The Greatest Show on British Wheels was back in Vancouver during the May long weekend for its 35th anniversary. This event was back after a two year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The All British Field Meet (ABFM) was held at Vancouver’s VanDusen Botanical Garden on May 21, 2022. The VanDusen Garden’s provided a beautiful venue for the ABFM because of the garden’s perfectly kept lawns for the different vehicles and vendors on display.
The ABFM showcased marque anniversary celebrations, which were carried forward from 2020 & 2021. The manufacturers celebrating major milestones were: Triumph Stag’s 50th, English Ford’s 100th, and Jaguar E-Type’s 60th anniversary. This event featured Vancouver’s The Little Mountain Brass Band for live entertainment. The band provided melodious and joyful British-style music which was perfect for the event. There were various types of food trucks which served food items that ranged from fish and chips to fresh crepes and croissants to name a few.
The ABFM featured around 500 British cars and motorcycles. They ranged from Vintage British vehicles to classic sports cars. For the year 2022, the ABFM featured a few special vehicle marques. These included a pair of 1927 & 1932 Rolls Royces, a 1933 Alvis Speed 20, and a 1938 MG VA. There were latest and classic vehicles on display from the following British manufactures: Jaguar, Aston Martin, Land Rover, Lotus, Rolls Royce, and Triumph. I was an instant fan of one of the Lotus’s as it reminded me of the DeLorean DMC-12 used in the 1985 movie Back to the Future. The Lotus’s popup headlights and the all grey exterior with matching interior was a huge hit for me. Another vehicle which stood out for me was the 1982 Aston Martin Volante. This particular Aston Martin came with a V8 engine. It had a meticulously kept black exterior with white crème and black stitching leather interior. The classic wire rims on the Volante gave it a bold appearance which I loved and I wanted to take it for a spin. However, we all know that taking the Volante out for a spin was not a possibility and just a dream of mine.
Another display I enjoyed was of the British motorcycles that ranged from classics to some of the latest models. I have always been a fan of motorcycles because I love the loud sounds emanating from the exhausts from their exhausts. It provides me with exhilaration and excitement. Unfortunately, I do not own a motorcycle but I have always been a fan and hope to own one in the future.
Overall, the ABFM was a great event which celebrated classic and current British vehicles and its manufacturers. This was a great event for car enthusiasts of all ages male or female. I highly recommend this event and I had the pleasure of attending it with my dad.
