One of the biggest dates on the RSOC calendar is the Middlesex branch annual pilgrimage to the Staines rugby club. This years event was no exception, with lots to do, see and buy as well as a glint or two of sunshine and even a barbecue too as if that wasn't enough!

Fortunately it stayed very mild and no rain was seen, even if the wind picked up a fair bit to say the least at times!

This meant that a very fine selection of choice motors from Uncle Henry graced the fields at Staines and also meant an even better day could be had by exhibitors and visitors alike as there was no fear of an imminent down pour to ruin the atmosphere!

There were row upon row of exceptionally clean Cosworths, Fiesta and Escort Turbos and a whole host of older and rarer RS marks as well as lots of non RS models that were made to feel just as welcome as the aforementioned...without forgetting some of the other visiting car clubs, a few that I spotted included cars from the likes of BMW, Citroen and Subaru to name but a few...

The atmosphere was very friendly with everyone there to appreciate the dedication and enthusiasm of both the event organisers and the participants...Ford themselves were heavily present on the day with their "Rallye Sport" bus containing Colin McCrae racing games and featuring a whole host of components from the Focus WRC...allowing you the opportunity to see just how well made and incredibly light some of the components that go into this car really are.

As well as the rugby club bar and other refreshments a huge barbecue was laid on, which I have to admit initially looked a little "iffy" BUT after experiencing the cuisine myself I would have to alter that thought, as far from being bearable the assorted snacks were actually very nice! Compliments to the chef's!

Along with the usual shananigans of coxing people into buying raffle tickets etc. the RSOC decided to continue the tradition of "blowing a banger".

This year it was a helpless orange MK1 XR2...to which they stripped it of its water and oil...before proceeding to hold constant high revs to see how long it would last - whoever paid and picked the closest time took the lot which was around £175 in total.

For your information it lasted around 43 seconds before a conrod came through the sump stopping the engine in its tracks as well as starting a small fire!

Being the Middlesex show there was a very heavy presence from Mr Shead AKA M.A.Developments with a large number of cars on show evidently having had his magical touch.

There were even 4 GT40's and an RS200 for those that really like there "proper" fords...you can't get much rarer or rawrer than these!

So all in all a cracking day out for everyone involved, a fantastic selection of cars catering for nigh on everybody...well laid out with loads of space, so door knocking was thankfully not on the agenda and finally a show with a good selection of traders and firms supplying all those chrome bits you wanted for that clean under bonnet look.

Well done to the event organisers and all those that displayed there superb cars and roll on to next years show!