NEWS @ NENE
Autumn 2014
Nene V alley Chapter
Chapter No. 9946
DIRECTORS DRIBBLE
Autumn 2014
I sit here writing this dribble looking out at horrendous weather. The change has been pretty dramatic this year, but at least there was plenty of dry weather for all the ride outs, rallies and events that people have been on this year. I managed to get out on a few short ride outs this year to see how the Op held out. At the moment the Ace and back is about the most I can manage. Need to improve a bit more as heading over to Ypres on 1st October with a return the following day. That's still 5 weeks off so should be ok. This years riding season so far has been pretty packed with a number of trips abroad also taking place. It is amazing how over the years people seem to get more and more adventurous. Back in 2003 to go to Barcelona for the 100th anniversary of Harley Davidson was a pretty big thing. Now some members seem to be heading off into Europe 2 or 3 times a year, along with those that travel further afield. Over the last month Pat and I have attended two rallies, firstly our rally which was once again attended by a large number of chapters and was also over subscribed which is a good thing. This is a credit to the Rally committee who once again organised a chilled out weekend for all. It was just a shame that there was not more of our own members there, but hey ho those that were had a great time. Second rally we attended was Thunder in the Glens which on the whole was a dry weekend. The weekend was great fun and many stories to be told (well most anyway). It was great catching up with old friends and also great to spend some time with Jean Davidson and her son Jon (grand daughter and great grandson of Walter Davidson ,founder of Harley Davidson). It would have been good to go up on the bike, but as mentioned earlier it was a bridge too far. The votes for the charity for the next two years have been counted, and although not many people voted the outright winner was the Air Ambulance, which although we will be supporting I hope no members have the need to use it.
As mentioned at the AGM, to inject new ideas and blood onto the committee I asked if there was anyone interested in taking on any of the roles within the committee. To date I have only had one person approach me, but I am sure there have been a number of conversations had over a beer or two about different positions within the committee. I understand that there are those that just like to ride and party with the club, which is great, but I'm also aware that there are some that would like to be more active in the running of Nene Valley. If you are one of the latter please make yourself known. There is a wealth of experience to guide and mentor you if necessary.
Martin
For Novembers Club night Jamie from Euro camp (they have organised the St Tropez trip for 2015 for us) will be coming along to give us a talk which may hopefully give people options for trips in the future.
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Autumn 2014
Editor’s View Point That’s it – after 18 months planning it’s all over. 2210 miles of Californian twisties (with a little bit of straight here and there), temperatures of upto 107 deg and altitudes upto 8,000ft….. ‘Awesome’ as our American cousins often exclaimed. Time to plan another one ! Whilst we were away there was the Old Skool Rally – which by all accounts was another major success for Nene Valley. Well done to all those responsible for organising and running the rally this year. It’s been a while since our last magazine (AGM night) but there has been lots going on. However……. Please don’t shoot the Editor – but this issue contains nothing about the rally ! I am sure somebody had a camera, I’m sure someone must have been sober enough to remember most of what happened and write a short article about it – but if they did nothing came my way. Therefore I have nothing to put in this issue – apart from Jan Harter saving the day with a few pics – see back page. As I said, don’t shoot the Editor – I cannot be ever where at once, although I do try. In the last N@N I gave the story of my fast wearing rear tyre. The story has a footnote – thanks to eagle eyed Tal Taylor. When at Sulgrave Manor for the American Independence day ride, Tal had a look at the new replacement tyre and also being able to remember the tread pattern from my photo – said “I bet they fitted a front tyre on your rear”. As soon as I got home I check my past invoices for tyre replacement – and well done Tal they had. Photo evidence and part numbers were duly sent off by email Sunday and on Monday I had a very apologetic Service manager on to me with an instant refund on my credit card. Something liquid is winging its way to you Tal – many thanks. Back to our Californian tour – no articles or major pics this issue and the video is currently in production. However, a few insights into the group : Some liked to take their clothes off whenever I was around :
Some regressed to childlike behaviour :
Someone (Kevin) broke his bike (pic is of replacement arriving) And some slept like babes :
Big thanks to the Ladies this issue for their article contributions – Thank You: Sue Whiting, Gill Foster, Marilyn Knight & Rickie Anne Gee. The end of September sees me leaving my job of umpteen years. As I have already got a new job I will be working in Leicester so again I am too far away from the printers I have been using over the last year or so. So, I have to find another – but one close enough to allow me review the proof and to pick up the copies, and at a sensible cost. This may not be easy. So bear with me, we may have to live on eMags for a while…… …..UNLESS another member of the Chapter wishes to take on the Editor role. How about some new blood and ideas for the mag ? That will allow me to concentrate even more on the ride planning!
Cheers
Chris Lapsley, “Slow Hand” Editor Last date for contributions to the next mag Edition :
SAT 15th November 2014 email :- nenevalleyeditor@btinternet.com or phone me on 07709 205571 or 01455 450463
Nene Valley HOG Chapter (Editor) PO Box 9277 LEICESTER LE9 OBT
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Mikey’s Natter
Autumn 2014
Well it seems ages since I wrote my last natter but that’s because so much has happened. I last wrote just before the AGM and at that point said I might go on a last minute road trip to Switzerland. I did, I ended up leaving the morning after the AGM, which meant I missed the Independence Day ride and Carnival ride. It was an eventful few days with lots of learning curves, the Whilst I missed a weather that week at home was lovely, on my travels it was couple of rides that probably the worst weeks weather I have ever had to ride in. week, there has been lots of other stuff going on, I know Torrential rain and hailstones as big as gob stoppers, and we feared Groundhog had a great ride to the Cheddar Gorge and I really our tanks would get pepper damaged, it was such dangerous riding enjoyed the ride to the Gun Powder mills, really interesting. Also conditions we got off our bikes and hid under a wall with a ledge the Archery was a big hit and the High Peak Passes ride. Also whilst where a dear old Swiss lady took pity on us and made us a coffee. there was not many of us I enjoyed Bob’s ride half way round the We were dripping wet right onto her red tiled porch. For all our bi UK for an ice cream, and then the day before the big hols I lingual language meant we didn’t understand each other she did squeezed in going to Classics on the Common. grasp we were truly grateful. This was ongoing for the whole week, There has also been some great rallys; TITG, I also hear the new the sun came back out when we got to Folkestone…no longer can we assume the continent has the better weather. Welsh Magic Black Mountains rally was a success and one for us to think about for next year; and also a big well done to our rally team for The Old Skool rally which I am also hearing was a great success. Unfortunately we missed it as we were ‘California Dreamin’. This was the most amazing of trips and I said Becks was keeping a blog, which many of us did, so look out for lots of stories in future magazines, but here’s a couple of pics to whet the appetite.
We were going to visit a friends daughter in Saas Fee, and whilst we had booked the first night and the accommodation in Saas Fee, we decided to just book on route so we could be flexible in terms of miles…big mistake. It’s amazing that even in the small places accommodation was booked up, we did eventually find places but rather than take away from the stress as planned, it just added to it!!! Also on day 1, a couple of hours from the tunnel ( yes DAY 1) my mate came off his bike and his bike then decided to slide into mine. It’s not fixed yet and both of us were OK, but the lesson here is re insurance. You only get what you pay for!!! Whilst HOG insurance probably is a bit more expensive they have been excellent, in fact I cannot fault them. By the time you read this the bike should all be back to normal!!
Whilst I was just back and really suffering with jet lag I still managed to get to the Ace… as always the guy in the Mac was there and I learnt ( as I was cutting it fine) that with the reserve I get 210 miles out of a full tank Lots more riding still to be done…unfortunately as you will have read I had to cancel the Dads Army Museum ride even though I had spent lots of time with them, visited,
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Mikey’s Natter
Autumn 2014
Also keep your eye open for a mystery ride… can’t say much more than that as it’s a mystery. Also the rally season is still in full flow, I am going to Circus Maximus ( Deva Legion) visiting my old Sportster Black Pearl, at a new location on the Horseshoe Pass and I will report back. Talking of rallies, please, please, please let me know or nominate someone to take a list and make sure you are on it. I found myself looking at facebook to work agreed a plan, at the last minute they decided to postpone us to a out who was where. So don’t moan at me 5 weeks later if you have later date. It’s not that they didn’t want us to come, the museum is not got your points tally right. growing in popularity and the numbers have been increasing, they didn’t quite realise also that the Thetford Fair and the World War 1 It won’t be long either before we start thinking about planning next events this year would add to the popularity and therefore they year, so please feedback on this year’s rides and ideas for next year would like us to come at the beginning or end of the season, so we are more than welcome. Drop me an email on will do this. mike@maivers7.freeserve.co.uk. We already have some ideas and planning up our sleeves but we really want your ideas so don’t Other rideouts coming up are: be shy!!! Neils Ring of Fire Ride ( it’s a curry not walking on hot coals…!!) In the meantime have fun and ride safe BridgeNorth ( Food Stop café) Mikey Mikey Mikey Ace Café Harley Night HRC The chapters at its best when it rides RTTW return
Chris Fawcett ‘Jedi’ Email : chris@chris57.plus.com 07964 775677 Mike Sharp mt.sharp@btinternet.com 07748 913326
Becky Ivers ‘Becks’ becky@reivers7.freeserve.co.uk 07901 716385
Andrew ‘Pasty’ Pugsley aafr43@yahoo.co.uk 07971 903581
Neil ‘The Ambassador’ Harrison njharrison47@gmail.com 07810 870167
Bob ‘The Bus’ Rhoades hdvrod@btinternet.com 07817 700958
Rickie Anne Gee Email : molly.g224@btinternet.com
07969 809662
Head Road Captain Mike ‘Mikey’ Ivers mike@maivers7.freesere.co.uk
07950 947681
Chris Lapsley ‘Slow Hand’ c.lapsley@ntlworld.com 07709 205571
Mick Gray ‘Badger’ badgermick@virginmedia.com 07946 299447
Chris Ringer
Mike Waklein – ‘Groundhog’ mikewakelin@fsmail.net 07989 975444
cringer@virginmedia.com
07897 729749
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Ladies of Harley Officer
Autumn 2014
It has been quite a busy couple of months with no mag in between. We had a good rally last month which was well attended and the weather remained dry if not as warm as it had been in July. The ride out on Saturday morning saw about 30 bikes set off for The Long Itch Diner where we enjoyed a drink and a natter with old friends and new.
Back in July, I think I can safely say, my archery event was enjoyed by those who attended with a few commenting that it should be repeated. Could we really be so lucky with the weather again? The day was certainly very hot. The route to Edlesborough was a wiggle through various villages, new to some.
There were some very interesting and varied costumes on the Saturday night reflecting the vast possibilities with this year’s theme of Movie Characters.
Big thanks to the team who always put a lot of effort into this, it is really appreciated.
Mike and his team at Silver Arrow Archery greeted everyone upon our arrival and kitted everyone out with arm guards, bows and arrows and sorted us into teams. We were given a few practice shots with instructions on how to actually hit a target successfully (and safely) then we started scoring each team’s efforts at the variety of targets. There were targets on a “boss”, with the multicoloured circles associated with archery, along with a deer, a hog and a rabbit – plastic models of course. Each team had a go at every target twice, the second time with different distances to contend with. Afterwards we all rode off to the pub nearby for a hearty lunch and an announcement of the final result of the shooting. You can see by the photos how the winning team managed to win, they were very accurate with their arrows.
Congratulations Rickie and the two Mikes.
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Ladies of Harley Officer
Autumn 2014
time. Thanks to Bob for waiting with me – déjà vu I think. Northants VTwin later collected it and my credit card complained as I had a knackered battery and faulty regulator to pay for. I think the regulator must have been failing for some time as the bike is now riding much more smoothly than it has for a while.
The week before we were treated to The Secret Island Ride by Mike Sharp. It was another very hot day but we took a leisurely landtrain ride around the site – actually a trailer full of seats pulled by a tractor – and were educated as to the history of the buildings when the site was producing the various explosives including those used in the bouncing bomb.
It wasn’t all plain sailing though, there were a couple of lost arrows: The full range of pictures is now on the new website, up and running thanks to the efforts of Scot. The day for me ended rather abruptly; we had stopped at the American Diner at Old Stratford to say our goodbyes before going our separate ways. As everyone rode off my bike said “No, that’s enough, not going any further.” A call to HOG Assist got me home fairly quickly – the diner was a good place to have to wait on a hot day though, with ice cream and a cold drink to while away the
Earlier in the month on 13th July my alarm was set for silly o’clock (for a Sunday morning in the Harter household anyway) as Groundhog had arranged an early start for his Cheddar Gorge ride. He had said it was not for the faint hearted, it being a pretty long journey, but I was really looking forward to it. I had been up early the day before as well, to go to the Hampton Court Flower Show, a day of scorching heat and long traffic jams on the way there. With an evening meal at Hampton afterwards I’d arrived home well after midnight so as soon as I was up on Sunday I thought I’d first better check my email to make sure the iffy forecast for Sunday and the grey start to the day had not meant a cancellation. No, there was a global mail from our Editor to say it was definitely on so all hard ass riders were to be at Jacks for the 9.00am departure. So this hard ass biker chick got into the shower, dressed, makeup on and out of the house in record time.
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Ladies of Harley Officer There was quite a good turnout at Jack’s although only three hard ass pillions in the form newbie Jules, Gillian the Pillion, and the long suffering Mrs Ringer of course. We set off promptly and hadn’t gone far when the heavens opened. Groundhog, bless him, stopped in a layby so we could all quickly don our wet gear. That sorted we set off again and within a couple of minutes the rain stopped, never to start again apart from a few spits, although it was grey for most of the ride there. The route was a very enjoyable one though and we entered Cheddar riding down through the spectacular gorge. We parked up, sorted out our food and drinks in the café and sat in the garden to enjoy it, along with the usual good banter that is the norm on a Nene Valley outing. With my reputation for shopping I’d resisted walking down to purchase cheese but the loo (always required before setting off on any leg of a ride) just happened to be next to an interesting shop with a huge teddy outside. I was doubtful about whether it would fit on my bike but Richard Smith and Neil the Ambassasor, who’d just come out of the gents, were insistent I’d manage somehow. With a black plastic sack and some string scrounged from the lady in the shop, plus a luggage net that Neil scrounged from Sharpie, the men and I managed to get it secured to my sissy bar, just in time for the setoff towards home again. We started back up the gorge this time in sunshine. No wet gear required for this half of the day. The riding was good, fast in places and for the most part with us all keeping together. So thank you one and all for the company, Chris and Mike for the tailing and particularly Mike for organising this epic ride; it was a very good day.
Autumn 2014
a) more raffle prizes and raffle tickets b) to assist with some of our events for example it paid for the cream tea ride, the parking charges at Rutland Water, and the archery event was slightly subsidised. c) donations to the rally tombola, raising money for Keech Hospice d) engraving the LOH trophy and flowers to go with the LOH trophy at the Awards Night e) skittles event prizes f) assistance with the cost of the Awards Night Thanks to some donated prizes from members, plus freebies I’ve managed to get hold of, the funds are looking quite healthy at the moment so I will be adding to the first donation Nene Valley makes to our new charity.
I am sure we are all hoping the much cooler and wetter weather experienced in August is not the onset of autumn as some have been saying but just a blip and that the next 2 or 3 months still gives us plenty of enjoyable riding.
Take care. Jan
And the teddy? He will have made his appearance as a raffle prize by the time you are reading this.
On the subject of the raffle I thought it might be an idea to talk about that this month. The purpose of it is simply to provide a bit of entertainment at our club nights. I try to make the prizes as varied as possible in order to keep everyone interested. I have Harley related prizes as much as I can but that involves a trip to a dealership which I don't often do so I stock up on Harley goods when I am in a dealership and spread them out over a few club nights. I have an alcoholic prize every time as that is always popular. I also have specifically girlie things sometimes to interest our lady members. Then I add some general items that I find when I am out and about, particularly if I find some bargains. With regard to the money that comes in It is used for:
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The Other ‘A Trip to the Netherlands’
Autumn 2014
Note : This article from Sue should be read in conjunction with Paul Whiting’s article printed in the June/July Q2 2014 N@N heading “Oh the Joy of Biking !” Editor.
I would like to set the record straight about an article that appeared in the magazine regarding the adventurous trip to Holland; I WAS THERE ALSO. I read the article and found it very interesting except for the fact that I was there as the passenger (pussy pillion as my husband refers); although there was very little reference to me.
We did eventually reach our destination and had a jolly good time visiting our friends who lived near the beach and some interesting places. There were lots of windmills, both new and old, along the way and although the country is very flat the scenery was interesting in many places.
I did just want to emphasise to those who read the earlier Whereas the story was wholly factual and the timescales article that I was there and that he had not gone off on his quoted were correct. What it failed to mention was that I had ‘Girlie’ bike, even though it is a Harley Davidson, on his own. to race to Newmarket for the crank positioning sensor along with my extremely stressed husband as I had to drive from Sue Whiting. Northampton V Twin. It also did not convey that I had been at work and also had not eaten all day. I then had to rush home, after leaving hubby, at NVT to pack everything and shower ready for the conquering hero to return and start the charge to Harwich. Yes there was an element of chilling out once we arrived at the boat decided to eat and indulge in some alcohol. The boats both on the outward and homeward journey were fantastic and good value. However having to take the top bunk as Shrek could not possibly climbed up there and fit in the space provided was not a problem. As soon as the occupant below turned off the TV he must have started dreaming that we were in a fog bank out at sea, because, he gave off the loudest fog warnings that could emanate from a person; he does insist that he does not snore. Nothing I could do, including throwing my shoe at him (climbing the ladder hurts my feet so I took my shoes with me) trying to hit him with my pillow, would shut him up; I was however confident that the boat would not collide with anything in else the North Sea. The original article mentioned that at times the Bluetooth got hot. Well I was at the receiving end of the innumerable expletives that filtered through the airwaves when roadworks blocked our planned route and left us floundering for a direction. This did calm a smidge once the correct road was found and we headed in the right direction. However normal service resumed pretty quickly when we had missed the turn off the motorway and ended up in the centre of Amsterdam; got to say what a lovely place. Needless to say my contribution to any conversation at this time was not welcomed.
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WW1 – Oxford & Bucks
Autumn 2014
Note : At this poignant time I would like to thank Gill for this memory from a soldiers perspective of life in the trenches. Editor.
marched four miles to the Railway Station and got into some cattle trucks on a five hour journey. Following this we had to march 10 miles; we’d had nothing to eat since Aldershot. The following was brought into work a few years ago by a Next day we arrived at Rest Camp; Bully Beef & biscuits was neighbour of Harry Lee (a Bedworth lad who told her his the only food. We moved on and found we were at Cloth memoirs and she transcribed them). He'd recently died and Hall, Ypres, and then into trenches where we were tear as he had no living heirs she was having to clear out his home. gassed. She thought the article would be of interest to the pupils but at 711 years of age it was considered to be too old for them All four of us were still together. to understand. When I read it I realised that it mentioned my Great Uncle Jim Cassidy and so I asked if I could keep it. She Next day we went to the front line. There had been a charge was pleased to let me have it. What a coincidence eh? a few days before and the dead lay around everywhere. Gill Foster There was a dead German with his head bashed in and the flies were going in & out like a beehive. You must know what it felt like to us young chaps that had never seen anyone It was 26.08.1914 and we were four young men in our early dead before. twenties from Nuneaton and Bedworth, Warwickshire. When night came we had to go and bury the dead, and the George Greenstreet, Jack Moulding, Jim Cassidy & me, Harry smell was very bad. It was midsummer and the smell was Lee. very bad. One said “Let’s join up; it won’t last long there are too many If you opened a tin of jam it was full of flies before you could countries involved.” We thought it would be a picnic but it turn around. We never got much to eat and only a cup of turned out to be a nightmare! water a day, and some of that tasted of petrol as it was brought in petrol tins. We all wanted to be together, so we joined the 5th Battalion, B Company, 14 Division, Oxford & Bucks Light Infantry and After a week we went back for what was supposed to be a next day we went to Oxford. rest, but at night we had to take rations up to the lads in the front line. That is how things went, in trenches for weeks and They gave us a blanket and we had to sleep on the floor with back for a few days, and lots getting killed and wounded. about forty other chaps. This went on for about two weeks and then they moved us to Camberley. We were put in Bell We were all covered in body lice by this time and we went Tents, thirteen in each. We were not allowed out as we had back to Poperinge for a bath in tubs, and there were irons to no uniform, rifle or cookhouse, all we had to eat was boiled iron the seams of our trousers to try and get rid of the lice, meat and bread & butter or jam. but it was hopeless. We were marching up and down about eight hours a day. It was now 30th July 1915 and we were in the trenches. After about two months we moved to Aldershot, and then we Jack Moulding and me in one bay and Jim Cassidy & George started to look like soldiers and received our uniform and Greenstreet in the next. About 4.00 am the Germans opened were allowed out. Our pay was 6d per day and there was up an attack, shells came flying in all directions and knocked plenty of hard training, marching and shooting on the rifle our trench in. range. Jack said “I’m hit.” He was wounded in the chest and I got Now they thought we were trained soldiers and ready to go out my field dressing and bandaged him up. George abroad. Greenstreet came round and said, “Harry, I am hit in the head and I think I have broken my arm.” Then the Germans sent We left Aldershot for France at 4.00 pm on Thursday over liquid fire over, and I think it was the only time it was 20.05.2014. We arrived in France at 10.00 pm and stayed in ever used. Boulogne until 2.00 am next morning. Then we were
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WW1 – Oxford & Bucks
Autumn 2014
One chap went funny and ran around shouting they are coming in thousands, and I said “Let the buggers come” but they never got to us.
there until it was light. When it was light we found a farmhouse and asked for a cup of coffee and a slice of bread; it cost us 1 franc.
I went to see George and Jack; they were in a dug out with a cigarette in their mouths. They got sent back to England but Jack died of his wounds. That left me & Jim.
In the end we got back and although I thought I was sure to be ill after what I had gone through, a rest during the day and a cleanup rendered me fit again.
About 3 weeks later the Officer came to me and said I had to go to a place called Proven on sentry duty, stopping people to see their passes. There were about 12 of us and we slept in the barn at a farmhouse. It was very nice but it was only to last for 6 weeks and then I had to go back to the trenches.
We were in the trenches when the Germans sent a trench mortar over. We could see it coming and shouted for everybody to get down but it dropped right in the trench and killed 6 and wounded 2 others. After this we were sent out draining the trenches and one of my mates got hit in the eye. I wondered how much longer my luck would last.
There were not many of my mates left, 800 of them had made a charge and 700 men and officers were killed. Jim got wounded and was sent back to Blighty although he was sent back to the front again. That left only me out of the four. Winter was coming on now so that made things worse. The trenches were full of water and we were issued with thigh boots; front line duty was limited to 3 days. I kept making new mates but they were then killed or wounded. One night we had to take the rations etc up to the forward lines. The trenches being full of water we had to go over the top and to guide us to our destination was a man aiming a cigarette with his back to the German lines. So we start in single file, the man in front was meant to know the way. It was pitch dark and we had gone about halfway when the Germans opened fire with machine guns mowing us down. One bullet hit the rifle of the chap in front of me and another went through my cap creasing my head so several of us jumped in the nearest trench. This was full of water and I stuck in the mud. My thigh boots were firmly embedded so I cut them off, pulled my feet out and went barefooted. We did not know where we were and I could feel bodies and sandbags under my feet as I walked. I did not know if we would walk into the Germans or our own chaps. After walking for some time we were challenged and found ourselves back in our own lines. We still had to find HQ and the few of us that were left started walking but my feet were so sore I could hardly walk. Someone tried to carry me but I was too heavy and I was wet to my waist. Eventually, we reached our HQ and they fixed me up with boots. Our orders were to get back to our huts, but it was still dark and we lost our way. We found a hut and stayed
The weeks went by, in and out of the trenches but I did get back to Rouen, France for a day and went to a saloon. Here the sold wine and there were 8 or 10 girls and all they had on was a short slip. You could go with them if you had the money to pay. At last I was given a 2 week leave back to England but when it was time to return to the front I did not think I would return home again. When I reached London I went on a spree and missed the boat train. I remember riding around Hyde Park with a girl. That night I slept in a Salvation Army Hostel and finally returned to Belgium 3 days later. When I arrived back my battalion had moved to Arras and I was a day or two finding them so my late return from leave was not noticed. In this area there were no civilians as they had fled leaving everything, it was a great deal quieter than Ypres. It was here that my health began to fail; I caught a fever and collapsed in the trenches. They sent me back to Le Treport but after a week or two when I did not get any better they sent me back to England. I was in the little hospital at Wimbourne for 6 weeks and from there I was sent to Epsom for a month’s convalescence. After a week’s sick leave I had to report to Portsmouth and here the Doctor said I was not fit and sent me to hospital at Cosham for 3 weeks. From there they transferred me to Parkhurst Hospital for a month. I was back for 3 weeks at Portsmouth and when the examining Doctor saw me smile he passed me fit so they shipped me back to France. I went back to the old battalion and when the Officer saw me he said “I am pleased to see you I want you to go out with me and pick out some machine gun post.” Back to the same old routine, in and out of the trenches.
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WW1 – Oxford & Bucks After a week we were on the move again and I think we were somewhere in the Somme. We were sent into some trenches that were only 2 feet deep and they told us to dig ourselves in deeper. As soon as I started digging I uncovered a soldier so we had to cover him up again. There were six of us in this trench when the Germans started shelling us.
Autumn 2014
Every shell came a little nearer. I thought this was it and started saying my prayers. The next shell hit the trench but at the other end burying two chaps up to the waist, but we got them out. Another was completely buried, we dug him out but I don’t think he lived.
When my turn came they put me on the table, put gauze over my mouth and I was out. When I came round I felt to see if my arm was there. It was. When they dressed my arm the next day I saw they had inserted a half inch tube right through my arm. The day after I was put on a boat for England; my arm was very painful. They took me to Bangor War Hospital and operated on me again as my arm had swollen to double its size. The tube was taken out and replaced with rubber; this was pulled back and forth to keep the wound open. The bone was broken in several places and it was five months before the last piece was removed.
We went back again and they said we had to make a charge the next night. The officers told us what we had got to do. This was to join up with other chaps on the right and left. It was dark, they gave us hot rum and coffee and we were issued with a Mills Bomb to carry in each pocket.
This left me with no use in my hand and they sent me away to Edinburgh to convalesce for a month. This was followed by another operation to remove the scar and put a nerve all the way up my arm so that I could use my hand again. This took another 12 months but I had a nice time there.
We had only gone about 20 yards when they opened up on us. They must have known we were coming. There were shells and machine guns in all directions. When we got to the first lot of trenches they were empty and we could not see the others. I stood up to see if I could see them and a bullet or piece of shrapnel went straight through my arm. I was bleeding and feeling faint. We put a field dressing on and I started to work my way back after throwing everything away except for my tin hat.
As I could not go home the people of Scotland were very good inviting me out to tea or on outings. One day I went into Edinburgh with a Jock who had lost his arm, my arm was in a sling. We had stopped the night and in the morning 2 Redcaps wanted to see our passes and we had none. They marched us up to Edinburgh Castle but when we saw the officer he smiled and told us to catch the first bus back.
It was my left arm and I held it with my other arm whilst I ran. I could hear the shells coming over and then I lay on the ground to dodge the shell bursts. I heard shrapnel hitting the ground all around me. By getting up again each time, and running I gradually got out of the range of their guns.
After sick leave I was sent to Portsmouth and then on to Dover where they tried to make a P.T Instructor out of me. I had to go to Dover Castle every day but my hand was not right so they discharged me as Not Fit for Service on the 10th September 1918.
I met reinforcements coming up and they asked me what it was like up the front but what could I say with blood dripping from my elbow.
I had served 4 years and 16 days and they gave me a small pension.
The next Company I met was the Royal Artillery and they gave me a drop of tea but said could I carry on a bit more as they were full up. I managed to do this and when I reached the big tent they gave me a needle and bandaged my arm up again. Then they put a cross on my forehead and put me on a train. I don’t know the name of the hospital they took me to but everyone was badly wounded. They were continually taking men out to the operating theatre and most of them came back with an arm or leg removed.
Footnote: Jim Cassidy (Michael James Cassidy) was my Great Uncle Jim. He and Harry survived the war and returned to live in the Nuneaton and Bedworth areas. They both married had families and lived into their 80s.
Gill Foster
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Friday 6th June Well the thought of a 3000 mile journey on a bike had been daunting me since Alan first suggested it when it was announced back in August 2013, it’s not far he kept saying and to make matters even more reassuring he bought me a new bike this year. Now I must say at this point up until now the furthest I had travelled on a bike in Europe on my own was to Hardilot last September. What about my petrol tank I said it looks like it won’t go far on this, no problem he said I have brought 2 bike spare fuel cans that’s 120 at a push with these. So the day has now arrived and off we go, Alan had decided that we should stop at the Holiday Inn at the tunnel to make the 1st day in Belgium a shorter ride to ease in to the journey, a quick stop for fuel a Cobham services and before you know it we are at the hotel. Not long after Mike S & Bron arrived so beers and wine were ordered, Chris R is coming down tonight Mike said he thinks it might rain tonight, don’t want no rain I thought to myself quietly. Food was next on the discussion, the list of food choice was not too good in the hotel so we decided to walk and see what we could find. After going in to 2 pubs with a food sign outside that sold no food we caught a cab to a pub guaranteed to sell food, in the bar by now and 1st thing the landlady says no food tonight chef is ill, we are in the middle of nowhere by now so it’s a few words with the locals and off we set again on foot to another village this time food was on the menu. Watered and feed we taxied back to the hotel didn’t want to have a late one tonight by then Chris R was in the bar, another drink/nightcap and off to bed. Saturday 7th June The mornings weather looking was a bit dull but looking good the other side of the channel, it’s time to go to the train now; the journey had started and reality set in, I think I was too nervous to worry how many miles lay ahead of me. The rain that came down whilst we were in the waiting area at the tunnel had stopped it did make boarding a little difficult but once we had parked up I knew I was on my way. Our 1st destination was Brussels, now Mike had planned the stops to Alan’s route to work with the 75 to 90 miles my bike would do before it ran out of fuel. Oh boy did it get hot!!! 32c by the time we got in to the city, not good timing through rush hour and stop start all the way to the hotel. Alan’s shouting at me by now my bloody bikes playing up it’s got too hot and is on 1 cylinder he kept saying, must say it didn’t sound good even to me. Let’s just say we were all glad to reach the hotel with its cool underground carpark, as there were plenty of undesirables hanging around. Anyway the hotel was good and it was also Mike & Bron’s 45th wedding anniversary, so after a few celebratory drinks, good food (time for a Nene photo shoot) and 166 miles later of to bed as an early start the next day to Frankfurt awaits us. Sunday 8th June Now it’s already hot as we set off but after the 1st fuel stop the skie
s are starting to cloud up, not what I had anticipated so we put on our wet gear only to find a few miles down the road it cleared up so at the next fuel stop off can the wet gear again. Off we set again and yes you guessed it over it come blacker and blacker, then thunder & lightning luckily Mike decided to pull in to a fuel stop so we did not get too wet, just as we all got in to the service station down it came all hells let loose so coffee was on the menu again. Within 15 min’s it had gone over a bit of spray on the roads to contend with but it soon started to change the suns out to play and little did we all know it would be staying out for all the rest of our journey there & back. 240 miles later and we have arrived in Frankfurt. By now it’s glorious 33c + some good food at the local Irish bar (no Fletcher was not there at the time & time again for a Nene photo shoot) a good mosey about town then off to bed, we all had decided that it was much better to travel early to avoid the heat and try and get to the next hotel earlier. Monday 9th June 7.30 am and we are off to our next stop Passau its already 24c what a great way to start a day’s riding to our next leg of our journey, breath taking views, fantastic roads & 34c. Mike’s fuel stop planning is just right. I’m now longing to get to the hotel as this was my longest ride so far 270 miles today. I’m feeling tired but still happy for this experience! & pinching myself to see if it is not a dream. My ignition light started to flicker on & off but the bike seems to be running well. The ride in to Passau was along a long flowing river that seems to go on for miles; we arrive at our hotel and get the bike put away safely. Alan had certainly done his homework on this all the parking so far was very good. Alan picked up a local paper only to see that the week before some of the town was under water with floods, not today you could feel the heat coming off the roads. Passau is an old city and is a culture & learning city with universities & cathedrals doted around. Hence Ice cream parlours & bars everywhere not good for the diet. We found a traditional Bavarian beer garden & restaurant where Mike decided that the hog roast must be tried little did he know that he could of fed all of us with it. A few beers on the terrace after and early to bed. Tuesday 10th June Our journey today is to Maribor in Slovenia so good early start (getting used to these now) in fact it is much better to get on your way with less traffic at that time of the morning you settle in better & gets you to your hotel quicker so you have more time to look about. Travelling through Austria was fantastic I had to stop pinching myself I am hundreds of miles from home and enjoying it,
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who would have thought that 2 years earlier I hadn’t, rode a bike let alone travel abroad. Some of the tunnels were very long up to 11 kilometres one after the other these where a bit scary dark hot & dusty especially when all it seemed was in them where lorries miles & miles of them. Thanks to Mike’s bright rear light it was my life saver as I couldn’t see a thing (yes my head light was on but no use to anybody). Anyway we are making great time should be at our hotel in about 90 min’s one more long tunnel to go and a gentle ride through the countryside, so through the toll 8 euros each, then suddenly the pay assistant starts waving her arms & shouting. Well not speaking the language didn’t help so we carried on 11 k’s later we found out why, there had been a bad accident in the tunnel & after waiting for what seemed ages in the heat and a few picturesque photo’s we were told to turn around. That caused a few headaches so it was back to good old maps now that the sat nav was doing its confused.com bit by now, in fact we ended up doing another 60 k’s more to the hotel. This was a game in itself finding the hotel or should I say the road to it, by now Alan had gone one way with his sat nav, Chris had chosen a different way with his I followed Mike. Eventually we got there it was right in the middle of a pedestrian area just like Villach; Alan was already there and had arranged for the parking. Follow me he said to us all who by now were tired and hot, where was he taking us I thought opening a gate then opening an electric door what’s this, it’s a great big lift I decide so we are now going down to what can only be said was a great big underground car park with nobody using it except us. Mike noticed that the bays where set out in countries so where did we park you got it in England only trouble was it was right at the opposite end to the entrance so when we had unpacked and starting to walk to the lift the lights went out leaving us all in total darkness with not one of us having a torch. Fun and games over & after a quick shower time to chill out in the market square beers flowing, Bron & myself decided to leave the boys we would go shopping well why not girls? Cobbled streets quaint shops & loads of ice cream parlours. A quick change then out for some food so many to choose from so
we just took the plunge. We are escorted through an empty restaurant only to find a very big terrace area, after some hesitation we all ordered and did we make a good choice great food wine & beer and very cheap (time for the Nene flag photo shoot). Well it’s up early tomorrow as it’s off to Biograd in the morning. Wednesday 11th June Bikes up out the garage and packed it’s already 26c at 7am, we set off nice & steady looking at the fantastic landscape and views from long winding roads (if you have not travelled in Slovenia then you must do so) it’s now midday & 32c time for a little detour to a group of 10 lakes & waterfalls that are listed as a world heritage site. This place is buzzing, however, we found a place to park thanks to Chris R who had popped their before on one of his short ride outs 3 years ago. Watered & fed it was then onwards & upwards as they say! Starting to feel tired now with the riding and heat & ready to stop, no such luck, some stupid council had decided to dig up the entire road at once for over 5 K’s. All we could do was to hang on tight and ride through lorries, dust, ditches & large stones (might be ok on a moped but not on a Harley) poor boy’s had a hell of a job with those big bikes and all the luggage to contend with, I think we were all considering getting off & walking. At the next service station we all just looked at each other in amazement as to what we had just ridden through. Mike S said this is the last stop before we get to Croatia I’m very tired by now but excited to think I’m nearly there & 4 nights of bliss no more early starts no more riding (well short distances will be ok). Off we set Wow! Going down on a final leg to Biograd I slow down because the views were so beautiful & amazing, long winding & flowing new roads with the sea starting to appear on the horizon. The bridges had information signs on them and the more we swept down the valleys the more they went up 33c then 34c the 35.5c my face is starting to feel the wonderful warm breezes that is now rushing past me, a memory that will stay with me for ever. All this heat was giving me more & more confidence & I was ready for a race up the road with Mike S. I’m up to 95ish (that’s scary enough for me 1st time over 80) anyway Mike was only teasing me as he then opened his up and sailed by me. Alan by now is trailing behind & must have felt left out as before you knew it he comes zapping by the both of us. Ha! Ha! I thought I bet he hasn’t seen the turning off this motorway I thought, no such luck his sat nav was working too good for that. The remaining miles seemed easy with the end was in sight, a few left & right turns & we have arrived at our accommodation, 1st impressions from the outside were good, bar/restaurant next door & I’m not saying the sea was close but the beach was 5 metres across the road from our drive. We parked up which was secure under our windows, we each had our own apartments Chris was overlooking the sea and to his surprise had a huge 5ft teddy in his room waiting for him, good really as sadly Julie could not join us for this trip. Bliss I thought just bliss, better nip 3 doors along to the local supermarket cash and only Kuna’s taken in here, soon the essentials are being bought (& drunk) beer, wine, & lemonade oh! & some snacks for later. We decided to eat in the restaurant next
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door so after being fed & watered we went for a gentle stroll through this end of the beach just to get our bearings for tomorrow not too much done tonight as we were all feeling the results of riding in the heat for the last 4 days. Thursday 12th June We all seemed to be up with the larks this morning Alan had gone & got some fresh bread & croissants for breakfast which we decided to have on Chris’s patio as it overlooked to sea. But 1st things 1st the boys had all looked at their bikes & even though they were fairly clean decided to wash & sparkle them up, not wanting to get my nails damaged Alan had 2 to clean (well if he wants me to ride with him he has to clean it). Because of Alan’s bike playing up in the heat & my ignition light coming on Mike advised us that once we got to the site we should to go straight to the technical department & book the bikes in as there would be a queue. After a gentle ride in and asking directions to the Tec tent who was the 1st person I saw on the gate it was Moggy from the Bridgwater chapter who when asked what was she doing replied just a bit of gate duty for 4 days, rather her than me in all that heat. We got the bikes booked in for the next day as we did not want to sit around on our 1st day in Croatia & after being told we would have to leave them with them for most of the day we thought why not go and book a Rushmore test ride for then, that would that some of the frustrations away. We decided to book an ultralimited (whatever that is) for the ride. All this now done it was time to catch up with the others and get down to business find a bar & order drinks. Now I have to say we were all surprised as to just how cheap food & drink was here 20 Kuna’s seemed to be the cost of most things about £2. As with most places in Croatia they only want to take local cash or cards so we found a cash point to get some local Wonga, Mike got some 1st then Alan then I went to get some only not to be able to get my card out so here we are on our 1st day & my card is swallowed up by the ATM. After a few calls the card is made safe but still annoying all the same good job Alan has money to spend on me. The rest of the day went quite quickly so it was time to get back to our apartments and decide what we were doing & how we were going to get there. The owner was really helpful & arranged for a cab to take us to the rally site and more importantly bring us back later as the last thing we wanted to do was ride. The rally site was about 5Km from our apartments which was far enough for peace and quiet (most of the time but near enough to get to) all along the costal route were local bars & restaurants that had joined in the atmosphere and many had music playing outside them. The taxi dropped us off at one end of the site and we started to mosey around, as food was on most minds we took the plunge to eat 1st, this turned out to be a good decision as this lovely fish restaurant soon filled up with many being turned away. After inspecting trays of very fresh large fish we went for 2 sea bass & 1 sea bream with lots of vegetables, well what a good choice the fish was excellent and cooked to perfection. As I said earlier the place had filled very quickly and the ambience was getting more & more
joyful & louder, Alan was getting itchy about a photo shoot so when he saw a large group of Polish guy’s & girls lining up for a photo he decided to gate crash them with the club flag in full view. It’s a good thing that they were all friendly and helped hold the flag up high to get it in their photo. More liquid followed but the heat of the day had caught up with us (yes we are all 60 or over) so it was back to pick up the taxi, we did not have to wait too long when he arrived so after some more broken English v Croatian dialog we are back at the apartments again another excuse for a quick drink then that’s it for the night as we had an early start in the morning. Friday 13th June After a quick breakfast Alan & myself were off in to Biograd to the Tec camp as we had cut it fine as it opened at 9.00am & we had a test ride booked for 9.30 & had to get there and do all the remaining paperwork/briefing etc. before we could go out. The guys had said that they had taken a complete switch harness off of one of the display bikes so they could be sure to fix my bike Alan’s was not so easy as he did not have his tuner with him in fact he didn’t have one at all it transpires that Oxford had kept it. A quick dash around the harbour to the bike demo’s , just in time to pick up a very nice lightweight pair of coats for the ride, a quick briefing where we were told that the Rushmore ride out was for 1.30 min’s with a drinks stop half way. This made Alan a bit more cheerful, after being told which was our bike we all got ready with to my surprise, it was all girls doing the ride out for Harley. Now I’m not saying I liked the bike but I know it would be so easy to go to sleep whilst being ridden about on one of these. We were taken on a very nice route up into the mountains with great views all around where we stopped at a road side restaurant that once inside we found that they were famous for cooking lamb & they just happen to have 3 cooking by the bar. Time to go they said oh well ride out over, out to the bikes only to find that one of our friendly HOG coriders decided that they should own my new biker sun glass’s I had only just brought at the Warrs open day the week before. Well as you probably know Alan is not for taking any prisoners when it concerns our property so he made it very clear to both the fellow riders & the HOG girls that there was a thief amongst our present as there was nobody else at the restaurant. Back to the rally site now I’m really peed off with the thought of losing the only pair of glass’s that fitted so well they never felt uncomfortable the entire ride down. A bit more moaning & complaining to no avail & £120 worse off & it was time to go and see what they had done to
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the bikes. We were told that they had fixed my bike but had to completely change the switch & wiring to do it, Alan’s was not so lucky they needed to talk to Oxford to see what they had done to it when they changed the exhausts only to be told that they needed the little red box we should have been given. As we did not have it they decided to change the oil & filter because the engine had got so hot and arranged for us to take it in once we got back (if we get back with it). Mike Chris & Bron went out in the afternoon on the same ride whilst we relaxed across the road from our apartment on the beach, that night we decided to stay local and eat which we did and enjoyed a stroll down the coast and stopped off at a few bars. Saturday 14th June Well it’s our last full day in Biograd for Alan Chris & myself as Mike & Bron where going traveling on the Monday lucky nice people I thought to myself, we went down to the site again for another look around and all the usual stuff then it was time to go back & pack before we went out to eat. A local was a band playing just up the road so we again stayed close to where we were, Alan decided another flag shoot was needed but this time he wanted to pin it up on the front of the stage to the group’s amazement when they were setting up. After nearly destroying the sound system a photo was taken with another with all of us around a palm tree for good measure. Not much more done and an early night after a few good by drinks on Chris’s balcony. Sunday 15th June After a bit of a restless night thinking about traveling home on our own as Chris had decided to go home in 2/3 days as he had work to go back to. We had a different hotel in Maribor to get to and we had also changed the Frankfurt one and the Belgium one to help Alan’s bike from overheating when getting in to heavy traffic. 6.00am & we are ready to go, the 1st few miles were great but this soon changed as we climbed up the pass into the mountains, Chris had started to pull away even though it had started to get bad. Alan said lets slow down we are not risking the weather as we had plenty of time to get there, well it got stronger & stronger & Alan who was carrying all the luggage started to drop back. The next thing was all the signs changed to a 25 kph speed limit by now it was almost impossible to hold the bikes up Alan was blown into the wall of a bridge at only 5kph, everybody else was in trouble with another biker hitting a bollard. After about what seemed ages there was a tunnel in site as we got there it said 11km long, what a relief to get out of it praying that it would be alright once we got through it was going on in my mind & even more so for Alan, the
light started to shine as we came to the end of it & was it or was it not any better as we come out what a relief to us as it was almost gone. We pulled in to the next garage to take a breath & take 5 mins break only to be discussing all the other bikers problems they had had as well it did not matter about language barriers the expressions told it all. On our way again & we are soon in Slovenia, what a great country if you have never toured or stayed here then please look it up as if is so beautiful & very cheap. The long sweeping roads now are making the journey so rewarding. A few stops later & we are at our revised hotel in Maribor, oh my god I thought to myself as Alan turned in to what I can only describe as a very luxurious hotel. As we stopped a little man in a green & gold uniform came up to us with his brass trolley asking if he could help take the luggage for us, we just looked at each other & smiled as we said yes indeed. Alan then asked him if he would be valet parking the bikes when he had an instant startled look on his face & said very quickly oh no sir I will take you to a private secure parking. He then took off at a running pace leading us to the parking area that they had cordoned off for VIP’s well we are riding Harleys I thought. Soon we had sorted ourselves out and it was time for a look about. 1st stop was the ski car up the slopes to enjoy the views. We were joined on the ride up by what I can only describe as idiots who were all padded up and had their mountain bikes with them, what were they going to do I thought surly not going down the ski slope it was far too steep and straight. Well we soon got to see what was happing as we could see from our car that there was a crisscrossing track that was like a mad man’s route down the mountain which they were all using. Now I know that there are some things that you need to do in your life but to shorten your life on a push bike is not one of them that stands out to me. Soon it was time to wash change & down to the restaurant where we were handed a free glass of champagne, not wanting to retire too early we went for a stroll only to find the same 2 policemen in the bar we had seen in the afternoon (must have been undercover doing some police work). Another big day lay ahead so off to bed ready for another early start. Monday 16th June Our next stop was Passau the only stop we had done on the way down. 216 miles today it was a good ride 3 fuel stops with some magnificent scenery along the way through Austria & Italy. We arrived early which gave us a chance to have a good wander around this quaint town which has a few universities amongst its architecture. Well we could not have picked the wrong place to stay if you don’t like football like us. Germany were playing their 1st world cup game and the local brewery & to be honest every shop was involved what made it even more rowdy when they won the
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whole town went mad & the local police just watched thousands of them running mad everywhere you would of thought that they had won the world cup then. It was another early night as we were going to Frankfurt in the morning Alan had changed the hotel so no riding in to long traffic queues. Tuesday 17th June After an early start and about 75 miles we stopped for fuel this was when I thought I could smell cake or bread and as usual the smell of rubber (strange I thought) no factories around here I said to myself. But on we rode to the next fuel stop we filled up & as Alan came back to the bike from paying, his usual job, I stood up off the saddle only to find that my key fob had come out of my pocket as I pulled it out err ouch!!! The fob had completely melted on the exhaust, at that moment had seen it well you can imagine the rest he went ballistic. How the hell are we going to get this bloody bike home he kept shouting we are 800 miles from home & no bloody fob? As luck would have it & for reasons I still can’t work out after a few minutes of it saying enter pin it worked we could not start the bike quick enough. What would we do if we try & fill the bike up at the next station without turning it off or do we take a chance. As you can imagine the ride to the next fuel stop was to say none eventful no talking no anything just riding. We rode on regardless to Frankfurt where we found our new hotel it was on the edge of town and once we parked up got ready and went as usual for a walk around we found a fantastic Argentinian restaurant that was just starting to fill up. We ordered & within minutes it was completely full outside even on a midweek evening. After a great meal & a good walk to let the food go down it was back for yet another early night as we were both exhausted & with all the days coming & goings as well & heading to Ghent for our final overnight stop in the morning. Wednesday 18th June No breakfast this morning we just wanted to get the bikes nearer to home with the doubt of mine not starting, luck was still with us & it fired up straight away, we had 290 miles today to Ghent, the weather was still hot which made the journey so much better, the scenery started to change as we got closer to the west of Europe which was a great contrast to what we had ridden through. For some reason the miles just flew by & before I realised we saw the signs for Ghent, the hotel was one Alan had stopped off at on his way back from Faker an See last year & was only a few hundred yards off the autobahn. We parked up & got changed quickly, this was when Alan said I can’t take it any longer let’s go the dealership we went to in February. OK I said, off we went it was only about 8k from the hotel. Once there Alan gave it all the old sob story & the guy just said give me your fob I will programme a new one for you. A few coffees & chatting to some Belgium guys it was done.
Another 100 euros Alan had to pay out but well worth the price of security that it would start. It was now time to eat again not wanting to sit in the hotel as the restaurant was being refurbished we decide to go for a walk and then came across a good old Campanile hotel, let’s go in there Alan said the food will be nice and cheap . Cheap I said just because it’s the last night I don’t do cheap I replied anyway Alan was as usual persistent & in we go only to find it wasn’t that bad on the menu. Soon we had eaten & time to go and get ready for our final ride of this trip home, I had by now mixed emotions but being very tired I was soon drifting away to sleep trying to write my diary up & realising I had done 2555 miles in 9 days to date. Thursday 19th June Breakfast in the hotel & before we knew it, it was time to get on that bike again but this time heading home. As in western Europe the roads are just boring and full of lorries going to the ports, only 120 ks to go & not much to report here and soon we were at the tunnel. We had booked the 12.00 pm train but Alan decides we would just push to get on the 10.40 which we did. On the train we meet some Canadians who had been over in Europe for a month & where heading to do all of England before flying their bike back to Canada. I also got talking to some guys who had ridden some little Vespa scooters down to Italy for a Vespa rally no sat nav no nothing, better them than me I thought. Soon off the train & that dreaded journey when you realise that every road in Europe is better that that bloody big car park that welcomes you in to England. We did have I must say quite a good run home. Soon the signs for junction 9 M40 where approaching I was getting quite emotional by now a few twists & turns & I’m on our drive. I quickly kicked the side stand out and got off, as I did I jumped for joy yes I did it!!!. My 1st long journey I had done it. Never in all my life would I have believed that I would want to learn to ride a motorbike let alone to take upon myself a long journey, 2881 miles in 10 days not bad for a learner. So everyone who is contemplating learning to ride it goes to prove if you really believe in yourself & have a very patient partner, boyfriend or husband nothing is impossible. We have by now been to Wales & Thunder in the Glens & still have Jersey & Hardilot to do before our final ride out from Dubai to the Abu Dhabi rally in November. Then it’s bike away and planning our months trip to the USA, oh! this is after we have ridden to the south of France in between & I’m sure a few other places. Life is too short so go out there & have fun I did & I don’t regret a thing Marilyn Knight
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A Weekend in Wales (The Solstice Ride)
Autumn 2014
Well, I hadn't planned to go to Wales for the weekend. When Chris told me that Jacqui was looking for someone to share a room with, I thought 'ok, why not'. I'm glad that I went.... Saturday morning started off a bit damp and drizzly, 'hmm, what to wear?' I don't like really like wearing waterproofs and was pleased when it started to dry up. Sorted! Kevlar jeans ....waterproofs if I need them when I got to Jacks Hill Cafe. 9.00 a.m. off we go. Chris leading and Mikey and Groundhog tailing. We had an uneventful journey until we got to Monmouth. What a nightmare! There were roadworks at the bottom of the hill (couldn't really see what they were doing looked like nothing). But it caused absolute havoc! We had to filter through the traffic for about 12 miles. My pipes run right by my right calf....it was burning! I was riding along saying 'ouch, ouch, ouch' to myself. Trying to get away from the pipe. (As far as I could anyway. I'm sure I wasn't the only one). I must say that the traffic for the most part was very good, moving over to let us get by. Even managed to have a chat with a few drivers as we went passed. Finally got to the end of the problem, with us all heaving a sign of relief. Stopped for lunch at a Biker Cafe called The Iron Horse Cafe. Busy place. Parked nose down in the only free spot available, so had to get a couple of the guys to pull me out when we left. The other bikers who were there, were very friendly. Got chatting to a lovely lady who was on her very first bike. A scruffy little Chinese 125. Her pride and joy. The weather stayed dry all the way and the scenery was stunning English/Welsh Countryside at it's best. Arrived at 'The Big Pit'. We parked the bikes and wandered down to the entrance, through the door, into the room where the lift was to take us down to the pit face. We were kitted out with miner’s helmets, complete with a belt and a very heavy battery. The guides, who are volunteers, were a great laugh. Messing around and being cheeky. They very kindly took some photo's of us and then relieved us of our watches, camera's, mobile phone's, lighter's and matches. They all went into a bag and were locked up whilst we were down the pit. This is because of the risk of explosion, due to the Methane gas that accumulates in the mine. (The mines are checked twice a day and if gas is found the 'airlock' doors are opened to let the gas out). We were separated into two groups to go down in the lifts, women in one and men in the other. Our guide for the tour was an exminer called Sean. Once we were all down, he told us about the pit and mining in general. The main killer in the mine is not explosions or caveins, but the Methane gas. Just as he was saying this, one of the male members of our group let out a gigantic fart! We all fell about laughing. 'Where are the gas masks'? Sorry, it was a long time before a mask was invented that lasted for more than an hour. Most miners did not bother to use them. Preferring to die quickly. (we wished we could) In one mine over
450 men lost their lives after a cave in. Children as young as six worked underground, in charge of opening and closing the doors to let the miners and pit ponies through. This eventually made them go blind. Up to 72 ponies were in the mine, and once they were down there, they never came back up. They only lasted about 5 years. (most ponies live to be about 20 years old). When they died they were buried in the mine. Sean told us about the ghost of a small boy is often seen in the mine. He was kicked to death by one of the ponies. The mine owner paid the miners with 'chitties' (small metal disks). These were used to pay for the rent for their houses, food and clothes, all bought from the mine owner. Miners tended to have very large families. This was because if the father died, then the children took over his job. Otherwise the family would lose their home. After leaving the pit we headed for the Hotel. I thought we had arrived in Switzerland. The hotel was surrounded by mountains and trees. Beautiful. We locked the bikes and after taking our luggage to our rooms, we hit the bar! Free coffee and soft drinks after the first one. That made me a 'cheap date' for the weekend. Lol. The evening meal was good, although we did make it hard work for the staff trying to serve us. Too many of us and very loud. Some of the meals got mixed up and a few were served late. But we got there in the end. All part of the fun of being in a big group. After eating, some of the guys decided that sing song was in order. Boy! do they know some dirty rugby songs! Great fun.....and a late night. After breakfast we packed our bikes and left the hotel. As we wound our way through some beautiful countryside, we came around a bend and into view came a lovely old building..... Tintern Abbey. Semiderelict, with skeletal arches reaching into the sky. It would be nice to stop there one day for a picnic and a look around. The next bend took us to our 'coffee stop'. A cafe in a courtyard, with a working water mill, a pond, old farm machinery, quaint shops, a river with a bridge over it. A great place for photo's and a cream tea. It certainly 'ticked' all of my boxes. Our next stop was for lunch at The Severn Bore Pub. This is on the banks of the River Severn, where the surfers ride the bore waves. I have never had such a big meal! 'Would I like a second plate just to put the veg on? Phew! won't one plate be big enough'? We all managed to eat most of it. The river itself looks like it wouldn't be out of place in Africa. Wide, Dark and fast flowing, with bits of trees being carried along in the current. You could almost imagine a crocodile sliding into the water from the opposite bank. Finally, after a very full weekend we headed for home, stopping at a garage near Oxford, for a final hug and to say goodbye. Then off on our separate ways. Thanks to Jacqui, Chris & The Tail Gunners for a fantastic weekend. ......I'm glad that I went. Rickie Anne
Nene V alley Chapter
Page 19
Date
Event
Location
Information
September 2014 Sun 7 th Wed 10th 12th‐14th Sept Sat 13th Sun 21st Thurs 25th Sun 28th
Chilli Ride Club Night Circus Maximus Rally Disco Boat Ride Ring of Fire Ride Harley Davidson Night Food Stop Café Ride
Waddesdon Manor Towcester Rugby Club Chester River Thames TBC Indian Cottage Restaurant Ace Café London Bridgenorth
Sat 4th Wed 8th Sun 12th Sun 19th Thurs 25th
RTTW 7 and The Return Club Night Brightona Hoggin the Bridge Harley Davidson Night
National Memorial Arboretum Towcester Rugby Club Brighton TBD Ace Café London
‘The Ambassador’ Leading From 7.30pm Check out Deva Legion H.O.G Chapter website for details ‘Bob the Bus’ Leading – Details to follow ‘The Ambassador’ Leading Check website for confirmation and details ‘Groundhog’ leading – Details to follow
October 2014 ‘Mikey/Slow Hand’ – Details to follow From 7.30pm ‘Bob the Bus’ Leading – Details to follow Check website for confirmation and details
November 2014 Sat 1st Wed 12th Sun 9 th
Halloween Ride (Provisional) Club Night Remembrance & Baps
Forest of Dean Towcester Rugby Club Bletchley
Wed 10th
Club Night
Towcester Rugby Club
‘Groundhog’ leading – Details to follow From 7.30pm ‘The Ambassador’ Leading – Details to follow
December 2014 From 7.30pm
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