2018 Reports

Mike Gibson's Midweek Run 21-March-2018

Following the weather ‘beasts’, the day of this year’s first run was relatively benign – just cool, but dry. We even saw some sun! The ‘we’ being 9 riders leaving Devil’s Bridge for the Carnforth road to make fair progress. (I was constrained for the first miles of the day by a new rear tyre.) Avoiding the town, we picked up the pleasant road through Burton-in-Kendal to arrive at our morning break in the Crooklands hotel. Complete with roaring fire – very tempting to stay! Nevertheless, onwards we must ride. Heading towards Kendal we joined some lanes to find the A590 towards the Furness peninsula. Turning off at Greenodd, the route took us on the way to the village of Torver, and lunch at Wilson’s Arms.

The afternoon session saw us going to Coniston where we next headed over the ridge to Hawkshead, and the road to Newby Bridge. Here, we found the Gummers Howe road which led us up the hill and into the Lyth valley. More lively progress saw us to the A590 again for a short distance where we retraced our morning’s route back to the A65 and Oxenholme village. From there the ‘back’ road was followed to Kirkby Lonsdale, and a quick ‘wind down’ before it was time to return home. A round trip of about 100 miles covered in fine dry conditions (although the forecast rain did catch me on the way home).

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Mike Gibson's Midweek Run 18-April-2018.

The weather forecast was fair, the day started not fair! Nevertheless, another 16 bikes turned up at Devil’s Bridge full of optimism. Surely it wasn’t misplaced? It wasn’t, but it took until early afternoon for the sun to fully join us. We headed northwards, through Sedbergh and up the Kirkby Stephen road to our morning break at the Fat Lamb Inn, Ravenstonedale. Next cutting through the village we rode westwards to pick up a minor road to Orton, and the start of the Great Asby Scar road to Appleby. Avoiding the town centre by another minor road, we passed through some small villages. One of which, Bolton, presented us with the refuse collection lorry blocking the road. The halt didn’t last long, and we sped on our way to Temple Sowerby. From there yet more minor roads took us to the lunch stop at the Shepherd’s Inn, Langwathby. Here, a room had been set aside for us. Had word preceded us?

Acting upon information received that the Hartside road was closed for resurfacing, we changed tack and headed southwards to Penrith. There, the A6 led us over Shap towards Kendal, which was avoided via our ‘country lane’. Next joining a proper road we rode eastwards, stopping off at the Crooklands Hotel for, by now, much needed drinks. (The sun was definitely making its presence felt by now!) A southerly direction led us to near Carnforth, where the B-road took us back to Kirkby Lonsdale. A round trip of about 115 miles, covered without any mishap with the ‘drop off’ system.

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Chocolate and Cheese Run 22-April-2018.

I joined Phil Cosgrove's Choc and Cheese run in April along with 17 other members on 11 bikes as we braved the rain which persisted for most of my 210 mile day. A good pace set by Phil as we rode north to Orton for coffee then a circuitous single track route to Hawes for lunch. A packed cafe but Phil had phoned ahead to reserve our very long table. An entertaining route, encompassing all you would want to test your riding skills including a river crossing during which I'm sure David and Wendy Mathers set sail sideways.

Bob Harrison.

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Tigers in South Africa.

May 2017, Vancouver, Canada in my brother-in-law's kitchen enjoying a few beers. I asked him if he fancied joining me on a bike trip next year to South Africa. Oh yes, was the immediate reply so February 2018 saw Farrel winging eastwards and me southwards to meet at Heathrow for the eleven hour flight to Cape Town.

Forsaking the many rental BMWs on offer we opted for two Triumph Tiger 800XCX machines hired for two weeks from Triumph Dealer Mike Hopkins Motorcycles, and after two nights in a hotel to recover from the overnight flight we arrived by taxi at the bike shop. The bikes came equipped with large soft panniers and a top box on Farrel's bike which was essential to contain the four inner tubes, tyre inflation canister and chain lube. All very well but I doubt if we could have replaced a punctured tube at the roadside, something I haven't done in the last thirty years, my bikes all have tubeless tyres. I opted to take my Ortlieb waterproof bag fastened to the carrier as extra luggage capacity. Tank bags don't seem to have made it to South Africa yet, so I improvised by securing my map case to the tank utilising our travel washing line. Bikes packed ready for the off and suitcases stored in the workshop.

Destination Calvinia 433km. Our first night's destination. No accommodation booked but we had an idea of what was available. My wife Pam had researched our proposed route and printed an A4 information sheet listing all the likely hotels at each stop. Due north on the N7, encountering extensive road works for 30km so a 60kph limit which most drivers ignored. Eventually back to the 120kph national speed limit and a brew stop at Nancy's Tearoom in Clanwilliam, where the bike's thermometer indicated an ambient 42C with 48C in the sun. Straight roads today apart from the two mountain passes which had some nice bendy bits. Left the N7 for the R27 at Vanrhynsdorp, leaving Western Cape for Northern Cape and Calvinia where we arrived drenched in sweat. A variety of accommodation available and we plumped for Die Ou Lady Gastehuis B&B. A tough day with the furnace-like heat so very happy to turn on the air-con and cool off with a shower and cold beers.

Destination Upington 403km. Along the R27 and more hot straight road but having decided on this route through the Kalahari Desert in summer I can't really complain about the conditions. Bone dry scrub and hot, definitely a desert. Almost no traffic so I engaged the cruise control at 115kph and admired the scenery. Not a living thing to be seen as we trundle along heading for the horizon which we never reach. I very soon realised that setting cruise to115kph results in covering that distance in the hour because there's no hindrance to progress. Arriving suitably hot and bothered we opted for the luxurious Belurana Guesthouse B&B for a twin bedded room with air-con and pool which was much appreciated. Accommodation in South Africa is of a high standard and much cheaper than the UK or Europe. No GPS on our bikes so asking directions became the norm in town when searching for accommodation, and the Shell petrol station attendants became our favourites, always knowledgeable and eager to help. No self-service in South Africa with all fuel being dispensed by an attendant, it all helps to give people employment. Lots of restaurants available so pub and grub for our evening entertainment.

Destination Vryburg 405km. Following the N14 we cross into North West Province and very soon encounter heavy trucks with trailers transporting iron ore and manganese from the many mines in the area. The drivers are most considerate and move over to the shoulder, allowing us to overtake and re-engage that cruise again. The landscape is dry and iron ore coloured, hence the extensive mining activity. Villa Brocant Guesthouse B&B provides a two bedroom apartment with a pool and shady patio. Walk into town and more pub and grub. Oh yes, more straight as a die roads today.

Destination Pilanesburg Game Reserve 380km. Along a variety of roads so had to engage in some map reading and direction sign spotting. Quite an entertaining route and much improved terrain with vast farms and healthy crops much in evidence. Much road side grass trimming going on with teams of men and women manicuring the shoulders and always a lady waving a red flag to attract our attention. It all helps to provide rural employment. We trundled by the entrance to the Sun City entertainment and gambling complex, heading for our designated park entrance at Manyane Gate. Our "Safari Tent" had been reserved from the UK months before for just one night with an early morning game drive booked for the following morning. Parking the bikes at our tent we were immediately engaged in conversation by our neighbour Ulrich, a retired German chap touring in his rented car. "Have you been riding off road?" he asked. He was disappointed to learn that no, we hadn't and probably classified us as cissies but I pointed out that as we approached our allotted three score and ten life span we were happy not to be covered in dust, mud and flies, content to be tarmac tourists. A very friendly chap who was a pilot for Swissair, he offered to take us round the park that evening in his car, an offer we gratefully accepted. We saw all the animals we expected to view but the sight of three Rhinos emerging from the undergrowth was unexpected and quite thrilling. Next morning's game drive leaving at 05:30 was equally rewarding, if uncomfortable, being bounced in all directions in our "Safari Vehicle Truck" by the rough track. Back at the camp site by 09:30 for breakfast and time to pack the bikes.

Destination Bela-Bela 202km. A short day in anticipation of being tired from our earlier game drive. More large scale mining operations as we enter Limpopo Province. Nice ride through green undulating hills and B&B at the Lala Bela Manor Guesthouse where we are welcomed by the owners who are just leaving for one of their many houses in Pretoria. The only guests, we are given the freedom of this impressive establishment and told to help ourselves to cold beer from the fridge. The caretaker Norman, a black Zimbabwean exile, looks after us and escorts us to one of the few restaurants in town open on Sunday. We treat him to a meal for which he is very grateful. He also escorts us back to the guesthouse which we are most grateful for as his presence helps to dissuade the many black youths from hassling us for money.

Desination Ermelo 356km. South on the N11. A major road but few vehicles in evidence so engage cruise and enjoy the scenery. Norman's culinary skills had been sadly lacking so as we refuel in Groblersdal we spot a Wimpy cafe offering two for one breakfasts which we greedily consume. Wimpys are all over South Africa and they very soon become our favourite watering hole. B&B at The West Street Inn, Ermelo which is surrounded by a high fence and is one of the few hotels without an electrified upper section. It's surprising how soon you come to accept the high levels of security around most South African homes and businesses. We are now in Mpumalanga Province.

Destination Dundee 218km. Entering KwaZulu-Natal Province. On the N14 again and stopped by a policeman who wanted to check our driving licences. At last I get to show someone my International Driving Permit. Very friendly chap who was quite happy to have his picture taken. Bound for a two night stop in Dundee at The Oval Guesthouse B&B which we had booked from the UK. I had always wanted to see Rorke's Drift Battlefield made famous in the 1964 film ZULU starring Michael Caine, so we had engaged a knowledgeable guide to take us on a one day tour in his 4x4. We were happy not to have taken our bikes because it entailed a 40km rough track with challenging mud holes where even the Jeep was slewing sideways. Prior to the battle depicted in ZULU was the battle of Isandlwana when 20,000 Zulu troops attacked and killed 1,357 troops in the British camp. Survivors of the battle fled to Rorke's Drift where 100 troops made a successful stand against 4,000 Zulu attackers. The battle lasted 11 hours and 11 Victoria Crosses were awarded. Farrel and I later walked into Dundee town centre for a beer. The only white guys in the sparsely furnished pub, we were immediately made welcome by the black guys and offered a seat for our interrogation. Why, where, what, how? The pub service bar comprised a counter with a protective, steel grill from where the lady served customers through the steel work. No glasses but all beer directly consumed from the 750ml bottles. The bottle opener was chained to the jail-like metalwork.

Destination uMkomas, Indian Ocean 344km. Midlands Toll Route N3 for the most part that takes us through Pietermaritzburg where we receive a friendly wave from a motorcycle policeman as he scoots past at far beyond the speed limit. We had planned to use an alternative minor road route but had been advised against it because of rocks placed in the road by the locals and subsequent robbery. Diving with sharks seems to be the most popular activity in uMkomas but we settle for some cold beer and a dip in the hotel's swimming pool. Farrel killed a giant cockroach that wanted to share our room at the Ocean Park Guesthouse B&B and we were advised to keep our door closed, just in case the local monkey troupe made an appearance bent on causing trouble including swinging from the chandeliers. Our Italian host regales us with tales of African life and Farrel instructs him in how to concoct a couple of Black Russians from vodka and kahlua.

Destination Kokstad 235km. Following the coast road R102 to Port Shepstone today but can't see any coast due to the jungle like growth and sand dunes. I make a mistake and lead us on to the motorway that takes us back to Durban but a swift and marginally hazardous U turn gets us back to the toll booth again. We are now on a lovely road N2, that follows the mountain contours as we head for Kokstad at 4272 feet. Superb bends to enjoy and of course negligible traffic. 38C again. Stop at the Mount Currie Inn and we have two budget single rooms adjacent to the pool which I plunge into, an excellent way to cool off and I chat to a chap who has just been to Manchester with his young son to watch football. Rugby, cricket and football seem to be on TV permanently in every bar and restaurant.

Destination Gonubie 401km. Heading back to the coast today and we soon enter Eastern Cape Province as we depart Kokstad. Brilliant biking road until we encounter dense fog which is actually cloud cover at 4000 feet and we can't see more than twenty metres. Farrel is leading today and I can see he is having difficulty with his visor misting badly. The car drivers show no mercy and tailgate us relentlessly before racing past into the gloom. Hardly anyone has their headlights turned on. Eventually we descend from the plateau and fog only to encounter major road works where traffic can wait for up to thirty minutes for oncoming vehicles to take their turn. I have never seen speed humps placed in road works before but it is the only way to slow people down. They do however present the opportunity for us to overtake, the Tiger's suspension easily shirking off the humps that slow the cars. The large town of Mthatha welcomes us with chaos. Pedestrians wander willy-nilly through the traffic, car drivers indulge in dangerous overtakes and I can't see a road sign anywhere. More speed humps help to slow traffic to a snail's pace so more overtaking opportunities for us. Exit town and more excellent road until we meet road works once again. Onwards towards East London and exit the N2 for Gonubie and the Crowned Crane Guesthouse B&B. Two palatial rooms and the bikes in the front garden. Good beer and food at the Gonubie Hotel.

Destination Colchester 300km. East London is a big industrial town with a Mercedes-Benz car plant and we are happy to speed through, easily finding our route the R72, which is an alternative minor road to the N2. Nice road, no traffic and hardly any people, engage cruise. Lots of Sunday riders on this deserted route, racing along on their GSs and Japanese sports bikes but in 38C going faster doesn't keep the body cool at all. Rejoin the N2 and exit for Colchester where we are just in time to encounter the landlady of The Addo Gateway Lodge as she nips home for a minute. She is helping to run the Annual Sundays River Swim where the local population race or float downstream depending on their ability and inclination but hundreds of people are in the water. Booked in and tidied up, we walk to the river to observe the proceedings before heading for Grunters Pub and Grill and a 400 gram t-bone steak accompanied by some draught ale. This meal is half the price of the UK. The following morning our host Maggie says she is always happy to see motorcyclists staying at her lodge and asks us to be careful as we ride away. Her son enjoyed riding his bike but he is no longer with us she said, killed on his bike. A sweet lady. She also advises us not to take our planned route along the R334 which bypasses Port Elizabeth because the local shanty town residents have taken to blocking the road and robbing car drivers. We take her advice and stick to the main road.

Destination Mossel Bay 430km. N2 until we intersect with the R62 which Maggie advised is a good biking road and she was right. A lovely ride and too demanding to engage cruise. Dropped in at The Sweaty Dutchman Cafe in Kareedouw for a brew and the sweaty Dutchman appeared for a conversation. Himself a motorcyclist his cafe is a meeting point for two wheelers. There was a large group of Harleys visible at the petrol station as we exited town. Eventually crossed into Western Cape Province rejoining the N2 for George then Mossel Bay and The Oceans Hotel. Quite early in the evening so we decided to walk a few miles to the Irish themed Patricks Restaurant and Pub, but ordered a taxi for the return. I was comfortably in the back seat as the driver said he had somebody else to collect on the way. No problem, we sat outside a Cuban restaurant waiting for the extra fare when this gorgeous black girl came tripping down the steps and joined me in the back seat giving me a big smile. Mini skirt, lovely legs and figure she chatted to the driver as we sped off, eventually dropped her off and watched her skipping up the steps to her front door. Speeding away I remarked to the driver that she was really nice and he started to chuckle. "She is not a she, she is a he" he said. Well, I've never been in the back seat of a taxi with a transvestite before, this was proving to be an interesting trip.

Destination Cape Town 511km. Our last day on the bikes and we had to be in Cape Town before the bike shop closed but we also wanted to visit Cape Agulhas, the most southerly point of the continent. N2 for Swellendam where we were stopped by a very pleasant police woman for yet another licence check. R319 to Bredasdorp and L'Agulhas then to the Cape. Not really running out of time as we rode back to Bredasdorp but no time to lose either. R316 to Caledon and increased speed to 130kph with that cruise engaged yet again. Such a pleasure to take the bends at this speed, something of a race track with sweeping curves giving full visibility. All too soon we were again on the N2 for Cape Town in rush hour but I was rather proud of myself for not taking a wrong turn and arriving at the shop before closing time. Bikes unloaded and suitcases replenished, the shop provided a complimentary taxi to transport us to our down town hotel. The 14 day bike trip had concluded.

The Triumph was a delight to ride, so comfortable with no numb bum or aches and pains. Total distance ridden was over 4600km. Average fuel consumption was 69mpg, oil consumption was nil, never had to adjust the drive chain. A superbly flexible engine able to pull away in top gear from 15mph with not a trace of chain snatch. We took waterproofs but never had cause to extract them from the panniers.

Should you have a so called bucket list and a trip to South Africa is at the bottom of it then I recommend you move it to the top.

Bob Harrison.

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Mike Gibson's Midweek Run 09-May-2018.

A cloudy, but bright, day saw 12 bikes leave Devil’s Bridge and headed down the Lune valley to Caton. Here, we turned off the main road along the smaller road towards Lancaster. Avoiding the city by minor roads we joined the A6 just outside Galgate. It was at this point where the ‘drop off’ system failed (or not, depending how you interpret ‘dropping off’) and we managed to lose half our number. A few ‘phone calls later we all met up at the coffee stop at the Mill hotel, Conder Green. Crisis over! From there we rode along the lane back to Galgate to pick up the roads towards and through the Trough of Bowland. Passing through Slaidburn, we joined the ‘Stocks reservoir’ lane and over the fell to our lunch date with the New Inn, Clapham.

Fully refuelled, we next went through Austwick to join the Ribble valley road, which allowed for a bit of progress up to Ribblehead. Here, the Hawes road permitted some more progress to the village. Now turning westwards even more progress led us via Garsdale Head and Garsdale to Sedbergh. (You may have gathered by this stage that we were having a ‘progressive’ ride!) Sedbergh passed by and we returned to Kirkby Lonsdale down the A683, another road for making prog… Did I mention we were having a ‘progressive ‘ride? A round trip of about 110 miles, and no mishaps (!).

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Dent Camping Weekend 15th-17th June 2018.

A flurry of activity in the few days before the weekend with people contacting me as late as Friday morning asking if they could attend. Mother nature then took over with rain forecast for the Saturday so a depleted number turned up on Friday with people from as far away as Kent and East Anglia. Friday night was split between Dent's two excellent pubs both serving a fine selection of real ales and food. Graham Fell had a ride out planned for Saturday but this coincided with torrential rain in the Yorkshire Dales, luckily the campsite has erected a small shelter for motor cycle campers. One guy turned up on Saturday morning from Oxford because he fancied a ride out and a night away, in the true spirit of the BMW club. Vince managed to escape the rain by going potholing, the rest of us split between Dent's tea shops and walking. So not much riding done but a good catch up weekend with the hardy campers. Thanks to everybody who attended.

Paul Stewart.

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Mike Gibson's Midweek Run 20-June-2018.

11 bikes left Devil’s Bridge heading towards Sedbergh full of optimism for the day. It was dry to start with, but we soon found some wet stuff! And then even more wet on the road to our morning break at the Fat Lamb Inn. BUT, it was dry there! Leaving the inn, the sun had started to break through the clouds and the blustery wind had abated somewhat. Passing through Kirkby Stephen we could see that the high ground to the east was losing its cloud, auguring well for our ‘fly past’ of the Tan Hill Inn. Dropping down Arkengarthdale we soon arrived at Reeth, and a few minutes later at the Bridge Inn, Grinton, for lunch. (Minor crisis here – they had run out of Brie for the bacon and brie baguettes!)

Fully replete (after suitable alternative baguettes had been consumed) we then climbed up and over the moorland ridge into Swaledale at Redmire and Aysgarth. Continuing in a southerly direction we rode up a subsidiary valley (I can never remember its name!) of Wensleydale and over the col into Wharfedale. Through Buckden and Kettlewell, we arrived at Littondale which we took to Arncliffe. Here, another moor road led us to Malham. Crisis – a dreaded ‘Road Closed Ahead’ sign appeared from nowhere! Following inquiries at Malham’s Yorkshire Dales office it turned out that the signs had been put out before work was to commence. Crisis over! This necessitated a stop for refreshments at the farm shop and tearoom at Airton, where the run terminated. (And there was cake!)

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Midweek Camp at Rhyader 03/05-July-2018.

The July mid-week camping event in Rhayader attracted just ten members, half the number that attended in 2017. Seven BMWs, two Yamahas and one Moto-Guzzi. A spirited ride-out on Wednesday of 140 miles went down well with the half way lunch stop at The Food Stop cafe in Quatt, south of Bridgnorth. Just five bikes on the run, surely the optimum number. A memorable event for new member Andy Kirton from Fleetwood because he lost his camping equipment somewhere on the A49. Argos in Newtown was a source of replacement tent and sleeping bag. He said he enjoyed the event in spite of his lost items.

Bob Harrison.

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Mike Gibson's Midweek Run 18-July-2018.

A fine, warm day saw 16 bikes leave Devil’s Bridge and head towards the Lake District. (The ‘drop off’ system being suspended until after the M6 was crossed.) Turning westwards on the A590 we rode to Greenodd to pick up the road for the Western Lakes. Arriving at Broughton-in-Furness for our morning coffee/tea break we enjoyed the sun as we sat outside the Square Café. Leaving the village, we crossed the river Duddon to negotiate the Whicham valley, not to mention an articulated HGV, and join the west coast road. On this, we could let the bikes breathe a bit as far as Gosforth where we cut ‘inland’ a bit on minor roads to our lunch stop at the Bower House Inn, Eskdale.

Following a pleasant meal we carried on along a more minor road over Birker Fell and into Dunnerdale (of river Duddon fame). This led us towards Broughton-in-Furness, and the road back to Greenodd. This village was avoided by lanes to the A590, and a return to Newby Bridge. Now picking up the Bowness road we turned off on the Gummers How road and a refreshment break at the Hare and Hounds, Bowland Bridge. This fortified us for a little run down the Lyth valley to Gilpin Bridge where we rejoined the A590. From here the group broke up as everyone turned off along the various routes to return home. A round trip of just about 100 miles, covered in warm/hot sunny conditions, and not a rider lost! (Well, not counting Fred who left us by arrangement at the lunch stop.)

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Alan Davies' Braemar Hotel Weekend 10th - 13th August 2018.

The Braemar hotel week end was attended by 30 members and partners from the North East section, Scottish and Northern sections. The rain welcomed us to Braemar on the Friday afternoon. It was good to see so many attended and faces I hadn't seen for a while. Saturday was a dry day some went to see the Highland games in Nethy Bridge and by all accounts Jim, Ashley, Vera and Anne had a grand day out. As the Scottish section were having a lunch meet in Grantown on Spey two different parties set off. .It’s always good to meet at somebody else’s lunch spot - at least you know it will be decent grub. After a spot of lunch some went off to Inverness whilst our party gained 3 more bikes and 5 more people and headed for Nairn.where we stopped at the harbour. In Nairn we stretched our legs whilst others topped up with fuel. We continued east to Forres and then south on the A940 then rejoined the A939 that took us back through Grantown to Tominoul where we stopped for more refreshment. Suitably refreshed we headed back to Braemar.

On Sunday the rains came whilst most had a day of rest. Some were not put off by rain so Peter Dickson and myself went Pitlochry to have a look at the fish ladder and, had the observation room not been closed for repairs, we could have watched and waved at the salmon going past. But we had to contend ourselves with the pre-recorded video in the café overlooking the river where we had soup and sandwiches. Luckily for us the rain stopped when we arrived in Pitlochry, only to start again as we left. On the trip back near Spittal of Glenshee there were 2 recovery vehicles loading a bike and a car but according to the lady in the garage in Braemar the rider was not critically hurt,..her husband being a paramedic. Also in the garage were 3 Aston Martins filling up who were part of the 19 group of Astons doing a Skyfall tour.

Bob and Pam’s ride went through Ballater where the Queen was going to church and Duncan and Elsbeth went to the Scottish meet at Rumbling Bridge. Those who stayed at the hotel had the opportunity to see the local pipe band which had just finished when we returned. After dinner there was a kilted entertainer who was good.

Monday - time to say farewells and head south in the rain. After filling up in Perth the weather brightened up and it turned warm and I was just thinking this quite pleasant until a big black cloud appeared and somebody pulled the flush chain ... wet again! I think it was a good week-end and everybody seem to enjoy themselves.

Alan.

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Mike Gibson's Midweek Run 15-August-2018.

Ten bikes were present at the appointed time and place, prepared for the worst the weather could throw at them. They weren’t to be disappointed!! Heading eastwards we arrived at Ingleton to turn along the Hawes road. (One of our number, new club member Keith, lives in Hawes – no new roads for him, then.) The morning break was taken at the Wensleydale creamery café in Hawes. Weather not too bad so far. Returning to the bikes drizzle had set in! Next, riding down Wensleydale we entered a sunny patch and dry roads. Sadly it wasn’t to last! At Redmire we climbed up over the moorland ridge into Swaledale at Reeth. From there another moorland road, wet and windy, led us to our lunch stop at the Tan Hill Inn. (On the way up there was a large, perhaps 25+, number of classic 1960s and 1970s bikes on their way down. Half a mile further up, there was a smaller number of trail bikes on their way down. I hoped they hadn’t emptied the Inn of food!) Once in Tan Hill we had to (nearly) fight our way in to order lunch. The Inn was packed!

Exiting the Inn, the wind had increased a bit in strength and some heavier drizzle had joined the party. Riding westwards towards Kirkby Stephen we encountered low cloud as well. Wind, rain and cloud – I did say earlier we weren’t to be disappointed!! Oh, joy. Dropping down to Kirkby Stephen the conditions improved a lot. We passed through the town and joined the A683 towards Sedbergh. Stopping off at the Fat Lamb Inn, Ravenstonedale, we revived the spirits with coffees and teas. Just as well we did because, on leaving, we found the wind and rain that had left us now returned. A wet final leg through Sedbergh and we arrived back at Devil’s Bridge. By now the wind had abated slightly and the rain reduced to drizzle. Ahh, the great British summer – wherefore art thou? Not here, today, that's for sure! (Trust that the experience hadn’t put off Keith. It’s not always like that!)

(Apologies to the Godfather of brackets - I’m not trying to usurp him.)

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Mike Gibson's Midweek Run 19-September-2018.

A less than promising forecast didn't deter what was one of the largest turnouts of the year from assembling at Devil's Bridge. 17 of us! We left to head towards the Lakes, turning off westwards on the A590. Leaving the dual carriageway at Gilpin Bridge we let the bikes have a good lungful of air up the Lyth valley to our coffee break at the Damson Dene hotel. Whilst here, we managed to miss one of the showers that had been in the forecast. A lucky break! Retracing the road for a few hundred yards (or metres, for the younger reader) we picked up the Gummers Howe road over to Newby Bridge, and the A590 again. This took us to Greenodd where the A5092 led to Broughton-in-Furness. (Along this stretch of road we did encounter some blustery wind, but nothing to cause concern.) From Broughton, we took the A593 towards Coniston and our lunch stop in Wilson's Arms at Torver. Here, we managed to miss the second shower of the day.

Fully (?) replete, we continued along to Coniston, and the road over to Hawkshead. Dropping down the hill, we came across an interesting situation with a car and a bus wanting to pass each other on a (very) narrow section. After a few seconds, we were waved past so they could sort themselves out. Leaving Hawkshead behind, we rode down to Newby Bridge (again) and the A590 (again). This took us back eastwards as far as the A6, which we followed to Milnthorpe and the country road to Crooklands. Here, we pulled in to the Crooklands hotel for a coffee and comfort break to finish the run. The weather wasn't quite as bad as forecast - the greatest hazard was the number of windfalls (bits of tree, not apples) on the roads.

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THE BMW CLUB Northern Section

MINUTES of the ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING – KNOWLE GREEN VILLAGE HALL

^{14th October 2018 at 2pm}

COMMITTEE MEMBERS:

Secretary Lynn Sumner

Treasurer: Alan Davies

Social Secretary: Robert Harrison

Committee Members: Stewart Lowthian (NCM Representative)

1. Apologies for Absence: Robert & Pam Harrison, Bill Smithson, Stewart Lowthian

2. Minutes of the AGM held on 8^th October 2017 at Knowle Green Village Hall,

Longridge, having been circulated prior to the meeting, were accepted.

Proposed: Jim Hough Seconded: Ann Hough

3. Matters arising from those Minutes: None

4. Officers Reports:

Secretary’s Report:

This is the 56^th Annual General Meeting of the Northern Section and at 30^th September 2018 the Section membership database stands at 324 full members and 85 associates. 42 new members and 12 associates joined in the year from 1^st October 2017 to 30^th September 2018. Of the 324 there are 41 Pending renewal and 17 + 1 Associate Lapsed leaving 266 actual paid up members receiving journals. 1 joined since 1^st Oct.’18 to date.

The rolling year for subscriptions and renewals means the database shows Lapsed and Pending members for at least 2 months after their subs are due so it is difficult to say at any given time how the membership stands. One member renewed early last year then sadly died but his Lapsed record was kept on the database for the following 13 months. I can’t understand why they aren’t deleted.

Our meets at Rixton over 5 months of Winter were well attended with a Jacobs Join in December and Hotpot and a raffle in January. My thanks to Jim & Ann Hough for organising the food and to Robert & Pam Harrison for organising the raffle prizes. Another double booking by the Rixton Committee again meant we had the February meeting in the small side room whilst an indoor bowling match played in the main hall.

We had very well attended meetings at Knowle Green this year and at our April meeting, we actually ran out of milk. This was a first in 11 years!

The National AGM in April was held at The Dunchurch Park Hotel & Conference Centre. This was the first of 3 annual meetings to be held there. It had very good facilities and helpful friendly staff. 11 Northern members attended.

The downside of the meeting was The National Treasurer, Jim Lepley, announcing subscription increases of a full member from £30 to £32 and from £2 to £3 for Associates. Overseas £35 to £38.

Bill & Audrey Smithson celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary at our June meeting at Knowle Green. They treat all the members present to a good buffet which was provided, served and cleared away by Janis from Ribchester Tastebuds. Thanks to Bill & Audrey for letting us all share your big day.

At the end of June Stan Wood had tried to organise with Bowker Motorrad a day’s meeting at their showroom but due to lack of interest from the Section, this was cancelled.

The Section website is still maintained by Mike Gibson and Mike is always happy to receive your reports of rides to keep the site interesting. Thanks again to Mike who has confirmed he will carry on.

Thanks to Paul Stewart who is still looking after the Facebook page for the Section. There are currently 114 people signed up and following the threads but it is not greatly used.

I’d like to thank the members of the committee for their input during the last 12 months and to all those members who have organised rideouts and events, to those who have given a hand in the kitchen on a regular basis, and those who have generally helped in the promotion of the Northern Section of The BMW Club.

Lynn Sumner – Secretary

Treasurer’s Report:

Subscriptions this year raised £1581.84 down by £256.31

Advertising raised £285 down by £150 but 1 contributor has still to pay

Our January Raffle raised £183, up by £70

Hall Hire costs £364

Food & refreshment at events totalled £1112.75 up by £250.39

Administration costs of postage and stationery £103

Printing the Diary of Events and stickers £300, down by £180.

We raised £111.06 in the Air Ambulance Collection box and whatever we raised on the whisky raffle today will be added to it.

Balance is up slightly this year by £18.22 income over expenditure.

Total balance is down this year by £30.61 but with another payment due would have been up £119.39

The Section is in a healthy financial position with nothing radical happening.

Alan Davies – Northern Treasurer.

The Accounts were accepted and approved at the November meeting.

Proposed: Graham Fell Seconded: Stewart Lowthian

Social Secretary’s Report:

The riding year was off to a good start with Graham Fell's March New Members' Lunch Run being abandoned due to snow. Graham tried again the following weekend and I think attracted one rider who was actually a new member.

Mike Gibson's mid-week runs commenced in March. His format is a continuing success, attracting riders throughout the summer months.

Barry Warner's Settle gatherings consistently provide an opportunity for a monthly ride on the bike throughout the year. Usually six or seven of us turn up for lunch.

Phil Cosgrove's annual ride-out in search of carbohydrates and calories was held in April and was well attended with eleven bikes and 18 participants.

Alan Davies's expedition to Scotland and the Portsanochan Hotel was interesting. I leave Alan to expand on that if he cares to do so.

Paul Stewart's joint camping event with Yorkshire Section was poorly supported by our Section with only four members but well supported by other Sections. A total of twenty participants.

July's mid-week camping in Wales was marred by the fact that the site is now part of The Camping and Caravanning Club. The prices have increased dramatically along with the bureaucracy. Ten people attended with six from our Section.

Braemar was visited in August by 31 members and guests. A success and everyone seemed to have a good time. 26 members were from the Northern Section.

The National event in Moreton-in-Marsh was supported by Section members. I don't know how many.

Bob Crawley's hotel event in Turnberry had seven people attending. Significantly down on last year.

If anyone has an idea for a rideout, meeting venue or an overnight event in 2019 please put it forward for consideration.

Robert Harrison – Northern Social Secretary

National Committee Representative’s Report:

The National Committee has met three times in the last year, the most recent meeting being yesterday. The proceedings of each meeting are summarised in The Journal as space permits, which is why the June meeting’s précis was somewhat late. Full copies of the minutes are available from me if anyone needs them. The Committee is made up of a representative from each Section and the six National Officers elected each year at the A.G.M. The Vice-Presidents, who are not voting members, also attend. The purpose of the meetings is to manage the Club’s affairs in accordance with our Articles of Association, which can be changed only by a vote of members at a General Meeting. Typical subjects for discussion are financial matters such as subscriptions and capitation, Club awards presented at the AGM, the reviewing of events that have taken place (such as the recent national rally) and consideration of future events.

Apart from the three meetings, an emailed vote was taken early in 2018 regarding the removal of a member following his conviction and imprisonment for three offences against a teenaged girl. The motion to dismiss him was carried by a majority. The decision caused considerable acrimony, primarily amongst the former member’s social circle within his section.

The meeting dates for 2019 have already been arranged as the motel where we meet is conveniently situated and, when we last looked around, very competitively priced.

5. Election of Officers:

The following nominations were received 28 days prior to the meeting and passed unanimously:

Secretary: Lynn Sumner

– Proposed: Colin Helsby Seconded: Dennis Crompton

Treasurer: Alan Davies

– Proposed: Dennis Crompton Seconded: G E Dale

Social Secretary: Robert Harrison

– Proposed: Paul Stewart Seconded: Ashley Hunt

Committee Members:

Stewart Lowthian

Proposed: Susan O’Donoghue Seconded: Joan Cosgrove

Stewart Lowthian offered to continue as the NCM representative for the Section.

Stewart Lowthian was nominated for the post of National Committee Representative for 2019 and was duly appointed by the elected Committee.

All Nominees were voted for unanimously.

6. Proposals: There were no written proposals presented before 14^th September 2018

7. Any other business: None

36 voting members attended and the meeting closed at 2.30pm.

Dated: 14^th October 2018 Signed: Lynn Sumner – Northern Secretary

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Mike Gibson's Midweek Run 17-October-2018.

The 12 bikes assembled at Devil’s Bridge set off into the Lakes in high hopes of fine, sunny weather. Approaching the hamlet of Ings the elements disappointed us – some light drizzle set in, but not for long. Taking a diversion along country lanes we avoided Windermere to enter the Troutbeck valley, and the road over Kirkstone pass. Dropping down into Patterdale valley our coffee stop at the Ramblers Bar in The Inn on the Lake soon hove into view. At this point, counting the bikes in to the car park, there were 13 of us! It turned out that Barry Warner had arrived at the Bridge just in time to see the back marker disappearing up the road, and was able to 'tack on' to the group! Following a (very) leisurely break we headed alongside Ullswater to pick up the minor road through Dockray, Matterdale End and (another) Troutbeck to join the A66 westwards. Turning off the main road northwards along the B-road we were treated to a sighting of a rainbow. This meant more wet stuff! Our lunch stop at the Mill Inn, Mungrisedale wasn’t far away so we didn’t get wet!

The afternoon session saw us retracing the route to the A66, and a reasonably-paced ride as far as the Rheged Centre. Now turning towards Ullswater, we passed through Pooley Bridge and onwards to join the A6, Shap Fell road. (The road was now mainly dry, so a bit of progress was in order.) Approaching Kendal, we diverted along single track lanes to bypass the town and join the ‘old’ A65 to arrive at the Crooklands Hotel for drinks. The run was terminated here, mainly because the refreshment van at Devil’s Bridge was closed, and also time was getting on for those wishing to avoid the evening rush-hour traffic. A round trip of about 90 enjoyable miles. Hopefully new face, John from Wigan enjoyed it enough to join us again.

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Mike Gibson's Midweek Run 07-November-2018.

The weather forecast wasn’t very promising – well, it did promise rain at some point in the day. Nevertheless, 11 bikes departed Devil’s Bridge and headed towards Carnforth, experiencing sunshine along the way. Weather, promising so far. Avoiding the town we picked up the A6, then the less-travelled road through Burton-in-Kendal as far as Crooklands, and our coffee break at the Crooklands hotel. No rain, promising so far. Duly watered and warmed (by the open fire) we rode along back roads and lanes to join the A6 once again. Turning off this at Levens village on to the A590, we went as far as Newby Bridge and the A592 towards Bowness. Shortly after, we turned on to the Gummers How road and over to the lunch stop at the Hare and Hounds, Bowland Bridge. No rain, just black clouds, promising so far.

Nicely fed and watered, we carried on to join the Lyth valley road (just to let the bikes breathe a bit, you understand). This led us back to the A590 at Gilpin Bridge, which was followed to the junction with the A591 at Brettargh Holt. Now, country lanes were taken through villages to pick up the ‘old’ A65. This took us through Crooklands (and the promised rain) to the ‘new’ A65, where the rain stopped, and back to Kirkby Lonsdale. Here, it was the intention to stop for a cuppa and chat but the arrival of somewhat heavier (as promised!) rain changed minds, and we all headed homewards.

At this point, I would like to thank everyone who supported the midweek runs over the last year, and trust they will join me next year. Safe riding to them all, and if I don’t see anyone before the end of the year – Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, in advance.

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