RoadHOG May 2013

H.O.G.® Chapter 6655

INSIDE Features 7 - Group Riding 10 - Soaring in Somerset 11 - New Tyres 12 - Coleford Festival 13 - Back Chat 14 - IOW Weekend

Regulars 2 - Director’s Cut 3 - Between the Covers 3 - Ladies of Harley 4 - Rally Co-ordinator 5 - Secretary’s Update 8 - From the Front 9 - Cangen Cymraeg 17 - Cockers Bits 18 -10th Anniversary Events 19 - Safety Officer 20 - Pete & Duncan’s Pump Stop 22 - Orchard Trust 23 - At a Glance

May 2013

Official Newsletter of the Great Western Chapter

Page 2

Director’s Cut

By Barry “Bazzzzer” Aggett

Some of you will know I’m trying to encourage Greg Payne to sing Delilah for “Stars in your Eyes” as it’s Hi All, a great song for everyone to join in, but Tom,aka Firstly congratulations to Greg, says he can’t sing. Well Tom I beg to differ the five new Road Cap- after spotting your secret below in the aptly named tains who successfully completed their course at H-D Oxford. Three of these are from Cangen Cymraeg which is great news for ensuring we keep a good monthly ride programme in South Wales. I also hear there are a few members from Cangen Cymraeg who are willing to put themselves forward as Marshals which all helps.

Our monthly meeting nights appear to be going from strength to strength with a great turnout at both venues. The Cross Hands Hotel was packed to the rafters, perhaps a bit of curiosity to see the new surroundings after refurbishment? Whilst on the subject of the Cross Hands, Sonja Beddow has offered to sew on patches at future meetings for a small donation to charity. Thanks Sonja.

Our 10th Anniversary events are gathering momentum and, as a participant, I can say the IOW “Gentlemen’s” tour was a great success, with numerous calls for a similar events next year. Our thanks go to Martin Rich and staff in PJ’s for getting us off to a great start. You’ll be able to read some of the printable highlights from Dave Vass later in this issue. I wonder if he’ll be brave enough to explain why he volunteered for the write up! and does he include who has been nicknamed “Slick”!

Great Western Hotel whilst visiting Newquay recently with Stu & Jane Scott.

Then, hot on the heels of the IOW was the Night Ride which was blessed with good weather, albeit a bit cold during the early hours and some pea soup fog on the return into Bristol. Again it was a great success and I’m sure the red eyes disappeared after a good night’s sleep.

Lastly, on the subject of 10th Anniversary, we’re halfway to our target for the Hilton dinner but need your deposits by the end of June, so please don’t leave it, thinking October is a long way off.

Of course our 10th Anniversary events will only be as good as we (the Royal we, our members) make them, so I now want to bend your ear on some of the others! Firstly Hogs in the Hayfields is only 5 weeks to go and I’ll sleep better when our ticket sales creep above 200, instead of the current 95. I know this is the normal lag but this year is going to be blisteringly hot, so come on! Not forgetting pins & patches are limited to the first 225 tickets. Also, for the rally, we need some volunteers for “Stars in their Eyes”; currently it’s me and Mrs Two Talls leading by example with a duet.

Don’t be shy, it’s not a singing contest, it’s about havin’ a laugh.

The lucky winner for the March rally draw was Jeff Lancastle.

For full details of all our events, please visit the website as this is being frequently updated as events firm up and if you find anything missing please remind us, we’re only human!

Barry “Bazzzzer” Aggett Director Email: baznjac11@o2.co.uk Home: 01291 620371 Mobile: 07907 351650

Page 3

Ladies of Harley

By Jane Scott

Hi Ladies, Firstly, I would like to say what a brilliant turn out for the April club night and the Cross Hands, after the re-furb, is now very posh.

I helped Yvonne distribute the t-shirts and found myself going around asking a lot of folks their names; not sure how long it’s going to take to remember you all, so be patient. A suggestion from a new member was to have name tags but as the riding season is upon us (hopefully) we will see more of each other as a group, so the memory box will not have to work overtime. That’s my thoughts anyway.

back into jeans on the Sunday and into London for a few hours.

I’m sure us Ladies have had some interesting tales told to us from the Men Only tour, with their discussions on razors, lipsticks, shoes plus so much more but glad they all had a good time.

Well ladies that’s about it for this month, I’m sure some of us will have caught up at the Cider Rally, it’s the first one of the year so everyone looks forward to it.

Take Care All. Jane x Ladies of Harley Any questions, queries or moans contact details.

I’m sort of semi-organised for the events that are happening this year. Rally tickets have been paid for so I’m hoping mine will be the last one to be picked out at the May club night (lol), but we still need members to purchase their tickets as it’s going to be a good one this year, what with so much going on.

On the Friday night there’s “Stars in Your Eyes” - we must have a girl band in our Chapter, so please come forward, its’ only a laugh. You’ll need to contact Anita for this one as you have to put your name forward before the event, as rehearsals are at Cleve Rugby Club on the 18th May at 2pm. Then of course it’s the one and only Gurzels on the Saturday night, one not to be missed, and there is talk of a Balloon dance but guys lets hope your practice will make perfect eh.

Hopefully Jane won’t mind me squeezing in next to her and nicking a bit of her real estate….

The Hospitality Tent rota is up and running so I’m taking names if you are interested in making tea/ coffee on a 1 hour shift (contact details at the bottom of the page). If you want to make cakes this year it’s 1 whole cake or a maximum of 20 little ones.

So what can you expect in this issue? Well to start with ,there’s the ‘Soaring in Somerset’ rideout report from Mike Sage along with a cautionary tale about new tyres, plus an article by Mike Ludwell on the Coleford Transport Festival.

Well the money has now been paid for the “cruise” down the River Wye so Queenie and myself will be starting our training. That must mean building up strength in our arm muscles, so it’s plenty of fluid lifting; hopefully we will be able to manage that over the coming months. Of course we will be raising money for the Orchard Trust, by way of estimated finishing time slots. So, all I can say is put your money on us girls!

However the pièce de résistance has to be Dave Vass’s piece on the Gentlemen’s Isle of Wight tour, though I’m convinced this is the abridged version.

Hope you are all looking forward to the London trip and most ladies have now met their room mates.

I’ve been asked about what to wear: well I’ll be wearing jeans on Saturday as we don’t go to the hotel until after the show, so then its’ back to get ready for the evening meal and disco and a chance to dress up in your posh frock or trousers. Then I’m

Email: janescott61@hotmail.co.uk Mobile: 07894 086626

Between the Covers

As you’ve probably realised there’s a lot going on in this month’s issue, who’d have guessed given the (insert appropriate adjective) weather currently. Me ‘n’ Neats were on the ‘Sliding in Somerset’ rideout and were relieved to get home shiny side up.

By the way ladies I’m down to my last ‘Back Chat’ article so if you want to have your say…..

Mark Editor Email: macockwell@yahoo.com Mobile: 07900 496711 (Note: Views expressed are not necessarily those of the Editor)

Page 4

Hogs in the Hayfields 6 21st- 23rd June 2013 Hi all, This is my last attempt to persuade you to dig deep, and buy some “Hogs in the Hayfields” tickets. Only the first 225 tickets sold will receive a rally patch and pin, so don’t leave it till the last minute and miss out.

There`s free camping, or local B&B`s and Premier Inn. Cleve RFC will again be feeding us, with a larger selection for breakfast and an all-day BBQ plus longer opening times, for the snack bar.

We`ve put together some great entertainment for you This event will be a great opportunity to catch up with over the weekend. old and new Chapter friends.

Dave Curtis will be our resident DJ.

Hope this has worked and we’ll see you there.

Friday night we have a special “Stars in their Eyes”, to give you a chance to show off your talent. For the winner there will be a free bar for the night, courtesy of Cleve RFC.

Tony James

If you were at the first GWC Rally, held at Margam Parc, you will not have forgotten the Chapter’s own version of the Balloon Dance.

Well, much older but none the wiser, they`re back!

To round off the evening we have a new band to us, called “Maxwell Hammer Smith”, who have been a big success at other Rallies.

Saturday afternoon we have “Dave Curtis” taking requests to play from his huge songbook, covering the fifties to the modern day.

Saturday evening we have a West Country bumpkin theme, fancy dress optional. (Maybe we could find a prize for the best dressed).

To carry on the theme our first band are a well-known West Country act “The Skimmity Hitchers”.

We have your own “Gurzels” and to close us out, back by popular demand, “Devious”.

Also throughout the weekend we have the Rideout on the Saturday morning, the usual fun and games in the afternoon and a Ride in Bike show with prizes. And not forgetting, “The Ladies of Harley” Hospitality tent.

Page 5

Secretary’s Update Hi Everyone!

The pile of tee-shirts is steadily decreasing as a result of our Club nights in April. We hope we can deliver all of them to members as soon as possible. If you can’t collect yours at our May Club nights, I’ll let you know when I’m next in Riders, so that I can arrange to give them out there.

By Yvonne Roberts Hazel Barry from Bristol, Richard Banner from Milford Haven, Alan and Ellena Rose from Pontyclun, David Jones from Ebbw Vale,

Ian and Victoria Troughton,

Meet Mike Guy who designed the back of our Anniversary t-shirt!

My, what a huge number of you attended our April Club night at the Cross Hands! I’m wondering if it was out of curiosity to see what the refurbishments Murray Toombs, looked like! We hope to look into the uncomfortably high temperature with so many of us in the room that we use, or was it all down to hot air from the announcements! Our meeting at St Mary’s was busy too. It was good to welcome so many new members to both meetings. A total of £224 was raised in our raffles at both of our Club nights, for the Orchard Trust, thank you.

Jeff Lancastle was the lucky winner of the monthly draw for a free Rally ticket. Not long now to the big event. Have YOU bought your rally ticket yet?

Sonja, Philo’s better half, has kindly offered to bring her sewing machine to future Club nights and sew on patches in return for a contribution to our charity. Dave and Sandra Silsbury, Welcome to our new members: Matt Sargent and

(Continued on page 6)

Page 6 The summary of the GWC Committee Minutes for April will be published in the June issue of RoadHOG, due to the late date of the meeting.

Ride safe, Yvonne Secretary Email: yvonne.s.roberts@gmail.com mob: 07557 413830 Home: 01225 751017 Simon Bulmer,

and Steve Lane.

Please make them welcome if you see them.

Meet our new Road Captains, who are all from Wales: Greg Payne, Si Griffiths and Ian Mead,.

Here they all are, being presented with their RC patches by Baz, (taken on Peter’s iphone)!

Please check out our website for details of all our Merchandise, or see me at our Club nights.

Page 7 group maintain a speed that keeps the group together at a safe distance (e.g. the 2 second rule in dry conditions). Failure to do this is what causes the frustration to both riders and other road users, such as cars and lorries. Large gaps appear and the group very quickly gets strung out over a long distance. This is often when safety becomes an issue with vehicles overtaking, where perhaps they should not. So, what can we do to address the issue so that the majority can enjoy themselves? In future those consistently identified as struggling to maintain the ride pace will be asked to ride behind the breakdown man when attending rides. It will then be up to that individual to determine the speed and distance that they wish to travel at. Ultimately if the individual does not keep up with the group, then getting detached will firmly be that individual’s own accountability.

Group Riding – Enjoyment for All Hi All Over the past 6 months a small sub-committee, led by myself, has been looking into the way the Chapter conducts its organised rides. The sub-committee was formed following an action resulting from a Committee meeting in Q4/2012. It was felt that a number of issues needed to be addressed. The objective was to look at the current state scenario, and then look at ways of addressing some of the constructive feedback we have received from various Chapter members.

One of the main complaints received is the perennial problem of individuals not making progress whilst riding within the group. Now this issue applies to a very small minority of riders but it does impact on the vast majority. In my time as Head Road Captain it has been up there as a concern on a fairly regular basis. This one subject seems to drive more frustration than any other.

As a Chapter we have tried various ways of tackling the subject but always with limited success.

The sub-committee also looked into a wide range of other topics connected with riding. Most of which were deemed not to be broke, so why try to fix them was the consensus view. However, the subject of new riders was one the group felt needed looking into and was on the list to address.

That said, if any individual feels unsure, or lacks confidence in group riding, then please highlight it to me or one of the other Road Captains. We will do all we can to advise good practice. Remember the Chapter does offer the opportunity of new / refresher rides. This is a great way to build confidence in a safe environment.

To re-enforce a point, though, the Road Captains plan extensively to try and ensure the safety and enjoyment of those attending rides. Please remember that ultimately safety is each individual’s responsibility. Do not compromise your’s or other’s safety.

New Riders Historically, new riders are briefed before their first ride.

They then generally slot into the riding group, either to the middle, or to the rear. That way they can observe what goes on. This usually means taking note of how the ride progresses and how second man drop works.

As a change, and to endeavour to take the pressure off new riders, the following modification to the way we operate will be introduced. New riders will be asked to position themselves in-between the Sweeper (last Orange Vest) and the Breakdown (last Person). Depending on each individual’s confidence and competence, they would be expected to do this for their first three rides. We are also looking at introducing an attendance card for signature for all new riding members with the view of getting their initial rides signed by one of the Road Captains on the day.

I hope you will look at these changes as a progressive step. The objective is intended to heighten the pleasure and safety of group riding. However, I will continue to monitor and review how successful these changes are.

If they prove to be unsuccessful, then as Head Road Captain I will take the appropriate action to make the necessary changes.

As always, the focus, when looking at these two topics, was on maintaining continued enjoyment on group rides and ensuring safety is not compromised. It is the results of these two items that I would like to inform you of. That way there are no surprises to anyone who attends rides. The Chapter intends to bring into operation Ride Hard and Ride Safe. the couple of changes below over the coming months.

Making Progress on Rides Alan “Big Al” Stokes On all organised rides, the Road Captain leading will conduct the ride, taking into account the prevailing road Assistant Director & Head Road Captain conditions (weather, road type and road condition etc.), whilst observing the current road legislation (highway code). Taking this into account, the expectation of the Road Captain team is that individuals riding within the

Page 8

From The Front

By Alan “Big Al” Stokes 10.30 a.m.

Hi All

We will ride to the Coldra roundabout and take the 2nd exit along the Southern Distributor road past the First this month I would transporter bridge, then turn left on B4239 Lightlike to congratulate Ian house Road and through Dyffryn, Peterstone, Mead, Mike Sage, Greg Wentloog, Rover Way and on towards Penarth.

Payne, Si Griffiths and Then it’s along the esplanade, on to Barry Island for Mike “Badger” Brake on a tea and a comfort break at Marcos cafe. Aftersuccessfully completing wards, we head towards Llanwit Major on the A4226 their Road Captain’s through Southern Down and to Hillsborough Place training in April. Well car park, Porthcawl, for a lunch stop at about 12.30 done guys. The feedp.m. Leave there after an hour and head to Margam back I have received via A48, then Afan Valley road on to the B4282 towas very positive and I believe they all found the wards Maesteg. Then it’s the A4063 towards Bridcourse both helpful and thought provoking. It’s good gend and finally finishing at McDonald’s, Pencoed to attend these sorts of events as practices change M4/J35. as times move on. Hopefully the guys will share the learning with the rest of us old hands.

This is classed as a Level A ride of circa 90 miles.

As the riding season gets into full swing, May will see Chris Harding and Nige Garnett run one of the Chapters “New Riders / Refresher” courses. This will be held on Saturday 18th May, 2.00 p.m. at Riders of Bristol. The session usually last about 2 hours and combines some theory, plus an opportunity to get out on the road and practice what has been learnt. So if you’re new and have never been involved in group riding, this is a great chance to come along and find out all about it in a very safe environment. It is also suitable for those that would just like to brush up on what they know. Please come along, meet some new faces and get involved. I’m sure you will find it a worthwhile experience. Full details are on the websites “What’s On” page.

Sunday 19th May 2013 – Stu Scott & Team “EVO’s to Evesham” This will be a re-run of the cancelled ride last November when Evesham was basically under flood water. The ride will be led by Martin James.

The town of Evesham is a great destination and hopefully the ride will bring pleasant Spring weather.

The plan is to meet at Severn View (Aust) Services (M48/J1) for 09.30 a.m. and be fuelled up ready to depart at 10.00 a.m.

We’ll be heading over the Severn Bridge to Chepstow and winding our way up through the Forest of Dean passing through Tutshill, Coleford, Mitcheldean and Ashton Ingham. We will then head on to Lastly, I would just like to mention that a small sub- Newent where we will have a comfort break. Then committee, led by myself has been working to try we will make our way to Evesham via Upton on and tweak a few of our riding practices to further the Severn, crossing the River Severn towards enjoyment and safety of those that attend ride-outs. Pershore and into Evesham for lunch.

I have gone into this in more detail in a separate Departing Evesham will be via the A46 to Ashton article in this issue, and will reinforce it at ClubUnderhill and Ashchurch. From there it’s on to the nights. Please take the time to read it.

A38 to Tewkesbury, Longford and then the A40 to And now onto the forthcoming rides ……

Hingham. Here we pick up the A48 down the West th bank of the Severn, finishing the ride in Chepstow.

Sunday 12 May 2013 – Greg Payne, Ian Mead, Si Griffiths & Ian Johnson This is classed as a Level B ride, mainly on A and B roads and circa 130 miles.

“Coastal and Valley Meanderings” Saturday 22nd June 2013 – Big Al & Team Why not join the team on a ride that will take in the coast before lunch and head into the valleys for the Meet at Cleve RFC car park at 10.30 a.m. and be afternoon. This one will be led by Greg Payne who fuelled up ready to leave at 11.00 a.m. Fuel can be has used his local knowledge to come up with a obtained prior to meeting at the local Sainsbury’s route, which should have something for everyone. (approx. 2 miles) on the A4174 Ring Road.

The ride will basically be confined to A and B roads This will be the “Hogs in the Hayfields” rally ride for the duration.

(N.B. open only to rally ticket holders), so ensure The plan is to meet at 10.00 a.m. at McDonald’s, you are sober enough to come along and join what The Coldra (Newport) A48 by the Premier Lodge (Continued on page 9) Hotel. Please be fuelled up ready to depart at

Page 9 promises to be a unique ride. This year’s ride will take in the both the Old Severn Bridge and the New Severn Bridge, plus the Avon Bridge and Brunel’s Clifton Suspension Bridge. The ride will head out across country taking in the Old Severn Bridge first.

Leaving the motorway we head across the local Welsh countryside to rejoin the M4 at Magor.

From here we head over the New Severn Bridge and pick up the M49 which will take us onto the M5 southbound and over the Avon Bridge. Leaving the motorway at Gordano the ride will head towards Bristol and over the Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Once over, we will travel down to the Portway and around Hotwells before heading back along the Portway. This route will allow the riders to see the bridge from a different perspective. At the end of the Portway we will pass the Avon Bridge on the left hand side, again a different view. From here the route will take us back along the River Severn, via

Cangen Cymraeg

Well another month has gone by, so it’s time to put my thoughts on matters affecting Cangen Cymraeg on paper. As I type, it feels like Spring has really arrived with the promise of better riding weather.

Severnside and across country back to the rally site.

This is classed as a Level B ride of circa 70/80 miles with Motorway, A and B roads included.

For last minute updates please call the “Hotline” on 08444 994508 and please keep a check on the website for changes.

Please see below some guidance details of the rides: Level A - Short and easy below 100 miles round trip.

Level B - Fine for average riders but may be a bit longer.

Level C – Can include some complex sections but mainly a longer duration.

Until the next time, have fun and ride hard.

Alan “Big Al” Stokes

By Greg Payne and all of us gained valuable experience and knowledge of leading a rideout safely.

On this theme, if anyone would like to assist the Road Captains as Marshals let me know as any assistance is really appreciated and you will get a sense of satisfaction and purpose. I know Bryn Wiltshire, Neil Lewis and Jonathan St John have volunteered and anymore would be welcome.

Mark and Min Chivers have moved to Gorslas, West Wales, so there could be another entrant in the The March meeting at St mileage stakes. Hope everything went smooth durMary’s was really well attended with a few old faces ing the move and let us know WHEN THE PARTY returning. Good to see Andy and Candace RowIS. lands, and Paul Lant. Andy recently had his Road Last weekend I spent a terrible weekend away from King re-sprayed and having seen the finished article, Candy Apple is the new Black. Also there were my family and attended what was described as the Lynne and Barrie Avery fresh from their Antipodean Isle of Wight Gentlemen’s Tour. There was I, amongst 35 testosterone-fuelled hairy bikers, headadventures (could be an article) plus Kay and Ian ing south led by Bazz, Sharpy, Hardarse and WideMead from Daytona. Having seen videos on boy. My fears were well founded as I soon got YouTube I was especially looking forward to Ian’s mixed up with various leatherclad bikers who had pics, while having a pint at the bar, but what a disthirsts on them worse than a dromedary in the Araappointment - not a patch on last years. bian desert. The only saving grace was an encounBazzer gave a run through of future events and was ter with a nice lady in a hula hula skirt who gave me only interrupted once, a record for Cangen. There is 2 garlands of flowers for Brian Johnson’s birthday still a small take-up of GWC members for our Rally. bash. I can’t say anymore as I believe Dizzy Dave If it will help I can take camping equipment to the has been tasked with the write-up and, with his jourrally in my campervan, cost will be minimal a few nalistic experiences, the piece will be full of hardpints of cider. Just let me know, so we can arrange hitting facts and downright lies (tour stories stay on it. A lot of effort goes into organising this rally to the IOW). make it a success so come along; day tickets are By the time this article is read quite a few of us available, there are hotels close by for a short taxi fare. would have attended the Cider Rally which is the As you were aware there were no Welsh rideouts in start of the Rally Season SO BRING IT ON LET’S RIDE HARD AND PARTY HARD. April as myself, Ian Mead and Simon Griffiths attended a Road Captain’s Course in Oxford. There Greg were 20 attendees from other chapters and I believe we all thought the course was professionally run

Page 10

‘Soaring In Somerset’ Rideout Report

By Mike Sage

Why is Badger (breakdown man) not in bike gear and arriving in a car? Bike trouble – bu**er! No problem he could still fulfil his role – like Bazzer in Belgium! Remember: KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON. Anyway, 12 bikes and 13 hardy souls gathered for my first briefing, a sympathetic audience I felt with the expected ‘useful’ heckling. Mrs Cockers, resplendent in leather and obviously feeling the nip in the air was the only pillion. Honourable mention has to be made of Darlow Lloyd who turned out on his Road Glide from...

Bridgend! Respect.

So off we set, A37, Chew Magna and a quick stop by the Chew Valley Lake, normally an idyllic location with March’s rideout would normally be in reasonable wading birds and gently lapping water. Today it reweather and attract a satisfying turnout, many using it minded me of the Baltic on a stormy day. Onwards and as their start to the season, like playing golf again after a nice weaving ride down the A368 to Burrington watching the Masters on TV! Unsurprisingly that wasn’t Coombe. Roads were fine, not much traffic. “Hmm not the case this year. as many cyclists today” thinks I. Omen number 2.

I’d started planning the route in my head before ChristAt the top of the Coombe I was looking forward to givmas, travelling around Somerset whilst working. You ing the Hog its head and flying across the Mendip Moknow the sort of thought: “blimey, this would make a torway. Nope, roadworks for 8 minutes! What a day to good rideout road, log it for later.” Andy Kendall (Snr) dig a trench across the whole carriageway. Anyway it st joined me for a recce on the bikes on 1 January. It gave me a chance to notice the frost in the trees. was cold and dry on the day but there was localised Omen number 3. flooding about. All was going well, we did about 70 Once we were released by the road crew (wouldn’t miles before reaching Priddy on top of the Mendips. they be more tolerable if they had some cheerful womThere we came to a grinding halt confronted by a flooded road we could not ride through. We were start- an with a flag like American roadworks?) we started to ing to feel the cold so called it a day. It turned out to be make some progress but I did notice some gaps appearing in the convoy and also the drop in temperaa bad omen for the future.... ture, “ease up Mike” I made a mental note.

Further refining took place, including a group recce in the ‘Team Big Al’ tour bus provided by AK. (We’ve for- After the Castle of Comfort PH and approaching the bidden him from selling it, it’s too useful, enabling us to next crossroads we started getting flashed by oncomdiscuss the route and details without continually getting ing vehicles. I immediately reduced speed and watched while a woman in a red fiesta slid gracefully off the bikes.) That went well and the route was agreed. A spanner was again thrown in by the weather across the junction and mounted the kerb. Sheet ice.

– Cheddar Gorge suffered with torrential rain, damagNot good news, Omen number 4. Anyway onwards, ing the road surface and closing the gorge road. The carefully past Waldegrave Pool noting where cars had same happened to Draycott Steep past the Gliding left gouges and tracks in the verges and banks!

Club requiring a rethink and change of route, all of Omens coming thick and fast now, number 5. Gingerly which was achieved in time for Sunday’s ride. Surely riding the dry line and avoiding dark glistening patches late March would be fine? A quick check with Big Al we rode on to The Hunters Rest PH at Priddy on Thursday and we decided to go for it. I think every(remember Priddy?) one was getting a bit stir crazy and needed to get out.

Big Al had gone on ahead in his capacity as Marshal Sunday morning, cold and windy but dry we started to and was stood next to his bike waiting. More sheet ice. gather at McDonalds, Brislington. Another spanner: We crossed the junction, feet down and stopped safeAndy Kendall (RKK) had kindly stepped in to assist the ly. The Road Team had an O group and jointly agreed road team to replace LBD who had pulled out after it was too risky/dangerous to continue with more than claiming some sort of wimpy injury was keeping him off half the outward leg still to do. The right decision, evetwo wheels. Good move in the end LBD, wish I’d ryone was in agreement. thought of it myself. Anyway RKK went down with the Someone at the back had new tyres fitted on Saturday flu and couldn’t chance it. No problem, KEEP CALM (Continued on page 11) AND CARRY ON. “Well sliding actually”

Page 11 and had obviously made the wrong tactical decision choosing to go out on intermediates instead of full wets. (All the best racing drivers have made that mistake). So KEEP CALM AND BACK TO McDONALDS, by the safest main road route. (Someone? stopped off to see a “sick auntie” on the way back. Never miss an opportunity eh Mike?)

is Spring now - Yeah right!

Back at McD’s and full of hot coffee but still visibly shivering, we decided we’d survived without physical injuries apart from mild frostbite. (Priddy weather report : 28⁰F -1⁰C feeling like: 15⁰F -10⁰C) Every cloud has a silver lining, Mark Chinnick was grinning because he’d notched up one more ride than RKK and Keith Swarbrick. The last memorable sight of the day was Darlow leaving on his long ride back to Bridgend....

All was good – very cold but ok – till we got on top of the Mendips by the Castle of Comfort pub – a strong side-wind blowing and the temp was down to -3°C; factor in the wind chill and it was more like -10°C, definitely not good riding weather. Tthe back end had already twitched 3 times, then on the 4th attempt the bike won, the front end twitched and dumped me unceremoniously on my arse!

Checked the forecast – still very cold but no rain – text from Big Al around 10pm last night – ride is on! Good stuff.

I had a look at our outside thermometer before I left the house at 8.45am it was telling me it was -2°C!

The road was sheet ice!

Big thanks to the council that didn’t bother to grit that piece of road, all the other riders on the day reported the same “twitching” of the back ends. I’ve since heard from someone who lived on that bit of road that the council never bothers gritting up there as there is a lot of heavy vehicle traffic from a local quarry. The council relies on them “dropping” enough crap in the road to keep it clear – will have to write to them and let them know it’s not working!

Getting back to the tyre issue – was it the new tyres that caused the spill? I don’t know for sure, but the next time I get some fitted I will make sure that I do the 100 or so miles they recommend before taking any chances on extremely wet or extremely cold rides!!

Thanks to all those who turned out and to those that didn’t... fair shout. We will return to this one again, and At the end of the day – not all bad – no blood spilt and get past b****y Priddy! little damage to the bike despite coming off at 25–30 Mike Sage mph – bit of a scratch on the end of the exhaust pipe and a graze on the crash bars – they did their job! It New Tyres “A Cautionary Tale” could have been a lot worse!

Please read on and I’ll explain.

Back tyre looking a little worse for wear and with some good rides planned for the immediate future I decided to bite the bullet and get Riders to do their thing, I knew the front was a bit on the “thin” side as well but thought I’d leave it for a month or so, but then came the dreaded (but half expected) phone call, “Riders here, do you know your Front tyre is borderline illegal?”

So, not much in the way of options I gave them the go ahead to do the front as well.

So far so good!

This was all on Friday 22nd March, hanking down with rain so I’d leave the bike with them and pick it up on Saturday (23rd). Forecast cold but no rain - all still good!

Still with me?

Now Sunday 24th and a nice rideout planned – well it

Big Al had gone ahead of the group to “mark” the next junction, parked his bike in another pub car park, on a gentle slope, and watched as his bike started to slide down the slope on the kickstand!! About as cold as it gets on a bike!!

It was quite sensible that the ride was terminated at that junction of the road and a cautious, more direct, ride taken back to the starting point of the day, McDonalds Brislington, for a warming bite to eat and a hot cuppa. Then back home for a very welcome hot bath.

New tyres – not recommended?

Yes of course they are – but – as I said above, take heed of the advice given and treat them gently till they “scuff up” a bit to give you maximum adhesion to the roads – and unlike me – stay upright!

Ride safe – have fun.

Page 12

Coleford Transport Festival

By Michael Ludwell

April 1st 2013 It was a very overcast, very cold, morning to venture out to meet with just three of the 5 people who said they would attend the Coleford festival for 2013. As usual with these events they are all day, start from 7.30am and finish after 4pm due to all the health and safety requirements of the day.

Everyone arrived at Severn View services in time to fill out the registration forms and we were on our way by 8.30am. Interestingly, all of us were on red bikes, one with the added bonus of the beer barrel trailer.

We were pleased to see some very welcome faces of past and present Chapter members who popped by for a bit of a chin wag. The snow did not get to much but did persist several times during the day and maybe this was the reason for the lack of interaction from the public. There were plenty of them but they just glanced and very few actually engaged, this I think was down to the low numbers of Harleys that attended.

It was a cold ride from the off but now snow flakes had started to fall and the sky got darker and darker. The ride took about half an hour and was made confusing by the fact that we hadn’t seen any other type of vehicles on their way to the show. Had we got the right day? Were we at the right meeting point?

Suddenly, from the other direction, came a blue Massey Ferguson tractor with its driver looking so cold, even colder than us and as we turned into the high street there was just a small queue of people making their way into the square. Timed perfectly! We parked up just beneath the clock tower and outside of the pub... Ideal place to be put.

There were 18 Harleys altogether and a separate display of mixed bikes in an adjacent street. Time for a walk around and take an early bird view. There were vehicles from all categories and especially the Classics including more smart cars than I had ever seen in one place. They really have picked up a cult following, a bit like the VW caravanettes that had also turned up in massive quantities.

From Triumph Stags to Bubble cars, from the usual A30 Austins to TVRs, in all over 600 exhibits for the public to view free of charge on a family day out.

Plenty of parts and spares, plenty of food and every one seemed to be enjoying the day.

By 3.30pm we were allowed to leave and head for home as we were at the bottom of the High Street.

Cold it was, but very enjoyable just the same. I'm sure the organisers will be well happy with the turn out as we were with their organisation.

From the man with the red bike

Page 13 peas and a mug of tea. Full and tired we strolled out of the restaurant to find it very dark and extremely cold. This is the point my husband actually realised his gloves had been borrowed.

One hundred and seventy five miles to go and oh no, no gloves. The exhaust gave out its lovely growl which helped drown out my husband’s moaning about how cold it was.

We road out of Hastings towards Eastbourne. The time was getting on now and we were dressed in our summer leathers. My husband took the motorway home and cranked the old sportster up to 85 mph . Now we were really cold. We didn’t get home until 01.00 but we had a fantastic day out. We are planning to do this ride again this year with friends Michael and Julia.

Hi I’m Nicky and I’m responding to an e-mail about experiences as a pillion.

The photo above is on Route 22 on our way to Shaw Harley. We’d only had the Harley for a year and decided to ride to the south east coast and back This is me outside Shaw Harley at the sunshine in one day, about 375 miles. The trip started very coast. unplanned really: we decided to ride to Camberley, in Surrey, to McDonalds for a coffee and see how we felt. After the coffee we thought we would ride to Guildford Harley, I mean it would be rude not to after all we were already in Surrey. We arrived at Guildford Harley to be treated to free coffees and doughnuts, Wow! After lots of chatting and drinking we rode on to East Grinstead via Dorking and Reigate, on the A25, stopping at McDonald's for lunch and a coffee. While in the restaurant someone helped themselves to my husbands motorcycle gloves that he’d left in the side panniers. Silly boy.

Off we went again onto the A22 heading towards Eastbourne. We arrived at Shaw Harley at 1600.

This ride, with stops, had taken us nine hours.

Shaw Harley was fantastic and well worth the ride.

Not only were they very friendly, but hospitable too.

They showed us around the dealership and gave us a tour of the work and customising shop as well. We stayed much too long and left Shaw at 1800, riding to the pier, then up to Beachy Head to see where the Scooter had gone off the top in the film Quadrophenia.

The last stop before home was the Blue Dolphin in Hastings for a plate of fish and chips with mushy

This is the car park in Bibury by the trout farm opposite the Swan Hotel but that’s another day and another ride.

Nicky Dodd

Gentlemen’s Isle of WIGht Weekend Someone once said, “If all men were equal the world would be a boring place” well this weekend was far from boring.

to brave the wind on the upper deck, while others were happy to just doze.

FRI Day 1 I was up early and pulled back the curtains to view the weather, not bad, cloudy and rain in the air but OK. Ablutions done, it was downstairs for breakfast and then into the garage to pack the bike, just one Harley bag on the back, all packed the night before. Said goodbye to my wife, gave her a big kiss and she wished me bon voyage and a safe trip. I can still hear her saying, “I hope you haven’t forgotten anything”!! Helmet and riding gear on I saddled up, a silent ride down the hill, then started my wonderful Harley. That lovely sound when all is quiet and my neighbours, still in their beds saying, “Dave's off, I hope he’s not forgotten anything”. The air was fresh but not cold and my next stop was at Magor services to meet my good friend Paul Evans. Both, with a little sleep in our eyes, we proceeded to Riders for the start. We were a little early so it was nice to see and hear the guys arrive with, I’m sure, a need to eat. I was right about that, so many plates of full breakfast.

How did the lady manage to cope I don’t know, but she did a fantastic job, with a little help. The last time I saw eating like that was at Bristol Zoo.

After a fantastic ride to Alum bay, where the wind was so strong the cable car was closed, we then went along the coastal road and the scenery was spectacular.

We arrived in Shanklin a little thirsty and tired and as we parked up, I could hear the words, “I could murder a pint, where's the bar” and this was about four o’clock.

Now I have to admit that alcohol and me do not get on, especially at my age, so to commence drinking at five was a very big mistake, ‘cos at six I was pissed, so the next few words are based on a hazy memory.

I’m not sure when we left the hotel to eat but my legs were not keeping up with the rest of my body. Finally we reached The Village, a most attractive pub down the hill. It was full of our bikers and others, so standing room only. I can remember the pints coming thick and fast and someone saying, “Come on Dave keep up” and I can remember taking a rest on a comfy sofa by a well-lit fire. Now here’s where my embarrassment began, because I was hot and removed my leather vest and coat but forgot to put on the vest when leaving.

The next stop was the Henry VIII pub a little way across the road and this is where the fun started. A nice meal, Now for the off, it was great to hear the bikes, that great a dance and a good rock band “OBLIVION,” could anyHarley sound and in my opinion can only be made by a one want more? Well two guys did, they just couldn’t Harley. So with excitement and anticipation we set off, resist doing a strip right down to the nuddy, with one with Baz leading and guy covering his priNigel in the rear, or vates with both hands should I rephrase and the other guy with that, at the back. one and guess who they were, PHILO and The route was a suBRYN what a pair of per mix of A and B outrageous men. Can roads, to our first stop you imagine the sceat the Warminster ne, all the guys shoutBypass Services. Reing, drinking, whisfreshments were weltling, breaking wind come and all happy and know one wanting until the sight of rainto bend down to pick bows below one of up a five pound note the bikes brought off the floor, the whole concern, a dreaded pub was awash with oil leak or, if you’re laughter, it was with Welsh, leek. Soon no complaints. I then the concern grew unthought, it’s time to go til someone said home so off I stag(“Slick, you’ve got an oil leak” or was it “leak, you’ve got gered only to find myself in the Holland's Hotel Piano a oil slick” I’m not sure), well everybody at the ready shouting “Don’t panic” Don’t Panic” but all was well, so Bar, and guess who were with us? PHILO and BRYN plus many others. Could this get any worse, you then off again in our trusted formation. The ride was betcha? More drink, more laughter but this time the fantastic, with lovely twisty roads through the scenic scene was different, a nicer type of person frequented New Forest, to Lymington for our ferry crossing. this place, until we arrived. The live act performing was The crossing was calm and tranquil so the bikes, all (Continued on page 15) lined up, were safe on their side stands. Some decided 14

a very nice attractive female singer, who must have tric, full of women, two hen nights and three birthdays, been put off her stride by the sight of us. Not wanting to what fun this is going to be. Soon there was banter beupset anyone we shouted quietly, then more tween the ladrinks and then the two Great Western Stripdies and the pers were at it again, removing their shirts Harley boys, and were about to remove their pants when all good fun the manager, who seemed a little scared, though. gestured NO WAY, not in my establishment.

Our compere It seemed certain that hand movements was brilliant caught on because BRYN gestured to the reminded me manager GO FORTH AND MULTIPLY at of Smithy on which the manager with hand movements Gavin and replied GO AHEAD SEE IF I CARE, so they Stacey and so continued to strip to the buff and to the nice was BRYN, lady, who’s face was now turning red, had wearing his the sight of two naked back sides; must have kilt and tambeen like looking at bulldogs chewing a wasp my, shouting a Too much for me and so to bed. few words to help the acts.

SAT Day 2 Not a good morning for me, my head was spinning and The first comedian was a female, who was struggling the thought of losing my vest made me sad and it was and the ladies weren’t very kind, but us guys gave her the respect she deserves. I think being in front of thirty peeing down. But we soldiered on and, while others hairy bikers is enough to scare anybody. The next act rode off to see some sights, I went was a magician; he was a very clever guy, making balls disappear and return under three large cups and his to the places we visited last night to hat, then turned them into pomegranates and a melon. find my vest, but no The last act was a Canadian, very funny but very blue, joy. As the rain was so a good time was had by all and we came out intact. now hammering, I returned to the hotel with my two very good friends three of us went to only to find the reception empty. One of my friends rea little cafe on the quired service front and it wasn’t and seemed a long before the rest little agitated joined us. Baz that the recepthought it would be tion was bare, a good ideal, that’s so comwhat they say in menced to Brizzle, to have a ring the buzzpresentation. So er on the desk would dizzy Dave and then the stand up, I thought oh shit not again, Baz very kindly alarms went gave me my waistcoat and that cheered me up imoff, the lights mensely, yes I had left it on the sofa. went out, peoThen, back to the ferry and this time a choppy crossing. ple were descending the A speaker announcement asked if we could go to the lower decks to check our bikes. I was feeling a lot bet- stairs in their nightwear all because this guy had not read the info ter now so I volunteered. I returned topside to inform the guys all’s well, only two bikes had changed places, under the buzzer it said “ For emergency only “. He stood there frozen, eyes wide open with his hand in when at that point a car alarm went off on the lower deck, I have never seen a lot of old farts move so fast - front of his face muttering “Oh **** what have I done. I will not tell you who this person is because BOB wouldall headed down the stairs, pushing and pulling each n’t like it. Paul, the nice, big, receptionist came running other out of the way, anybody would have thought we were sinking. Off the ferry for a short ride to the Prem- and found it quite amusing, so all was fine. ier Inn Portsmouth. We were greeted by a young lady SUN Day 3 named Louise who booked us all in quickly and then off Up early for breakfast. I was not sure about the fry-up to our rooms, I didn’t see Lenny. Super-clean and a big but had one anyway. Weather is dry but cloudy so the bed. ride home looked good. It was nice to see all the guys, We met in reception and taxied to Jongleurs, but first well nearly all because someone could have been left we must eat, so Frankie and Bennies was fine. The behind, I will explain later. Now most if not all the bikes service was good; the food was ok, orange and lemon- are lined neatly on the road after our direction and safeade for me. I checked to see if I was wearing my vest ty info. Bikes now roared into action, all except one; and it’s just as well I wasn’t, cos I wouldn’t get in. They poor Wide Boy Nigel sat with a stare of disbelief, ‘cos ask me for identification so I showed them my bus his bike just spluttered, farted and stopped, oh dear pass, no problem we are in. The atmosphere was elec(Continued on page 16) 15

idea just behind a very sparse hedge - big mistake ‘cos four or five of them were doing pirouettes trying not to spray themselves as the wind blew, causing them to face the road with hanging bits showing, just as well the cars were as sparse as the hedge, then returning to their bikes with wet boots and leggings. Back on the bikes and off to Charmouth for a sandwich, cup of tea and a plate of chips.

The ride home was very wet but, needless to say, very enjoyable.

I would like to thank Peter, Baz, and all who helped to organise this trip. For me it was one of the best rideouts I have attended.

Dave Vass what a bummer. It was soon noticed by the guys, who switched off their engines. The young and strong came to the rescue with a push but no joy. It must be the plugs, so who’s got any spanners, the question was soon answered when The Pluggers came to Nigel’s aid. This spanner doesn't fit, nor does this one, try this, no that’s no good either. “You sure that’s not a Yamaha in drag”. After a while Simon And Bryn had the plugs out. “Now has anyone got a lighter” I saw so many shrug their shoulders and reply “ No I don't smoke” Eventually the Pluggers collected two plugs and it still wouldn’t start, so bring back the Pushers. Three quarters of an hour went by and a lot of pushing; the bike finally burst into action. You could hear a pin drop while the pushing was going on, but when it started the cheers were so loud all the rugby boys in the field opposite went running in all directions. That’s what biking is all about “friendship”.

Philo ‘THE GOOD SAMARITAN’ RAIN, RAIN, RAIN… and there I was having just degruded the Softail.

Trundling slowly into Ryde on the hunt for the pack, in front of me blocking my considerable bulk was a scooter and two people of the female persuasion. Pulling across the junction to help protect the young ladies I sprang into action…

The situation was this, a scooterist pulled out of a side road, gave it a handful and hey presto, flat out, face down and whimpering!!

First glance and the injured party was making a noise, (the only time it’s good to hear a whining female voice) bonus she’s alive!

Now we are off to the Southampton Dealership and what a palaver, lots of road works, which means lots of cars, which means lots of frayed tempers but we even- A quick check to see if the scooter was safe and the tually got there although a little late. This is a good time other young lady had phoned the correct people, now to begin the chat up. to relax, look at the bikes, keep your money in your wallet, have coffee and have a pee. We said good-bye, Name: Trish checked that Nigel’s bike was running well, that he has Age: 17. his new plugs and off we go to Chesil Beach, with a stop at Charmouth. No rain at this time but a very Eyes: Brown strong wind, which may have caused Christof to doubt Boyfriend: No his sat Nav because we stopped a few times. On one Cold: Yes of those stops some guys thought a pee was a good

Having struck up a repartee I attempted a quick assessment, (easiest way is, “Tash tell me where it hurts?

Right ankle and calf, time to make her as comfortable as possible. Jacket around her shoulders and keep the chat up. Reassurance, anything to try and keep the situation calm, above all maintain the flirt!

The traffic was becoming a real problem, suddenly from nowhere a woman started directing, fearless as she was, cars blaring horns she gave no reaction just calm and collected, WOW I thought she was amazing….

It wasn’t until much later I discovered she was deaf!

I stayed on the scene until the ambulance arrived, it took 45 mins.

As for Tash one fractured leg and a wonderful smile.

16

Page 17

Cockers Bits

By Anita Cockwell

So this is the May edition which means we have been thorough April already (yes I know I’m bright like that!) which means we’ve had one ‘Go Your Own Way’ and two 10th Anniversary events.

1st April saw the Coleford Carnival of Transport (renamed ‘Cold ford’ for obvious reasons), an annual themed event with this year celebrating Harley- Davidson’s 110th anniversary. Unfortunately, due to the very low number of HarleyDavidson exhibits (H-D bikes were to be centre stage), the organisers removed the H-D theme from their advertising but, having said that, the Chapter was represented. You can read Mike Ludwell’s write up in this month’s edition of the mag. So we tried something new, the weather didn’t help, but unfortunately, unless we see a bigger interest,I don’t think we will see this on our list for next year.

The second of our 10th Anniversary events was the Gentlemen’s Weekend Away to IOW from the 12th 14th. The rotten weather wasn’t going to stop our intrepid bunch sailing across the high seas to the IOW and having a great time, So bikes fuelled up? Check!

Riders full of English breakfast? Check! ……And that’s where I’ll leave it as you can read the full story from the ‘horses mouth’ in this month’s mag. Who knows, perhaps we could see this as an annual event (provided that is we have the corresponding Ladies weekend!) Take a look at the video on the web though, another Christoff masterpiece.

The week after the IOW weekend saw the Night Ride on Friday 19th April. This event was always going to be weather dependent so all eyes were looking skyward but, as the week progressed, mercifully, we saw the weather improve. A small group of us went up to wish them a safe and enjoyable ride and count them out but when we arrived at McDonalds we weren’t sure if they had cancelled the ride or perhaps they had gone early? Where were the bikes?? Thankfully it wasn’t cancelled and we weren’t late as one by one they started to arrive with the rumble of each bike being heard some way off due to the clear evening skies. Whilst they waited for others it was funny to see them check out and compare who had the best LED lights or who had the brightest back/brake lights, it was like being at a disco! Still, it makes a change from comparing the chrome I suppose. Then the time came for them to depart and off they went into the night. It was now about 10.00pm and time to get home and open that bottle of wine and slump in front of the TV but, as we rode home on the bike, you couldn’t fail to notice that the temperature had started to plummet. Hopefully the guys had their thermals on; it was going to be a cold night.

Saturday morning came round which saw an even bigger ‘Welcoming Committee’ to see the group safely counted back in. Thankfully the ride went without incident and all returned safe and well, if not a bit knackered. Anyway I’m not saying any more about the actual event as we will have a full write up on the night ride in next month’s mag (the Editor thought it mean to ask for the write up the same day they got home!).

Dinner/Dance 26th October As mentioned at Club nights the majority of events, where hotels etc. are involved, need us to pay upfront, so it’s vital that we need to know we have sold the minimum number of tickets by the end of June in order to cover the overheads. So whilst October may be a number of months away we are taking bookings for the 10th anniversary dinner/dance at The Hilton, Bradley Stoke, so please register your interest by paying a 50% deposit of £15 per person by the 30th June (full payments can also be taken as well!).

This will be the penultimate 10th anniversary event of the year and therefore we hope to see and celebrate with as many members as possible to round off our very special year.

So just to recap ………. Its £30 per person for the dinner/dance, so we will need at least 50% deposits by the end of June please. Monies can be paid by BACS, cheques or cash. For more details, or to register your interest, please contact Lynne Avery (St Mary’s Club nights) lynne_avery@yahoo.com or me (at Cross Hands club nights). Once the full amount has been received you will be given a ticket as your receipt.

Don’t forget that the hotel is also offering discounted room rates for party-goers so look at the 10th Anniversary Events page/website for more details. You can check in from 3.00pm and then use the hotel facilities such as the pool/Jacuzzi…. bar. Your room rate includes a full cooked breakfast served up until 11.00am Sunday morning, so you can have a lie in too!

And one last thing, Mike Filder is looking for volunteers to set up/man a variety of games at the rally. We will have a number of fun games (remember the Piggy race?) so need self reliant peeps to help out over the weekend. Please contact Mike direct on his mobile 07788 298623 or email mike.filder@blueyonder.co.uk And don't forget to contact me to take part in ‘Stars in Their Eyes’ - rehearsals 18th May at Cleve Rugby Club.

Having a laugh is more important than singing ability!

Cockers Email: accockwell@yahoo.com Mobile: 07702 073361

Page 18

Our Remaining 7½ Events in 2013 Event 4 – 12th Benelux Rally, Silverlake Beach, Mol, Belgium – Flemish Kempen H.O.G. Chapter, 20th Anniversary, June 7th- 9th Details are on our Chapter website or contact Chris Harding for full details.

Event 5 – 10th Anniversary Rally at the Hayfields, June 21st - 23rd This will be held at Cleve Rugby Club, with loads of great entertainment, and a special rideout encompassing our bridges. Tickets - £25 for the weekend or £18 for Saturday, now on sale from Tony James. See the special rally page on our website for a booking form. Buy early and you have a chance of winning a free rally ticket in our monthly draw! Tony is also looking for volunteers to help.

Event 6 – Rhayader Riding Weekend, July 11th-14th Bazzer will lead a ride to Rhayader on Thursday July 11th, and Nige will lead a ride there on Friday July 12th.

There will be a planned ride for both Friday and Saturday, through the Elan Valley and Snowdonia, as well as planned evening entertainment centred round the many pubs in Rhayader. Details for booking accommodation can be found on our website on our 10th Anniversary page. Just in case you didn’t see the message sent out on MailChimp, if anyone has booked accommodation at the Bear, Greenfields or the Brynafon Hotel, you need to book elsewhere as the owner of these has gone into receivership. Please inform Yvonne Roberts if you intend joining us: yvonne.s.roberts@gmail.com as it will help Dave (LBD) Roberts in planning the rides and the Rhayader entertainment Committee in planning our evening entertainment. So far 66 people have let me know they are coming, including 14 Road captains.

Event 7 – Treasure Hunt, June 30th, a day of mystery, mischief and mayhem!

Meet for 10am at a suitable meeting place (to be confirmed but there will be coffee and facilities!). After reg-

istration there will be a vague woolly explanation as to how the hunt works. We will then issue people with their clue packs (top secret!), and send them on their way! It’s more fun if people are in teams. We aim to send the first teams out at 10.45/11.00am at timed intervals. We take great care to plan a safe riding route and avoid anything that could be hazardous...it’s about having fun and following the clues, not dodging traffic! We give fairly precise directions...we figure it’s more fun to take part than get lost! The clues aren't hugely challenging. Cameras will be needed. We are aiming for it to take about 4 hours including time for tea/beer breaks and the finish will be at a suitable eatery, (we take orders for food before the off so that we can let the eatery know the numbers). Allowing for any bribes etc, the winner(s) will be announced and presented with "The Trophy", currently on display in Riders showcase!

Event 8 – Charity Canoe Trip on the River Wye, and BBQ/camping at the Orchard Trust, Saturday August 24th 33 x 2 person canoes have been booked, so we cannot take anymore bookings. We also plan to run a competition to raise money for the Orchard Trust, and end up at the Trust for a BBQ & camping. Stu Scott is also planning a rideout for this event. More details to follow.

Event 9 – UK Tour Go East, the Road Less Travelled, September 5th- 8th We have 49 people participating in this tour, and booking has now closed.

Event 10 – GWC 10th Anniversary Dinner at the Hilton Hotel, Aztec West, October 26th This will be a black tie/smart dress event. The cost of a ticket for 3 course dinner and disco will be £30 per person, with hotel accommodation at £50 per room for B&B, including use of all the hotel facilities. Afterwards, there is a late bar for residents only. Rooms can be booked now by calling Lucy Robinson on 01454 893436. Dinner tickets are available from Anita Cockwell, Activities Officer, 07702 073361, accockwell@yahoo.com and at Club nights. The deadline for the Chapter to pay 50% of the balance is the end of June. Therefore to guarantee your ticket you must also have paid at least 50% of the ticket price by this date. If tickets are still available, we will continue to sell them up to 2 weeks prior to the event, when the payment of the final balance is due. See our website for details.

Ladies Only Weekend Away in London, November 23rd Bookings are now closed.

Bazzer, Anita, Nige Garnett, Dave Norton, Chris, Tony Yendle, Martin Rich, Peter and Yvonne Roberts - the Planning Group.

Page 19

Safety Officer

By Andy Kendall and other locations throughout France.

French Law update

All helmets must have four reflective stickers: one on the front, one at the rear and one on each side. The surface of each sticker must be 18 cm2 and, within each sticker, you must be able to draw a 40 mm diameter circle, or a 12.50 cm2 rectangle with a minimum of 20 mm length.

Travelling to Europe?

Then you will probably have to go through France. Here are a few amendments you should be aware of to the current Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) have stated that they have not heard of any British rider being pulled up and road traffic legislation in fined on this piece of legislation, to date.

France.

Breathalyzers

Sat Nav and Speed Camera Alerts

1 March 2012 – The French Government confirmed that from 1 July 2012 drivers of all motor vehicles and motorcycles (excluding mopeds) must carry a breathalyzer. The regulation will be enforced from 1 November 2012 and anyone stopped after that date who fails to produce a breathalyzer when requested will receive an on the spot fine of 11 euros.

Sat Navs with speed camera warning software are still illegal in France. If you are caught by the police in possession of one of these they can seize your sat nav and possibly your bike, and you will probably be fined for good measure. I was told the police do not have the power to seize or interrogate your sat nav, but would you say no to a guy with a gun who does not speak your language. If you feel more comfortable then you can always remove the French speed camera site locations from your device before travelling.

October 2012 – The French Government announced that the implementation of the sanction for riders not carrying a breathalyzer – a fine of 11 euros – has been postponed from 1 November 2012 to 1 march 2013.

The French Government have also removed from the roadside all advanced warning signs of speed camera January 2013 – The French Government announced locations. Please beware. that the implementation of the sanction for riders not carrying a breathalyzer – a fine of 11 euros – has been Gentle Reminder postponed indefinitely.

Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) are the people reBasically they still require you to carry a breathalyzer, but if you have not got one, they cannot fine you!!!! So sponsible for looking after the interests of motorcyclists not only in the UK but in Europe as well. Without their why bother possessing one at all??? constant pressuring on the UK and European ParliaPlease note that the French Government have ments we would be blowing down tubes for a pastime started to crack down on Drink/Drive offences. The and look like ‘over the top’ Christmas trees whilst riding legal limit is half of what it is in the UK. So to get our bikes. I urge you all to join MAG in this, their 40th round this, wait till you get to the rally, dump your year, so that they can continue to look after our interbike, and then get legless!! ests. If you are already members, then sorry to be preaching to the converted but I am looking to all the new members to support this organization. It will only Reflective Clothing for motorcyclists cost £25 per year, less than 50p per week. Go to their January 2012 – the French Government announced website and join today. You will also see the many that from 1 January 2013 all riders and passengers of benefits you also get with membership, such as legal a motorcycle over 125cc or and motor tricycle must advice, discounts etc. etc. They will also keep you upwear reflective clothing when riding their vehicles and dated with regards to changes in the law and proposed in the event of an emergency stop/breakdown. attacks from governments in an attempt to curb our way of life. The above two u-turns made by the French January 2013 – The French Government announced that the law that made reflective equipment compulso- Government have come about due to the pressure ry for motorcycle riders and passengers in France from MAG have exerted, both here and in Europe.

1 January 3013 has been abolished.

Ride Safe.

Please note. There is still a requirement to carry a reflective vest with regards to breakdown etc.

Andy However, unfortunately, there has been for some time another (stupid) piece of legislation forcing all bikers in Safety Officer France, whether residents or visitors, to wear a helmet Email: andy.kendall@virgin.net with reflective stickers on, and this one has not been scrapped. Bikers caught wearing a helmet without Mobile: 07905 397474 stickers may face a 135 euros fine payable on the spot and 3 points taken off their licence. The police have recently been enforcing this rule quite severely in Paris

Page 20

Pete & Duncan’s Pump Stop unveiled in Church Lane, in 2003 – the 100th Anniversary year of Harley-Davidson. Why? Initially I thought it must be something to do with the fact that Cambridgeshire has 3 active USAF bases nearby, and that it was an American tribute to H-D. Not so, I discovered after a few hours of research.

Looking at the 1851 census data for Cambridgeshire, I discovered that in a small cottage, number 64 Victoria Street, Littleport, lived a family named Harley: William, aged 46 and his wife Hannah (48) and their children, Mary (18), William (15), Hannah (14) and Joab (8). The 2 youngest are listed as ‘Scholars’, while the rest of the family are described as ‘Agricultural labourers’.

I expect that all of you are very familiar with the story of the Davidsons’ ancestral home in Scotland – Netherton Cottage, a small dwelling house overlooking the fields of the county of Angus. The derelict building has recently been fully restored by Harley-Davidson enthusiasts. It was in this cottage that Alexander “Sandy” Davidson brought up his family of 6 children and worked as a wheel wright in his smithy. In 1851, however, they packed their bags and headed off for a new life in the USA, settling in Milwaukee. Their second youngest son, William C. Davidson and his wife Mary also had 6 children, the youngest of whom was Arthur, who had the mechanical skills of his Grandfather. Throughout his childhood, one of Arthur’s best friends was William Sylvester Harley and, when they were just 21, William designed an engine that could be mounted on a bike and Arthur built the frame. As the project developed, the two friends brought in another friend, Henry plus Arthur’s older brother, Walter, and so the rest is well In 1859, son William, now aged 23, married a local girl, Susan Scolls in St George’s Parish Church. known history.

Later that year they left Littleport forever, and emiSo, while the Davidsons originated from Scotland, grated to the USA, where they settled in Owego, a where did the Harley family come from? The clue to village on the Susquehanna River, 200 miles from this can be found in Cambridgeshire, in the small New York City. Today, Owego has a population of fenland village of Littleport, 6 miles north of Ely. 20,000, and relies mostly on tourists visiting its hisMuch to my surprise (and thanks to Mike Filder for toric centre. showing me an image of this a few Saturdays ago in Within 2 years the American Civil War was underRiders) the village boasts a splendid “Harleyway and William stayed in Owego until the winter of Davidson Motorcycle Monument”.

The monument is made out of stainless steel and is a full-size replica of a 1936 Knucklehead, and was

(Continued on page 21)

Page 21 1862/63 when he enlisted in the army on January 2nd, 1863 – fighting on the side of the Unionists in the New York Heavy Artillery. He came through the

cle Monument came into being in July 2003 and the unveiling was attended by John E. Harley Jr. and Margo Manning, the two Great Grandchildren of William S. Harley.

As a foot note, the ancestral home of 64 Victoria Street no longer exists. In its place is a row of 20th Century houses where it once stood. Also, rather sadly, further planned Harley-focussed events in Littleport, since 2003, have come to nothing.

Anyhow, if you have signed up for the “Go East” Tour in September, we will be making a special stop to admire this unique monument!

Before then, hopefully, we’ll have some great weather for the summer with nothing to get in the way of getting out and riding.

war safely and, following his honourable discharge on August 6th 1865, he returned to Owego.

So, the weekend is here and you get your gear on to go and push the bike out of the garage. Only, you In 1868 a daughter, Katherine was born. It is possi- find it bleeping at you and the alarm goes off even ble that Susan died in childbirth, though there is no though you have your alarm fob on you. That’s hard evidence. However, in the next year or so, Wil- strange you think and, after a couple of attempts at liam married Mary and in 1870 their son Joseph was trying to switch the alarm off, you go and get the spare fob only to find that doesn’t work either. At born. The Harley family left Owego soon after and this point, you are at home so getting the manual moved the considerable distance of 780 miles to and the override code is easy and within five Milwaukee. William gained work as a railway engineer and, until 1896, they lived at 222 North Street, minutes and a quick study of the book you have enwhich was the same road where the Davidson fami- tered the code and the bike now starts. ly lived (at number 232). North Street no longer ex- Put your hand up if you know how to use the code ists, and it may have become the current North Ave- and what it is. When the above happens at home it’s nue over time. not a problem but what about when you are on that William and Mary went on to have a further 5 children, including William Sylvester Harley, on December 29th 1880. Sadly, none of the other children survived to adulthood.

trip to the coast.

In your alarm fob there is a normal watch battery which I would recommend replacing once a year.

There is no way of knowing how many times it has been used and, for less than a fiver, is it worth getWilliam Harley himself died on February 1916 at th ting stranded? You should also get familiar with the 647, 36 Street, Milwaukee. pin code and how to enter it. If you change the batThe question you might ask is: how do we know that teries in the fobs yourself be careful, as they will go the William Harley who left Littleport with a wife Su- in both ways and only work one way! If you’re unsan, is the same William Harley who appears in Mil- sure, just give us a call. waukee and whose son, W.S. Harley, is co-founder of the Harley legend?

Fortuitously, Kate Harley, the wife of John E. Harley Once again, Ride Safe Jr. (Great Grandson of William S. Harley) set out to investigate the Harley ancestral tree. Amongst famiPeter and Duncan@Riders ly documents, she discovered a letter from Mary Fyson (née Harley) of Victoria Street, Littleport, addressed to her ‘Dear Brother William’. So, the link was made. With the support of Harley-Davidson and the efforts of the Littleport Society the H-D Motorcy-

Page 22

Orchard Trust

By Kathryn

Hi everyone, Well, spring seems to have finally arrived here at Orchard Trust. The woodland on the Stowfield site is full of wild daffodils, wood anemones and the first scent of wild garlic and we’ve had all of our lambs now on the Smallholding – eight altogether.

Numbers using the trampoline (with the Powermesh bed that you purchased for us) are increasing. We have a second trained staff member on site now who can offer out-sessions to people outside the Trust who would benefit from this kind of therapy - including people with learning disabilities and a young man with an acquired brain injury, who has just begun a course of sessions that combine physiotherapy with fun. We are also able to offer people the chance to work towards awards on a scheme called Winstrada, for people who would find the regular trampoline awards too challenging. Orchard Trust staff are being regularly trained to use this facility with service users, as a great source of therapy, exercise and fun.

Hilltop service-users and staff have had a busy couple of weeks. Their new shower room is finished, which looks fabulous. Also a new resident, Kim, has moved in. They enjoyed a very nice Easter with all of their service users and also other service users who had come for a short break over the Easter period. They all contributed to making a festive Easter activity branch and then took part in an egg decorating session. When Sian, our Deputy Manager at Hilltop was asked if the egg with the pink feather in her hair was meant to be her, she replied “Yeah – so close to my hair colour it’s scary!!”

following days, from 10.00-12.00: Friday 10 May, Friday 7 June and Friday 21 June. The team will be whipping up some delicious treats, with suggestions so far including Victoria sponge with strawberries and cream, 'Anthony's coffee and walnut cake', apple turnovers, quiche, toasted sandwiches and chocolate cake. Everyone is very welcome!

Still on the food theme - the Kimberley Drive/ Morelands Chit-Chat Café in Lydney is doing really well. They have recently started offering meal deals and are pleased to be getting lots of support from the public. Everyone really enjoys running it!

We would like to welcome Stephanie as your recently appointed Charity Co-ordinator and look forward to working with her. Gareth and myself were pleased to welcome both Stephanie and Anita at Orchard Trust recently. We were able to further the plans for the BBQ/ camping to follow the Canoe Paddle on 24th August. It was Stephanie’s first visit to Orchard Trust – so were able to tell her more about what we do and Anita was able to see parts of the site that she hadn’t had the opportunity to visit previously. Scot, who delivers hydrotherapy and trampoline sessions for our Service Users showed them around the Swimgym and explained how the activities benefit the service users. We also had a walk along the “Great Western Path” on the Smallholding leading to the wildlife area.

Thank you both very much for taking the time to visit – we enjoyed showing you around!

Finally, everyone at Orchard Trust would like to say a very big ‘Thank you’ to Bill for all the work that he did in his role as Charity Co-ordinator, including all the raffles and other fundraising activities he organised, the auction at our Summer Fayre, liaising with us here over our ‘Wish list’ and also, of course, for encouraging you all to support us – both financially and visiting us at Summer Fayre etc.

We would like to wish Bill and Sam “All the very best” for the future from everyone at The Orchard Trust.

The Truly Scrumptious Team visited Vantage Point Business Park again last week as part of their mobile muffin and sandwich round. They sold lots of muffins and left With very best wishes to everyone in GWC from everyone some in reception for the staff there to buy. The team here were fantastic and managed to bake 65 muffins, including 5 different flavours, by 10.30 and then jumped on the minibus to take them to the business park in Mitcheldean Kathryn the mini bus smelled lovely – just like a bakery!

We’re also delighted that Truly Scrumptious Café at The Learning Centre is back! The café will be open on the

The Orchard Trust

At a Glance - 2013 GWC Activities Calendar Contact Anita Cockwell if you have any other events you would like to see listed.

Tel: 01761 471385 or mobile: 07702 073361 or e-mail: accockwell@yahoo.com For further details on any event listed visit “What’s On” on the GWC website.

Committee Contacts Sponsoring Dealer Duncan White 0117 9588777 Director Barry Aggett 07907 351650

Chapter Events

Organiser

Details

Asst Director/Treasurer Peter Roberts 07540 164157

8th

Club Night

Bazz Aggett

St Mary’s Hotel, Pencoed

12th

Ride Out

‘Big Al’ Stokes

‘Coastal and Valley Meanderings’

Asst Director/ Head Road Captain Alan Stokes 07766 237242

14th

Club Night

Bazz Aggett

Cross Hands Hotel, Old Sodbury

19th

Ride Out

Stu Scott

Evos to Evesham

28th

Natter Night

Bazz Aggett

Ferry Inn, Beachley

7/8/9/10th

10th Anniversary

Chris Harding

12th Benelux Rally, Belgium

11th

Club Night

Bazz Aggett

Cross Hands Hotel, Old Sodbury

12th

Club Night

Bazz Aggett

St Mary’s Hotel, Pencoed

Date May

June

th

21/22/23rd

10 Anniversary

Tony James

Hogs in the Hayfields Rally

22nd

Ride Out

‘Big Al’ Stokes

The 4 Bridges Rally Ride

25th

Natter Night

Bazz Aggett

Ferry Inn, Beachley

30th

10th Anniversary

Jeff & Julie

Treasure Hunt

4th

Activity/Ride Out

‘Big Al’ Stokes

Weston Bike Night, “American Power”

9th

Club Night

Bazz Aggett

Cross Hands Hotel, Old Sodbury

10th

Club Night

Bazz Aggett

St Mary’s Hotel, Pencoed

11/12/13/14th

10th Anniversary

Yvonne Roberts

Rhayader Riding Weekend

21st

Ride Out

‘Big Al’ Stokes

TBA

28th

Ride Out

‘Big Al’ Stokes

‘Roving around Resolven’

11th

Ride Out

‘Big Al’ Stokes

Ice Cream Sundae

13th

Club Night

Bazz Aggett

Cross Hands Hotel, Old Sodbury

14th

Club Night

Bazz Aggett

St Mary’s Hotel, Pencoed

18th

Ride Out

Steph Pocock

‘Meandering to Sammy Millers’

24th

10th Anniversary

Nige Garnett

Canoe Trip/BBQ @ Orchard Trust

5/6/7/8th

10th Anniversary

Peter Roberts

Go East Tour

8th

Ride Out

‘Big Al’ Stokes

TBA

10th

Club Night

Bazz Aggett

Cross Hands Hotel, Old Sodbury

11th

Club Night

Bazz Aggett

St Mary’s Hotel, Pencoed

29th

Ride Out

‘Big Al’ Stokes

TBA

6th

Activity

Cockers

Ride to the Wall

8th

Club Night

Bazz Aggett

Cross Hands Hotel, Old Sodbury

9th

Club Night

Bazz Aggett

St Mary’s Hotel, Pencoed

13th

Ride Out

‘Big Al’ Stokes

TBA

20th

Activity/Ride Out

‘Big Al’ Stokes

Hoggin the Bridge

26th

10th Anniversary

Dave Norton

Dinner, Hilton Hotel Aztec West

July

August

September

October

November

Secretary Yvonne Roberts 01225 751017 Webmaster Chris Harding 07801 562011 Activities Officer Anita Cockwell 01761 471385 Safety Officer Andy Kendall 07905 397474 Editor Mark Cockwell 07900 496711 Photographer/Historian Tony Yendle 07787 551612 Ladies of Harley Jane Scott 07894 086626 Charity Co-ordinator Stephanie Evans 07983 259752 Cangen Cymraeg Rep Greg Payne 07976 913004 Rally Co-ordinator Tony James 07940 895921

Road Captains Barry Aggett, Mike Brake, Paul Bromhead, Nigel Garnett, Si Griffiths, Paul Groom, Chris Harding, Martin James, Ian Johnson, Andy Kendall, Andy Kendall, (RKK), Ian Mead, Greg Payne, Dave Pocock, Stephanie Pocock, Dave Roberts, Mike Sage, Darren Sharp, Jane & Stuart Scott, Alan Stokes, Tony Yendle.

Road Marshals Tony Cole, Steve Crook.

All details on GWC web site

10th

Ride Out

‘Big Al’ Stokes

TBA

12th

Club Night

Bazz Aggett

Cross Hands Hotel, Old Sodbury

13th

Club Night

Bazz Aggett

St Mary’s Hotel, Pencoed

23rd/24th

10th Anniversary

Jane Scott

LOH weekend trip to London

24th

Ride Out

Steph Pocock‘

Wild Wanderings Around Wiltshire

www.greatwesternhog.co.uk

RoadHOG is printed by the Woodside Press