Bike restoration ace to attempt 48-hour rebuild at Stafford show

Thousands of enthusiasts will witness expert restorer Jerry Thurston take on the challenge of a live motorcycle rebuild at Staffordshire County Showground’s annual classic bike event later this month.

The TV personality and former Salvage Squad presenter is aiming to restore a Suzuki AS50 to full working order during the two days of the Carole Nash International Classic MotorCycle Show, taking place on the weekend of April 23-24.

Jerry said: “From what was a pile of bits we should, with a little bit of luck, have a ready-to-run motorcycle by close of play on Sunday.”

Rescued from a breaker’s yard, the machine in question has already had some of its engine internals replaced and the team attempting the restoration has been sourcing genuine Suzuki spares in preparation.

Jerry added: “We’re used to restoring machines that have no spares back-up, so this time it has been a real treat to be able to go directly to the manufacturer to get original parts off the shelf.

“The main enemy of the Suzuki it seems has been the weather, the original finish unable to hold off the ravages of 45 winters.

“It’s now back to ‘showroom’ quality and it will be a pleasure to showcase the work of the specialists who have helped us get it ready for our live rebuild attempt.”

The Restoration Theatre is just one highlight of the Stafford motorcycle show which is the largest of its kind in the world.

Thousands of machines will be brought to the venue over the weekend as part of static exhibitions, club displays, a Grand Prix race paddock, trials demonstration area and parade laps of the main ring, while hundreds of trade stands a vast autojumble will pack into the halls and outside areas.

Auction house Bonhams hosts its annual Spring sale – which this year is a two-day event – where some of the finest classic motorcycles in the world will go under the hammer, and former racer and TV presenter Steve Parrish will be in attendance as special guest star.

Completing the line-up is the action-packed Wall of Death – fresh from its TV appearance as part of the Guy Martin’s successful speed record attempt on Channel 4.

Advance tickets are on sale now, with a one day adult pass costing just £12 – a saving of more than 10% on the gate price. For more information on the show, including ticket details, visit classicbikeshows.com