Pictured above in our view the very best stand of the event. Set up by Franck Jourdan from France, the centerpiece of his stand (piece de résistance, if you like) is an early 20th century NOS aeroplane that was never finished. Come rain come shine, form follows function. The nicest umbrella of the grounds which came in handy this year.
It was 15 years ago when we reported about the International Autojumble at Beaulieu for the very first time (6 September 2001). We have a vivid memory of the event brochure with the solemn statement by Lord Montagu himself as can be read above this photo. Since last year Lord Montagu is looking down at the premises from above. And we are sure with a smile as Beaulieu is as brilliant and unique as ever over the last 50 years. A mix of jumble, party, auction, market, clubbing, festival, gossip and friendship that probablu is very hard to find elsewhere in this particular addicting mix. Not even in Hershey, USA where the idea for Beaulieu was born as the brainchild of Michael Ware. It's just that the climate has changed over the last 15 years. Sheer sunshine and tropical temperatures back in the past has nearly unnoticeable changed adding a factor of meteorological instability now. So this year's Beaulieu was showing a rich palet of skies and circumstances. It made the adventure even more attractive. Right at the start of the 'Meet & Greet' with celebrity writer Robin Batchelor at the stall of PreWarCar-PostWarClassic the skies opened and never before we saw the fields change from crowded into fine green meadow so quickly. We will come back to you with a few scattered stories as collected over the weekend as soon our camping gear has dried. Just for the moment we don't want to hold back this 12 foot car part being a vintage leather clad boattail, as offered by Retrolegends. Also quite handy in view of the circumstances. (photos by editor)