THE 2008 Stafford Classic Motor Cycle show, held over April 26-27, promises to be the best ever - and with guests Giacomo Agostini and Kork Ball-ington headlining the roll-call of stars expected that's hardly surprising.

Fifteen times world champion Agostini, pictured above, became synonymous with MV Agusta and South African Ballington, enjoyed a two-year spell of dominance when he rode his works tandem twin Kawasakis to back-to-back double world 250/350cc titles in 1978/79.

At the show sponsored by Central Wheel Components and Carole Nash, the main Mortons Media Group stand will feature some classic exotica, including a pair of Series A Vincent-HRDs, a Triumph Bobber' and the British Motorcycle Charitable Trust's recently purchased Triumph Bandit - that's right, Triumph not Suzuki!

As always there are also plenty of highlights on the club stands, one to look out for being on the DOT stand, a work-in-progress reconstruction of Harry Reed's 1908 TT twin-cylinder class-winning DOT.

Reed was the founder of the DOT concern and one of the leading lights of Pioneer-era racing. While you're there, ask if the initials of the name actually do stand for Devoid Of Trouble'.

Another interesting rarity is on the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs' stand, a 1933 Vincent-HRD Model W, the water-cooled Villiers-powered 250cc model built in small numbers by Philip Vincent's concern.

Perhaps not exactly what one thinks of when considering pre-Second World War Vincent-HRDs - but fascinating nonetheless.

The BSA Bantam Club has some rarities on show, fitting because this year they celebrate the 60th anniversary of the ever-popular British lightweight.

As well as a rare Bushman model, there will be a 1959 D1 (125cc two-stroke for non-classic fans) which will be ridden from Land's End to John O'Groats in celebration of the model's diamond anniversary.

Also one to spot will be on the LE Velo club stand - a Viceroy hovercraft, using the engine of Velocette's opinion-splitting scooter.

The Velocette OC have the 1927 Harold Willis TT machine Roaring Anna' and Alec Bennett's (yes, the local Mr Bennett who started the motorcycle shop in Portswood) 1928 TT-winning KTT, alongside various road models including what's thought to be the sole surviving inlet-over-exhaust veteran model.

The show will also have a fantastic new attraction - a competition motorcycle marquee to complement the hugely popular Classic Racer GP Paddock.

Sponsored by insurance specialists Footman James, this is a first for Classicbikeshows and is sure to delight the expected 30,000-strong crowd.

That's just a teaser for the major event. There'll also be the autojumble, trade stands and the Bonhams auction.

Whatever aspect of classic motorcycling attracts you, there should be something to please at Stafford.

Ticket prices are: adult £9, senior citizen £7.50, and children under 15, £3.50.

More information can be found on classicbikeshows. com or call the ticket hotline on 01507 529529 or book online via the link.