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August 27th - 30th

Held on the August Bank holiday weekend, this was the second Island Invasion rally hosted by the Islanders MCC.  Around 500 bikers from near and far found their way to Mount Stuart Estate events field, which was this years venue. The site for this year had to be changed from last years' popular venue at Port Bannatyne, due to re-turfing of the park. 

Friday's entertainment was to be Manchester's "Pure Juice" supported by local band  "Gringo".  Enjoyment was slightly hindered early on Friday night by a problematic generator causing Pure Juice to cancel in fear for their equipment.  This was eventually resolved by the commandeering of the Chinese food tent generator.   The usual pole climbing antics kept the assembled throng amused until Gringo fired up and saved the night.  The rest of the night went well from then on (unless you wanted 'chip' with your Chop Suey!), the weather doing it's best to ensure a packed marquee.

Due to an equally wet day on Saturday all thoughts of the ride-out were abandoned and most people settled for a bus trip into Rothesay and a visit to the local pubs which were keen to welcome them.  Fortunately the weather cleared up by evening and the massive bonfire was able to be lit in conjunction with the evening's entertainment.  Saturday evening's line-up consisted of the ever popular "Sticky Fingers", "Pure Juice" and the increasingly popular - and thirsty - "Gringo", powered by the mega-gennie which had been hastily drafted in that afternoon.

The usual award giving ceremony took place.  Awards were presented for furthest travelled; best bike; rat bike; largest club turnout amongst others.

The transvestite competition was hilarious.  Thirteen willing volunteers donned frocks and frills to make some of the ugliest looking birds you have ever seen and some not-so-bad looking ones depending on how pissed you were.  Roxanne, Luticia, and company shimmied into the marquee to rapturous applause from an over-enthusiastic audience.   

 

 

A spectacular entrance was made by one blushing bride on a Trike proving once again that Trikes are for girls.

 

and the winner...