Petrolheads and plane enthusiasts of all kinds descended on Middle Wallop at the weekend as it hosted its first airshow since 2000.
The Army Flying Museum hosted the inaugural Wallop Wheels and Wings on Saturday, July 3, with hundreds of cars on display, as well as a variety of classic aircraft. There were flypasts and parades at the inaugural event, which sold out to guests.
One of the highlights was the Concours D’Elegance, where 32 classic cars ranging from 1903 to the present day were on display, with visitors and a panel of judges, including Prince Michael of Kent, patron of the museum, and racing driver Amanda Stretton among the panel.
The overall winner of both the judges and people’s vote was Phillippe Allison, whose Citroen Light 15 Roadster from 1939 won for its pre-war stylings. He told the Advertiser: “It’s the first time I’ve won a concourse at this type of event. I’ve entered many times but I’ve never won before. I’m thrilled.
“I’ve had the car for 40 years and I love it. It’s part of the family, and we all drive it. It goes over to Europe with us, and it’s a pleasure. I just love this car.”
The event also saw flypasts from military aircraft including a Puma and Wildcat helicopter. Unfortunately, a planned Hurricane flypast was cancelled following technical issues, while a hot air balloon ascent was also called off due to strong winds.
However, there was still plenty to be doing at the event. Missile manufacturer MBDA allowed guests to don VR headsets and imagine themselves in the role of ground crew loading up an Apache gunship, while trying not to bump into the very real walls of the arena!
A spokesperson for the company told the Advertiser that such a bespoke program “could be used to cut the costs of training” in future.
Outside, there were many stalls selling everything from brownies to beer, while the Sound Force Big Band played classic tunes like ‘The Lady is a Tramp’ and ‘In the Mood’.
Dignitaries including the mayor of Test Valley, Councillor Mark Cooper, and the leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Cllr Phil North, were also on site. The latter said: “A fantastic family day out at the Wallop Wheels and Wings event today.
“It’s fabulous to see so many people enjoying themselves again, including many visitors to Test Valley. A great advert for our beautiful borough.”
The Army Flying Museum plans to expand the event next year, and bring more guests into the show.
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