MAG News: Yorkshire Pudding Rally

"What a great weekend, thank you!"

Despite current concerns over Coronavirus and appalling August weather, last weekend saw the Yorkshire Pudding Rally go ahead without incident.

The Yorkshire Pudding Rally, held at Escrick Estate near Selby, traditionally takes place on the first weekend in August but, due to Covid-19 restrictions, which have decimated this year’s biking calendar, the event had to be rescheduled to August Bank Holiday weekend.

Before organisers could confirm the new dates, they worked closely with all relevant authorities to ensure that they had a plan to make sure riders would have a rally to attend this summer.

Authorities satisfied and risk assessments inspected with a fine-tooth comb, the weather then did its best to scupper proceedings! Weather reports predicted the lowest August Bank Holiday temperatures on record, and throughout build-up and rider arrival, there was heavy rain and strong winds.

Over a thousand riders attended this weekend event and managed to enjoy themselves under the unusual circumstances. Everyone arriving had their temperature checked before being allowed entry, there was a winding path to the bar, and rally-goers were reminded to stick to groups of no more than six and within social ‘bubbles’. None of these measures phased those in attendance, who regularly stopped marshals to express thanks to everyone involved for putting a rally on and brightening their lives. As was expected, there was a visit from local officials, who left satisfied that all measures were in place and being followed.

MAG is truly grateful to the organisers for their untold hours and patience dealing with the authorities and getting the go-ahead for the event, the marshals for their dedication, the traders and bands, and the riders who attended and gave so much positive feedback on the event.

MAG Chair, Selina Lavender, said ‘It’s taken the dedication and hard work of many people to put this event on and there’s no underestimating the amount of joy this has brought to those attending the event. Those present attended because they’ve missed meeting in a field, and they were all fantastic, following the guidelines and showing respect to everyone else on site.’