On Monday 21st July 2008 the tall ship competitors took part in an awe inspiring River Mersey Parade of Sail before departing the Capital of Culture for Northern Ireland, and the start of the race proper. As the parade got under way, in almost gale force conditions, the massive crowds lining both banks of the river were given an additional treat as the world famous Yakovlev aerobatic team demonstrated their outstanding flying skills.
The unique 1920s AA Box, which now stands adjacent to the Cross Inn in the picturesque Herefordshire village of Eardisland originally stood beside a nearby road junction at Legions Cross. After its working life the box was saved by local AA man Harry Gittoes, who removed it to his garden. It was then rediscovered by members of the local Oral History Group who arranged with the co-operation of the Gittoes family to place the historically important transport heritage item on public display. It was renovated by Roger Young who when doing so received a great deal of local support, and was moved to its present position in the summer of 2000.
