In an event organised by Crewe-based Whitby Morrison ice cream van manufacturers, ‘mobilers’ (ice cream van drivers) travelled from all over the UK, Republic of Ireland and Belgium to set a world record for the longest parade of ice cream vans this October!
The event was the culmination of an idea dreamt up a number of years ago, and was described by bosses at the factory on Fourth Avenue as the perfect spectacle to showcase the ice cream mobiling industry.
A bright array of ice cream vans descended on Wychwood Park to join forces and show just how amazing the industry and its workers are.
Many travelled through the night and documented their journey on social media. On arrival at the venue, the line-up of vans was awe-inspiring. A number of day trippers, media crews and fellow mobilers also came along to take in the sight.
Guinness World Records (GWR) were in attendance too, of course, with one of their famous adjudicators on hand to observe and officiate.
The stringent rules set by GWR meant that the convoy had to travel a minimum of 2 miles and not allow a distance greater than 10m between each vehicle – a tough challenge!
85 vans set off in convoy, receiving a participant number as they departed. They travelled at a snail’s pace in order to make it easier to keep together whilst navigating the course… a challenge in itself!
During the attempt, they all played their signature chimes too!
84 of those who started the course went on to successfully complete it, and they were then subjected to an anxious wait whilst the adjudicator checked every detail.
‘Mobiler of the Year’ Karl Simcock took care of everyone, dishing out free ice cream to all in attendance.
Around 45 minutes later everyone gathered together as the adjudicator delivered his verdict – and it was in: a new world record had been set for the largest parade of ice cream vans!
Ed Whitby commented: “The feeling was euphoric and everyone cheered.
“After a number of photos and interviews, the vans departed in convoy once more as they headed to nearby Nantwich for the Whitby Event.”
He added: “It must have taken an hour for them all to finally filter through the many traffic lights and into formation at the football stadium in readiness for more promotional photos by Guinness.
“It was a truly momentous occasion that required the help, support and sheer hard work of so many – and that includes every single participant.
“Some of the distances travelled were simply incredible.
“Thank you to each and every person who helped make this happen; mobilers, stewards, Guinness World Records, Wychwood Park staff, media teams, friends and family.”
(Photos credit: Whitby Morrison via Facebook)
