|
The only official BMW recognised independent BMW motorcycle club in the British Isles and Republic of Ireland |
|
|
|
|
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 - 2010 Section News are now archived - See the new archive page April 2013 - Nothing received March 2013 - Nothing received February 2013 - Nothing received January 2013 - Nothing received December 2012 - Nothing received November 2012 - Nothing received October 2012 - Nothing received September 2012 - Nothing received August 2012 - Nothing received July 2012 - Nothing received June 2012 - Nothing received May 2012 - Nothing received April 2012 - Nothing received March 2012 - Nothing received February came and went, and apart from the Towcester and Greetham meets, the only other event worthy of note was the Midland post Xmas meal, which was once again well organised, with a 4 course meal at great value, and good company as usual. Thanks go to Bill for organising again. Looking forward to the Rhino rally, just hope the ice thaws, otherwise it could get a bit hairy! Let you know next month. Towcester meet is on the 4th, get there in/ on whatever mode of transport you wish, just make the effort. The Greetham meet on the 11th is the section bring and buy sale, and hot food prepared by your committee will be available. Usually a good turnout, doors open about 11:30am. The 25th I will lead a ride from Costerworth services to Mablethorpe, where the sand racing will be taking part on the beach. Should be a good day out, and I would like to leave Colsterworth sharp at 09:45 if possible. The normal pub meets as detailed in “where we meet” on the back page of your D.O.E. are continuing as usual, And if you need any further info, please don’t hesitate to ring me. That’s about it for now, always quiet this time of year, but hears hoping for a good biking 2012. Bodger Steve Foreman 01536-722048 07770-827574 midsocsec@gmail.com February 2012 Hi Again. So Christmas came and went, so did most of my wages, as the song goes, “another day older and deeper in debt!” Bah Humbug!!!! Seriously, the year started well, with 16 bikes meeting up at Markfield services for the ride down to Towcester, carrying 21 hardy souls for the Sunday meet on New Years Day, where we met up with those who were already there. The 48 who sat down for food and drinks were very well catered for by the Towcester team, and again Mrs Kipling excelled herself with her home made cakes. This was made more welcome considering the torturous route taken to get there, caused by a road closure and my total fixation on following the sat-nav, even when I know it’s wrong! Still, we all got there in one piece, and at the anticipated time as well. Thanks go to all who joined us, and once again the numbers were swelled by the Tranter family, only 6 of them this time! The Meeting at Greetham was a bit quiet by contrast, and 21 members were served a choice of 2 home made soups and deserts, beautifully prepared by Cath Piff and the kitchen elves, assisted by Sex-pot Norm. Both events raised sums for our designated charity, the Air- Ambulance, and a good time was had by all. February sees all the normal evening pub meets, the dates should be in the DOE included in this journal, and also appear on the section website and the forum. The 5th of Feb we are back at Towcester, the 12th Greetham, and I will lead a ride from Jacks cafe , A5 Towcester on the 26th, but if the weather is bad please ring me first (Only snow or ice will stop us intrepid travellers!) I will be at Beddgelert for the Rhino Rally the weekend of the 18th, so if you are there say hello, or even better, buy me a pint! March, the Towcester meet is on the 4th, Greetham the 11th, and on the 25th I will lead a ride from Colsterworth services to watch the sand racing at Mablethorpe, something I have wanted to see for a while, but not yet got round to it. Hopefully see some of you there, I hope to leave sharp at 9:30. I asked for volunteers to take some rides/ weekends, and would like to thank those who came forward, it’s good to have a bit of variety on the rides etc. I am sure i have missed loads of info out, but as it’s 1:30am as I write, my bed is calling. Till next Month Bodger, Steve Foreman 07770-827574 midsocsec@gmail.com January 2012 Well, I've fallen down on the job again. I blame it on waiting for you guys to get back to me with all the events you are going to suggest, and in doing so I missed the date for the D.O.E. print, so it will be in February’s journal. This gives you all a week or two to inundate me with your suggestions. I am holding my breath!! The section AGM on the 14th November threw up no surprises, and was a social “do” more than anything else. The Committee was re-elected en-masse, and we are in a reasonably healthy state financially, thanks to the work of our treasurer. Surprising considering we spent more than usual this year as it was our 50th. Well done all. The 20th of November saw a motley collection of men and machines gather at Jacks Cafe for a meander across some pretty, if greasy, B roads, wending our way up to the National Motorcycle museum.. The Numbers were swelled considerably by the Tranter Family, who arrived on 4 bikes carrying 3 generations. A good day was had by all, and it was nice to meet some new(To Me) Members. The 4th of December saw the Annual Christmas lunch at Greetham. Thanks go to Sally and Graham for laying on what i understand was another great day, and was enjoyed by 31 people and with the raffle a total of £309.00 was raised for the Air Ambulance (Hopefully I can put you down for next year again?) As is normal, January is a little quiet, the only things of note being Bills Post Christmas Meal at the Solo Club, Sleaford on the 28th, a 4- course meal for £16.50. Please contact Bill on 01526-834480 or myself for details. The traditional New Years day ride leaves Markfield services, off J22 of the M1 about 10:30 for a meander down to Towcester for hot snacks and drinks, and the normal pub meets will be going on throughout the winter period. That’s about it for now, Till next time, Bodger DECEMBER Just back from the Hippo Rally in darkest Cornwall, another great weekend organised by Sally and John Robinson, with roughly 65 persons attending. The weather, apart from a shower or two on the way there, was mostly sunny, and the Saturday night meal and entertainment brilliant. Well done the South West section. Again! Our section was relatively quiet over the last month or so, with the winter meet at Towcester averaging 35-40 persons, and Greetham not far away from that. These are generally well supported, and both do a good job supporting the Air ambulance. A couple of things on the horizon. On the 4th December it is again the Greetham Xmas meal, courtesy of Sally and Graham Cluley. Ticket only, and you can contact them on (01572-813639) you never know, you may be in luck. The 11th is the Towcester Christmas get together, kick off at 12 O'Clock. The normal Pub meets are still happening throughout the winter, please see your DOE for details. I will be at The Griffin at Mears Ashby on the 15th if you insist on buying me a pint! The now Traditional New Years Day ride-out clashes with the Towcester meet, so I have decided to meet at Markfield services, off J22 M1 at about 09:30, and take a slow meander across country to arrive at Towcester about 12:30 for hot snacks and coffee, and some of Janet Mrs Kipling@Winns home made cakes. Raffle prizes welcome! The annual post Christmas Dinner for the Midland Section will be held as usual at The Solo Club in Sleaford on 28th January 2012. Cost will be £16.50 for a four course meal. The menu is available from Bill Rodgers Tel 01526 834480 or E mail bill-rodgers@btconnect.com who is also taking bookings. Jim Beech, the wives and I will be camping at Woodland Waters over that weekend, allowing us to have a shandy or two, so if you fancy taking your caravan or motorhome, (or tent if your brave enough!) why not join us? Give me a ring for details. Finally, I am sorting the D.O.E. for the section, and if you have any idea's, thought or suggestions for days out, rides or weekends away, don't be shy, please get in touch. I would particularly like to hear from anybody who could give, or knows of anybody who could give, a talk/ presentation etc on any motorcycle based theme, I.E. Travel, history of, experience of working with, etc. etc. You get the picture. And finally finally, may I wish you all the best for the coming festive season. Until next month November Sunday 4th December, Christmas Lunch at Greetham Community Centre. Full Christmas lunch, dessert, coffee & mince pies £12.00, lunch served at 1.00 pm (bar from 12.30) raffle prizes most welcome. This is a Pre-booked only event and tickets are available from Sally & Grahame Cluley 01572 813639. The 3rd and 4th of September saw us attending the Sleaford show, not purely a BMW “do” but always well attended. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to attend, and have no report to enter. Perhaps this will follow in due course. The camping weekend and BBQ at Woodhall Spa was again a huge success, thanks to the organizational skills of the two Sue’s from the Yorkshire section, and George and Jim who are becoming our regular BBQ Chefs, the section Marquee and the attitude of the participants, especially those who took part in the silly hat competition. I was especially pleased to win back the bottle of malt at the “bottle lob” from the Yorkshire section!!! Sue Anderson, (one of the 2 Sue’s!) adds:- Joint camping weekend Yorkshire/Midland Section at Woodhall Spa. 43 people arrived on and in various forms of transport. The weather stayed in our favour. Friday night was an informal bring a bottle and socialise in the marquee. Day visitors swelled the number of bikes on Bill Rogers ride out on Saturday, some people chose other options like the classic sidecar races at Cadwell, some went for walks by the river and in the woods with their own or other peoples dogs, then there was the 40s w/e at the Lincolnshire Wold Railway, some went into Woodhall Spa with its various shops and café’s especially the very very very nice cake shop. Saturday night was the barbeque. Jim and George were the chefs and a very good job they did, the falling down liquid flowed freely, there was a silly hat competition and various quiz’s, also a whisky lob with all proceeds going to the Lincolnshire Air Ambulance, in all £51 was raised The winner of the silly hat for the men was Bob Kirchen, for the ladies Kath Piff Sunday was a leisurely decamp with plenty of helpers to take the marquee down. Thanks to George for bringing the barbecue and marquee, and to Nick for providing the music. All said and done a brilliant weekend was had by all. On the 18th, I led a ride to The RAF Air museum, Hendon. Although the weather didn’t look great, we had a good day, with 8 bikes meeting at Jack Hill’s café, then meandering up the A5 for a couple of miles before heading cross country towards Berkhampstead, with a tea and cake stop in the woods at Ashridge. This museum is the sister to RAF Cosford, with numerous exhibits, a café shop etc, and free entrance. The rain just about held off, and I got home about 6pm with dry kit. Result! The pic shows us mounting up at Jacks café, with John and Freda’s 1600gt in the foreground. (The Harley’s didn’t come with us!) The 2nd of October saw our first Towcester meet of the year, and 36 happy bunnies sat down to hot soup, cakes and banter, courtesy of Janet and John, Cath, Norman and Lynn. There were even some bikes in the car park, and a few of us rode up to Stoke Bruern as it was so pleasant, and ended the afternoon with a shandy. You wouldn’t think it was October! The notable things coming up in November are the Towcester meet on the 6th, and then the Section AGM, 13th November 11am Sharp at Greetham Community centre. This is your chance to make a difference as to how your section is run and how your money is spent. The meeting will be followed by a cold buffet as is usual. On the 20th I will be leading a ride from Jack Hills café on the A5 at Towcester, meeting at 9:30 for coffee and leaving at 10:15 for a mainly B-road ride to the National Motorcycle museum, the best motorcycle museum in the world, with the worst coffee in the world. Probably! Entrance is £8.95 or £6.95 for those who qualify for a concession. There is a discount available for ten or more, but I am not holding my breath. You can of course just use the café, which is free to enter. Alternatively, you could meet us there, arrive about 12 mid-day. The normal Pub meets are still in place, but as I only get to the one at Mears Ashby, I can’t really comment on the others, although I believe Threekingham gets a good attendance. October As I have been away for 3 weeks this month, not a lot to report, except that the 24 of us, including Pinky and Parky, “Where’s me luggage” Gordon, Blackpool Teresa, “it ain’t half hot mum” Nicky, Jim and Sue the motorcycle combination display team, six-pot Bob and sex-pot Norm and the rest all had a brilliant time touring Austria Switzerland, Italy etc.etc. Lots of passes, beer wine and laughs are the memories, and I expect a travelogue will follow at some stage (Oh no, I hear you cry!) Personally, One of the best holidays I can remember, made so by the company. Sunday Ride out from Foresters café. (Words and pics by Harpic) Sunday Aug 21st a bright and sunny day dawned and looked as though we were going to have a fine day for a ride up into the dales, problem which bike? If I turn up on the F650GS then some of the gathered members will think the worst and go home. OK then I shall take the R1200RT ( panniers removed), On arrival at the meeting site I was greeted with around 60 bikes parked up, but not for the BMW Club! This is a very popular meeting spot in the summer for bikers and why not, the surrounding area has some excellent roads and scenery. After breakfast six bikes & seven members set off for a meander through the Derbyshire and Staffordshire Dales.No route planned today, going to follow my nose, Got the Garmin on for general direction. Angie told me off before we started to be a good boy, by this no off road ridding or fording riding ect with road bikes, Who am I to argue with Angie! Leaving Forest Corner and through my old villages were I spent my youth and up into the dale avoiding as many settlements as possible. Over Beeley Dale Moors with it’s flat high open moorland, before a rapid decent into Chatsworth estates. Onto Ashford On The Water and up to Monsal Head for a coffee and cake stop, with views like this you just have to stop and take it in. After coffee etc. we moved on not on the route I would have liked (remembering Angie’s words “You be a good boy”) I decided to do so and took a different route through the White Peaks onto Castleton and up Winnet’s Pass. On a day like this a view and a half. We then turned south and followed meandering roads through the dales and into Staffordshire and the open Moors of Earl Sterndale. The roads on these Moors can, if you are not being a good boy, be quite a challenge on a road bike with road tyres. We carried on still in good sunshine to Sheen with it’s famous left turn on a steep hill, (check mirrors all bikes still on both wheels) The Moors in this area have a beauty of there own ( in the Summer) in the winter they change to even more beauty for the eye but beware they can and will kill, if you are not in the correct gear. The ride continues towards Hartington and past the very old pub “The Quiet Woman” strange name for a pub and it has had that name for a few hundred years now. At the turn of the 19 hundreds during some improvements to the pub the discovery of it’s strange name became apparent. Upon finding a skeleton of a woman with no head, it turned out to be the wife of the landlord who named the pub “The Quiet Woman” Work the rest out for yourself. After a short lunch stop in Hartington we moved onwards on open roads via Youlgreave, Birchover and on towards Via Gellia. If you get a free run at this road it is one of the best in the UK as it sweeps through a valley and surrounding woods, but we were unlucky as we hit the 1st traffic of the day still able to ride at 30 to 40 Mph buy not a pace this road commands. On and into Cromford and at this point we started to split up and make our way home. A good day with pleasant scenery and pleasant fellow club members. Graham ( Harpic ) Parker . October sees the start of our winter indoor meets at Towcester on the 2nd and Greetham on the 9th. Both kick off around 12 o’clock, and hot food, soup etc will be served. Volunteers for Greetham kitchen duty gratefully accepted! (PLEASE) Nothing much going on on the way of weekend events this month, but Graham will be leading another ride from Forest corner snacks on the 16th, meet at 10:30am. All address etc are in the event diary, as are the times and dates for the evening pub meets, but feel free to ring me if necessary. I have had a few members saying they will be willing to lead ride’s, organise weekends etc for next year, as after 3 years I am starting to flag a bit! Anyone who wishes to help, could you please let me know before November, as this is when I need to get the section calendar sorted. Finally, please don’t forget the section AGM on the 13th November, and if you would like to volunteer for any of the committee roles, please get your nominations in to John Winn, section secretary, A.S.A.P. That’s about it until next month. Sept Hi Again. I am writing this the evening before leaving for our tour to Garda, so this may be the shortest section news so far. Have just spoken to the site where it is 29 degrees and sunny. Let’s hope it stays that way. A report from the Norfolk Chill out weekend:- 17 members turned up at Woodlands leisure site at Trimmingham nr. Cromer, and were blessed with gorgeous weather which made all the difference. Most of us met in the bar on the Friday night for a meal and some falling down water. On Saturday, most set out on their own ride-outs, but 6 of us on 4 bikes had a meander along the coast to Wells where we spent a nice afternoon before returning to the campsite, where we got ready for the B.B.Q., which went very well due to everybody pitching in, we then retired to the section marquee for more falling down water with music provided by Nick, the club web-master , lighting by Steve and entertainment by Andy. Sunday came and we all packed up for departure. A great weekend with good weather. Thanks to all who came, hope you all enjoyed it. I did. George( Gibson) A huge turnout of 3 bikes, +1 who arrived for coffee but didn’t do the run!, met at Ollerton Café for my run to Eyam Museum. The weather could have been better, but we were quite lucky as the rain mainly held off. After a country bimble for 50 or so miles, we spent an hour in the museum, where the story of the villagers and their efforts to stop the spread of plague is told mainly on storyboards. What a gruesome time that must have been, with the village almost wiped out. We then rode off via Bakewell to Hartington, along some of those beautiful Peak district roads, and only when we were ensconced in the café did the heavens open. Another good Sunday, but then it always is when I’m on the bike! September sees the normal pub meets, and the Sleaford Show on the 3rd Woodhall Spa weekend, 9th-11th,a joint venture with the Yorkshire section. Please contact myself or Sue Spence for details. (Contact details in journal, see advert) Ride-out to Hendon Air Museum on the 18th, Meet at Jack Hills Café 09:30. Finally (Told you it would be brief!) if this journal is out in time, see you at the 60th anniversary celebrations. Till next time Bodger August Writing this after our joint lunch meeting at Hartford Marina with the East Anglia “crew”, and roughly 20 of us enjoyed the views from the Mill Pub, along with good food and company. Half a dozen new members, or new to our outings, were attending. Nice to see some new faces. Quite a few outings over the last few weeks, most of which I am still awaiting reports for. George’s weekend in Norfolk was a great success, with the marquee again forming the focal point for a good craic and the BBQ. George will submit his report for next month. Also the sections 50th Anniversary was a huge success, and a separate report should be somewhere within this tome. August, for me anyway, is almost completely full, with our Italian tour the first 2 weeks, and the 60th Anniversary at the end, there’s not much time for anything else. Hence the brevity of my scribblings this month. Graham is scheduled to lead a ride out on the 21st August, and the Bourne show is on the 3rd of September. All details are in the calendar, on the forum, or contact me for details. The same applies to our regular evening pub meets, details as published. The Woodhall Spa joint camping weekend is on the 9th- 11th September, and if last year is anything to go buy, should be a great weekend. See the ad in this journal, or contact myself or Sue Spence for details. The year is rushing along, and November the 13th will see this years AGM. Any of you who would like to do a stint on the committee, please let John Winn, your section Secretary know and he will put you forward. John’s details are in the first few journal pages. If I am to stand again as your Social Sec., I really would like a few more volunteers to lead runs and ride-outs, as after 3 years I am struggling to find new destinations. It is really not difficult, and I can even help with routing etc if required. 3 volunteers each leading 2 rides in 12 months would certainly alleviate the problem. The same applies to weekends away, either camping, hotels or whatever. If you have an idea, please ring me and we can sort it out between us. That’s about it for this month July Hello all Well the last few weeks have been very busy, with the Wolds run, The Edinburgh weekend, the Belvoir show, Andy’s run to the Lincs. Motor Museum, all of which I understand were very successful, but as I have had no reports that’s all I can tell you. Perhaps next Month? I lead a run to the Peak District on the 22nd May, and 10 bikes along with 15 “bikers” had a great ride to the restaurant at Rivendale campsite, halfway between Ashbourne and Buxton. Along mainly A & B roads, the weather just about held off for us, as we all had Sunday lunch before Graham “Harpic” Parker led us through the villages to Hartington for tea and cakes before we all departed to make our own way home. It was particularly good to see some relatively new members out, along with some old faces. (Thanks for making the trip Dennis Asquith!) By the time you read this, the section 50th will be done and dusted, and at the time of writing we have more than 90 booked in for the hog-roast. More of this next month A lot of your committee’s time is being taken up by the 60th event, and this is filling up very quickly, in fact as the ad in this publication will tell you, it is over 75% subscribed, so if you are thinking of going, book now! July kicks off with Georges weekend in Norfolk the first weekend, a lunch time meet with East Anglia section at Hartford Marina on the 10th, Grahams ride-out from Ollerton on the 17th, as well as the normal evening pub meets as the diary. This leads us into August, when HOORAY!!, 28 of us depart for Lake Garda. Amazing to think the first bones of a plan were put into motion last October, and it’s almost here already. Tempus fugit, as they say! 5 of the 60th committee will be there, So it’s possible we will call a meeting , and therefore be able to claim expenses?? (JOKE!!!!) That’s about it for this month, Till next time June Hi All An eventful few weeks, not least having returned from Rhys’s Get away from the wedding weekend complete with 2 broken tent poles. Still, that’s nothing to the hospitality afforded the 30 of us that braved the hurricane force (Nearly) weather! See below. A big thanks to Rhys and Wulla for a great weekend.(Sorry to hear about the Marquee) My thanks to Neil for covering the ride from Forest corner snacks at Ollerton on the 17th April, (We forgot the AGM!) Neil sent me this report:- 11 bikes, 15 people turned up for the ride around the Peak district, We had one couple from the Yorkshire section. The weather was dry and sunny as we set off towards Bolsover passing over Beeley moor and through Chatsworth, stopping for lunch at the Yonderman café near Wardlow. After passing through Bakewell on the way to Milldale and Wetton mill in the Manifold valley, where we enjoyed tea and cakes by the river before heading home. Thanks to Graeme Hopkinson for riding tail-end charley. Neil Millington Although we seem to have had a lot on in April , I have no more reports, so onward to the coming couple of months. As reported last month, the section have commissioned a commemorative badge for the sections 50th Anniversary on 17th-19th June, a picture of which was in last months journal. Don’t forget to send a S.A.E. to John Winn, your section secretary and the badge will be sent to you. On the subject of the 50th, your attendance will be much appreciated, but you must inform Graham Parker 01623 467852 of your attendance, as we need to round up a pig for the hog roast, and need to know numbers. (Apologies to any vegetarians who may be offended!) Don’t forget, if you don’t book for food, you won’t be getting any!! Also, as the section was formed in the 60’s, a 60’s theme will prevail, and prizes for best dressed, a 60’s quiz etc will be the order of the Saturday night. The 1st to the 3rd of July is Gorgeous George’s chill out camping weekend in Norfolk. http://www.woodlandholidaypark.co.uk/ is the web-site address, contact George for more details on (01476) 400574. The Bourne classic car and motorcycle show is on the 12 June, and Classic BMW's are required to exhibit. Contact Bill Rodgers 01526 834480 Finally, the normal pub meets are still happening, and the Mears Ashby Diners Club, every 3rd Tuesday of the month is going from strength to strength, hope to see some of you there. Till next Month MayAt Last! Sitting here looking out the window to brilliant sunshine and 21° C. This must be the “season” (See last months scribbling) March has been a good Month, with the bring and buy sale well supported, so much so we had to top up supplies half way thro’ . The Air ambulance, our chosen charity, is another £90.00 better off, thanks to the generosity of our members. Approx 65 people passed thro’ the doors, many buying and selling. One of our section went away with a new (to him) airhead, must be a first! I have still got a pair of leather bib and brace type trousers found under one of the tables. If they are yours, please get in touch. Otherwise they may be the wife’s next Xmas present! A few of us, along with Cath, the regalia guru, were at the launch of the K1600 bikes at Wollaston on the 19th. An awesome bit of kit, but at 20K for the GTL on display, it needs to be! Quite a few club application forms given out , and according to our esteemed Section Secretary, section numbers are creeping back up. The 20th saw 11 bikes and 14 persons on our ride-out to Wellesbourne Airfield, then onto Bourton on the Water. The weather was great, ice-creams in Bourton, and it was good to see some new faces, Colin and Helen, new-ish members from the Black Country, and their friends Anthony and Amy. Also Peter from London section brought a couple of mates on sportsbikes, tho’ they weren’t going slow enough to get their names! A good day out, and what motorcycling is all about (In my opinion!) BMF show, Peterborough, is on the 14th-15th A good opportunity to spend some money on summer riding kit! The Belvoir Show to be held on the Castle Estate on 21st & 22nd May. Motorcycles up to 1984 are all welcome at the show where a dedicated marquee is provided. Contact Bill Rodgers on 01526 834480 or bill.rodgers@eleco.com for further details. Coming up this month we have the normal pub meets, and on the 22nd I will be leading a ride to the Royal Armoury, Leeds, from Junction 22 M1, Markfield services. Entrance is free, and is stuffed full of militaria, arms and armour. We will be leaving sharp at 10am, and using A& B roads for 90% of the ride. Join us if you can The E.A. Banham weekend is on the 27th-29th, and is an event I keep trying to get to. This year, I am on standby so no chance again. If you fancy a great weekend, get in touch with the E.A. social sec. Matt Butcher, He will be pleased to hear from you. This is not primarily a GS weekend, there are road rides as well as off road. See the ad in journal for more details. The Midland section have commissioned a 50th Anniversary badge, picture below. These will be supplied Free Gratis to all fully paid midland members, on receipt of a 1st class stamped addressed envelope sent to John Winn, Section Secretary, 16 Ardington Rd, Northampton NN1 5LJ. Please include your membership number, and the badge will be sent out prior to the 50th rally in June. Bill Rodgers is putting on “The Lincolnshire Wolds Wander” run on Sat 18th June during the 50th Anniversary Event. The run will start at 10.00a.m from the anniversary site, be approx 85 miles with coffee stop at Horncastle & Lunch at Woodthorpe Hall nr Alford. For those not familiar with the Wolds, this is Lincolnshire’s “upland“ area; rolling hills & valleys with scattered hamlets & some great riding roads. And speaking of the 50th ! Don’t forget to book with Graham Parker to get your discount and give us an idea of numbers for the hog roast. (Nothing to do with Harley owners Group!) Finally, the Midland Section have also commissioned a special 60th anniversary paperweight to commemorate the occasion. These magnificent glass items are available by pre-order, and are costed at £16.00 collected, either from Graham Parker or at the 60th anniversary rally, or £20.00 Posted. They come in a presentation box, and are quite heavy!! They are 110mm in diameter, with a flat bottom to enable them to stand. Available to all members in all sections, they must be pre-ordered to enable us to order the correct Quantity. AprilHello Again I’m just sitting here wondering what the expression I keep hearing, ”Riding Season” means. I think I’d go mad if I had to park the bike up for 4 months. The section was out New Years day, end of January, last Sunday in Feb, quite a few in Beddgelert for the once again excellent Rhino Rally, (Thanks to Rhys and his wife for the welcome soup and coffee) In fact we have at least one ride-out each month right through the winter. Must say I nearly succumbed to a heated vest this year, but fought against it as I see it as a sign of getting old, and I am a long way from that!!! We had increasing numbers at our winter meets at Towcester and Greetham, with Towcester raising £74.00 for the Air Ambulance on the March meeting with 44 attendee’s, a total of £642.00 for this winter, with Greetham’s Feb meeting attracting 39 members and £70.00 for the Air ambulance. Again, I thank all those who make these meetings possible, from the organizers/ Caterers, to those donating raffle prizes and also those who buy the tickets. April is down for the Easter Bunny weekend at Dartmoor, but, as you will see by the advert, I have had to cancel this event for a variety of reasons, I hope this doesn’t cause any problems. The normal pub meets are on the 5th, 14th,19th and 21st, and are listed in the D.O.E. Don’t forget (As if you could) The AGM at the University of Durham. Pre-booking is essential, and the weekend is also a social get-together. And talking of social get-togethers, the Midland 50th Anniversary rally is being held at Woodland Waters, Willoughby Rd, Ancaster, Grantham, Lincs NG32 3RT on the 17th-19th June. As the 50 years takes us back to 1961, we are making this a 60’s theme, with 60’s sounds and Quiz. Out illustrious Treasurer made a remark about some of our members turning up in their everyday clothes and winning a prize for the best 60’s outfit, but I think that’s a bit unfair. Still, with a hog roast, the Marquee and good company it should be a great weekend. There is camping for tents, caravans and motorhomes, and lodges for hire. There is a 10% discount off the prices on the woodland waters website, but bookings must go through Graham Parker, as there are not that many fixed beds to rent. Some have already gone, so get in quick! For the lodges, a £30.00 per head deposit is required, as we have had to pre-book a number of them. April 30th see’s Bill Rodgers Wolds Run leaving from East Kirkby Aviation Museum, Meeting about 9am. Entry forms from Bill on 01526-834480. Traditionally a great day out. Finally, don’t forget to book for the 60th Anniversary at the F.S.C. Moreton in Marsh The booking form is in the centre of the journal, and it is already booking very quickly. Should be a great weekend, see ad for details. That’s about it for this month, Steve Foreman 01536 722048 – 07859 909853 midlandsocialsec@ntlworld.com MarchHello from a cold and blustery Northamptonshire. Snow has gone, gale force winds have arrived. Fence is down, bike still in garage, tho’ we have done a few hundred miles over the winter, and should have added to that going to the Rhino this month. (Writing this Feb 7th) 30+ people turned up at Greetham for our normal Sunday meeting, and thoroughly enjoyed Kath’s home made soup and cakes. Once again, I would like to thank on your behalf those who volunteer to do the kitchen duties, both here and at Towcester, and the generosity of those who donate raffle prizes, enabling us to raise funds for the Air ambulance, £28.00 of which was raised at Greetham this Sunday. There were even some motor-bikes in the car-park, strange, I know!! At Towcester on the 6th we had 42 and a half persons, due to “Anthea” being with child, their 1st. (boy are they in for a shock!) and a couple of nearly new members together with 1 brand new, a good crowd enjoyed the soup and rolls and Janet” Mrs Kipling” Winn’s home made cakes. Once again, I won one of the many raffle prizes, and enjoyed the generous donation of a bottle of whisky. A further £78.50 was raised for the Air Ambulance, once again thanks to all those who continue to support these events. The post Christmas meal at the Solo Club, Sleaford, was once again a huge success. How they can deliver a 4 course meal so well cooked for £15.00 is a mystery to me. Thanks go to Bill Rodgers for the organizing once again. Incidentally, four of us camped for the weekend at Woodland Waters site, the site for the Midland section 50th Anniversary weekend. This is a lovely site with a large clubhouse and bar, all facilities, electric hookups etc. Look out for the advert in Aprils Journal, or drop me an email for details. We only have 2 more winter lunch meets left, 1 at Towcester on March the 6th, and the last one at Greetham on the 13th March, which is the bring and buy sale. The committee will be supplying the Tea and coffee, along with bacon rolls, or BAPS for you lot North of Northampton! The usual Evening meets are still going ahead, tho’ I can’t give you any detail as I don’t get updated! You should have had your 2011 diary of events in last month’s journal, if not, please let me or John Winn know. You will see that I have a ride-out planned (For lack of better description!) and this will be to The RAF Museum, Cosford on the 27th Feb. Free to get in, Café on site and a very interesting place to while away a few hours. I will be leaving Jack Hills café at about 10am, and be at Cosford approx 12:30. If you would like to meet us there please do, and if you are in the car, I won’t tell anybody. (Note: this may be too late by the time you get this Journal, but I tried!!) The same applies to the ride on the 20th March, leaving from Jack Hill’s and stopping at Wellesbourne airfield for breakfast and a wander around Stratford on Avon for lunch. Don’t forget to book your accommodation for the 60th Anniversary Rally, August Bank Holiday Weekend. There is a limit of 700 persons, so don’t be disappointed, as we have had a good number of bookings already. With reference to the ride to the wall Sat 1st October, please note that you must register with the official web-site. This is not yet open for bookings, but more info will be available here http://www.rttw.org/ Finally, I have had to Cancel THE EASTER BUNNY RALLY at Princetown, due to various factors. I am hoping to go to the Oirshot rally instead, so if anyone fancies it, let me know. This will need to be pre-booked with Cliff Batley from E.A. section. That’s about it till next Month. Steve Foreman 01536 722048 – 07859 909853 midlandsocialsec@ntlworld.com FebruaryThe Christmas Lunch at Greetham on 5th December was enjoyed by 45 members and a total of £340.00 was raised from the lunch and raffle for the Air Ambulance. Thanks for all the donations of raffle prizes and Kath for her mince pies. A total of 4 bikes and 1 car braved the weather and rode out to the engine house at Highley omn New Years Day. A good day out was had by all, and a nice lunch while watching the trains steaming up on their way to Bridgenorth was quite entertaining. 36 of us met at Towcester to enjoy the soup and Janet’s home made cakes. I even won a bottle of wine, so another good day out! £36.00 was raised for the Air ambulance, thanks to those who support these events with their presence and raffle prizes. Not too much to report at present, just that the normal pub meets are still happening, Details as per the Journal, and your Diary of Events should be in this months Journal. I will be at Beddgelert on the weekend of the 18th Feb for the Rhino Rally, and will Lead a ride out on the 27th, weather permitting. Until next time January 2011Hi Again, and Happy 2011. I hope you all got what you wished for, and not what you deserved! In last months rambling, I mentioned the Midland Section AGM. Well, I can report that absolutely nothing changed, your committee is as last year, and no earth shattering items were raised or discussed. The Supported charity is once again the Air ambulance, and a stirling job they do. The weather is truly horrible at present, so I took the opportunity last Sunday to go out for a couple of hours, as there was a break in the weather and the ice had melted. It really is enjoyable on a crisp morning, hardly anything on the road, to be on two wheels, especially this time of year, as you never know how long before the next ride. Anyway, I digress! A couple of things coming up that have already been mentioned, and a couple that have not. It’s last call for Bills post Xmas dinner at the Solo club, Sleaford. This is a ticket only do, and needs pre-booking. Contact Bill for menu and booking.01526-834480 Plagiarized from last month (is it plagiarized if you wrote it in the first instance?) “The now traditional Midland Section New Years Day ride will leave Markfield services, just off J22 M1at 10:00am approx.. Meeting from about 9:30am, we will be meandering over back roads to the Engine House, Highley in Shropshire. Café open all day, this is part of the Severn Valley Railway, with some static engines etc. inside the building. See www.highleystation.co.uk/ for more info.” Please phone my mobile first, as the weather may not play ball. If I don’t answer, there will be a message to say whether the run is on or not The normal evening pub meets will be going ahead. Don’t worry if you need to go by car, most of us will this time of year. Don’t forget the Rhino Rally in Beddgelert, Feb 18th-20th Always a good weekend. If you see me in the bar, I am sure I will allow you to buy me a pint! Feb 27th I will lead a ride, weather permitting, from Jack Hills on the A5, but please phone my mobile first, as the weather may not play ball. If I don’t answer, there will be a message to say whether the run is on or not, but hey, we can have breakfast anyway! The Tour to Garda, see www.saf-site.com is fully subscribed, and my apologies to those whom we could not accommodate. I think we could have doubled the number in the first week of the advert going in the journal. Finally, just a note about the Midland 50th celebration, June 17th-19th, at Woodland Waters, Ancaster, Lincs. It is the sections 50th Birthday, and the Midland marquee will be there along with a hog roast and the usual B.S. and beer. Hope you will support the event, as it’s quite a milestone (As opposed to Millstone!) in the sections history. Definitely finally, your D.O.E. will be with you in the February Journal again, to allow for some last minute additions to your full and varied calendar!! Till next Month, Bodger Steve Foreman 01536 722048 – 07859 909853 midlandsocialsec@ntlworld.com
|
|
|
