Wednesday, August 22 2012

Race fans from the north west and across the country are invited to take part in the region's biggest retro-themed party as the Oulton Park Gold Cup returns this August Bank Holiday weekend (26-27). The event will be bigger than ever with spectators encouraged to dress in period clothing for the first time.

The 2012 Gold Cup will concentrate on the 1960s and 70s, when the event was run for contemporary Formula 1 and Formula 5000 cars, the latter running huge 5-litre engines. The era covers a wide variety of styles, from the Merseybeat era, to the Mods of the mid-60s, hippies, glam-rockers, punks and new wave of the late 70s. The venue, which has retained its character from that time, will also be transported into the past with a themed funfair and bus rides around the circuit for an additional fee. There will also be a VIP gridwalk on Monday which will be free to those dressed for the occasion.

The circuit will also be surrounded by classic car and commercial vehicle displays, and many of these will be parading the track. Parachute displays, brass bands, trade stands and even a 60s and 70s disco will also transform the atmosphere.

Meanwhile the racing will continue to be as exciting as ever, with almost every category of historic racing covered. The spectacular Formula 5000 cars headline the bill, as they did back in the golden days, with a strong Chevron presence expected. There's also support from several single seater races. Popular sports and GT cars from the 60s and 70s provide additional colour, whilst the classic touring cars, including Mustangs, Minis and Cortinas are expected to be a highlight of the weekend.

Rally fans won't be left out either as the historic demonstrations on the venue's special stages return once more, and historical purists are bound to forgive the inclusion of the incredible 1980s Group B era. Hot rides in the Oulton Park Rallymaster Ford Escorts will also be available to purchase on the day!

Tickets for the Oulton Park Gold Cup are available on the gate for £21 with free admission for children aged 12 and under. For more information call 0843 453 9000 or click here.