Hungry for patrons

Parts of the city centre have been converted to 'pedestrians only' paths for the duration of the Hamilton 400 this weekend. Restaurant, café and bar owners have been rubbing their hands together for months in anticipation of the influx of tens of thousands of people wanting to patronise their establishments.

The manager of this café is also waiting for patrons. Many of these establishments have taken on extra staff to cope with the expected rush of people. Will their expectations be realised, or will they be disappointed?

V8 Supercar fever grips Hamilton

Well, this weekend is probably one of the biggest and most important in the history of the city of Hamilton. From tomorrow, Hamilton will be hosting the Hamilton 400 as part of the Supercar series. It is unique because the race will be contested on a street circuit. Large parts of Hamilton have been cordoned off to construct the street circuit. The event has been limited to 55 000 ticket holders per day. Yes, indeed - 55 000!

This photo is of a chequered flag, one of hundreds that have gone up around Hamilton as part of the city's marketing of the event.