The 2007 Harold Palin Memorial Stages which was voted “Best Event” by competitors in 2006 was the 50^th event organised by John & Sandra Hickling since 1985.

The event promoted by the Eastwood & District Motor Club was held at the Manby (Airfield) Showground. For those who have not been to Manby before it offers a smooth concrete oval with a small loop to one side, grass area in the middle & loose track on the outside.

The weather made for a treacherous surface which was entertaining for the spectators but not so for the competitors. The 10 stage event was won by David Patrick/Martin Blood in their homebuilt 4.0 litre Opel Manta whose neat & tidy approach suited the conditions fine. Second was the Subaru Impreza of Chris Cawthorne/Roger Laistor.

Behind them saw the giant killing class 2 Vauxhall Nova of Richard Hall/Alex Kirk-Willey. 

Notable retirements included the Subaru Impreza of Alex Taylor/Barry Massey with gear linkage problems on the final test & Nigel & Tim Hobson who had a mighty off hitting a bank on SS4 in their Mitsubishi Lancer Evo6. 

It was another great event & was run impeccably roll on 2008. 

Results 

1. David Patrick / Martin Blood            Opel Manta                  53:27

2. Chris Cawthorne / Roger Laistor       Subaru Impreza            54:06

3. Richard Hall/ Alex Kirk-Willey         Vauxhall Nova               54:22

4. Andy Okane / Phil Clowes                Vauxhall Nova             54:23

5. Nick Everand / Alex Lee                  Peugeot 106 gti            54:30