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Midland Section NewsThis is the place to discover what's been happening in the BMW Club Midland Section over the last few months. The Section News is compiled by our Social Secretary, Steve Foreman and consists of the information that YOU have sent him about the Section events that you've been on. Help him to keep you informed by informing him. Months refer to the months Journal the New appears in.
Check for late alterations to events 2003 - 2009 Section News are now archived - See the new archive page FebruaryFebruary already, and your Events Calendar should be inside this issue. We have a lot going on this year, and all that is required to make the coming 12 months exceptional is YOUR participation. There is nothing worse than doing all the groundwork, only to be let down by lack of attendee’s, so have a look at what’s on offer and let’s see you out and about! Firstly, this from Sally and Graham Cluley, who I would like to thank for once again catering, along with helpers, the Xmas Greetham Bash. “The Christmas Lunch held at Greetham on Sunday 6th December 2009 was very successful and a total of £445.00 was raised for the Air Ambulance. This amount was raised from the lunch, raffle and auction of a weeks holiday cottage kindly donated by Sam & Adrian Soutar. Thanks go to helpers, raffle prizes and Kath for her mince pies. Thank you, Sally Cluley” Next, thanks in a similar vein to John and Janet, Kath and Norman, and all who made the Towcester Christmas Special such a success. Catering for 40 people made to look easy. Long may it continue! 25 of us, including 7or 8 on bikes, made it to Towcester on the 3rd of Jan, to enjoy the good food, company and cakes we have come to look forward to at this time of year. The raffle raised approx £35.00 for the Air Ambulance, and I won a bottle of wine. Result! New Years Day, and a few, OK, 5 bikes met at Donington services for a bimble through the countryside back to the Northampton and Lamport Railway. Though the Motorway on the way up was relatively ice free, the first A road we tackled was quite white, and as I knew we were going from there onto B roads and less, and discretion being the better part of valour, we returned via the M1. How disappointing to say the least, especially as the Trains weren’t running due to Icing! Still, altogether 14 of us had coffee at the station, and a swift half in the pub, not such a bad way to kick off 2010! The next major event coming up is the Rhino Rally, Beddgelert North Wales. Due to the onset of old age, and the prevalent weather, for the first time I have booked in a hotel instead of camping( Sorry Rhys!) I had actually booked a room to share with a friend at the Saracens Head, but when confirming, was told they only had double bedded rooms. Now, Jim and I get on well, but you have to draw the line somewhere! So we are in the Prince! Can’t wait, this is always a great rally. Coming up for the next few months are the lunch meets on the first and second Sundays of the months, Towcester and Greetham respectively, and it will be good to see you there. We accept all forms of transport, but any one arriving on camels will have to bring their own shovel. Meets start at 12 mid-day. The 14th March is our last meet of the year at Greetham, and the committee will be supplying bacon rolls etc, as it is also the bring and buy sale. Usually a good turn out, so doors open 11am. Lastly, 2 events for April, the Easter Bunny rally at Princetown, Easter weekend 2nd-5th, and Graham Parkers Hotel weekend at Monsal Head, a beautiful spot in Derbyshire, ideal for rides across the Peaks and Dales. Weekend of the 9th-11th. More info on these and other events in the enclosed Calendar, or ring / email me with any questions. Till next month, Bodger January 2010Well, It’s all over for another Year! I joked last month about senior management getting me a bike for Xmas, But it nearly came true! I got the bike, but apparently I have to pay her back. Oh well, could be worse! If it has not yet passed, don’t forget the ride on New years day from Donnington services, meeting about 9.30am, departing for Northampton and Lamport Railway, where we can have a short train ride and mince pie for a Fiver. Departing Donnington10.15 Final call for the Midland Section Post Christmas Dinner at The Solo Club in Sleaford on Saturday Jan 23rd 2010. Very good four course meal for £15 per head. Cheques made payable to Bill Rodgers with bookings please. Bill is on 01526 834480 Bookings are being taken for “The Edinburgh Weekend” from Thursday 13th to Sunday 16th May 2010. As previous the hotel & the city are excellent. Rooms £32.50 per night bed & breakfast. £20 deposit with bookings to Bill Rodgers before Jan 15th 2010. The Greetham meeting in January falls on the 10th, and I wonder if we have any volunteers please. Kath and Norman have kindly offered their services for Feb, and the committee will cater in March, when we combine the lunch with a bring and buy sale. The change of dates from this year is to, hopefully, encourage a few more to attend. A disappointing turn out for our ride on the 29th, where five met at Jack hills, with 3 bikes riding out to Bourton on Water, and the intrepid Tubbs on his outfit meeting us there for coffee. Really enjoyable ride, with the rain holding off until we were well on the way home. Also reminded me that a new pair of boots are on the wish list, as my toes were sitting in cold water all the way home! Paul Brown, the National Social Secretary, has re-introduced the Social Secs. Annual meeting, which has apparently been overlooked for the last few years. It was really good to meet up with the other Soc. Secs., who up to now have mostly just been names on emails. A good meeting, in my opinion, and one can only enhance the social life of the club. I am finalising the 2010 events calendar, and this will be included in the February Journal. It looks like a busy year, with Hotel weekend’s in Derbyshire, Edinburgh, France, and Camping/ B&B in Dartmoor, Oxfordshire and Lincs. If you have any further suggestions, then Please let me know A.S.A.P. we only have a couple of weeks before printing. Finally, a big thanks to the committee for easing me into this job gently in the first year, and to those who support the events we put on. Without you, it would be quite pointless. Happy New Year, and see you out there in 2010, Bodger Steve Foreman 01536 722048 – 07859 909853 midlandsocialsec@ntlworld.com December 2009Ho Ho Ho! Festive season is here again! Hope The boss can get my new bike in the stocking! Oh well, dream on! November saw our normal winter meets at Greetham and Towcester although a little press-ganging was required to cover the Greetham meet. In the end my thanks go to Paul “the Wayfinder” Carpenter, and Jim and Teresa, who jumped in to help out at the last minute. Jim and Teresa are with the OXFORD Section, which says more than I can here. Thanks again to all who helped out, and also to John and Janet for tirelessly catering and organising the Towcester meeting, month in, Month out. And Talking of John Winn, he was voted in as Section Secretary at the AGM on the 11th October, along with the other five committee members, Graham Parker, Treasurer, Myself as Soc. Sec., Bill Rogers, Kevan Stevenson and Phil Johnson who were all re-elected for another year. It was agreed that a Meal voucher would be presented to Lisa Parker and Martin Ellis for their sterling work in the past years, for which I am sure we are truly grateful. 7 bikes left The Northern Café meet, Foresters café on the 18th for a Martin Ellis run around the peak district, Staffordshire, Derbyshire etc. I am always pleasantly surprised by the quality of these rides among some of the best motorcycling roads I know, (or don’t know!) taking in the Cat and Fiddle on the way back. The roads we travelled were only surpassed by the quantity of tea and coffee the Midland members are able to drink, hence the 5 stops at coffee house’s, pubs etc. Another great day out, thanks to all who attended. The usual Pub meets were on the calendar, but apart from my local one, the Griffin at Mears Ashby, I really can’t comment on how they went unless I get some feedback from those who attend. We normally get 10-12 who all have a meal and a “put the world to rights” session, and this month was no exception. With 2 meals for a tenner, it’s cheaper than staying in! As mentioned last Month, on New Years day I will be leading a ride from Donnington Services, J23a on the M1 to the Northampton and Lamport Railway, a small station in Northamptonshire, where we can go for a short train ride on the Mince pie special!. There is also a pub in the car park, for those who may want a shandy. About 55 miles across country roads, Departing Donnington 10:15 sharp. C’mon, blow away some of those Xmas cobwebs. Don’t forget Bill Rodger's Post Christmas dinner, as posted last month.:- “The Midland Section annual Post Christmas Dinner will be held at the Solo Club, Market Place, Sleaford on Jan 23rd 2010. Bookings are being taken by Bill Rodgers 01526 834480. £15 per head, monies with bookings please ” Bill Rodgers is reviving “The Edinburgh Long Weekend” in 2010. The dates are Thursday 13th to Sunday 16th May. Same hotel as previous, could we go anywhere else!. Those who have been previously will know how good Edinburgh is. He has provisionally booked 10 rooms, twins & doubles. The cost is £32.50 per night & bookings with £ 20 per head deposit to Bill before 15th Jan 2010 please.” I am also reviving the French Chateau weekend. Dates will be 11th-13th June inclusive, (Friday night to Sunday night). The Ferry is approx £120.00 from Poole to Cherbourg, 2:15 hours fast boat, 4:30 hrs normal. We only have 11 rooms, and a few have gone already, so don’t hang about. Contact me in the first instance. If general consensus agrees, we could add the Thursday night. Just let me know A.S.A.P. see http://www.chateaulemontepinguet.co.uk/home.htm for more info. I would like to extend my Thanks to the South West Section, for a brilliant rally at the Colliford Tavern site in Cornwall, commonly known as the Hippo Rally. Great location, great Landlords in the pub/Hotel, great vibe all weekend. Can’t wait for next year! Some of you should try it, you will be surprised how mild it can be in November (If a little wet!) Thanks again Sally, Les and everyone else involved. If this entry is not too late, on the 29th November I will be doing a mystery ride out from Jack hills café, A5 just north of Towcester, meeting for breakfast at 09:30 to a destination that is, at present, even a mystery to me. Won’t be far, just a bimble down some A and B roads, or just have the breakfast! Finally, I am in the middle of compiling the D.O.E. for next year, and hope to finalise it at the end of this Month, so any suggestions for 2010 would be especially welcome. Until next Month, Bodger November 2009November already. How time fly’s! It’s been quite a busy few weeks, with Bill Rogers runs to Eden Camp, Sleaford classic show, and Martins European Jaunt. And on that note, Martin wrote:- “The section European trip went really well, and if I’d have hand picked them I couldn’t have chosen a better group of people. The weather behaved itself largely, but it was a bit wet for a couple of days as we moved from Italy to Macon, in France. We visited six nations in all (if you include nipping over the Rhine from Colmar to a MacDonalds in Germany for die Biggen Maccen!) and on more than one occasion had breakfast, lunch and evening meals in three different countries! I finally got to see the Atomium in Brussels, and although memorable, it wasn’t a patch on the Eiffel Tower, which we saw from many angles as we travelled up and down the Seine in beautiful weather on a glass-roofed river bus. The Swiss alps were as stunning as the Mont Blanc tunnel was boring (and a €22.00 toll) and all of the bikes performed faultlessly. Even though we only hade five days in Italy, I have to say that I wasn’t impressed. It’s the only country I’ve ridden in where I felt that every vehicle on the road was out to get me! It’s as if they just don’t care a jot. I’ve also never been in as many restaurants where there are more different types of wine glass on the table than there was crockery and cutlery. A waitress was reduced to tears by the head waiter because she attempted to pour white wine into a water glass… and she was his wife!” I led a ride to the Muckleburgh Exhibition, Nr Cromer on a lovely warm day, picking up bikes at 2 points along the way. 3 bikes left Jack’s Café on the A5 Towcester to meet up with us at Peterborough services, but only 2 arrived. I have no idea who was on the 3rd bike, but hope he/ they got home safe. We got to within 2 miles of the museum, when everybody bar Ian, the backmarker, disappeared. We were using the infallible drop-off system. Every time this happens, we seem to have one rider, who shall remain nameless, with us. Still, probably not you fault Paul. Great day out, stopping off for a meal in a country pub on the way home. Can’t beat it! A great weekend was had at the Black Bull, Pickering, with quite a few Midland members, and a great ride-out in glorious sunshine for the 3rd year running. Well done to our illustrious Nat. Soc. Sec. Already looking forward to Next year. 38 of us met for lunch at the first winter meet at Towcester, 4th October, and as usual, brilliantly hosted by John and Janet Winn, along with Kathy and all the other helpers. A good turnout indeed, helped by the sunny weather. Janet’s award winning cakes were on offer as usual, especially appreciated as she hasn’t had a kitchen for the last month due to building works at home. I did suggest they came from Mr Kipling, but was soundly shouted down! You will, hopefully, be seeing a bit more of John as he is standing for the soon to be vacant Section Secretary position, with Lisa standing down due to re-location. A hard act to follow, I am sure you will agree. As Noted last Month, the section AGM will be held on the 11th October which will have passed as you read this. This unfortunately clashes with the Moto-piston Rally, perhaps something we should address for next year. The ride-out planned for the 25th October will unfortunately not take place, as I need to go to Cornwall to test-ride a ride-out for the planned Easter rally at Princetown, then another one from the site of the spring National in Axbridge. But if anyone would like to lead a ride on this date, please let me know. Which leads me, once again, to ask for your ideas, suggestions etc. for next years events, as we need to start looking at next years Events Calendar, and the printing of same. Don’t be shy, any input welcome. A couple of things for you to enjoy over Christmas: “Christmas Lunch on Sunday 6th December at Greetham Community Centre, tickets £10.00 to include full Christmas lunch, Dessert, Coffee & Mince Pies to be served at 1.00 pm. This is a pre-booked only event and tickets are available from Sally & Grahame Cluley, Tel: 01572 813639. Raffle prizes most welcome.” And… “The Midland Section annual Post Christmas Dinner will be held at the Solo Club, Market Place Sleaford on Jan 23rd 2010. Booking are being taken by Bill Rodgers 01526 834480. £15 per head, monies with bookings please to Bill Rodgers” Which brings us full circle back to the first Sunday of the Month at Towcester and the Second Sunday at Greetham. This together with the regular pub meets should give you the excuse you need to get out there and socialise. See some of you at the Hippo Rally, Until next month, Bodger October 2009Just returned from a very successful National Rally, and my thanks go out to the East Anglia section for all the hard work and enthusiasm that made this a really great weekend. Well done all. Martin Ellis’s ride to Audley End in Essex was a good day out, culminating on a trip on the miniature steam train around the estate. 7 bikes with riders and some spouse’s enjoyed a trouble free ride through some nice country lanes, with the usual stops for coffee and cakes. The perfect ride-out! October already, and the nights are drawing in. We begin our Towcester lunch meets on the 4th October, again catered for by John, Janet and willing helpers. Please come along and add your support to this well attended event. From 12 noon on the first Sunday of the month, October till March, bar December, where we swap with Greetham. Confused? Well I am! See year card for clarification. The Section AGM will be held at Greetham on the 11th of October, sharp at 11am with cold buffet following. Please get any nominations to Lisa Parker ASAP, as the days are flying by. I see some of the section will be at the East Anglia Black Bull Rally, and I now have a pass out, as long as I take Lindsay and go in the “Mobile Public House” (Our Van). So looking forward to seeing you there. This is always a good rally, as long as you are not pitched next to our illustrious National Social Secretary, who’s snoring was described at the National rally as sounding like “the rutting of two bulls”. You have been warned! 18th October sees another breakfast meet at Forest Corner Snacks, just off the Ollerton roundabout, A614/ A6075, with a ride out to follow, weather permitting. Meet from 9:30 on. And I will be leading a ride to a place called “To Be arranged” from Jack Hills Café, A5, Towcester Northants. Meet for Breakfast 9:30 ish on the 25th. The pub meets are at the usual places, Three Kings at Threekingham on the 6th, the Green Dragon Oxton on the 8th, The Kings head Tealby on the 15th, and the Griffin’s head at Mears Ashby on the 20th. If you need more info, please get in touch. And finally, we are getting to the stage in the year when I have to start considering NEXT years Calendar. If you have any suggestions for events, are willing to lead a ride out, or any other activity you can think of (Within reason!) please get in touch. Until next Month….. Steve Foreman September 2009Well, July was a quiet month probably due to Holidays, but saw 7 of us on 5 bikes meet for breakfast then onto Coventry via back roads to the Transport museum. Not only is entry free, but after phoning them about parking, they kindly parked us inside the loading dock, behind security doors, and with our own private access. A great museum, with a café etc made a good day out. The only mis-hap was Dave (Flook) dropping his bike at a crossroad. Still, he must be getting used to it by now!! Bike and rider were fine.
The 21st saw 9 enjoying the evening meet at the Griffins Head, Mears Ashby. We couldn’t make it due to a family illness, but by all accounts a good evening was had by all.
August 23rd is Bill’s Run to the Eden Camp, Malton, North
Yorkshire. Meet at Forest Corner Snacks just off Ollerton roundabout A614 NG22
9DR Depart 9.30am Bill Rodgers 01526 834480
Finally, our illustrious secretary, Lisa, is standing down due to personal reasons, not least moving 300 miles south! We have a candidate for the position in John Winn, who I believe most of you know, and as you will also know, all positions will be up for voting at the section AGM,, which will be on the 11th October at Greetham community hall. All nominations to Lisa Parker before the event please. Steve Foreman August 2009Just a few words on the Hotel weekend, 12-14th June in the Derbyshire Dales from Graham & Ann Parker:- “Ten members booked into the Ruskins hotel for the week-end, and a very nice and well appointed 4 star hotel it is, the owners Sue and Chris being very friendly and making the party welcome.The hotel is placed on top of the Monsal Head with one of the best views of the area, and with a couple of pubs in easy walking distance for the evening jollies and good food. We had some new faces booked into the weekend with members from “down south” ,well Somerset,! in the shape of John Sealey, Steve Rice, Steve and Angela Pettitt from Milton Keynes, with extra new faces joining us for the run out on Saturday Anni Smith from the Midland Section and Peter Sampson of the Northern Section, making this 10 bikes and 12 members. The run, modified to take out some of the small track type roads, was fun with excellent views of the Derbyshire dales, taking in places like Millers dale, Edale, Aston, over the open moors of Longnor, Hulme, to the small back lanes down to Cromford ( with just a little grass and gravel ) a quick run through Matlock Bath and out over Chatsworth Estate, poodling back to Monsal Head for a coffee, giving members time to take a walk down into Monsal dale and along the river with pleasant sunshine all week end to top of a nice week end. Thanks to all members for making this a good weekend And also from Graham:- “Sunday 21st, Father’s Day, dawned bright and fresh as I rode over to the meeting venue, The Forest café at Ollerton. This is getting a very popular bike meeting place. We had 9, bikes and 13, members assembled to make the ride over to Whitby, Some of the members having travelled over 100 miles to the start meeting site. ( Tough Bikers eh!) After breakfast, tea and coffee we set off for a ride to Whitby with a promise of no fords or grass roads, ( “No Chance of that then” ).A quick tour through Clumber park and then taking the A614 cross country North East, taking in Bawtry, Thorn, towards Driffield and cross country to Malton, picking up the A169 to Pickering. Lost a few of the bikes at this point but managed to collect them quickly, Thanks to the drop off system. Then off into the North York moors taking the old Stape Roman road. This is an interesting road over the moors with 4 fords and a fair amount of grass ect and all traversed with no incidents. After finding a park for all the members we made our way for the much awaited fish lunch and very nice they were, ( why are all the nice things bad for you? ) With the sun still with us a quick walk around the town of Whitby and back on the bikes for the ride home. A good day out and thanks to the members for attending and to Martin for being sweeper.” The 14th July saw 7 bikes and 12 persons leaving Jack Hills Café and heading down the A43/ A34 to Sammy millers Museum. My first time, and quite impressed I was too! Sammy was there running the commentary, and a great selection of machines were fired up and ridden around the parade ring. A worthwhile visit if you haven’t yet been, and a good lunch with good company made it a great day out. Andy Pilkingtons ride out to the Spondon Museum of transport was another good day out, but could have been better supported. 4 bikes and 7 members enjoyed a really eclectic collection of vehicles from early Vincents to the ugliest luxury car ever built, the Aston Martin Lagonda series 3 (What were they thinking!) good weather, good company and good food at a local public house. (This seems to be a recurring theme!) And on to August. As we mostly receive the journal before the end of the month, Martin Ellis is leading a ride to Coleham Pumping station on the 26th July, Departing from Donington Services Northbound at 09:45. And again, he is kindly leading another ride out to Audley End Miniature Railway on August 9th, departing Melton Mowbray Tesco’s at 09:45. Contact Martin or myself on the usual numbers, or find further details on the Forum or events calendar. Bill Rodgers run to The Eden Camp complex near Malton Yorkshire on 23rd August will start prompt at 9.30a.m. from the Forest Corner Snacks at Ollerton. The run will be straight to the museum, brief stop half way, to give the maximum time for lunch & viewing as the site is large & the exhibits extensive. With a Breakfast meet on the 16th, (and probable ride-out) at Forest corner Café , off the Ollerton Roundabout, and the usual week-night pub meets, the National Rally and everything else that’s going on, it looks like a busy month. I will be off to the Rhine and Slovenia at the beginning of August for a couple of weeks, bike being serviced next week in preparation. Have a good time all of you touring this summer, and be careful out there! Finally the sort of post that we all wish we did not have to make. This was submitted to me Tim Woodruffe earlier this month:- Barry Lidster of the Midland section passed away unexpectedly in June whilst on holiday in South East Asia. Barry had been a keen member of the club since the 80s and he supported many of the club's activities including rallies and track-days He toured extensively in Europe and lately in Morocco and was an ardent follower of road racing at Scarborough, the TT and the North West. Barry's enthusiasm and unique humour will be sadly missed especially by the regulars at the Oxton (now Edingley) meetings. Our condolences go out to his wife Jane and to all of his family. July 2009Well, the return of the Rutland rally was a smashing success, especially for Sean Dodds who was knocked off his bike while out for an early morning spin on his GS. Luckily he fared better than the bike, and walked away with a fractured arm. Jury is still out on the bike. He was well enough to come back to Greetham to collect his tent, albeit with friends. Wishing you a quick recovery Sean. The rest of the weekend was enjoyed in gorgeous sunshine, and our thanks go out to Terry and Bron for what was an excellent weekend. The Chef who was to cook for us cried off with a medical emergency, and the catering for 80+ fell to Bron and emergency replacement Sandra. Thanks go to Sandra for help with catering, and George and Bill for logistics and ride outs, etc.. Also to Ian for leading the walk, which I was press ganged into doing, but at least we stopped at the Pub! I can only say what a great job was done so many times, but thanks again all concerned. The pics below show Gilberts immaculate Velocette by Wymondham Windmill, with Bill Rodgers looking inconspicuous, and the Midland section doing what they do best. (Both at Rutland Rally) Andy Pilkingtons Ride out to the National Mining Museum attracted 9 bikes, and a great day out was had by all, especially the tour of Motorway, North and south that was thrown in to confuse! I believe everyone got there safe and sound in the end. The Waddington Air Show classic motorcycle section scheduled for 4th-5th July has been cancelled by the organisers due to space constraints. Apologies for any inconvenience, but Martin’s run to Cleethorpes Coastal Light Railway on Sunday the 5th, is still on. Entry approx £4.00 per head. Depart 9.45 Friendly Farmer café, rbt jnct A17/A46 North of Newark, Notts. NG24 2NY. Martin Ellis martinellis@ntlworld.com 01623 401405 Tue 7th sees us at The Three Kings, Saltersway, Threekingham, Lincs. NG34 0AU 7.30pm Thu 9th we are at the new venue, The Old Reindeer, Main Street, Edingley, Nottinghamshire, NG22 8DE. Pub meet 7.30pm Nice country pub with a good menu and friendly landlord. And while talking about new venues, we have decided to change our 3rd Tuesday in the month meeting place from Kennedy’s diner to The Griffins Head 28 Wilby Rd, Mears Ashby, Northampton, NN6 0DX Again, good food, friendly landlord being the driving force behind the change. Thu 16th is The King’s Head, Kingsway, Tealby, Lincs. LN8 3YA Pub meet 7.30pm. On the 19th we have a breakfast meet (10.00am) at Jack Hills Café, Just North of Towcester on the A5 Then go for a cross country ride to the Coventry Transport museum. Steve Foreman 01536-722048 /07859-909853. And finally, on Sunday the 26th Martin is leading us on a run to Coleham Pumping station, Longden Road, Shrewsbury, Shrops. Cost approx £2.00 per head. (Engines will be in steam) http://www.shrewsburymuseums.com/coleham Depart 9.45 Donington Services J24M1 – Martin Ellis martinellis@ntlworld.com 01623 401405 Please don’t forget. If you have an idea for a social event, ride out etc, please let me know. We need some alternative ideas to keep things fresh and encourage more members out on their bikes! Until next Month, June 2009They say that the sun shines on the righteous, so we must all have been very good on Dartmoor at Easter. A total of 41 members and friends either camped, Bunked or visited, and enjoyed the best weather of the year so far. With ride-outs to the coast, and others doing their own thing, a very enjoyable weekend was had by all, culminating in a great evening with Shep Woolley, a guitarist/ comedian, who had us all in stitches. The “Dartmoor Challenge Trophy” a treasure hunt over the moors, was awarded to Alan and Crista Edgar, who I offer special thanks to for the jump-start Monday morning, and the Easter Bunny quiz trophy was won (by ½ point!) by Garth and Janet Owen, from the Oxford section. I would like to make this an annual event, not necessarily at the same venue, but in this part of the world, and as we had members from at least seven sections, hopefully it will gain impetus in the following years. If you need proof that Easter is not too early to camp, see event reports on the forum, or the attached pics if they made it in. Coming up on the last Sunday in May, the 31st is Andy Pilkingtons ride out to the National Mining Museum, Nr Wakefield. Meet at the Friendly Farmer Café, junction of A46/A17 off A1 Newark for 9.30am departure. Contact Andy on 01529-241092 Graham Parkers Hotel weekend June 12th and 13th up in the High Peaks still has some rooms available, this should be a good weekend. The Hotel is placed at the top of Monsal Head ( look it up on Google, Ruskins Hotel, Monsal Head ) good rates and a nice Hotel with some of the best roads in the peaks just outside the door, and a pub 50m away, We have some new members booked in so looking forward to a cracking weekend. Ring Graham on 01623-467852 for details/ Bookings. Sunday the 14th June I am leading a ride from Jack Hills Café, A5 at Towcester to Sammy Millers museum, as it is Bikers and Italian day. With a stop for fish and chips in Lymington. A SHARP departure time of 9:45am, as it will be a full day out. The museum is approx 120miles from Towcester, so about 2 ½ hrs plus stops. See Calendar or forum for more info, or call me on the usual number. On the same date Bill Rodgers is organising an exhibit at Bourne classic car and motorcycle show. Please contact Bill on 01526-834480 for details. 21st June, and Graham is leading a ride to Whitby, and I have his assurance that we will not encounter any Boreen type tracks! Leaving The Forest Corner Café by the Ollerton roundabout, A614, 200yds up the A616 signed Sheffield at 9:30am and hitting Whitby for Fish and chips for lunch. Ring Graham or myself for details. Finally, Andy Pilkington leads a ride out to Stondon Transport Museum, Bedfordshire on the 28th. Meeting at the Colsterworth services on the A1, with departure at 9:30. I am sure that if you ring Andy on 01529-241092 he may be able to arrange a meet further south for us Southern-Midland members! Phew. Busy month. Must be the weather! May 2009Another Month over with, and a good few days of decent riding weather. The 29th March saw 10 bikes, 3 with pillions meeting at Mackworths diner for an early breakfast and then a ride up in sunshine through the villages to the Balderstons Test-ride day at Buckminster, where we met a good turnout from the section. My first as run leader for the year was quite successful, and I managed to lose John and Freda half way there, and Paul Ward dropped off with a puncture. By the time I knew about it, it was too late. If I put in more work, I reckon I could lose 50% of them next time! Still, Paul put some aerosol inflator in his tyre and got home OK, and John and Freda went back to Rugby for a map and joined us later. (Lesson to be learnt there I think) All in all a good day, with nearly everyone raving over the K1300GT. Thank you TJ and everyone at Balderstons. Graham’s meet at Foresters café is on the 19th April, but this date may have passed by now. If not details are in the Calendar and on the forum. Meet at 10am, with a ride-out weather permitting. At the end of the month is the AGM at Axbridge, Somerset, and this looks like a great party with the serious business of the AGM on Saturday 25th April, registration starts at 10:30am for kick off at 11:30. Please make the effort, as it is your club and your vote will make a difference! See journal, forum etc for details. Camping is a big part this year, with close on 100 names already paid. If you have no internet access, get in touch and I’ll pass on the details. Steve Foreman 07859-909853 May 2nd is Bill Rodgers first ride out of the year, The Lincolnshire Wolds run. Meet at the East Kirkby Aviation Museum, A155 East of Coningsby. Entry forms required, contact Bill on 01526-834480 for form and details. In the words of Luke Skywalker, May the 4th be with you! On the 4th we have been invited to join the Mercia section for their Secretaries fun day, starting at 10am at Shires MCT ground.The Cattle Market, Chequers Rd. Derby DE21 6EP. See Mercia Section for more details Its Show time around the Midland section during the next few months & Bill Rodgers is still seeking entries for the following :- Belvoir Classic & family Show May 16th & 17th. Superb setting with marquee provided. All classic BMW’s welcome, and required. Contact Bill on the number below, or Glenyse Barr on 01529-462860. Bourne Vintage & Classic Show 14th June. Excellent 1 day show always well attended. Waddington Air Show Classic Motorcycle Display. Entry forms available for free entry to the air show both days. For all the above contact Bill Rodgers 01526 834480. On the same Sunday, the 17th, there is a breakfast meet at Jack Hills Café, A5 Towcester, then a run down to the London Motorcycle Museum, Greenford, Middx. This is the only Motorcycle museum in London, has about 100 mainly British bikes and an entrance fee of £3.00. Depart 10am from Café. Steve Foreman 07859-909853 22nd-25th The Rutland Rally at Greetham community centre, Great Lane, Greetham. Camping on site, B&B and Hotels locally, Motorhomes OK. Classic and modern ride-outs, walk-outs, Saturday night chef cooked meals at £6.00 per head, and the BBQ available for you to use if you wish. See advert in journal, or contact Terry Collier on 01572-755292 or 07933-102256. Until next month……. April 2009February was a strange month for motorcycling. I abandoned the Dragon rally, as I couldn’t get the bike out of my garage due to ice, then 2 weeks later thoroughly enjoyed the Rhino rally in mainly glorious sunshine. A big thanks to Rhys and Garth, and all those who organised and catered for the event. Also to those who led various ride-out’s on some of the best roads in the UK. The 8th Feb was the date for the bring and buy at Greetham. Not so many tables this year, but this was due to the snow. Still, 30+ bodies were in attendance, and the sausage and bacon Cobs went down a treat. Everyone appeared to have a good time, except for me, who got lumbered with the washing up. Still, I will remember for next time! March 1st saw another good turnout at Towcester for the lunch meet. Some 45 members sat down for the customary soup and cake, five of which were new members, some of who had the impudence to win a raffle prize. The atmosphere was very cordial, and this meet brought the total collected for the Air ambulance to £535.00 over this winter period. Janet and John also announced they are happy to carry on with the catering for next winter, and I am sure I can say a big thank you from all attendees for their hard work, along with thanks to everybody else who helped in the kitchen. On a last note regarding this meet, it was good to see Rick and Val in attendance. I believe this is Rick’s first club outing since his unfortunate accident. I‘m sure we all wish him well, and hope his recovery continues. In last Months news, I wrote about a short ride-out on March 29th through Northants villages via Stamford on back roads. This is still happening, (9:30 – 10am Mackworths diner, A6, Finedon) but will now incorporate a ride up to Buckminster near Grantham, where we have been invited by Balderstons to a test ride day. This is NOT at the dealership, but at the The Tollemache Arms, Buckminster, Nr. Grantham, NG33 5SA Test rides can be booked in advance on 01733-565470, ask for TJ or David, but please let me know if you are going, as they need to know numbers. Each person can have 2 ride out slots, and they will have R1200RT, R1200GS, R1200GS Adventure, F800S, F800ST, F800GS, F650GS, G650X Country, K1300S and the K1300GTSE all available for demo rides during the day. Worst way, if you don’t require a demo ride, the pub will be open for food and beverage! If you do want to try one of these new machines, and are planning to join me for breakfast first, don’t book your slot too early, as we will not get there till about 12 O’clock. (The event is from 10am till 4pm) Our two forthcoming rallies are advertised in the journal, and I am getting enquiries from all quarters, tho’ it seems many will not commit until nearer the time, due to weather considerations. Wimps! Finally, we have been invited to join Mercia Section for a fun day out in Derbyshire. The start time and date is 10am Monday 4th of May (Bank Holiday) and it's at Shires Motorcycle Training, The Cattle Market, Chequers Road, Derby. DE21 6EP. The day will include slow riding techniques, Mick Extance will be there with his Paris-Dakar machine, and a Bacon butty bar and live band will be on hand. More details can be found on the forum or Mercia Web-site. Damn. Out of space. Steve March 2009The first aid talk at Greetham on the 11th Jan attracted 40+ members, and was well catered for by Kath and Norm, with assistance from John, Janet and others. New member Paul Carpenter must have wondered what had hit him, as he was bundled to the floor and used as a guinea pig by Mark, the first aid instructor from Rubicon training. A very informative session, and I believe everybody there left with a little more knowledge than they arrived with. We are asking Mark to attend the Rutland Rally, with the intention of running a first aid workshop on the Sunday. On Saturday 17th January, 33 Midland Section members, many from the far outposts of the section, attended The Solo Club in Sleaford for the annual Post Christmas Dinner arranged by Bill Rodgers. Lively banter & good humour ensued during a splendid four course meal with everyone thoroughly enjoying themselves. This is becoming an annual event, and I hope to make it next year, providing it doesn’t fall on my Anniversary, as it did this Year! February started well, with 30+ members attending the Sunday lunchtime meet at Towcester. Hot soup, rolls and Janet’s home made cake make these gatherings very popular, and as the last one for this year is on 1st March, try to get along, it will be your last opportunity for seven months! Bill Rodgers is looking for entries for the Belvoir Show on the weekend of May 16th-17th. Any BMW up to 1984 is acceptable & any members with other bikes, British or otherwise, would be welcome. The setting, Belvoir Castle, Grantham, is superb & a marquee is provided. Contact Bill (01526 834480) or Glenyse Barr (01529 462860) for entry forms & further information. Bill also has entry forms for the Wolds Run on Saturday May 2nd 2009. This is a superb road run starting & finishing at the Lincolnshire Aviation Centre at East Kirkby, home of the “Just Jane” Lancaster. Although open to any age of machine it is predominantly for pre 1980 bikes. Call Bill Rodgers on 01526 834480 for more details. Ladies Days Out! I have taken advice from the speed limiter, and it comes as quite a shock when she tells me that not all Ladies are impressed by Steam trains, pumping stations, aircraft museums and bike shows. However, when asked for guidance, advice is not so forthcoming. So, please ask your wife, girlfriend, “life Partner” etc. which destination would encourage them to climb on the back of the bike for a day out, and we will see what we can do. On the 29th of March I will lead a short (65 mile) Sunday Ride-out around some Northants villages utilizing mainly B roads. Meeting at Mackworths Diner, A6, Finedon (rear of car wash) for breakfast at 10am, with a coffee stop at Stamford. Steve Foreman 01536-722048 /07859-909853 or Email midlandsocialsec@ntlworld.com Finally, a quick push for our two forthcoming Rallies, The Easter rally at Dartmoor, and the late May Rutland rally. The adverts should be in this copy of the journal, but if not, please ring me for details. These should both be great weekends, with Easter having Camping, B&B and bunkhouse accommodation all on site, and The Rutland having camping with local B&B accommodation. Please ring me for bookings at Easter, 01536-722048 /07859-909853 and Terry Collier for the Rutland. 01572-755292 Hope to see plenty of you there, as long as I survive the Dragon Rally and the Rhino. Oh look, It’s started snowing. Just what I need!! Steve Foreman February 2009Well, that’s Christmas for another Year! Here’s hoping you all had a great break, and best wishes for 2009. The December and January meets at Towcester were as popular as usual, and as always, well organised and catered for by John and Janet (and helpers!) I would like to welcome a new member who attended the January meet, Paul from Northampton, and hope to see him at some of the meets this Year. The next meeting at Towcester will be on February 1st, so see you there. Due to work commitments, I only made a brief visit to Greetham in December, and so could not stay to enjoy the Christmas fare Catered for by Sally and Graham Cluley but Lisa Parker sent me the following:- “Greetham held its annual Christmas lunch on Sunday 7th December, beautifully and ably cooked by Sally and Graham Cluley + willing victims (or was that family volunteers?) and turned out 50+ beautifully prepared roast turkey and all the festive trimmings Christmas lunches including a choice of trifle or Christmas pudding, for an almost full house of the attending members. The raffle raised £113 for the Air Ambulance charity, and the lucky winners of the donated raffle prizes seemed happy with their choice, even the gentleman who won the special prize (fixed) of a petrol can provided by Gleynse Barr.” Sally also informs me that a total of £389.00 was made for the clubs charity The Air Ambulance. (This also includes the money raised on the raffle.) I feel sure you will all join me in thanking the volunteers who make these gatherings such a success, and without whom these things would not be possible. A couple of corrections. In my haste to finalize the event calendar, I failed to change the date of the bring and buy sale at Greetham in the journal diary of events. This should read the 8th of February, with the First aid talk on the 11th January. So, dig out those bike related items, and bring them along to Greetham Community Centre, and ease the credit crunch! Also, in the Events calendar, the primary contact for the Rutland Rally should be Terry Collier, 01572-755292/ 07933-102256. My apologies to those concerned. Martin’s New Years Day ride to the Midland Railway centre was a great way to blow away the Christmas cobwebs. Though numbers were down on previous years, mainly due to the inadvertent loss of the advertisement in the December Journal, six bikes and hardy (some may say fool-hardy) souls set out from Donnington services, and thoroughly enjoyed the cross country ride to the station, then on by steam train to our destination for lunch. Another good day out, on reasonably dry roads and not too cold either. (After I repaired my heated grips, that is!) Looking forward to next years ride already! Finally, if I don’t see you at Greetham in Feb, I will be at Beddgelert for the Rhino rally 20-22nd of Feb. I’ll be the one freezing in the blue tent at the campsite, swearing that this will be the last time. Just as I have every other time!! Steve Foreman January 2009Another month over, and Christmas is just around the corner. Best wishes to all for the Yuletide period! The Lunchtime meets at Greetham and Towcester were well attended in November, and catered for admirably by Alan and Christa Edgar, and John and Janet Wynn respectively. These meetings are very popular, and the raffle adds much needed funds to the respective counties Air Ambulance. So get along if you can, there are still some nice days left to be out on your bike! The Events Diary should be in this edition if I have made the mailing house deadline, and you will see a varied calendar for next year. We still need your input for rides, events etc, as putting the diary together this early leaves lots of room for additions, so watch the journal and the Forum for updates. As mentioned previously, New years day with Martin Ellis is now becoming something of an institution, so join us at Donnington Services at 09.15 for departure at 09.45 SHARP! The run will take in a steam engine trip and Lunch. For more details, or if you would like to meet at the venue, phone Martin on (01623)401405 or email martinellis@ntlworld.com On Sunday January 11th, the Greetham meet will have the added bonus of a Talk on first aid. This will commence at Approx 11.45pm. Hot snacks, Bar etc. will be available as usual. Graham Parker on (01623)467852 for further details. Originally planned for this date was the bring and buy sale, which will now take place on the 8th February, catered for by your very own committee! 17th January Post Christmas Midland Section Dinner. The Solo Club Sleaford Lincs. You will need to get in touch with Bill, and he will send you a menu to fill in and return with your deposit. Contact Bill Rodgers 01526 834480 Easter sees us at the Plume of Feathers, Princetown, Dartmoor. We have reserved Bunkhouses, and camping is £6.50 for man and tent. With 2 Cafes at the site entrance, Bunkhouses at £16.25 per night Inc. full breakfast, and B&B available on site, this should be a good weekend. A few other sections have this in their diaries, so I am hoping for a good turnout. We also have the function room, and entertainment is being sourced as I write! Please book with me for bunkhouse, and directly with the Plume for B&B. No need to book for camping, and there are places for motorhomes, albeit in the car park. Please let me know if you are going as early as possible, regardless of your accommodation, so I have an idea of numbers. Details Steve Foreman (07859)909853 Midlandsocialsec@ntlworld.com PLEASE BE AWARE. Prices for B&B on the Plume of Feathers web site are 5 years out of date, and need checking with the proprietors. Martins Italian job, 6th-20th September to the lakes is attracting a lot of interest, so it would be wise to contact him sooner rather than later. Touring through Belgium, Luxembourg, Italy, Switzerland and France, with four nights at the Italian lakes, plenty of days to relax, and a great final destination, it seems too good to miss! Itinerary and more information from Martin Ellis martinellis@ntlworld.com (01623) 401405 That’s about it for now, although I can guarantee I’ll think of something as soon as I send it off! Steve Foreman
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