale to tell, having been bought new by Kirsty’s mother and since restored to its original specification. “I have many childhood memories of this Land Rover,” said Kirsty. “It will certainly stay in the family.”
Fitted with a huge crane and laden with a tree trunk, Fred Barclay’s hard-working 1999 Defender 110 was also a real crowd-pleaser. “I put the crane on with a friend, strengthened it and changed the colour,” said Fred. “It’s an everyday work vehicle and very practical.” Both Fred and the Paget family were presented with Autoglym prizes and tickets for a behind-the-scenes tour of the National Motor Museum Trust.
Show regulars the Solent & District Land Rover Club showcased a selection of their members’ vehicles, including a Defender tipper truck and a pair of Discoverys that had been modified for extreme off-road terrain. Also putting together popular club stands were The Discovery 3 & 4 Owners Club, Range Rover P38 Owners Club, LR Ladies Club, The Land Rover Series One Club, Range Rover Owners and Hants & Berks 4X4 Response.