Paulerspury People
Summer 2015
The Newsletter of The RREC Paulerspury Section Paulerspury People July 2015.pmd
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Paulerspury People
July2015
The Newsletter of the Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club - Paulerspury Section
Contents Not a Lot of People Know That
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The Chairman’s Bit
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Future Events
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Past Events
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Notice of AGM
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Future Events Diary
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Committee Contacts
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Front Cover Photograph: A view from ‘a car’
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Not a Lot of People Know That Some Rolls-Royces were sent to India with blackened windows in the 1920’s. They werte known as ‘Purdah Wagons’.
The 1908 Silver Ghost was fitted as standard with an oild pressure guage and a guage to show the air pressure in the petrol tank but a speedometer would have cost you 15 guineas extra.
Test drivers on the Silver Spirit clocked up 1 million miles in a year.
The bodywork on a Corniche was made entirely by hand. Each one took five months to build.
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The Chairman’s Bit It does not seem long since the Annual Rally. The weather was kind and the new location stunning with the backdrop of the house lording over the grounds. A huge amount of time and effort goes into the organisation and planning of such an event particularly with the challenge of a new location. There were some glitches; the Clouds and Shadows were ‘lost’ to the rest of the field in a dell, the presentation of the awards resembled a static traffic jam on the M25 and the catering was dreadful BUT we all had a great time. Our tail gate party was well attended thanks to Keith and Pippa, Derek Freeman - Chairman some section members collected rosettes and we all look forward to next year. The Club has had two other events this spring, the Cloud Weekend commemorating the birth of the Clouds and the International Weekend at Folkestone which was attended by a number of section members. The reports back from the International Weekend were mixed. The section celebrated St George. The event was extremely well attended and a big thank you to Steven and Mia for the organisation. A number of us went to Constable Country, Dedham Vale, a really great few days packed with visits and the odd glass to celebrate enjoying ourselves. Our editor, Barry Gallafent won the driving day at Adrian and Linda’s farm. It may well be the last time this event takes place. A big thank you for organising this event for a number of years. We will need to think of a new event to which we can award the Alan Wilkes Trophy. Ideas please……… Kimbolton Fayre saw a number of members join an eclectic mix of classic cars for this annual event. The weather was not very good, a great disappointment to those that spend so much time in the organisation. Thanks Val and Danny. More to happen over the coming months. Barry has revamped the PP to help promote forthcoming events which will now be at the beginning. There will still be write ups of past events but it was felt important to give more coverage to the future rather than the past. We are one of the few Club sections which do not charge a section membership fee or charge for the newsletter and we will do everything possible to maintain that status quo. It is however a challenge. We do need more advertising however small and which could include classified ads. If you know of any local trader who might be prepared to advertise please let Barry know. We would also like to include special articles from members to help add another dimension to the Paulerspury People. Please contact Barry or me.
Derek Paulerspury People - Summer 2015
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Find out here about upcoming Paulerspury Section events, when they are, where they are and who is organising them. A summary of all future events can be found at the back of this edition and booking forms for all events are enclosed. Event information and booking forms can also be found on our website www.rrecpaulerspury.org.uk Please Note: Booking for any Section event automatically implies your acceptance of our standard terms and conditions. These can be found at the back of this edition of Paulerspury People and on the Section website.
Classics on Croxley Green - Wednesday 5th August - 2pm ‘til late Now in its 14th Year, this event is getting ever more popular with nearly a thousand Classic and Modern Classic vehicles parked up on Croxley Green last year. We plan to meet at a nearby pub beforehand and arrive ‘en convoi’ to show what a superb show the RollsRoyce Enthusiasts’ Club can put on. This way, we should get to park together. A picnic is the norm but you can always rely on the myriad of food vendors, the local pubs or the chippy, they are all within easy reach. We’ve been taking part every year since it started and last year ten Paulerspury Section cars joined us which made it an even more enjoyable sociable event. If you’d like to participate please let us know before as soon as possible and we’ll get back to you with the meeting point and time details. Sat. Nav reference for The Green, Croxley Green, Rickmansworth is WD3 3HN Entrance is FREE but a small donation to the organisers chosen charity is appreciated. Organisers: Steve & Jan Dolan Email: janet.dolan@rrecpaulerspury.org.uk Tel: 07841 989608 Paulerspury People - Summer 2015
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The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst Sunday 16th August 2015 We are invited to join the Oxford (Founders) and Thames Valley Section for a Summer Picnic. This year they are again joining friends, City Barge, for a Summer Picnic and are privileged to hold it at The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. We are hoping for a large turnout at this prestigious event so please join us and help to make it a success.
“The Sandhurst Collection exists to promote military tradition and ethos to the Officer Cadets and preserve the heritage of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. The Sandhurst Trust, was established in 2003 (then as the Sandhurst Foundation) to promote the improved understanding and development of leadership beyond the Academy. Having drifted somewhat from this purpose, it was re-launched in 2014 with a new legal form, in line with current charity regulation, and with a re-articulated focus on supporting the Academy – especially through promoting esprit de corps, sustaining ethos and preserving heritage – and promoting and promulgating the Army’s approach to leadership. “ City Barge – “One of our original purposes was to bring back rowing barges in modern form. To this end we have been fortunate to be offered the opportunity to take care of the Royal Thamesis on behalf of the Drapers’ Company; we are enjoined to make her available to youth from the inner cities; and we may operate her for City Barge. The club also exists to promote the use and enjoyment of hand-powered boats, such as gigs, skiffs, punts, and canoes, and all manner of Venetian boats, as well as the shallop the Royal Thamesis.” We hope you will be able to join us for gondola rides on the lake, weather permitting, courtesy of City barge. It will also be possible to have a one hour tour of the Old College and the Chapel which can be booked on the day for £5 per person and is well worthwhile. The entrance is on the main A30 through Camberley on the North side. Please arrive from 10.00 a.m. and depart by 5.00 p.m. Please have proof of identity, which includes a photo, ready for inspection to avoid a queue forming on the main road. Paulerspury People - Summer 2015
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Once through the Staff College gate follow the road round to the left past the first (Upper) lake on the left hand side, over the bridge, turn left at the cross-roads then park on the grass in front of the boat house and second (Lower) lake. In order to avail ourselves of this magnificent venue it is necessary to ask for an entrance fee of £10 per person. Closing Date for booking 8th August 2015. Organiser: Gerald Garratt, Sycamore House, Tacks Lane, Thame Road, Haddenham, Buckinghamshire, HP17 8EW
Wine Tasting Event - Saturday 26th September 2015 at 11.30 a.m. New Lodge Vineyard, Earls Barton, Northampton NN6 OHF New Lodge Vineyard is a small vineyard set in picturesque countryside overlooking the Nene Valley in Earls Barton. Owner, Joyce BoulousHanna and her daughter, Gabby, lovingly plant and tend the 1800 vines themselves and have won silver and bronze awards in 2010, 2013 and 2014 for their ‘Solaris’, ‘Regency Rosé’ and ‘Bacchus’ wines. Enjoy an informal and fun wine tasting, sampling two English whites and a cider (cheese and nibbles provided) and take time to see the vineyard in its full glory just before the grapes are harvested in October. Wines will be available to purchase on the day. The cost is £12.00 per person. Clsoing date for bookings is 15th September 2015. Organiser: Karen Hillier Email: karen.hillier@rrecpaulerspury.org.uk Telephone: 07881 802904
Thames Sailing Barge Trip - Tuesday 29th September The evocative Red Ochre sails of an old Thames barge gliding silently along the beautiful river Orwell is an experience which should not be missed. The river is wide with stunning scenery on both banks. The Thistle was built in 1895 to move freight around the East Coast and up the Thames estuary. It is now fitted out to carry groups of visitors. Below decks is a large cabin with plenty of seating, a bar and toilets. Paulerspury People - Summer 2015
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The barge leaves Ipswich dock at 12 Noon and sails for approximately four hours up the Orwell to Harwich and Felixstowe before returning back along the Orwell to arrive in Ipswich at approximately 4.00 p.m. A full buffet lunch will be served during the trip and the bar will be open for the duration. The cost will be £50 per person. Secure parking will be arranged at Ipswich Marina which is just a short walk to the barge’s mooring. Ipswich is worth staying and lingering, walk along the quay side or through the old town. For those wishing to stay overnight there are two hotels, one on the quay, the other close by. Accommodation can be arranged in either depending on your budget. The Salthouse, which is a converted warehouse, located on the quay side is a lovely place to stay with rooms from £129-£147 per couple. Don’t miss it! Please register your interest as soon as possible by contacting:The Organisers: Derek and Sylvia Freeman Mobile: 07836 715351 Email: derek.freeman@rrecpaulerspury.org.uk
Autumn Amble - Sunday 4th October Verulam Golf Club 226, London Road, St.Albans, Herts AL1 1JG Enjoy a drive round the attractions of the St.Albans area to include the Gorehambury Estate, home of the Earl of Verulam & VGC President, Brockett Hall, Luton Hoo and Childwickbury. There may also be an opportunity to have photographs taken holding the Ryder Cup. We will meet at the golf club for coffee, tea & biscuits from 10.30 to depart for the amble at 11 to 11.15am, returning there for a two course Carvery lunch at 1.30pm. Cost: £25 per person. Closing date for booking is the 18th September. Organiser : Peter Kingaby, Paulerspury Section Member Tel: 01582 725307 E-Mail: peterkingaby@hotmail.com Paulerspury People - Summer 2015
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Lunch at Ansty Hall - Ansty, Nr Coventry, Warwickshire, CV7 9HZ Sunday 1st November We have been invited to join the East Midlands Section for Sunday Lunch. Ansty Hall is a grade 2 listed historical 17th century country manor house full of charm and with an award winning restaurant. It is one of the finest 4* hotels in the area and set in breathtaking scenery amid 8 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. Arrive slightly early at 11.30 for lunch at 12.30. Lunch will be served in the Rose Room, which is on the ground floor and overlooks impressive landscaped gardens. The restaurant has been awarded the AA rosette for serving the finest traditional English food. After our lunch we will be entertained with easy listening popular jazz music performed by the Hit and Miss Jazz Band for an enjoyable and relaxing afternoon. The cost is ÂŁ27 per person and the closing date is 13th October Organiser: Jeff Dennis (East Midlands Section), The Old Rectory, 58 Main Street, Houghton on the Hill, Leicestershire, LE7 9GD.
Bedfordshire Lunch - Sunday 15th November The Barns Hotel, Cardington Road, Bedford, MK44 3SA We will be dining in the Wine Glass Restaurant overlooking the river Ouse and as the number is limited, please book early to avoid disappointment. All those booking will be contacted prior to the event to ask for their menu choices and will be given more information on timings, directions etc. Please ensure to give your email address if you have one. The cost is ÂŁ27.50 per person. Organiser: Kathy Martin Email: kathryn.martin@rrecpaulerspury.org.uk Telephone: 01234 714092 Paulerspury People - Summer 2015
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Take a few moments to read through members’ write ups. You may find you have missed out on something you wished you had attended. You may even see someone you know!
St.George’s Day Run - April 26th 2015 The first major run of the year took place around mid-Bedfordshire and was based at the Knife and Cleaver, Houghton Conquest. We filled the car park very quickly and then took to lining the village road before using side streets to park the 25 club cars in attendance. A great turnout and all the cars seemed to have had their Spring clean. The drive circled the famous Cardington airship hangars and the took people through a miriad of small villages blooming for Springtime. Even though it was “local” to many section members, several commented that the route took them to villages and along roads that they did not know. After a 35 mile run and, luckily, no lost vehicles, everyone re-convened at the Knife and Cleaver for a traditional Sunday lunch for the 58 members present. As a celebration of St George, Steven made a short speech about the many patronages of St George and delivered an amusing poem telling the English to celebrate their Englishness. After lunch, Chairman Derek Freeman, awarded Steven and Mia the St George’s trophy “for services rendered to the section”. A great start to the driving season was had by all.
Steven Murray
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A crowd gathers outside the Knife & Cleaver
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The Paulerspury Section in Constable Country - Dedham, Essex It is no surprise that thousands of visitors flock each year to Constable Country on the Suffolk/Essex border. This enchanting area, surrounding the tranquil River Stour, features not just the glorious scenery which inspired John Constable, but also a cluster of quaintly pretty villages, towns and hamlets. The scenes Constable immortalised in his paintings are all about in the valley, and although most of the old river mills are gone, the pastoral landscapes with their distance churches remain. The Journey to Dedham - Sunday 17th May We stayed on our boat moored on the Suffolk coast for a couple of days prior to the Rally, so the journey to Dedham took only half-an-hour. We left the boat in mixed weather with some dark clouds looming and were the first to arrive at the Maison Talbooth. An uneventful journey, although parts of the A12 were cordoned off, which caused a few problems for some of our guests. The first guests to arrive were our Chairman and his lady in their ‘everyday’ car. Unfortunately, the Silver Cloud had failed to proceed, Derek having been given instructions by Ray Hillier not to drive the car. It then took Derek and Chris about halfan-hour to raise the section flag – moving our Sereph hither and thither until finally they hit on the right spot for it. By that time the weather had much improved with sunshine no less, so we sat on the veranda and ordered drinks. It wasn’t long before we were joined by all our guests and much hugging and laughing ensued. The Maison set out a wonderful afternoon tea for us, after which some went for a snooze and a gaggle of us decided to have a dip in the swimming pool. The pool is kept at a constant 90 degrees and was an absolute joy to enter. Some of us snoozed on the loungers and it wasn’t long before we all decided to get into the hot tub and it was very cosy! Proscecco was opened and it felt quite decadent sitting there in the sun laughing and joshing with each other. After a few more lengths of the pool, it was time to unpack and get ready for dinner. We gathered for a champagne reception (where would the Paulerspury Section be without it) before sitting down to a delicious four course dinner with some lovely wines, after which port and malts were consumed whilst tales were told about what we had all been getting up to before meeting up at the Rally. And then to bed, eagerly anticipating the next morning’s excursion. Flatford Mill & Alfred Munnings Art Museum - Monday, 18 May We arrived in pouring rain for our tour around Flatford Mill. We met our guide Richard Brown who admired our cars saying he himself was a proud owner of a 1934 Wolsey. John Constable was born in 1776 in East Bergholt (the house no longer exists as it was burnt down and not replaced). He was the son of a miller and one of six children, educated in Dedham and worked for his father at Flatford Mill. He loved sketching and painting. He went to Grammer School in Lavenham. He continued to paint and in 1799 John went to London to the Royal Academy School. He met Maria Bignall and married at St. Martins in the Fields. Unfortunately she died very young. Paulerspury People - Summer 2015
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Our guide Richard showed us the places where Constable would have sat at Flatford Mill sketching and painting showing us how the scenes have changed in present day. Some of his paintings took up to six months to complete. Richard moved us around quickly as it was raining heavily. We saw Bridge House and the Mill built in 1764 and Valley Farm with a buttery that contained beer! Thanking our guide we left Flatford Mill very cold and wet and took a short drive to the Garden Café at the Munnings Art Museum for lunch. We soon thawed out and enjoyed beautifully made canapes and quiches with salad for lunch. A delight! Afterwards we were shown into Sir Alfred Munnings studio where we could see some of his sculptures, his painting palette, brushes, paints and smock and his last painting. We were then shown around Castle House, an elegant Tudor and Georgian building with a circular morning room in 40 acres of countryside in Dedham Vale, the former home of Sir Alfred born 8 October 1878, second son of John Munnings, Miller of Mendham, Suffolk. He showed artistic talent from an early age, attended Norwich School of Art while apprenticed to Page Brothers as a poster artist in Norwich. In 1898 his painting of Stranded was hung in the Royal Academy, being the first of 230 pictures to be hung there up to 1949. He returned to Mendham where he had his first studio. He lost the sight of his right eye at the age of 20, was sent to France as an official war artist in 1918. He married in 1920 Mrs Violet McBride a young widow and horse woman, having purchased Castle House (the house of his dreams) in 1919 where he lived until his death in 1959. Sir Alfred Munnings became a commercial artist and sculpter. He hated modern art. He learnt techniques from other great painters such as Velasquez, Rembrandt, Gainsborough, Reynolds, Vermeer, Constable and a host of others. His sculptures were mainly of horses and he did five bronzes for Sir Harold Wernher of Brown Jack, one of which is placed each year for Ascot week in the Royal Enclosure. His ashes are interred in St Paul’s Cathedral placed next to John Constable. We drove back to the hotel but, unfortunately, the weather wasn’t nice enough to swim in the pool, although some intrepids did go in. So we drank tea in the lounge, read the newspapers and some snuck off for an afternoon nap whilst others went to clean their cars. Another champagne reception (life gets tedious doesn’t it?) followed by a delicious dinner and more laughing and joshing with each other. The Maison Talbooth is such a comfortable hotel, it was easy to fall asleep and then slope off for an early night hoping noone had noticed. Hawker Restorations - Tuesday, 19 May Driving through the idyllic lanes in Suffolk you could be forgiven for thinking that the only industry was farming and the occasional micro brewery. You would be so wrong if you happened to be driving around Milden, as hidden away is the only company capable of restoring Hawker Hurricane WW2 fighters. As well as this they rebuild WW1 planes, and some of the most iconic racing cars ever made. I’ll never look at another innocent hedge the same way again! Paulerspury People - Summer 2015
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Tony Ditheridge and David Wenman run an incredibly skilled group of craftsmen undertaking precision engineering and construction on the highly complex Hurricane. Simply a joy to see and be around. Tony introduced himself to us and gave us a potted history of the company and some of the planes and cars they had worked on before we went on to the shop floor. Amongst the planes they had rebuilt was a Vickers Vimmy WW1 bomber (as used by the Wright brothers to make the first Atlantic crossing) and a Bristol plane for Pinochet who was so pleased he ordered 3 more! As well as completing the restoration of most of the 11 Hurricanes still flying. We then went on to the crowded shop floor in the racing car section of the facility. This was started in 2010 stemming from Tony and David’s love of racing cars. Waiting for restoration and undergoing restoration and rebuilding were an array of legendary and rather valuable racing cars including a Lister Jaguar which took over from the iconic ‘D’ type Jaguar. A BMW 328, made from new, 2 ‘C’ type Jaguars one a perfect in every detail replica and the second awaiting a complete rebuild, and a Bristol very successfully driven by Peter Mann, a Cooper, a 2 litre rear engine car awaiting a complete rebuild, a replica Aston Martin DB4 a South African Cooper Bristol and a Cooper T45 which had the engine in the back. Apparently this car was often crashed but was easy to repair. That’s alright then! To cap it all there was a Ford Mustang. A sobering thought but we had all just walked past 4 or 5 million pounds worth of machinery. We thought our cars were valuable. We then walked over to the large sheds where the Hurricanes were being worked on. There are 2 Hurricanes currently being restored which gave us the opportunity to see the immensely intricate work that goes into the making of the plane, and the sheer presence of an almost completed plane minus its wings, which are almost ready. G-HITT was built in 1940 and was originally a MK1 but was later converted to a MK2. It took part in the battle of Britain and was piloted by Pilot Officer W M C Samolinski who claimed a kill. The plane eventually went to Russia where it was shot down and after the war it languished in a barn until being returned to England. G-HITT is about 60% completed, which allowed us to see the construction of the fuselage. Designed by Sydney Cam and following on from the Hart biplane it incorporated a lot of the same construction techniques i.e. wooden formers and wooden stringers, Irish linen hand stitched and doped. Sydney Cam continued to use bracing and construction techniques which required very tight tolerances on holes of 0.0005" with ferrules and rivets making a very strong joint. There was no welding. Given that there are hundreds of joints, production of the planes took many hours. The wings were being manufactured in the second shed and required square tubing formed from circular tubing each square spar filed to an exact length to ensure a perfect fit. In the second shed was G-ROBT. Built in 1940 it was a MK1. It did not see action in the Battle of Britain as it was shot down over Dunkirk and crash landed on the beach. The pilot was shot in the shoulder but still attempted to burn the aircraft, but was unsuccessful. It remained on the beach slowly being buried in the sand until discovered by French enthusiasts and finally returned to England after being swopped for a Messerschmitt Me 109. Interestingly the pilot visited Tony to see his old plane and was given one of the two bullets fired into the cockpit over Dunkirk, which had been retrieved from the superstructure. One of which hit him in the shoulder and passed through, the other narrowly missing him. G-ROBT is about 95% complete with the Paulerspury People - Summer 2015
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wings completed and stored in the first shed. The Merlin engine was fitted along with the three bladed propeller, the size of which surprised me. The Hurricane was the first fighter with a retractable undercarriage. A rather complicated design. The air intake situated under the fuselage is also complicated such that it costs about the same as a small bungalow! The fuselage is covered with Irish linen and doped. This made the plane a lot simpler to repair in the heat of battle. It was also a far easier plane to re-arm and refuel than the Spitfire. A Hurricane could be turned round in about 10 minutes, whereas the Spitfire took nearly 30 minutes and was more complicated to repair bullet holes. We then went to yet another shed containing a nice little collection of cars comprising an XK120 racer, MG TF, Jaguar ‘E’ type racing car and a beautiful aluminium bodied car based on the ‘E’ type with gull wing doors which will be absolutely stunning, and to cap it off a Frazer Nash (I won’t mention the ride on mower!) Just when we thought that there were no more surprises in store we were then led into another shed where a SE5A was being rebuilt. This was considered to be the finest fighter in use in WW1, one of which shot down the legendary Barron von Richthofen, the Red Barron. A pair of original wings have been located and are stored in the shed. New wings are being built however. The plane is being rebuilt using spruce and ash as original. Apparently it had a ceiling of 17,000 feet, with no oxygen provided for the crew. The plane is some way from being completed though Tony said that with four of them on it they could make one in about 9 months. That was the last surprise and ended our visit. It is so heart warming to see such skill in practice. The sadness is that there are no apprentices coming through to take over the reins, so such facilities as this have a defined lifespan. Tony commented that there would probably be no more that 20 Hurricanes ever rebuilt, as the skills will die with Hawker Restorations. I do hope his prediction is not proved correct and that craftsmen will be found to continue preserving pieces of Britain’s history. To Tony and David we are indebted to you both for allowing us to spend the morning with you and your craftsmen. Back to the Maison for a welcome cuppa, put our feet up and them down for the final champagne reception (not again, I hear you say) followed by another sumptuous dinner. However, it wouldn’t be the Paulerspury Section if we didn’t make paper aeroplanes and then fling them all over the place on our last evening. The Maison kindly produced a cup – a fine trophy for the person who designed the most innovative paper aeroplane. The Manager of the hotel chose the winning plane and it belonged to none other than Audrey Nightingale. Well done to Audrey, her plane truly was innovative in design but, unfortunately, belly flopped on its maiden flight! After breakfast on Wednesday we all parted company with happy smiling faces and from the thank you cards and emails we received, it would appear to be the best staged Rally in a while. Everything gelled, the friends who came, the hotel, and above all its staff. The Maison excelled itself with the food and wine – such quality and choice. Nothing was too much trouble for them and we were all sorry to leave and return home. During the Rally over £200 was raised for the Chairman’s Charity, the Macmillan Nurses, and also a generous collection at Hawker Restorations was made for a little known genetic condition called the Fragile X Syndrome, which causes a range of developmental problems including learning disabilities and cognitive impairment. Tony Ditheridge’s (the owner of Hawker Restorations) only daughter suffers from the condition. Paulerspury People - Summer 2015
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Our heartfelt thanks to all our guests who supported us and came on the Rally. You were a great lot to be around and we have so many fond memories of our three days in Constable Country. Our thanks also go to Sylvia Freeman and Mike Martin for their terrific write-ups for Flatford Mill/Munnings and the visit to Hawker Restorations respectively. Finally, we include a poem that perfectly encapsulates the beautiful area we visited. Constable Country, lush and greenFamous landscapes, to be seenThe River Stour, in gentle flowThrough Flatford hamlet, don’t you knowWilly lotts, the Hay WainBoat building painted, down the laneWalk the bridge, into open fieldsThe changing light, this sky yieldsShimmering leaves, on wispy treesSwaying gently, in the breezeWalkers, riders, boaters tooLiving vistas, for me and you.Charming villages, all aroundThat moving church, to be foundA timeless place, a favourite of mineCaught on canvas, for all time.
Cars outside the Maison
The Hurricane being rebuilt
Chris and Linda Ball
Revellers in the jacuzzi
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Broadwell House Driving Day and Picnic - Sunday 28th June 2015 Many Section Members attended what we later learned was to be, the very last Broadwell House Driving Day. Our hosts, Adrian and Linda Denham welcomed everyone to their home and a bunch of willing volunteers gently marshalled us in to some form of parking order. The day commenced with a cup of tea or coffee on the lawn and a bit of banter with friends and members of some other sections. Soon after could be seen an array of picnic equipment, tables, chairs and food being laid out behind most cars. The weather had not been good en route but had decided to brighten up for us. As well as the Rolls-Royce and Bentley motor cars, there was a good selection of other classic cars in attendance and even a Field Marshall tractor! As is usual, after lunch a tongue in cheek time trial commences around a carefully laid out course in the next field. Very soon there was a line up of competitors ready to battle for the prize of the day, a beautiful shining trophy, The Broadwell Bowl which had been presented originally by Alan and Linda Wilks. The course involves some careful driving on slippery grass against the clock, with various challenges to be completed, such as driving into straw bale ‘garages’, reversing back in to another whilst your navigator jumps out to place a ball in a bucket! Penalties are accrued for failing to enter the garages fully, knocking down posts or cones and failing to get your balls in the bucket. Times for clear rounds are recorded at the start/finish point, where competitors can been seen casually looking at the board from the corner of their eyes to see if they are in with a chance. Many were of course but in the harsh world of Broadwell House Motor Sport, there can only be one winner. There is no second prize. I am delighted to
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Greta Petrie gets disqualified for not having a navigator
Bert was wrong and Barry Gallafent is awarded the Broadwell Bowl
announce that the winner of the Broadwell Bowl in the R-R & B Class for the final time in the event history was… me! The Section offers its sincere thanks to both Adrian and Linda for hosting and organising this superb event which, whilst allowing everyone to have a bit of fun and laughter on the day, it raised £1,687.85 for the Air Ambulance Service.
Barry Gallafent
Kimbolton Country Fayre – Sunday 12th July 2015 What is the definition of a classic car? Well if the eclectic mix of cars parked in the magnificent grounds of Kimbolton Castle are anything to go by, it’s just about anything. Whilst waiting to turn into the entrance a veritable caterpillar of Audi A2’s swept across in front of us with another row already lined up and waiting to enter the field. This model, made for just a few years, has already become a classic in its own right simply because of its relative obscurity, driveability and the fact that all of the owners we met said it was fun. Effectively that’s what our hobby is about, fun. Driving, admiring, like minded conversation and the pursuit of fun in our chosen cars. On Sunday, there was everything from our Rolls-Royce and Bentleys, Jaguars, Aston Martins, Ferraris, Rovers, BMW’s, Citroens, Minis, Fords of every shape and size, modern classics such as a line of Renault Clio V6’s, through to Hillman Imps, the Commer Imp van (how many of you remember them?) and myriad other cars of every make and model. Paulerspury People - Summer 2015
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Walking around I found myself saying “I remember those” or “I had one of those” or mostly “I wish I’d bought one of those!” The weather wasn’t entirely kind on Sunday but I really didn’t want to leave. Events like Kimbolton remind you that classic cars are a hobby without social barriers. It is just a shared love of cars, what they look like, what they stand for, the history, and sometimes it’s just the memories that a certain make or model of car rekindle. If you stopped by any car on Sunday, every owner had the time to chat to you about their car. How refreshing in this ‘can’t spare a minute’ world. The Paulerspury Section had a great turnout of cars (18) and I for one enjoyed seeing the wheeled equivalent of the USS Nimitz of which I had heard so much about, namely Danny Yates’ Cadillac. Seldom have a row of our cars looked so understated. I think we really should christen it ‘The Aircraft Carrier’. Thanks to Danny and Val for organising what, for me, was an unexpectedly brilliant day.
Ray Hillier
One side of our line up
Lord Robartes reprobates
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Formal Notice The Annual General Meeting of the RREC Paulerspury Section will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday 6th December 2015 at Corner 5 Restaurant, Box End Park, Box End Rd, Bedford MK43 8RQ Agenda 1. Welcome 2. Apologies for absence 3. Minutes of the AGM December 2014 4. Chairman’s Report 5. Treasurers Report 6. Approval of the Accounts 7. Matters or Motions for discussion or determination (as previously notified to the secretary) 8. Election of the Committee Current members standing for re-election:Derek Freeman, Stephen Dolan, Janet Dolan, Kathryn Martin, Barry Gallafent and Karen Hillier Information Pertaining to the AGM and Election of Committee Members Any Motion – for discussion or determination at the AGM, must be duly proposed and seconded by Section Members and submitted to the Section Secretary at least 42 days before the AGM. Nomination Forms – are enclosed with this edition of the Paulerspury People. These must be completed and returned to the Section Secretary by Noon on Sunday 25th October 2015. The Section Committee – will comprise not less than four and not more than seven elected Section Members. Paulerspury People - Summer 2015
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Definition of a Paulerspury Section Member – a Section Member is a member of the RREC whose dues have been paid for the current year (or be a life member) or a New Member who has registered with the Paulerspury Section within the last twelve months. Note 1 – In accordance with Clause 4.4 of the Rules for Sections dated 30th March 2015, in the event there being more nominations than places, members attendingthe AGM will be balloted at the time. Note 2 – Ballot Papers will only be issued to Section Members producing a valid membership card on the day and whom the Membership Co-ordinator can confirm is duly registered as a Section Member. Note 3 – In accordance with Clause 3.7 of the Rules for Sections dated 30th March 2015, if a Section member is unable to attend an AGM in person, that Section member in writing may appoint the Chairman of the meeting as his or her proxy in accordance with the details set out in the AGM Time Summary. Such a proxy shall direct the Chairman how the proxy vote is to be cast in respect of EACH item on the agenda on which a vote will be taken. All original duly signed proxy forms must be available for inspection for the whole duration of the meeting by any Section member present andunless it is available, it will not count as a valid vote. An instrument appointing a proxy shall be in the same format as used for the AGM of the Club or which the Section Committee shall approve. Nominations for the Paulerspury Section Committee 2016 – are invited from members who wish to serve on the committee with effect from the AGM on 6th December 2015 Nominees Should Note That 1. Existing Committee Members if willing to stand, will be deemed to be nominated. 2. A Nomination Form is enclosed with this edition of the PP. 3. Nominees, Proposers and Seconders must comply with the definition of a Paulerspury Section Member (above). 4. Forms must be completed in full, signed and returned to the Secretary in a sealed envelope, clearly marked ‘Nomination Form’. 5. It is the responsibility of the Nominee to ensure safe arrival of the form with the Secretary before Noon on Sunday 25th October 2015. Paulerspury People - Summer 2015
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Future Events Diary Wednesday 5th August 2015 Classics on Croxley Green Venue: Croxley Green, Rickmansworth, WD3 3NH Organisers: Steve and Janet Dolan Booking Form Enclosed Sunday 16th August 2015 Summer Picnic with City Barge Venue: Sandhurst Military College This year we have been invited to join The Oxford (Founders) & Thames Valley Section and their friends at City Barge for a Summer Picnic which is being held at The Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst. Organisers: Steve and Janet Dolan liaising with Oxford Founders and Thames Valley Sections Saturday 26th September 2015 New Lodge Vineyard Venue: Earls Barton, Northants, NN6 0HF Organiser: Karen Hillier Booking Form Enclosed
Saturday 26th September 2015 Lunch at Ansty Hall Venue: Ansty Hall, Nr Coventry, CV7 9HZ Organiser: Jeff Dennis (East Midlands Section) Booking Form Enclosed Thursday 5th November 2015 Siemens Train Depot Visit **SOLD OUT** Sunday 15th November 2015 Bedfordshire Sunday Lunch Venue: The Barns Hotel, Cardington Road, Bedford, MK44 3SA Organiser: Kathy Martin Booking Form Enclosed Sunday 6th December 2015 AGM and Christmas Lunch Venue: Corner 5 Restaurant, Box End Park, Kempston, Beds, MK43 8RQ Organisers: Barry and Ruth Gallafent Menu and cost TBC
Tuesday 29th September Thames Barge Trip Venue: Ipswich Organisers: Derek and Sylvia Freeman Sunday 4th October 2015 Autumn Amble Venue: Verulam Golf Club, 226 London Road, St.Albans, Herts. AL1 1JG Organiser: Peter Kingaby Booking Form Enclosed Saturday 10th October Silverstone Circuit - Behind the Scenes ** SOLD OUT** Paulerspury People - Summer 2015
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Paulerspury Section Committee Chairman Derek Freeman (Sylvia) The Plantation, Village Road Bromham, MK43 8LL Tel: 01234 823255 (Home) Mobile: 07836 715351 derek.freeman@rrecpaulerspury.org.uk chairman@rrecpaulerspury.org.uk
Secretary Steve Dolan (Janet) The Old Stables Heathencote, Northants, NN12 7LE Tel: 01327 351460 Mob: 07739 848368 steve.dolan@rrecpaulerspury.org.uk secretary@rrecpaulerspury.org.uk
Editor Barry Gallafent (Ruth) 222b Wolverton Road Blakelands Milton Keynes, MK14 5AB Tel: 01908 216804 Mobile: 07785 398271 barry.gallafent@rrecpaulerspury.org.uk editor@rrecpaulerspury.org.uk Karen Hillier (Ray) Mob: 07881 802904 karen.hillier@rrecpaulerspury.org.uk
Treasurer Kathryn Martin (Mike) Tel: 01234 714092 kathryn.martin@rrecpaulerspury.org.uk treasurer@rrecpaulerspury.org.uk
Attention Smart Phone Users Scan either of these QR codes to find out more about what the section is up to.
Events Coordinator Janet Dolan (Steve) Address: See Steve Dolan above Tel: 01327 351460 Mob: 07841 989608 janet.dolan@rrecpaulerspury.org.uk events@rrecpaulerspury.org.uk
Section Website
Standard Terms & Conditions of Entry I declare that during the whole period of this event, my entries will be covered by the full third party risks. I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the organisers of this event from any claim for any damage and personal injury caused by my vehicle(s) or driver(s) thereof whilst taking part in this event or journeying to and from this event. I also agree to produce the insurance documents and MOT certificate if so required. There will be a working fire extinguisher in my car. The Small Print Please be aware that any payments made should not be viewed as refundable as there is often a need to make payments in advance to secure bookings. Event organisers will do their best to facilitate cancellations but this is not always possible. Paulerspury People - Summer 2015
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