Embedded Files
7th January - Breakfast at the Bell Inn:
21 revellers arrived at the Bell at 0900 to start the year off in style, The venue proved top class the food very nice and the general ambience made us feel very welcome. Well done to Haydn Neville and Richard Kendal for braving the somewhat cool morning ( it was only about 1 degree C ) and rode to meet us having lifted them off their bikes and thawing them out we all had a jolly time
11th January - Dom's Bike Stop Meet:
The first of our regular monthly meetings at Dom’s Bike Stop went very well. Three of us left Dick Lovetts Bristol at 10.30 and rode a lovely scenic route to the Café, the weather was good but chilly and the sun shone on the righteous. Our route took us through Abergavenny, Cricklade, and Builth Wells and on up to Leominster arriving at Dom’s about 12.30 to be met by Ten others who were or had been tucking in to Dom’s fare. I was nice to see Barry Ruck there hopefully he may re-join having been reminded of the friendship to be had. A big Thank you to Dom for opening up for us and cooking we look forward to visiting throughout the year.
14th January - Devauden Monthly Meeting:
Having had to cancel our Christmas Party due to snow in December we had a New Year Party instead. 72 members of the Western Section turned out to celebrate. We did our own version of a Burn’s Lunch with Haggis Neeps and Tatties followed by Apple Pie and custard. The event started with the usual tea, coffee, biscuits served ably by Sandra and Jan. Denis brought a slightly embarrassed Sue Ross to the front to be sang at, a raucous Happy Birthday was sang and a fantastic cake presented, thank you Jenny and Paul for making and decorating it. Colin brought out the Christmas Cake that he made for the club that should have been eaten at the Cancelled December Meeting, both cakes looked magnificent.
It wasn’t long before we were ready to play in the Haggis, Denise played Scotland the Brave on her melodeon followed by head Chef Cameron carrying the Haggis with Richard following close behind brandishing two big knives, Denis recited his Geordie / Scottish version of the Toast to the Haggis and at the appropriate time Richard stabbed it to death. Soon we were all tucking in and making lots of cheerful chatter. John Devey brought his disco gear along and played music as background and very pleasant it was to. Dai John of Prostate Cymru arrived just as our fantastic raffle was been drawn, thank you to all our members who brought prizes, It wasn’t long before Denis was able to present him with our donation to his Charity of £530.00 being the proceeds of our Hotel Weekend Raffle and this one, he was well chuffed and went off on his bike a happy man.
Well done to our members Cameron and Michele ably assisted by Ian and Debbie for all the preparation and Cooking, Jan and Sandra for all the teas, coffees and a dozen other jobs, John and Kath for the music and Denise for playing in the Haggis and Richard for stabbing it. Thank You Sue Ross for sharing your Birthday and your cake with us.
With all the food scoffed, two cakes demolished and the raffle prizes all claimed we cleared up and headed for home.
16th January - Riders of Cardiff Meet:
The first of the Tuesday meets at Cardiff saw 10 arrive for the free cuppa and Welsh Cakes. The chat was good and a warm welcome received from the manager and staff. The Saturday meets are still possible for those that can’t attend on a weekday but the freebies have been transferred to the Tuesdays. This is a good venue for us and the benefits of having a regular meeting there remind the dealerships to keep us in mind when discounts are available.
8th February - Dom's Bike Stop Meet:
The second meet at Dom's saw six members arrive at Dom’s Bike Stop. Although officially closed until March Dom opened up his Cafe especially for us and made us very welcome, six members turned up braving the nice sunny but chilly weather, Dom cooks up some good bikers grub and a welcoming mug of tea. Have a look at his Facebook. See you again in March.
9th February - Boars Head Lunch Meet:
Eighteen members booked for this lovely pub lunch at the Boars Head in Aust near the Old Seven bridge for lunch on Friday 9th. After a bit of a slow start we all happily got tucked in to our chosen delights. The pub has recently been taken over by a young couple who are doing their best to build up a good reputation for being a homely pub serving good food, they have made a good start. It has become usual practice these days for pubs to ask for pre orders on food, I know its a bit of a nuisance but if I can give them the choices for the majority of those coming it does help them.
11th February - Devauden Monthly Meeting:
The Monthly meeting at Devauden continues to be popular, there was over fifty turned up to enjoy the Home made soups accompanied by a large chunk of Hobbs House bread. Our hard working willing volunteers did a great job making and dishing up the soups, we even had three men serving up the teas and coffees this time Thank you Gareth, Owen and Nick. During the afternoon we had a special visitor Mr Lego Man, a robotic little chappie who has an eye for the girls thank you Mike and Liz for bringing him along, I wonder if will we be seeing him ride the Lego GS that you built ?
11th March - Devauden Monthly Meeting:
This month we had a guest speaker "Inky Ann" who told of here exploits as a passenger in sidecar road racing. You can find out more about Ann and how she got into bike racing by clicking "HERE" and "HERE.
The talk she deliverer proved to be very interesting with numerous questions coming from the floor and was enjoyed by all. Although she never touched on her nickname "InkyAnn" which was given by friend, MGP racer and Manx resident Keith McKay owing to her back tattoo. The tattoo was done in 2004 and 2005 by Woody of High Wycombe, taking over 35 hours needle on skin time to complete. When Sam at Celtic Leathers first put her name on the back of her solo leathers it was shortened from “Inky Anne” to InkyAnn, and the nickname stuck - see picture below.
Ann does talks throughout the year to raise money for the Rob Vine Fund which was set up to provide the following:
All the orange immediate care cases placed at over 110 marshalling locations on the TT course. These provide comprehensive medical equipment for basic first aid by marshals and advanced life support by doctors or paramedics as members of Manx Roadracing Medical Services.
Yellow orthopaedic scoop stretchers and red head rests at all the same marshalling points.
The emergency resuscitation, medical and other equipment used in the rescue helicopters for the TT Races, Festival of Motorcycling and Billown course events.
Financial support for the equipment and the training costs for the Hogg Motorsport Association which provides two MSA [ Motor Sports Association ] licensed race and rally rescue ambulances and a third ambulance, all of which are fully equipped front line ambulances, crewed from 19 unpaid volunteer members, most of whom are MSA licensed Rescue crew.
This long term commitment, by the Rob Vine Fund, requires an expensive rolling financial programme, for the provision of medical/rescue equipment and training. With over £250,000 worth of equipment around the TT Course, in the rescue helicopters and the 3 Hogg Motorsport Ambulances, the fund has to find 10%, about £25,000 per year in order to ensure all items are replaced on reaching their 'use by date' and reflect current best medical practice.
For more information on The Rob Vine Fund click "HERE"
3rd May - Bikers Pub Meet:
The 3rd of May was the first real sunny day for ages, and brought a fair number of bikes out for the lunch meeting at The Lower Lode Inn near Tewkesbury. Out of the 18 members attending, Keith was the first to arrive, in fact he was over a day early as he'd turned up at the pub the day before.
George and June arrived on their combination, fully loaded, on the way to a campsite near Stratford on Avon. Neville had also visited the pub a couple of days earlier just to check out their legendary faggots. The faggots must have passed with flying colours as he ordered them again on this occasion.
The Lower Lode Inn sits right on the banks of The River Severn, and when the river is not in flood it is an excellent bike friendly venue. The food was excellent as always, with a very varied menu on offer. The resident ginger cat was our constant companion, patiently waiting until all the meals were finished before gratefully accepting some scraps from us all. Last to arrive, just as the rest of us were leaving was Ali and Chris. I'm not sure if their mention of a 'scenic route' really meant 'we got lost' but nobody liked to ask.
7th to 10th June - Black & White Camping Weekend, Pembridge:
Two weeks before the event there were only 14 booked in which included Susan and myself and was I beginning to wonder if the event had run its course as this is the tenth year at this excellent campsite. But there was no need for concern as bookings started to arrive and by 6th June 24 were confirmed with 11 arriving on the Thursday. As always you can rely on Keith to attend and rarely books as he tends to make last minute decisions which was the case when he rolled up on Thursday afternoon. After everyone had pitched up and settled in orders were taken for the "Fish & Chip Run" which as always keeps everyone quiet for a short while at least. After a few overnight showers Friday dawned dry but overcast, however this did not stop members doing their own thing from local walks to ride outs. As the day progressed and the weather brightened the remaining members arrived and settled in.
Saturday turned out to be a pleasant dry day giving everyone the opportunity to get out and make the most of the local area with many making their way to the Elan Valley which is always a good ride with magnificent scenery. A few visited the local Water Gardens which had been the subject of a previous TV documentary and was well worth the visit. Later in the afternoon two bikes arrived and were pitched nearby, this prompted a visit from Sue who soon found out that they were members from Mercia Section (now transferred to Western Section) who made a last minute decision to attend. Janine and Graham were made welcome and soon got chatting.
Sue once again organised a boules tournament which became quite competitive especially when the respective Bradbeer's played each other in one of the knockout rounds. You could see that Denis was trying hard, or was it just show, as Jean ran out the eventual winner. The final was between Ian and Colin playing the best of three rounds with Ian taking the spoils.
Saturday night is BBQ night serving up burgers and bangers from the on site farm shop washed down with various forms of liquid refreshment. This was followed by two games of Bingo in the first game Denis won a box of chocolates for a line with Dave winning the bottle of wine with a full house. In the second game Keith won the chocolates and Mandy the bottle of wine. No Pembridge camping Weekend would be complete without Whisky Cake being served up which was soon demolished.
Sunday dawned clear and sunny allowing the tents to dry before packing up. One by one they departed some going to the Section Monthly Meeting at Devauden. Many thanks to all that attended and especially to those who helped out during the weekend, very much appreciated.
See you next year.
Susan & Colin Ross
23rd to 30th June - Continental Rally at Mas Salvanera, Spain:
I really can’t believe it’s been over eighteen months since Anita and I decided to have another go at organising a continental trip for the section. Where to go? As chief researcher, Anita set about trawling the web sites. Eventually we agreed that we would go somewhere where we hadn’t been before. We fancied the area of Spain at the foot of the Pyrenees known as GIRONA. We had intended to go to ROSES on the coast ourselves in that spring but didn’t get round to it so Anita concentrated on finding something in that area. Eventually she found a property, “MAS SALVANERA” that had been a hotel in its early life, so had plenty of rooms and other facilities. It was in a little hamlet called BEUDA near BESALU some forty miles inland from the coast. It has 12 large double rooms with en-suite’s, its own swimming pool, commercial kitchen and catering facilities.
As 22 people were going to have a hot and long journey to the house we thought it would be nice to put on a buffet for the Saturday evening so that they didn’t need to rush out to get shopping as soon as they arrived, to which everyone agreed. 8 of the attendees arrived on the Friday to get the ball rolling with visits to the local supermarket on Friday evening and Saturday morning to stock up and prepare for the evening buffet, it's amazing what you can pack into 8 panniers and 4 top boxes
Everyone arrived on the Saturday with the exception of one, Keith, we were unsure as to whether he was still coming as he was having some issues with his bank cards before leaving home. However a very hot, tired and frustrated Keith did arrive but had been struggling to find the property and had been running round in the afternoon sun for 3 hours.
On arriving at Mas Salvanera we were met by Joaquim the Spanish caretaker whose English was very good but heavily accented. When he explained the operation of the main gate he asked if we would like it 'outomatic or Manuel', obviously meaning 'automatic or manual operation'. At the mention of Manuel our thoughts went straight to Fawlty Towers and we struggled to supress a giggle. Dave said that 'Manuel' would be better as he would open and close the gate every morning and evening himself. At the information talk to the members at the start of the holiday, Dave jokingly told everyone that they needn't touch the gate as 'Manuel' would come and do it every day. By the end of the week a female who shall remain nameless commented that during the whole week, even though the gate was opened and closed every day, she still hadn't seen 'Manuel'.
Sunday was our traditional relaxing day with most folks chilling out around the pool, after at least a two day 600 mile plus ride it’s got to be the thing to do. It also gave attendees to wash their clothes which Keith took advantage of. Unfortunately he left his wallet in a pocket which needless to say got a thorough soaking. On realisation his money was hung out to dry?
Monday had Anita and I leading 11 bikes on a coastal ride, first we headed for ROSES, a very pleasant seaside resort where we stopped for coffee. We then wound our way up the beautifully undulating and twisty coast road north towards FRANCE (see bike cam below), the views across the bays were spectacular. Lunch was taken at El Port de la SELVA with the group mostly opting for a traditional Paella, very tasty.
On returning to Mas Salvanera, John's K1200 was giving off a strong smell of petrol and was in need of some attention, however the following day the engine could not be coaxed into life so it was necessary to contact his breakdown insurance. The BMW dealer in Girona was not able to look at the bike for 10 days which resulted in a very frustrating time for John and Jackie. Eventually everything was sorted with a hire car being made available and flights home from Barcelona with the bike being repatriated.
Tuesday was market day in BESALU so quite a few made the short trip into the town, It’s a very pretty medieval place with very interesting architecture, particularly the main bridge. It is also home to the “MINIATURE” museum. This houses some of the smallest models ever made by man. Ranging from Dolls house size displays that could be seen with the naked eye, to items being held within the eye of a needle that required a microscope to even see the eye of the needle, let alone the creation. It was absolutely fascinating. The evening saw everyone gather on the pool patio for a fabulous B-B-Q. The girls put together a colourful and tasty selection of salad and cheeses to go with the varied mix of meat and fish. A brilliant effort which everyone enjoyed thoroughly.
Wednesday, Paul led a group ride of 9 to BARCELONA, a very long hot day but everyone enjoyed themselves. They didn’t lose anyone and only one close shave when some low life tried to pick pocket Steve STRELITZ, but he was too sharp for them giving them short shrift. A tour around the magnificent La Sagrada Familia Cathedral was really enjoyed despite the long wait in the queues. Dave and Anita had a day off on their own so had a ride to the coastal town of Llafranc, a small bay with a superb beach and not overly busy. Dave even managed a swim in the Med. Those remaining also did their own thing of either chilling out or visiting local towns.
Thursday was a ride out up into the mountains to the village of BEGET. A great ride once I had the sat nav under control, It decided it wanted to go back to the centre of BESALU to start the journey all over again! Don’t ask me how these things happen, it’s the dark arts as far as I’m concerned. BEGET is a fantastic, traditional mountain community with the most well preserved buildings I’ve seen in such a remote location. The village is within a national park and several million euros are being spent to help retain the areas appeal and attraction while still maintaining its authenticity. Lunch was taken at the large and only hotel at that height. I can only say it was first class and worth every Cent. The community is clearly not just existing, it is thriving.
Friday saw us on a short but very challenging ride up the nearest mountain to an old monastery with a café and wonderful views. The planned route was known to be a little tight but 180 degree bends on 1:4 slope on a “TRACK” that was not more than 5 feet wide at times with a road surface like the base of a quarry was not expected. We had no choice but to plod on, a K16, several RT’s and a C650 proved they could all be more than motorway mile munchers. They all made it to the top unscathed, a brilliant show of bike handling skills by all. Anita called for a group hug to calm the nerves and a show of solidarity which helped enormously. The views were worth all the hard work, clear blue sky with uninterrupted views of the sea and High Pyrenees. The way down was somewhat easier but a little longer, but took half the time, Ooops.
The next day was Dave WILLIAMSONS birthday so it was only right we celebrated, the girls managed to get hold of some cake which the Spanish don’t really go in for which made it that little bit more special. Dave was quite surprised and judging by the beaming smile on his face very happy to share the moment.
Most afternoons had Jean Bradbeer leading the Aqua fit classes she is so famous for, finished off with a WESTERN Section ritual of a group dance to “Delilah”. It’s a mix of hokey kokey and ring a ring of roses but this time with the chance of drowning thrown in for laughs. We held several competitions throughout the week, Bowls, Bingo and quiz had some very competitive streaks come to the fore. Friendship stands for nothing when the chance of winning a box of chocolates is involved!
The weather throughout was excellent with 30+ degrees and beautiful blue sky, only two very short but warm showers dared to show themselves, once on the mountain run but we dried out in minuet’s.
Saturday morning saw panniers packed as one by one started the journey home or to the next destination for an extended holiday
It’s very hard to find the right type of place with the right accommodation and attractions to suit everyone, but I think we got it right on this occasion. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves, We saw a different side to people during the week which you would never see on a regular club meet. We all made some new friends and reinforced some old ones. Everyone got stuck in and helped make the week the success it was. Thank you each and every one of you.
Dave & Anita
12th to 15th July - Brecon Beacons Camping Weekend:
In 2017 when I attended the camping weekend arranged by June Lukins little did I expect to be running the event in 2018. However due to June’s persuasive chat that is exactly what happened. This was the first event I had run for my section and it was totally different to running GS Register events. Being responsible to the Section Committee meant I had to ask a plethora of questions to avoid inadvertently committing some faux pas. In fairness all those I asked for help were more than helpful and Denis was foremost in giving me assistance.
With adverts agreed and sent off to the Journal it all seemed to be running smoothly. When the adverts in the Journal failed to appear in the early part of the year the hoped for bookings also failed to appear! Various section Facebook postings and phone calls started to remedy the situation until by the end of May the possibility of a cancellation finally receded. With 32 bookings the weekend started well and the weather played it’s part allowing the event shelter to be setup in the dry. On Thursday many gravitated to the White Hart for a meal and a social evening.
Friday saw more arrivals. Many thanks to Haydn Rees who arranged a ride out for the adventurous starting mid-morning. Later a Fish and Chip supper saw a good crowd having a pleasant evening on the campsite.
Saturday and the weather was still really good. At 11:30 a sizeable group set out for a walk along the canal towpath to the next village. After the two and a half mile walk to Pencelli they were rewarded with a well deserved lunch in the Royal Oak garden next to the Monmouth and Brecon Canal.
The BBQ meister Denis was hard at work Saturday evening producing best Welsh Black Burgers and local sausages for the assembled throng. Thanks must go to Denis and all those ladies who came forward to prepare the bread rolls and salads and which made the BBQ a success. Our young French visitor was overwhelmed by her welcome.
Sunday, as is usual, was mostly about packing up and setting off home. Two lots of people stayed over till the Monday enjoying the campsite location for just a little longer. It really is in a great spot. Thanks also to all those I have omitted above as this was a collaborative effort involving many in the section - Nev Jones
21st July - Ride Out to Compton Abbas (with a few interesting stops):
A trip to Compton Abbas airfield with a few interesting stops on the way.
A group of 5 gathered at the Lamb inn, Iron action, including 3 club members Den, Bryn and Ade with 2 interlopers Geoff on his new Triumph Thruxton R and Andy also on a new bike, this one a Kawasaki Z900, so an eclectic mix. Leaving at 10am sharp, it was out towards Warminster via Bath on the A36 with the first stop at the eye catching Shearwater fishing lake just off the A350 Poole road where a suitable watering hole was found to enjoy a coffee in the sunshine that we have now become accustomed to.
Refreshed, it was off to Gillingham via the back roads and Maiden Bradley and the next stop at the Mirus 55 bike shop to look at new bikes which none of us could afford; a £65000 Brough superior (yes that is supposed to be 3 noughts after the 65) and a range of glorious MV Augusta's. In the meantime Den searched out a super scooter as the most practical and stable mount for his motorcycling dotage, but I'm sure its years off yet.
Back on the road to the airfield, passing through Shaftsbury then up Zig Zag hill on the B3081 towards Tollard Royal, a road noted as having more bends over a given distance than any other in England. Also sadly I would add, pot holes to that record as you had to keep your eyes peeled for ruts deep enough to push a front wheel off line.
Breaking out of the tree cover on to the top of the hill, the views are stunning and I recommend anybody to take this route to see the best of our countryside. But no time to stop as I had been reminded at the bike shop that food was the overwhelming priority, so we pushed on a little further, soon reaching the airfield.
Helen and Hayley met us in the café having ridden up from the south coast. We enjoyed a constant stream of aircraft passing by, landing and taxing for take-off including a Harvord American trainer, De Haviland Chipmunk and a Westland Scout helicopter being expertly flown just yards from where we sat with our lunch.
Back on the bike and down Zig Zag with a quick tourist stop to show Geoff and Andy Golden hill in Shaftsbury, best know amongst a certain generation for the location of the Hovis bread advert with a young hob nail booted lad pushing a bread laden delivery bike up the cobbled street.
Final stop, King Alfred's Tower just North of Gillingham on the Stourhead estate. For those not familiar, it's a huge tower folly constructed in brick, triangular in section with large radiused corners. Sadly we were too late to climb to the top as last orders were at 4pm catching us out arriving at 4 on the dot. Check out opening times with the National Trust if you want to take in the view from the tower ramparts. Back home avoiding the traffic in Bath by using the Bathhampton toll bridge, a good dodge to avoid the inevitable bottle neck jam at the A36 junction.
Happy days
Ade
25th July - Old Barn Tea Rooms (Regular Meet):
On a lovely sunny morning I set off from home to meet up with Bryn at the Lay-bye on the other side of the severn bridge for 10.00am. We met up and rode on to Abergavenny via Usk, a lovely ride through quiet country roads after a quick coffee at Waitrose Cafe we rode onwards to The Old Barn taking in some great mountains roads with views not to be missed. On arrival we were greeted by Gareth and Bernice and soon after by another eleven members sitting outside basking in the sun getting ready to eat lunch it wasn't long before Lyn the owner of the Cafe sent out a pile of complimentary home made Welsh Cakes that soon got scoffed while waiting for our various choices of the menu. Hunger sated we had a really nice time all chatting about this and that including naturally putting the world to rights etc. It was great to see our better halves chatting and having a good laugh, Anita, Karen, Anne, Judith, Mair and Bernice were all there. Our thanks must go to Lyn and her staff at the Old Barn for looking after us so well, it is really a good place to visit, looking forward to next month.
4th August - Donkey Sanctuary & Sidmouth Folk Festival:
The M5 was literally a carpark on the Way to Sidmouth for The Folk Festival (note to self, go across country next time) We met up with Denis and Jean and left the motorway early to escape the traffic and meet up with Bryn at a garden centre. We stopped at The donkey Sanctuary which has recently undergone major refurbishments and we had a coffee in the café before resuming our journey to Sidmouth. The Festival was in full swing with stalls along the seafront and street entertainers everywhere. Luckily, the roads home were empty providing a much more pleasant ride - Paul Rodriguez
9th August - Dom's Bike Stop (Regular Meet):
With the temperature getting back to a more normal level Susan and I had a ride to Dom’s Bike Stop near Leominster. On arrival there were a few bikes but no Club Members eventually Tony Marris arrived without Karen as she was preparing flowers for their son’s wedding on the Saturday (best to keep out of the way). Dave Williamson then arrived so the four of us were enjoying a chat. Another visitor (ex Club member - now rides Harley) heard us talking about Spain and came over and we all had a good natter not leaving until after 2.30 for a steady run home. Definitely a pleasant way to spend a few hours - Colin Ross
10th August - The Farmers Table - Lunch Meet:
A very wet morning for the visit to The Farmer’s Table Tortworth saw very few bikes turn up, but a grand turnout of 17 members nonetheless, mostly in cars. Excellent food and company meant that everyone went home happy, and the sun even came out for the brave few who came on 2 wheels - Paul Rodriguez
13th to 16th September - Sorebutts Rally:
Mid September 2018 heralded the fourth ‘Sorebutts Rally’ at Berrynarbor near Ilfracombe. Ray and Marg and Colin and Sue turned up on Wednesday to help Jen and myself set up gazebos, banners and signs ready for the main influx of members on Thursday. The weather was looking a bit mixed with a bit of light rain forecast, along with some sunshine at times, we had about 60 people booked in.
Thursday saw a steady stream of enthusiastic campers arrive, happy to be greeted with tea and cakes. Sandy Young who usually sells raffle tickets couldn’t make it for the weekend so Jenny, Sue and myself stood in for her, much to the disappointment of the Oxford contingent who had made a series of ‘Sandy free zone’ and ‘no raffle ticket sellers’ posters to go around their tents. Hope you can make it next year Sandy, you were sadly missed.
A boules competition was organised by Sue Ross, taking place on Friday afternoon attracting quite an enthusiastic crowd of players. Peta Warrilow was the eventual winner of the trophy, leaving Lee Bastin to take second place.
The fish and chip run on Friday evening proved very popular, I think we ordered about 40 portions in total and they were all still piping hot by the time they had been handed out to all those sat around the gazebos waiting. A couple of games of bingo followed the feast, which proved a very popular distraction, especially when Phil Carter of The Oxford section took over to call the last ticket in what he described as ‘Irish Bingo style’. It was most amusing to watch the bemused faces when he called out numbers like “all the sevens, sixty three” and “2 little ducks, seventy six” in a heavy Irish accent.
The rideout planned for Saturday led by Dave Fox Spencer was well supported and we had good feedback from all those who went out. While those on the rideouts were enjoying the local scenery, an organised walk starting from Woolacombe was organised by Anita and Dave Holland, attracting quite an enthusiastic crowd of walkers. After the riders and walkers had returned, the usual huddle formed around the gazebos where everybody was eagerly awaiting the BBQ and partaking of a few drinks. Denis Bradbeer and Colin Ross cooked up a feast of burgers, sausages etc. which were quickly followed by cheesecakes and other delights and, needless to say, we were all well stuffed by the end of it. A picture quiz had been held throughout the weekend but sadly only attracted 5 entries. First prize of a bottle of wine was taken by Mark and Christine Senior who just pipped The Oxford Section by a few points.
Next came the grand raffle with a first prize of £60 cash second prize of £20 cash with dozens of other prizes, thanks to all those who donated something for the raffle. First prize of £60 was won by Dave Holland and second prize by Ian Bowditch who had left before it was drawn, you’ll get your prize at the November Hotel weekend Ian.
The weather throughout the weekend remained fairly kind to us and everyone managed to pack away Sunday morning and start the journey home pretty much in the dry, albeit very windy weather. Judging by the amount of bottles in the bottle bank by the end of the weekend, I think it’s fair to say that a good time was had by all. Thanks to all those who attended, many thanks to all those who helped out over the weekend, Jen and I are looking forward to next year already - Paul Rodriguez
26th September - The Old Barn Tea Room:
Wow what a great day out I had today with the members. 17 of us were at the Old Barn Tea Rooms basking in the glorious sunshine feeding our faces and enjoying the free Welsh Cakes given to us by Lynda of the Cafe. Being such a nice day it was quickly decided we couldn't waste it and Haydn offered to take us on a ride up into the beautiful Welsh hills and beyond, the views were terrific as was the pace, all 8 of us just about managed to keep up with Haydn and the drop off system came in handy thanks Neville for sweeping up as back marker. A big thanks to you all for a memorable day out. Lets hope we can make next months visit to the Barn our last one for this year a real goodun.
6th October - Visit to Helicopter Museum:
A dismal weather day with five turned out, well done lads. The museum’s exhibits on the history of helicopters. Haydn had a sit in the pilots seat of a big one and explaining to the guide how to fly it, later spotted trying to climb into a kiddies ride machine but gave up when he realised you had to put money in the slot to make it go
20th October - Red Kite Feeding Centre:
Fabulous day out yesterday at the Red Kite Feeding. 10 of us turned out in what was a foggy start but soon turned into a lovely sunny day. Good food and good company and good biking roads what more could you want.
28th October - Skittles match with The Oxford Section:
Our annual skittles match at the Royal Ship Inn at Luckington. Western Section clashed horns with the Oxford Section with a Buffet of bangers chips and sandwiches to help restrict the bending abilities of the Oxford team. It nearly worked except that both teams were restricted and it was a draw!, we will have them next year. Thanks Oxford Section for organising.
2nd to 4th November - Hotel Weekend at the Metropole Hotel, Llandrindod Wells:
Hotel Weekend : 89 members arrived at the Metropole to be greeted with Coffee and Welsh cakes in the Ballroom, welcomed to the hotel by Mr Justin Baird-Murray a Director and member of the owning family. I, went through to the Adjacent Powys room for Dinner and what a lovely meal we had. We were entertained by the Builth Wells Male Voice Choir who sang their Welsh hearts out for us finishing off with the Welsh National Anthem to rousing applause. Saturday was a time to take advantage of the hotel health Spa, Haydn Rees and Helen Beer rode off into the hills for a days ride out and thankfully returned happy and safe. Others took a coach for the trip to the Elan Valley Visitors Centre for a quick cuppa and on to the Red Kite Feeding Centre for a good Lamb and Veg Stew , a sight to behold there were hundreds of these beautiful Raptors swirling and diving displaying their four foot wingspan and fantastic Autumn Coloured plumage. Next years Hotel weekend is already booked at the fabulous 4* Park Hotel in Barnstable (see info in Journal and web sites)
There was our traditional raffle, on the to which all donated prizes, Sandra and Jan made sure nobody but nobody escaped their ticket selling endeavors some even paid up twice such is their skill of coercion. I am delighted to say that £348.00 was raised that night to go to the worthy Charity Line - The Leukemia & Intensive Chemotherapy Fund The donation is made in memory of Our dear friend and ex Chairman Graham Wiltshire, this total will be added to our Christmas Raffle held at Devauden. Sunday came all too soon and after a big breakfast it was time to go home, I hope all enjoyed their weekend and got safely home. Denis
11th November - Section AGM:
AGM. Not a lot to report other than there were 45 brave souls turned out to listen to the committees reports. In general all is well we are financially viable though we have to be careful and manage our outgoings to remain so, Our membership numbers are slightly down on this time last year but the renewals are fluid now so accurate indicators are difficult to assess, however we are getting a steady inflow of new members to compensate for those that don’t renew, Sue contacts all non renewers and asks why, the response is nearly always “ a change in circumstances as opposed to dis-satisfaction with the Section. We can not be complacent so all current members should be actively promoting the club. The Social Secretary gave a run down on 2018 events and that the 2019 new program will include more weekend events to help those unfortunate to still be working be involved in club life. All the Committee were prepared to stand for office once again and were subsequently re-elected, Neville Jones was proposed for election and survived the vote welcome aboard Nev. The business of the day over we all got stuck in to the buffet.
1st December - First meet at Swansea Motorrad:
It was good to see some of the old faces that used to turn up at Riders in Cardiff when we met on a Saturday, Riders having closed we now plan to meet at M & P in Swansea on Saturdays. After a 90 mile ride in the Welsh winter climate on the1st December I arrived in the café to be met by the lovely smell of bacon and eggs cooking, I of course being conscious of my figure settled for a burger and a cuppa. Eleven of our section turned up some on bikes and some in tin boxes on wheels, a good old chat was followed by a visit across the road to the new building housing the new Honda showroom and of course our very own BMW showroom. The BMW is still work in progress but should be fully operational by the end of January so for now we will just have to settle for a visit to the Café.
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9th December - Devauden Christmas Party:
What a difference the weather makes, last year’s Christmas Party had to be cancelled due to the not so Festive snow, this year however was definitely a goer, some 60 members turned out determined to make up for last year and they certainly did. Most of the food was scoffed in short time and the star of the culinary extravaganza was Colin’s Christmas Cake, I have to say it was up to his usual standard of excellency. Santa arrived as if by magic just in time to draw the raffle ably assisted by Debbie in festive costume. The Charity Raffle raised another £174.00 for this years Charity “Linc” and when added to the Hotel Raffle £522.00 in total, well done members your all stars. I will be in touch the Charity to find the best way to hand the money over.
26th December - Boxing Day Bike Meet::
Boxing Day saw our usual delegation turning up at the Whitminster Inn Bike Meet organised by South Cotswold Section VMCC. There must have been at least 100 bikes there coming and going all the time. There were all sorts of bikes old ones and new of all makes and sizes, an event not to be missed next year.
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