A new event bringing together vintage buses, traction engines, commercial vehicles, classic cars and motorbikes will take place at Sunderland seafront this weekend.
Organisers the North East Bus Preservation Trust and Sunderland and District Classic Vehicle Society hope to bring the region’s transport heritage to life.
Trevor Hines, Secretary of North East Bus Preservation Trust said: “The North East is home to a number of dedicated groups who spend a huge amount of time restoring vintage vehicles, which tell the story of our heritage. We’re delighted to have this opportunity to showcase the vehicles to the public, and share their stories with them.
The event will take place on 29 and 30 July at Recreation Park and Cliffe Park, Seaburn, 10am – 5pm.
Entrance to Recreation Park will cost £2 per adult, free for children, and visitors will be able to enjoy vintage cars, lorries, buses, coaches and much more.
On Cliffe Park there will be children’s rides and activities, vintage car clubs, car dealerships, emergency services vehicles and local bus companies undertaking driver recruitment.
The event has been made possible with support from Sunderland City Council North Area Committee. Cllr John Kelly, Portfolio Holder for Public Health, Wellness and Culture, said: “Our region has a fantastic transport heritage, and a huge number of groups and individuals working hard to preserve that for future generations.
“This event is a great way for them to share their work with local people, from the older generations who will enjoy a trip down memory lane, to the youngsters who will no doubt be fascinated by some of the vehicles on show.”
The event will also see the start of free heritage bus trips, which will take place every weekend over the school summer holidays.
A variety of vintage buses will pick people up from the iconic tram shelter opposite Recreation Park and travel along the seafront, down to Marine Walk, and then over the Wearmouth Bridge before turning round and returning to the tram shelter.
No booking is required; the free service operates every hour, on a first come first served basis. There will be no other pick up or drop off stops.
Cllr John Kelly added: “Our seafront is one to be proud of, and events like the North East Transport Festival encourage a wider audience to come and visit us. The free heritage bus tours are an exciting addition to the summer season, giving people the chance to travel the length of Seaburn and Roker in style.”