The 2023 UK Coach Rally remains open to vehicle entries after organiser Coach Displays said that preparations for the season-opener in Blackpool over the weekend of 1-2 April are progressing well.
As in previous years, the 2023 event will open on the Saturday morning with a road run of approximately 50 miles. The route for that is currently awaiting confirmation by the relevant authorities. Following return to the seafront in Blackpool, the driving heats will take place.
Sunday will see judging, the driving challenge finals and presentation of trophies on the Comedy Carpet in front of Blackpool Tower. Last year’s winners of the two big trophies were Parrys International, which took Coach of the Year for a new Van Hool TX17 Astron, and Russell Cooper of Killamarsh operator Coopers Tours, who claimed the Coach Driver of the Year accolade.
“Entries from operators are shaping up, but we are still encouraging more to put their coaches forward,” says Ann Cousins of Coach Displays. She adds that the social side of the event has long been seen as a positive by visitors.
Mrs Cousins adds that trade body the UK Coach Operators Association is currently working with its members to encourage them to participate in the 2023 Rally, and that previous entrants are being contacted by Coach Displays.
The outdoor events will bookend the traditional dinner dance on the evening of Saturday 1 April. It will again be held at the Imperial Hotel and will include a meal, a DJ and a band. Tickets remain available at £85 plus VAT each.
Also confirmed to be in attendance are a number of trade exhibitors.
