The Mud Life - 16 - July 2020

THE MUD LIFE ISSUE 16 - JULY 2020

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INEOS GREN GREN DIER REVEALED!

Audi Q5 40 TDi Quattro Ford Mustang Ecoboost Best Drawer Systems Laning Life Mod Your Motor

Important information Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the contents of The Mud Life magazine are accurate, we accept no responsibility for errors or omissions, nor the consequence of actions made as a result of these.

When responding to any advertisements in The Mud Life magazine, you should make appropriate enquiries before sending money or entering into a contract. The publishers and owners take reasonable care to ensure advertiser’s probity, but will not be liable for any losses incurred as a result of responding to adverts.

Copyright All images and material on these pages are protected by copyright Š Damian Turner. All rights reserved. None of the images or material within this magazine may be reproduced, duplicated, copied, sold, resold, or otherwise exploited for any commercial purpose that is not expressly authorised by Damian Turner or Karen Lee Turner.

Ford Mustang pages 34-43

IN THIS ISSUE TURNER'S TORQUE

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WHAT'S ON

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LANING LIFE 18-23 VEHICLE REVIEWS Audi Q5 40 TDI Quattro S Line 24-33 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Convertible 34-43 INEOS GRENADIER 44-51 6 OF THE BEST - DRAWER SYSTEMS 53-57 MOOCH - TIME TO ESCAPE 58-67 GOODS & GEAR 68-77 SIMON SAYS 78-81 MOD YOUR MOTOR 82-86 FB PAGE OF THE MONTH 88-89 TIME TRAVELS - JOHN'S PLACE 90-98 READER'S RIDES 100-105 MY MEMORIES - ARC NATIONALS 106-109 RETRO SNAPS 110-111

DAMIAN TURNER Editor-in-Chief, Writer, Photographer, Reviewer

KAREN LEE TURNER (A.K.A. The Muddy Madam)

Creative Director, Layout Designer, Reviewer

F O L LOW U S

THE TEAM

DIRECTORIES 112-115

FACEBOOK - TheMudLifeMag INSTAGRAM - themudlifemag TWITTER - themudlifemag WEBSITE - www.themudlife.co.uk

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Advertise your business or products using video and fully clickable links to your own website. email us:

ads@themudlife.co.uk or call Damian on 07968862223

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TURNER’S TORQUE It’s so good to get out once again, isn’t it? I’m sure everyone in England (Wales and Scotland, you’ll just have to wait) will agree it was a huge relief when shutdown was relaxed.

During the last month there was a huge kerfuffle over some green lanes in Cumbria being graded by a off-road tour company, both in the way that they did it, and the very fact that they did it at all. The (not so) funny thing is, when the Council put a TRO on the only road that goes to Parkamoor, not a peep was heard!

Don’t panic, the Traffic Regulation Order was put in place due to anti-social parking and an official letter sent to James Dixon, the GLASS rep for Cumbria states that we can still enjoy Parkamoor - Lauren covers this in her regular Laning Life column.

We have a couple of new features this month, the first is our 6 of the Best. I know it isn’t new in the magazine world, but it is for us, and I’m beginning with drawer systems.

then you may recognise him as both one of the founding owners of the Difflock forum, and more recently he’s also been at the helm of many motoring mags, Land Rover World being the most prominent. So everyone stop what you’re doing right now, and say “Hello Simon!”. Don’t be shy, he only bites when he’s hungry.

As you can appreciate, a lot of magazines have really struggled over the last few months, and not just motoring mags either, with some of the smaller publications going bust due to dwindling advertisers combined with big bills. Luckily we have relatively low overheads, as it's mainly just the two of us who create the mag, so The Mud Life is happily trundling along. Huge thanks go out to our few loyal advertisers, and of course our wonderful Ko-Fi supporters who every month ‘buy’ us the odd mug of hot chocolate. Seriously, it’s really appreciated, thank you.

Whilst I have your attention, do me a favour and sign up to our new Mega Mud Lifers facebook page, ta.

Another newbie is from my old mate Simon Hastelow who has an interesting article about his past loves. If his name rings a bell

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NEWS Yup, it’s time to grab your party hats and paper plates as Range Rover has notched up a remarkable 50 years of pioneering innovation, peerless refinement and unparalleled all-terrain capability, and they’re commemorating this achievement with the introduction of the new Range Rover Fifty. Numbers will be restricted, of course, to just 1,970 vehicles globally, in recognition of the year the original Range Rover was launched.

RANGE ROVER marks 50 yrs with exclusive LIMITED EDITION

Building on the luxuriously appointed Autobiography, the Range Rover Fifty features a number of bespoke exterior accents in Auric Atlas as well as two unique 22-inch wheel designs. The badging features a ‘Fifty’ script created personally by Prof Gerry McGovern OBE, Land Rover’s Chief Creative Officer, which will appear on the exterior of the vehicle and throughout the interior on the unique '1 of 1970' centre console commissioning plaque, headrests, dashboard and illuminated treadplates.

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The Range Rover Fifty will be available in both standard and long wheelbase body designs, with customers able to choose from four carefully curated exterior colour: Carpathian Grey, Rosello Red, Aruba, and Santorini Black.

In extremely limited numbers, Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations is also offering the Range Rover Fifty in one of three Heritage exterior solid paints reproduced from the original Range Rover paint palette; Tuscan Blue, Bahama Gold and Davos White. A range of powertrain options will be available; petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid P400e version.

At the time of writing I couldn’t find any prices, but you bet that when it’s released it will be well in excess of £100,000.

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TOYOTA MEGA CRUISER celebrates 25yrs There’s another birthday this year in the 4x4 world, and it belongs to one of the most obscure off-road trucks ever built - the Toyota Mega Cruiser, Japan's answer to the Hummer H1.

Unveiled back in 1995, with first orders opening a few months later in January 1996, the Mega Cruiser was initially designed and developed for Japan’s military – the “Japan Ground Self Defence Force”, or JGSDF. It was enormous, with a wheelbase of 3.39m it was more than 5 meters long, 2.2m wide, 2.1m high and weighed in at a massive 2,850kg. I’m not going to say that it dwarfed the Hummer H1, but it was around 7” taller and 16” longer, though about an inch narrower.

As well as the military, it was also used by emergency services, and much like the Hummer H1, it was offered in limited numbers to members of the public, around 100-130 civilian-spec Mega Cruisers were built between 1995 and 2002. They were only offered for sale in Japan in right-hand drive for the equivalent of £74,000.

As vast as it is on the outside, it could only accommodate up to six people, though capable of carrying 750kg of cargo meant it could handle the weekly shop with aplomb.

The mega Cruiser is powered by Toyota’s bulletproof 4.1 litre inline, 4 cylinder, direct injection, turbo diesel unit with intercooler (15B-T) which was capable of producing 148bhp. Attached to that is a full time 4 wheel-drive system mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission with torque converter lock-up control and 3 diff-locks.

Photo by www.megacruiser.com

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Photo by @pamidor75 on Instagram

The Mega Cruiser's speed-sensitive power steering system also included four wheel steering, for added nimbleness! It could turn the rear wheels up to 12ยบ at full lock, giving it a turning circle of just 18.4 feet, some 8 feet narrower than a H1.

The suspension was of a torsion bar-type 4-wheel double wishbone design, which was combined with 4-wheel inboard ventilated disc brakes. The Mega Cruiser employed a hub reduction drive system with gears inserted between the drive shaft and the axles, in other words, Portal axles.

Whilst the military versions took all sorts of shapes and sizes, from vans to full convertibles, the civilian Mega Cruiser was always a hard top.

Photo by www.megacruiser.com

As for the the daily commute, Toyota promised about 22 mpg from a constant speed of 37 mph, and with its huge fuel tank, 600 miles on a fill-up was doable, and by all accounts it can hit speeds of at least 81 mph.

Production of the Mega Cruiser was discontinued in August 2001, with the last civilian vehicle being sold in 2002.

Happy 25th birthday, Mega Cruiser, you big beautiful thing!

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LAND ROVER DEFENDER 'Hard Top' name returns!

On the eve of the global reveal of the new INEOS Grenadier, Land Rover has confirmed that the new commercial ‘Hard Top’ Defender 90 and 110 models will be launched later this year.

The Hard Top name dates back to 1950, when the introduction of demountable Hard Tops gave early Series Land Rovers added security and protection from the elements.

The 90 and 110 Hard Tops will both feature independent coil-sprung suspension, with advanced electronic air suspension also available on the 110. Both set-ups will provide ground clearance of 291mm, while the 110 Hard Top will have approach, breakover and departure angles of up to 38, 28 and 40º, respectively (in OffRoad height).

A payload and towing capacity of up 3,500kg will combine to make the new Defender the ultimate commercial 4x4. The flexible cabin has no second or third-row seats, but the optional front-row jump seat means it will still accommodate up to three people.

Land Rover’s clever ClearSight Rear View mirror system preserves rearward visibility when the jump seat is occupied, or when the load space is full.

It uses a live video feed from a rear-facing camera to give drivers an unobstructed view at all times.

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NEWS New Defender Hard Top will a raft of technologies, from their clever ClearSight Rear View mirror system to Land Rover’s intelligent Advanced Tow Assist system that takes the stress out of difficult reversing manoeuvres.

The maximum wading depth of 900mm is also supported by a new Wade programme in the Terrain Response 2 system, which ensures drivers can ford deep water with complete confidence.

Twin eSIM technology underpins Pivi Pro and supports Software-Over-TheAir (SOTA) capability, allowing customers to download updates for a variety of vehicle systems. For professionals using the Defender Hard Top for business, this will minimise time spent off the road as SOTA updates can be completed without the need to visit a Land Rover retailer.

In addition, the New Defender Hard Top models will feature a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. Land Rover’s 3D Surround Camera system provides an all-round visualisation of the vehicle on the central touchscreen, helping drivers manoeuvre safely in tight spaces or position the vehicle close to items ready for loading.

Convenience will be enhanced with the Remote smartphone app, which will allow businesses to keep track of the location, fuel level and journey history of their vehicle remotely, for ultimate peace of mind and security. more at » www.landrover.co.uk/defender

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2020 TOYOTA Hilux gets host of upgrades Toyota has given its venerable pick-up a makeover, overhauling its design, revising the chassis and adding a new, more powerful 2.8 litre engine.

Delivering 201bhp and 500Nm of torque, the 2.8 litre diesel complements the 2.4 litre unit already offered, and takes the Hilux from 0-62mph in 10.0sec - a full 3.2sec faster than the 2.4. Official figures have yet to be released, but Toyota reckon you’ll see 36.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 204g/km.

Improving its off-road prowess, Toyota have included a lower engine idle speed, revised stability control and a new tyre angle monitor, throttle pedal response has been improved, too.

To improve on-road comfort its suspension and steering have been tweaked, with retuned shock absorbers and redesigned leaf springs that are said to bring a smoother ride.

The new Hilux gets a revised frontend to increase its road presence, with higher trim levels receiving LED light clusters front and rear.

Inside the changes include an updated infotainment system, with an 8” screen and updated software claimed to be faster and more responsive, alongside new physical shortcut buttons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto features, too. New available kit includes an 800W, ninespeaker JBL sound system.

Finally, a range-topping Invincible X model has been added with a variety of styling upgrades, inside and out, over the standard model.

Pricing will be announced nearer its on-sale date.

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LAND ROVER & AUTOHOME create rugged Defender roof tent Designed for those with adventurous hearts and curious minds, the tent sleeps two adults on a full-size luxury cotton mattress and comes with pillows, an interior LED light and a stowage net.

The tent can be easily accessed from either side of the vehicle and comes with an extendable aluminium access ladder which can be stored in the stowage bag inside the tent when not in use.

A lightweight fibreglass shell protects the tent when not in use and allows it to be opened singlehandedly in seconds by simply unclipping the fastening at the rear and the integral gas struts take over and fully open the carbon grey fabric sides.

On the move, the tent is stowed flat for maximum stability and aerodynamic efficiency. When erected, it measures 2.3m long, 1.3m wide and 1.5m high.

The roof tent is an addition to the 170 individual accessories already available for the Defender – the largest range ever produced for a Land Rover – and works in conjunction with the official Land Rover Expedition Roof Rack and Roof Rails, which come fitted as standard with the Adventure Pack.

The Adventure Pack is one of four accessory packs available for New Defender – alongside the Explorer, Country and Urban Packs – each designed to give the vehicle a distinct character.

Over half of all Defender 110 models specified online have been fitted with one of the packs.

The roof tent is available to purchase from Land Rover retailers or the Autohome website, priced at €3,081.96 RRP excluding VAT. more at » autohome-official.com or landrover.co.uk

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FORD's new go anywhere Transit Range

Ford has expanded its Transit range with the introduction of a new off-road-focused Transit Trail which is available to order now for delivery in late summer.

There are three new Transits on offer, the Transit Trail, Transit Custom Trail and Transit Custom Active , all of which designed to operate in tougher working environments, either for businesses that operate off the beaten track, or adventurous families.

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The Trail variant adds a Quaife mechanical limited-slip differential and comes with the option of four-wheel drive. Transit Trail’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive technology is also supported by additional ‘Slippery’ and ‘Mud/Rut’ selectable drive modes, designed to improve performance and driver confidence across a variety of driving scenarios. These are easily selected using the Drive Mode controller on the dashboard. Intelligent AllWheel Drive also features AWD Lock mode to split torque

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50:50 between front and rear axles on extreme low-grip surfaces. The system does not compromise the load volume or dimensions of the Transit Trail compared with rear-wheel drive equivalents.

As Ford put it, the Transit Trail brings an SUV-inspired rugged new exterior look that includes an extra black bumper and side panel cladding that helps boost practicality off the beaten track. The large matte black front grille is bulked out with the addition of giant ‘Ford’ lettering to reinforce its all-terrain ability, which is very Raptor-esque.

All Transit Trail and Transit Custom Trail models are available in panel van and double-cab-in-van body styles,and are powered by Ford’s advanced 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine with a choice of 130PS, 170PS and 185PS power outputs as well as 48-volt mild hybrid tech.

Prices for the Transit Trail and Transit Custom Trail models begin at £35,685 and £29,250, respectively, while the Transit Custom Active starts at £30,000 and the cheapest Tourneo Custom Active is £37,950.

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MITSUBISHI offers savings up to £4,000 To boost the re-opening of showrooms across its dealer network in England and Northern Ireland (& Scotland from the end of June), Mitsubishi Motors in the UK is now offering its customers savings of up to £4,000 from now until September 28th, 2020, as well as the assurance of prompt delivery of their chosen vehicle either to their local dealership or to their home, free of charge.

Anyone purchasing a new 7 seat Outlander petrol or Outlander PHEV - the UK’s bestselling plug in hybrid - can save £4,000 off the retail price on most variants.

Eclipse Cross customers can save up to £3,500 depending on the version they choose and there are savings of up to £2,500 available on the new Mitsubishi ASX and £1,000 on the recently launched Mitsubishi Mirage.

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WHAT'S ON (OR NOT) in july F***ng Corona Virus!!!

Goodwood Festival of Speed 9-12th July

CANCELLED! Chichester

The ultimate motoring garden party! A unique summer weekend that brings together an impossibly heady mix of cars, stars and motor sport ‘royalty’ to create the largest car culture event in the world. Held in the grounds of Goodwood House, this annual hillclimb event is a true celebration of motor sport. https://www.goodwood.com/motorsport/festival-of-speed/

Simply Land Rover at Beaulieu Date - TBC

MAY BE GOING AHEAD

Organisers say - A revised calendar will be issued at the end of June and tickets will then go back on sale.

Beaulieu, New Forest, Hampshire Land Rover owners are invited to drive into Beaulieu and park up within the museum complex for what promises to be a superb day out for both Land Rover owners and enthusiasts. https://www.beaulieu.co.uk/events/simply-land-rover/

Formula 1 British Grand Prix 31st July - 2nd August

GOING AHEAD BEHIND CLOSED DOORS Silverstone Circuit The British Grand Prix will be held behind closed doors and Silverstone and F1 are asking fans not to travel to the area over the first two weekends in August to avoid compromising the events and to help protect the local community. The venue and local area will be closed to those not working at the event and fans should enjoy the events from home. https://www.silverstone.co.uk

g n i n Life a L

aton E n e r u a

by L

Read about green laning as seen through Lauren ‘Sunshine’ Eaton's windscreen at The Green Lane Association, and find out what’s hot, or not, in the laning world each month. Enjoy!

A brave new world…

Hurrah, we can lane again (in England)!

We are thankfully beginning to get our freedom back, but, as the country begins to rebuild a new sense of normality, well, in England at least, Wales and Scotland still remain under much more stringent lockdown restrictions (subject to possible change in July), just like every other industry the laning world is not exempt from post-covid challenges… and I’m still not exempt from trying to explain varying, complex and sometimes ambiguous government advice from two different countries in a simplified way that reads well - the sooner this is over the better!

While the emerging post-viral situation is a far cry from a Mad Max-esque post-apocalyptic dystopian reality, things have changed, and will probably continue to do so for some time.

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In some cases we have cause to celebrate, GLASS has had a record month for new members, over 100 signed up in one week in June - 30 in one day! We welcomed well over 200 new members over the month! You’re all awesome by the way!

But other differences do pose new things to think about and be aware of...

Laning has always been a sensitive hobby, particularly since the NERC Act of 2006. For those who are not aware the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (2006) removed vehicular rights from any public rights of way not shown on the definitive map at that point in time, and also from any dual status unclassified roads.

It also prevented any new BOAT claims being made, unless they were covered by an exemption - not that there were many of those - so, the upshot was we lost a considerable number, around 50% nationwide, up to 90% in some areas.

In some cases RoWs of various statuses have been temporarily closed to all or some users in order to protect the local residents, fair enough, but that means we do need to respect those closures, and ensure that we don’t add fuel to the already raging fire while we’re out.

It also means even if we find roads that historically had MPV rights, in the majority of cases we can’t add them to the record as vehicular RoWs, the best we can hope for is restricted byway status and we can’t drive those.

One of the most notable closures is actually a tarmac ‘C’ road emergency TRO in the Lake District that restricts access to Parkamoor. The C5018 that runs the eastern length of Conniston Water has been closed in its entirety due to a post-covid influx of tourists who sadly haven’t been respecting the local area. Litter, anti-social behaviour, and parking issues have left the area a mess, but have also blocked emergency services from attending calls. The road is closed for 21 days initially, but the order states:

NERC wasn’t the end of our losses, since it came into force lanes have been closed for a myriad of reasons, and, as I’ve explored in previous columns, public perception and bias has been a key motivator in many, if not the majority, of those closures. This is the main objective of GLASS, we exist to fight for, preserve and protect our rights to drive byways and unclassified county roads, and to repair and maintain them when authorities do not, or cannot.

But I digress…how does a virus come into all of this?

Well, if public perception is a major factor that can negatively affect the most law-abiding and responsible 4x4 drivers on the best of days, and currently the public perception of outlanders and unnecessary travel is heightened, coupled with an increased fear over public and personal health, it stands to reason we may not be welcomed with open arms.

“It is likely after this time we will issue a second 21 day notice and if necessary, follow that with a temporary 18 month order.”

This of course raised immediate concerns about accessing Parkamoor, and rightly so! Thankfully the newly repaired lane can be accessed, the LDNPA have confirmed to GLASS that it remains open and we are welcome to drive it, but in order to do so we have to drive a road with an ETRO on it.

This is far from ideal and could raise a few eyebrows in the local and very sensitive area, but it is what it is, so proceed with caution and respect.

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We also have to consider that no one (well, anyone who hasn’t been flouting covid restrictions) has driven our lanes in a long time, so we have no idea of their condition - although GLASS are rallying our reps to update TW2 with up to date observations.

It’s summer, overgrowth is likely, and unfortunately there has been a spike in illegal obstructions due to the fear of outsiders bringing a virus with them via the scenic route.

This just means we need to ‘stay alert’ (see what I did there) when venturing out for the first time in months.

With many people having more time on their hands during lockdown, social media usage and discussion of laning-related topics has risen. On one hand this is great, I’m a big believer in opening lines of communication, and helping a brother out when it comes to getting to grips with laning, but on the other it seems to have prompted an increase in illegal or irresponsible laning posts.

Worse than that there appears to be a trend towards bashing laning organisations, coupled with some weird

inference that they are in competition with each other, or simply an ‘I don’t care’ attitude over how lanes are driven.

Overall this is likely to have more of an impact on our hobby than covid ever will.

So, what has caused this spike in publicly announcing that ‘I don’t care, I’m going to purposefully go out and trash lanes/illegally drive’, or this anti-our-own-organisations attitude?

Has lockdown, or covid, affected the IQ of some drivers?

The very last thing we need is negativity and damage from the inside, we get far more than enough from outside as it is! I don’t think there is a clear answer to this, but it is clear that in some areas of our community the culture is shifting, to one that is not going to end well for laning, and bizarrely it’s our own who are putting it at risk.

I’m not here to sell membership or make you come over to the green side, but I cannot stress enough how internal bickering, illegal usage, and bias from the inside (irrespective of your organisational affiliation or lack thereof) affects us.

• Regular digital bulletins • 2 printed magazines per year • Members website and forum • TW2, the essential green lane route planning tool • • Access to area reps for route planning and advice • Member discounts from selected suppliers • Legal challenges • Extensive knowledge base •

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On a personal level I just don’t get it either, we’re all in the same boat (well, hopefully not as the traffic would be appalling lol! Sorry, I’ll get my coat!) so why go head-tohead with our own? Especially those who work to protect what we all love doing? All it does is have a negative effect on our passion.

I presume my Parkamoor Problem piece in last month'’s issue may sum it up. GLASS and other organisations have to make some tough and often unpopular decisions, but what matters is that those decisions are always in the very best interests of our hobby going forward. They really are, I can’t stress that enough!

Having seen the behind the scenes stuff myself, in some cases being the person who has to lead solutions I wouldn’t personally choose to put into place if my opinion mattered in these things, we just have to do what has to be done to ensure we don’t lose our rights to continue to lane. Simply put, don’t diss the hand that feeds you, and trust that we’re on your side!

I’m a massive proponent of bringing people together, putting unnecessary and blinkered biases aside, and working collectively, so much so that I’m working on a new

initiative called Friends of the Wayfarer, which was inspired by the Friends of Ramsden Road group and the awesome work they’ve accomplished in protecting an iconic RoW up north.

In both cases anyone who has a vested interest in either lane - whether a laner, walker, cyclist, horse rider, local authority, local resident, GLASS, TRF, ATUK, TRA, Ramblers, BHS, whatever – is welcome to join forces and push for positive change. It works, it makes the work a lot more sociable, and it stops the bickering - win, win, win!

Overall we’ve come out of the worst covid has thrown at us rather unscathed compared to many and this is cause for celebration! It may not be completely over yet, but the future looks bright and we should all be able to relax a little, not to mention finally take a drive along some of our favourite lanes with a new sense of freedom.

Don’t forget if you do come across any problems GLASS are here to help, you don’t have to be a member to get in contact and report something, or to ask for our advice, we’re a friendly bunch. Keep an eye out for GLASS’s new message for Wales which should be released in the next week.

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Thankfully now the world is starting to relax a little I have some news!

Read on for what’s hot, and what’s not, in the laning world…

Scorcher of the month Working together

Teamwork makes the dream work! If you’re interested in being involved with the Friends of Ramsden Road, or Friends of the Wayfarer initiatives mentioned above, please find information below!

What’s hot

Helping a brother (or sister) out

TrailWise2 is helpful beyond simply showing us where it is legal to drive. The ability to leave user comments and photos really does assist those who’ve never driven a lane to decide if it is one they would like to add to their route.

Our TW2 data officers are currently doing some housekeeping, along with help from our area reps, to help highlight the most important and useful comments on each lane which will help every single user that comes after them.

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They’ve given me some handy tips to consider when leaving your feedback: • When recording a comment, say what date you used the route, your vehicle type, and add any information that may be useful to people in future when they look up the lane on TW2 for route planning.You can and should include details of your direction of travel, the number of people travelling with you, and also other users you might meet, with their mode of transport too.

You might also mention: • Signs - Are there any signs at the start and end of each route, or anywhere else along the route?

• Obstructions and Problems - These should be recorded with a Grid Reference and an indication of which users could be affected - walkers, wide vehicles etc.

• Street furniture - Any furniture that exists along the route such as OS Benchmarks, mileposts, gates, cattle grids etc.

• TRO - Any Traffic Regulation Order signage should be recorded along with details of the classes of user that it affects and when it is in force if it is seasonal.

In addition to the information above, you can include photographs and general comments about the route as a whole. Many TrailWise2 users find it very useful to see the comments of previous users of a route.

What’s not

Closures, luckily mostly temporary, but they are popping up a lot more often since covid restrictions have been lifted, so do ‘be alert’!

Hampshire - a few TTROs are in place due to overhead power line maintenance. These are in place for the duration of the work, or up to 6 months as required, and are in effect on: Worldham BOAT 40, East Meon BOATs 43 and 46, and Clanfield BOAT 702.

Dorset - The TTRO enforced due to inconsiderate and mass use of the lane in order to access the beach at Burton Road, Abbotsbury has been lifted.

Just in case Wales does re-open on schedule do remember that the Wayfarer, Happy Valley, Carn March Arthur, and Strata Florida still remain off limits. As soon as that changes I’ll update!

That’s all from me this month folks! Keep an eye out for some news on lockdown restriction relaxation in Wales which will hopefully be announced in the next week!

Stay safe, and happy laning!

Lauren x GLASS Media and Communications Officer

• • • • •

PC, smartphone and tablet friendly Toggle between BOAT, UCR and Legacy layers Information on restrictions and closures Multiple mapping options including OS Easy to zoom in and out

• • • • •

Add comments and photos against routes Extensive coverage of England and Wales Share a lane on Facebook or Twitter Available exclusively to GLASS members TW2... TrailWise, but smarter!

WHERE WILL YOU PLAN YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

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AUDI Q5

AUDI Q5 40 TDI QUATTRO S line

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Launched in 2008, the Audi Q5 is now in its second generation, and remains one of the most popular vehicles in its class, and for good reason.

The Q5 shares some of its underpinnings with its Q7 and A4 siblings, and therefore it means that it should be both practical and comfortable.

Let's find out...

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On the road

Usually I like to take my press cars on long road trips, they don’t need to be epic laced with peril and uncertainty, but long drives can tell you a lot about a car.

I borrowed a Q5 a few years ago, and I remembered quite vividly how much I enjoyed its on-road ride, and I’m pleased to report that the current 2020 model remains as good as ever, as you would expect from an Audi, I guess.

With the 2.0ltr diesel producing 187bhp, not only is it spritely when you want it to be, but whilst cruising the pot-holed strewn streets of Bolton, I found that it lends itself to a more laid back pace of life.

When I took it along some empty country lanes, its handling and grip from the Quattro system was spot-on. As was the steering, and the 7-speed dualclutch transmission which worked really well too.

As with all of my reviews, I don’t have access to Millbrook or private roads, so I never have the opportunity to push any press car to the edge of its performance, but on normal roads I found the Audi’s body control is spot on and an entertaining SUV to drive.

Depending on my journey, the Q5’s fuel consumption was anywhere from 23 to 41mpg, which I don’t find too shabby.

The Q5’s Stop/Start system is the first that I’ve driven in a while that actually works as it should. By that I mean coming to a halt at a set of lights and not having to keep your foot on the brake whilst blinding the poor driver behind you with high intensity brake lights. Having said that, I’ve literally just realised that the Auto Hold function probably does the same, so scrap what I just said!

From long motorways to the usual menial duties, the Q5 performed the daily grind with aplomb, and, cruise control retains your speed as you’re driving down hills, which is nice.

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Off road

There’s an old saying that goes something like, ‘just because you can doesn’t mean you should’, but I generally ignore that when I have an AWD SUV and take them ‘off-road’.

OK, a little bit of context is required here I think. When I say ‘off-road’ I don’t mean pay & play sites or challenging green-lanes in Wales, I'm referring to easy lanes that will have your ‘normal’ cars scrambling for grip.

The Q5 isn’t a car you buy to go green-laning in, obviously, but in standard form it did good. On a gravel lane with a few wash outs, the Quattro system coped with the occasional diagonal ditch which had one, and sometimes two wheels flailing in the air. There was the odd occasion when the Q5 scrambled to a halt, but I’m confident that all-terrain tyres would’ve been the better fitment, but even without them it did well.

I think what surprised me the most about the Q5 was its ride over harsh terrain, out of all the 4x4s I've driven, I think only the Range Rover was better. It was smooth with no wince making clunks or bangs from its nethers, and of course the quattro system made the usual 3-wheeled pose feel like a trip to ASDA. Kudo must go to the Q5’s Hill Descent Control system as it worked a treat, slowing me right down when required and giving me plenty of control over some, erm, technical bits.

Off the beaten track, it won’t take you as far as a Discovery Sport will, but it will surprise you.

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Interior

Getting the negatives out of the way first, the drivers seat doesn’t lower enough and the thick rimmed steering wheel doesn’t adjust high enough.

This equates to your thighs getting squashed each time you want to get in or leave the Q5.

The last Audi I had was the Q8, a beautiful car that was fitted with Audi’s optional flat bottom steering wheel, so if you have long legs I’d tick that option. Once I got myself comfortable I couldn’t fault the driving position, everything was to hand and clearly displayed, I especially liked that all the heating controls were buttons and dials - 10/10!

If you read my articles regularly then you’ll know what’s coming next, and that’s that I really dislike the stuck on tablet in the centre of the dash, it’s the only thing that really spoils the interior for me, they always look like an afterthought.

Overall I liked the interior, it’s well laid out and made from quality materials, though it isn’t flashy, rather it has a classy feel to it.

I’m not usually in favour of digital dash readouts, but I liked that you could switch from having the traditional dash layout to a full sat-nav layout with both a speedo and rev counter at either side.

Admittedly it took a bit of getting used to but by the end of the week I loved it.

For inputting addresses on the navigation and navigating through menus you have a choice of either a touchpad or a rotary dial that can be turned, pressed or nudged, personally I preferred the latter The switchgear was satisfyingly solid to the touch and all within easy reach, but you expect this from Audi With storage aplenty, the Q5 gives you plenty of space to store your gubbins, especially rear passengers with long legs.

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Conclusion

So, what did my week with Q5 tell me about it? Simply put, it has to be one of the best SUVs in its class. It may not be the prettiest out there, in my opinion, but the Q5 is refined and oozes quality. It’s another car that if Audi were to offer me one on long term I wouldn’t be disappointed in the slightest, in fact I’d be quite happy. more at » https://www.audi.co.uk price: £41,400 (test vehicle £49,060).

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Ford Mustang

Ford Mustang EcoBoost Convertible

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What is it?

Once a year, as a treat, a friend of mine who writes for a large newspaper gets a Porsche for a few days to review. Personally, I’m not a huge Porsche fan, but I know exactly how he feels, and for me I get the same buzz when a Mustang pulls outside Muddy Towers.

With striking and modern good looks and a good mix of retro touches, the 2020 Mustang is arguably the perfect flagship for Ford. With a chassis that delivers great handling combined with a comfortable ride, it’s no surprise that for many years it’s been the UK’s best selling Coupé.

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On road I have to admit, when Ford’s press office told me they didn’t have a V8 on their fleet, I was properly miffed, I nearly hung up the phone in disgust. Then, feint voices entered my subconscious whispering to me that Ford wouldn’t have gone to the trouble of slotting their 2.3ltr engine in if was going to have the performance of a goldfish, would they?

Granted, the EcoBoost lacks the V8’s dramatic soundtrack and outright performance, but it's not as bad as I had originally thought it’d be, and it boasts marginally better fuel consumption, too.

I enjoyed many trips during our week together, the most memorable being a jaunt to Wales that took me through Ruthin and along the B5105 towards Cerrigydrudion and onto the Evo Triangle (which now has average speed cameras fitted).

On the fast and twisty Welsh roads the Mustang performs admirably, it felt well balanced, poised and changed direction quickly. Body roll is kept in check, too, not bad for a convertible.

Handling can be contributed to its independent suspension at all four corners, this disposes of the theory that all big American cars become flustered when introduced to a corner.

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I’m not going to suggest that it’s agile and nimble, it’s still a big car, about the size of a Mondeo, but it’s huge fun, especially with its top down.

Around town the ‘stang soaks up bumps, and as you would expect, it receives a lot of attention. With the roof up visibility can feel limited, but seeing that for 90% of the time I had the roof down, that wasn’t a problem. Incidentally, it takes only a matter of seconds to lower and raise the roof, it’s all done by a button.

Fuel wise, during short journeys I was seeing figures around the 23mpg mark, and on a trip to North Wales averaging 50-60mph, I was looking at 26-27mpg.

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Off road Nah, the dirt track around Llyn Brenig was as rough as it got.

Interior I’m going to get my dislikes out of the way first, if that’s okay?

The rocker switches for the temperature controls are a bit fiddly, and the whole heating system on the screen is cumbersome and didn’t feel very intuitive.

On the subject of the infotainment system display, it looks dated. Other than that, everything else is great, except for the fact that anyone with legs won’t be able to sit in the back seats.

Get comfortable in the drivers seat and ahead of you are a pair of deep cowled instruments that offer you all the information you need to know. Ahead of those is a huge bulbous bonnet. Work the V8 hard, and at a standstill you can amuse yourself with the heat haze that’s emitted through the bonnet vents, not so much on the EcoBoost.

Bluetooth, DAB radio and a USB socket are all standard, as is Ford’s advanced Sync voice control system. This allows you to make hands-free adjustments to the radio, phone and climate controls by pressing a button on the steering wheel to speak your instructions.

All Mustangs feature a limited slip differential, selectable driving modes, 19–inch black alloy wheels, Xenon headlamps, plus powered seats, mirrors and windows, rear view camera, keyless entry and dual zone climate control.

Engine ’n’ transmission As you will know by now, the Mustang is available in two flavours, the 5.0litre V8 that makes 444bhp at 7000rpm with 533Nm of torque, and this, the 286bhp 2.3-litre turbo EcoBoost. Both versions come with either a 6-speed manual ‘box or Ford’s 10-speed auto.

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Conclusion It could be argued that the EcoBoost model is the sensible pick of the range, and although it still has enough performance to entertain, it just isn’t the same. That said, I thoroughly enjoyed driving this car, every time I took it out for a drive I smiled like a Cheshire Cat. Granted, you can probably have as much fun in the smaller MX-5, but I like big cars. If it was my money I’d still buy the V8, it’s a no-brainier, but what has changed is a new found respect for the Eco ‘stang, and from now on I won’t sneer at them on the road and shout “You bought the wrong one!” At least not as much, anyway.

The Mustang is great value when compared to rivals, and the 5.0 GT is by far the cheapest V8 car on sale in the UK, it’s also well equipped. There will be a point in my life when I’ll buy one, a red convertible just like this, only with a V8. price: from £38,035 more at » https://www.ford.co.uk/cars/mustang

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INEOS Grenadier

INEOS Grenadier It’s been a long time coming, but finally, INEOS Automotive have revealed the exterior design of the Grenadier, its forthcoming, no-nonsense 4x4.

Quite rightly, INEOS are rather proud of the fact that the Grenadier has been built from the ground up on an all-new platform. Starting from scratch, the balanced proportions has been achieved because there were no limitations dictated by an old platform. It has been designed with a clear purpose in mind, and that’s simply to meet the demands of its future owners who demand a rugged, capable, yet comfortable go-anywhere working vehicle.

On the outside, the belt lines are functional with bump strips on the doors, or an optional ‘utility belt’ to the doors and rear body, on which to attach loads or accessories, like a jerry can.

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The rear of the Grenadier is practical as well as visually striking, with the small rear door opening first to enable easy loading and unloading of smaller items. Have I mentioned that the Grenadier can accommodate a Euro pallet? Well it can.

The rear ladder can be fitted to aid access to the roof, and its design means it is aligned with the shut lines of the tailgate.

With exit points at the front and the rear of the roof included as standard, this allows easy access for exterior wiring for powering auxiliary lamps, work lamps or beacons.

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On the subject of lights, INEOS say that the round lamps at the front and rear imply the strength of a solid tube running from front to back, not sure if I see that, personally, though the centre auxiliary lamps are included as standard, which is nice.

The front wings are sturdy enough that you can sit on them, and the roof bars and roof strips will enable owners to securely mount loads directly on them without the need for a roof rack - but of course a roof rack can be easily added, if you want one.

Oh yeah, there’s a storage box on the rear side, too, that is accessible from the exterior for grubby, smelly kit.

INEOS say that the Grenadier will be able to fulfil the core functions of a utilitarian 4x4, but they also hope that it’s a vehicle that will become ‘part of the family’.

So, it’s rugged and practical on the outside, and although we aren’t privy to any interior details yet, INEOS say that the Grenadier will include comfort levels that will meet the expectations of the 21st century consumer, with equipment levels and safety systems to match.

The Grenadier has been designed as a blank canvas for accessories, so customers can tailor the Grenadier to their own evolving requirements. A wide range of accessories will be available from INEOS, but they also want Grenadier owners to incorporate their existing kit into their new vehicle, and for third-party producers to develop a range of compatible accessories.

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Overall, the brief was simple, to design a modern, functional and highly capable 4x4 vehicle with utility at its core. A design that is ‘easy-to-read’, with no ambiguity about the Grenadier’s role in life, it’s there to do everything you need, and nothing you don’t.

It’s certainly going to be an exciting journey for INEOS as they prepare for the next stage of the Grenadier’s development, that includes testing its capability and durability. They have a very challenging programme ahead as they put prototypes through their paces in all conditions, on the way to accumulating some 1.8 million test kilometres over the coming year.

So far I’ve managed to avoid the elephant in the room, and that’s its likeness to the outgoing Defender.

There really isn’t much I can say about that, though Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Chairman of INEOS, said: “The Grenadier project started by identifying a gap in the market, abandoned by a number of manufacturers, for a utilitarian off-road vehicle.

This gave us our engineering blueprint for a capable, durable and reliable 4x4 built to handle the world’s harshest environments. But it had to look the part as well. As you will see today, our team have done a great job in delivering a design that is both distinctive and purposeful.”

I think the Grenadier will take a whole lot of business away from LR on the commercial front, though on reflection, as Sir Jim said above, I think INEOS and Land Rover will be competing for two different markets.

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GET YOUR MUD LIFE gear Here at The Mud Life Mag we like share our love for all things muddy and automotive, and as part of that we know that there is always a need for clothing and other bits’n’pieces to show this love to the world..

We decided that to create some original art just for you, and put it on T-Shirts, Sweatshirts, Mugs and more in our Teespring store - https://teespring.com/stores/themudlife

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6 of the Best!

Drawer Systems

Late last year I appreciated the benefits of a sturdy drawer system when I borrowed an Isuzu D-max Huntsman with a Gearmate system in the back.

Not only did it keep all my recovery gear safe and easily accessible, but it was also somewhere to store our cooking accessories and laptops when we were away from the vehicle.

With that in mind I thought I would compile a list of what’s available here in the UK.

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Gearmate Offering a huge selection of variations, Gearmate products are designed and built in the UK. All their drawers have a 100% extension, enabling quick and easy access to all your items.

Their drawer systems are designed to be tough, offering up to 800kg loading capacity on each drawer system deck, and each drawer has up to 150kg extended load capacity. Each drawer system comes fitted with dividers to ensure your load stays secure and organised as well as all being lockable as standard.

Made from a lightweight aluminium construction with rubber an anti-slip surface, you can choose between their Single or twin drawers, single or double height and with either dog boxes, dividers or with fridge slides secured on top.

So you never have to lean and stretch in the back of your truck again, their Gearslide’s mean that the entire load space is brought to you, which is available in both narrow and wide variations to suit your specific needs.

Gearmate also offer a raft of accessories, from tailor bespoke foam inserts, portable compressor cooler and freezers to infill pods that cover the wheelarches.

All Gearmate drawers come complete with a two year warranty. https://www.gearmate.co.uk

ARB

The ARB Outback Solutions range is a complete modular system that can be individually selected and customised to your needs and vehicle, while reducing redundant areas and providing increased storage space.

There are 3 types of modules available, from a roller drawer, a roller drawer with roller floor and a roller floor. All modules come in a range of sizes that can be mixed and matched to individual needs which results to more than 200 possible configurations.

The Outback range comes with an anti-rattle design, perfectly engineered for both on and off-road driving, and are lockable with push-pull slam shut latches for ease of use and maximum security.

They’re built to carry a maximum of 150kg per drawer, fully sealed with dust and water resistant bearings for longevity whilst working in harsh environments.

Like any good drawer system they have integrated fridge slides on roller floor models that provide a true flat mounting surface. You can also specify a slide out roller drawer table that’s made from stainless steel to provide a hygienic surface for food preparation and worksite needs.

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Made from water resistant bonded marine plywood with steel reinforced guards each drawer is self-locking with an anti roll back system for keeping them open at full extension, even on inclines.

Outback Solutions range is a storage solution come complete with a two year warranty.

Website - http://www.arb4x4uk.co.uk/products/drawers

Direct 4x4

Direct 4x4 offer single or twin drawer systems that come in 2 different surface types; rubber and carpet, and are available with a fixed top and a variation of slide-out tops and trays.

Made from high grade galvanised steel plate with full roller bearings to allow a super smooth and silent slide. Each drawer is designed to take up to 150kgs and has a 'bump stop' safety feature that stops the drawer at 3/4 way open so there's no danger of the drawers falling falls out.

Each drawer has an integrated lock and comes supplied with 2 keys to keep your items safe secure. On the subject of security, as the drawer system itself is designed to be drilled and bolted securely to your load bed, removing them from the vehicle is extremely difficult.

Direct 4x4 also off a range of Side Wing Kits to give your pick-up drawer system a more finished look with added practicality.

The twin drawer units and cargo trays are designed to fit between your wheel arches, however, if you have a van with a side door, you can have a 2 drawer systems at the rear of the vehicle and 2 in an L-shape opening out of the side door.

Direct 4x4 offer a large selection of options, like fridge and table slides, and like every other system that I’ve covered, it’s well worth checking out their websites.

Direct 4x4 offer a 12 month warranty on the drawer systems. website - https://direct4x4.co.uk/pages/expedition-drawer-storagesystems

Truckman

With a 1 tonne load rating and a 100kg payload per drawer, the American designed and made DECKED system which is available from Truckman, is simple to install and a highly durable drawer system for pick-ups only.

Made of 100% recycled high density polyethylene (HDPE) that rests on a steel sub frame, the DECKED twin drawer set up are weatherproof, practical and tough. Both drawers are lockable and slide out on what appear to be small skateboard size wheels with a smooth and dependable movement.

Although they don’t offer fridge slides and such, accessories do include dividers and D-Boxes that are designed to fit into the drawers themselves providing extra practicality. They have a thick rubber gasket you install to make them water tight and the handles and latches that snap into place when they’re ready to be loaded.

The DECKED system is designed to fill the entire truck bed, and as well as having two weatherproof storage bins on either side, there’s also a stainless steel ruler / edge guard that I believe also includes a bottle opener!

Truckman off a 3 year warranty on the DECKED drawer system. website - https://www.truckman.co.uk 56

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4x4 Accessories & Tyres 4x4 Accessories & Tyres offer a variety of different secure and lockable single and twin drawers systems for the vast majority of pick-ups, but the ones we’re featuring here are from Aeroklas. Thanks to their galvanised steel chassis that’s finished with glass-filled polypropylene top panels, they’re designed to be lightweight yet strong.

Aeroklas drawers utilise a fully sealed runner system to make sure they work reliably and rattle-free time and time again, whether that’s on a worksite or at camp.

Each systems top panels and drawer interiors are covered in hard-wearing marine carpet too, which is met by a protective aluminium top edge for added durability. Below that are heavyduty stainless steel latches with slam-shut functionality, which are integrated into a rugged black powder-coated fascia.

Each drawer can carry weight of 90kgs and have a 100% extension, enabling quick and easy access to all your items.

The Aeroklas drawer system from 4x4 Accessories & Tyres are sold for pick-ups and don’t have fridge slider or table options.

4x4 AT offer a one year warranty on Aeroklas drawers. https://www.4x4at.com https://www.4x4at.com/liner-accessories/drawer-systems

Drifta

What the Australians don’t know about 4wd and camping set ups isn’t really worth knowing, right?

Drifta is a proud Australian company that offers a variety of drawer system to suit pretty much any 4x4 and SUV. Drifta is unique in that they use Teflon instead of rollers, so you get bigger drawers and more space. This also means you can remove the drawers if you want to, there are less moving parts, less to go wrong and they’re maintenance free.

The drawers are also lockable for extra security and the unit also comes with side wings that cover up the wheel arches under which you can store all manner of gubbins like extra batteries and electrics. It’s all held in place by using turn buckles that are attached to the inside of the tub for factory tie downs, there are 3 on each side.

As well as fridge slides, another unique feature is their slide out bench that you can slide half way out, or remove it completely as a separate table with adjustable legs.

Drifta drawer systems are built in Australia and shipped to Europe, therefore they may take a while to arrive and cost a bit more due to shipping, but contact them for a quote before you discount them. https://www.drifta.eu/4wd-drawers/ THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

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h c o Mo

Time To Escape You know how it is, you’re flicking mindlessly through Facebook and a post catches your eye, and in my case it was a Discovery driving through a particularly deep ford with the word ‘Ingleton’ in the text below it.

For one, Ingleton isn’t that far away from Muddy Towers, and secondly, it was a lane that I didn’t recognise. A quick look on Trailwise 2 and not only did I find the lane in question, but I also found five more in the general vicinity. The problem was of course it was in the middle of lockdown, so I added them to an already growing list of green-lanes that I wanted to drive, and waited.

A month or so later when we got the all clear to leave our homes, I phoned Andy, who doesn’t live a million miles from the A65, and arranged a day out. Fortunately, he had a new Discovery Sport Dynamic on loan from Land Rover’s press dept that needed to be tested before it went back, and of course, I had the perfect route.

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Lane 1 Just outside Ingleton, SD6975-01 was our first lane of the day, and as we approached the start of lane on the eastern side, we came across a farmer who was repairing a gate post. We chatted for a while and he told us that there had been a lot more 4x4 activity over the last few months during lockdown.

By all accounts, on a nice day there are lots of walkers on this lane as it forms part of Ingleton Waterfalls walk, it’s so popular that there’s usually an ice cream van on the byway, too, though not today.

As we began from east to west, it begins as a narrow single track with a stone wall on our left and a tall embankment on our right with the ground mainly made up of crushed stone. Soon enough the lane widens, and despite the looming dark clouds, to our left the views over the Yorkshire Moors were spectacular.

I read that SD6975-01 had a ford that we had to cross, and as you trundle westward you can’t see it, that’s until you begin a steep-ish descent that includes a tight hairpin. It hadn’t rained for a while, so today the water was only around 12” deep, though I’m going to guess that after a lot of rain it’s going be a fair bit deeper.

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So far the going had been easy, but as I entered the ford I noticed there was a deep rut and large, water melon sized rock in the centre of the entrance that would’ve removed the Discovery Sport’s lower front bib.

With that in mind, Andy got his waffle boards out which worked a treat, and as he entered the ford, water barely

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reached the Sport’s front bumper.

Overall, a cracking lane that can be driven by most AWDs and 4x4s, though just be careful of that rut on the east side of the ford if you’re driving something that doesn’t have a good approach angle.

Lane 2

Five minutes away was SD6874-01, and as we headed from east to west the start of the lane was broken tarmac, easy enough for Deux Smurf but it had Andy crisscrossing the lane being very careful with his wheel placement.

As you reach the top of this first section and follow the lane to your left, it then opens up with grazing land for sheep on our right and a straight track to the next gate far in the distance. This section is pretty much like the first lane with a packed dirt and crushed stone base making it suitable for most SUVs.

Passing through the next gate and the lane becomes a little narrower and a bit overgrown in places. At this point Andy had to straddle the ruts to keep the pesky front bib away from harms way.

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Lane 3

When you reach the end of the lane you end up at a T junction, turn left and you head back down to the A65, turn right and you’re on SD6776-03 and SD6876-01 that sadly ends on a TRO, which is a bit odd.

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Of course we couldn’t miss it out, especially as the rocky track that headed up towards the clouds looked so appealing! We decided to park the Disco Sport and drive up in Deux Smurf and the rocks looked a little too damaging, but as we climbed, with good wheel placement, Andy would’ve managed it easy enough despite a few holes thrown in for good measure. As the lane plateaus and snakes around the contours of the moors it becomes smooth much smoother.

Checking Trailwise, it’s recommended that turning round at the high point where the ground is firm is the best option, and as you do the views over South West Cumbria are simply stunning.

This is a lane I’ll drive again, and when I do I’ll park up and explore the Yordas caves on foot whilst enjoying the brilliant views down across Morecambe Bay.

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01482 666491

Lane 4

Back on the A65 for a few miles and SD6575-02 was a tad more challenging for Andy, and it started with a rather large hole in the lane. With just enough space on the lane next to the fence to place the passenger side wheel, we packed the hole with a few large stones so that the driver's side wouldn’t fall in and remove the front bib, it worked like a treat. And just around the corner there was another one, and again we packed stand again with careful direction from me, Andy made it look all to easy - or was it the Discovery Sport?

Apparently, once it’s rained these holes retain water, so be careful, if you’re trundling along and you see what looks like an innocent puddle, they’re deeper than you think!

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The further we progressed, the more the trees and bushes encroached the lane.

Luckily Andy had had the foresight to bring a pair of loppers with him, and in the time it had taken me to unpack my Gerber Free Camp Saw, he'd already set into a little lane management, cutting the branches and scratchy bits back.

From there on we drove through a wooded section that saw us get mithered by a million flies, another tight section in which two bikers managed to squeeze past us and then it opened up near the end.

If you are attempting this lane, and you should as it’s quite nice, and you don’t like scratches on your paintwork, take a lopper with you, you won’t regret it.

Lane 5

Returning to the A65 again, we passed Kirkby Lonsdale heading towards the M6 and turned left at Lupton onto our next lane where we stopped for a spot of lunch and another chin-wag, obviously observing the 6.6 feet social distancing rule (we’re old so it comes in imperial) and we put the world to rights whilst enjoying more magnificent views.

SD5580-02 is only a short lane, and from north to south drops quite sharply towards the tree line, it isn’t challenging, but it

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warranted me slipping Deux Smurf into low box 1st to let the car do the braking.

Within a few hundred yards we reach a brook, and just like before, the water level was low and barely reached the Sport’s bumper. From here it was a short climb on loose stone to Puddlemire lane and back on the A65 towards the South Lakes where we would continue our adventure, but I’ll tell you about those in next month’s issue.

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DISCO 2 XTREME SPARE WHEEL CARRIER Precision Engineered for superior strength, these custom made spare wheel carriers from Ratel-X will handle up to 35” wheel / tyre combo and add a touch of class to your Discovery 2.

Manufactured in the UK from 6mm Structural S275JR grade steel, the Ratel-X Xtreme spare wheel carrier is painted in an epoxy primer and completed in a black satin powder coat for a sleek durable look.

Fitting is straight forward, there’s no need for drilling as it uses existing mounting holes, and is designed to fit both the Td5 and V8 Discovery 2. price: £85 (currently on sale at £80) more at » www.ratel-x.com

New Stuff we've discovered this month ABOUT OUR LINKS All the products in the 'New Products' & 'Goods & Gear' sections have clickable links & images that will take you to the manufacturer's or supplier's company sites, and we would love it if you click though and have a better gander at all their lovely stuff.

We sometimes also add a 'buy it at Amazon' link. If you click through, and buy via those links The Mud Life Mag will get a tiny referral fee from qualifying purchases.

This fee in no way affects what you pay, it just helps us, and is another avenue we are using to fund the creation of this magazine, rather than charging for each issue.

Thanks

Karen Lee & Damian

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RUFF AND TUMBLE DESIGN COLLECTION DRYING COATS Now we can get out a bit more, it's time for a day trip to the beach with your dog.

Ruff and Tumble's Beach Dog Drying Coats are not only cheerfully stripey, but they will dry your dog quickly, and hold that wet dog pong in brilliantly - we all know that sandy and whiffy dogs aren't exactly pleasant on a long car ride home.

Made of two layers of soft and highly absorbent cotton towelling, they wick water away from your dog, leaving them dry and comfortable.

Super for arthritic older dogs and outdoorsy active dogs alike, they do away with trying to dry dogs with towels.

They come in twelve sizes that fit a wide range of dogs from small terriers to mountain dogs. Every dog can be warmer, drier and happier after sea dips, and every owner can manage their unmanageable wet dogs in a no hassle, simple way. prices: from £41.50 to w£69 more at » ruffandtumbledogcoats.com

ORE 4X4 UK ROAD LEGAL DL003 DRIVING SPOTLIGHTS With a die-cast aluminium housing and adjustable pivoting mounts, the LTPRTZ Ultralux Spotlight is as flexible and as tough as they come. A blinding 3486-lumen output from 7 x 5W OSRAM LEDs offers a 10° spot area and can penetrate the darkness for up to 378 metres.

Ore 4x4 like to make sure the products they sell actually work, so they left one in a tank of water for 1.5hrs just to make sure they live up to their IP68 rating.

As you would expect, the Ultralux is shockproof, waterproof and UV-shielded with a tough polycarbonate lens reflector, and of course road legal. price: £70 each more at » www.ore4x4.co.uk

Use the code MUDLIFE5 at the checkout for 5% discount off ALL products at

ore4x4.co.uk

READER OFFER

New Stuff we've discovered this month PRAIRIE SLEEPING BAG

The Prairie Sleeping Bag from Robens is rugged looking and rugged performing, with a canvas feel and built in buckle up retaining straps.

This is a 2 season sleeping bag perfect from late spring to early autumn. The Prairie features a 100% cotton shell and 100% cotton lining giving a luxurious home-from-home comfort and warmth as well as it's great look. A pillow matching the tartan lining is included and the built-in detachable head rest works as a carry bag. It’s also equipped with an oversized YKK zip for extended extra durability.

The retro styling takes its inspiration from a traditional American bed roll or Australian swag bag but the materials and technology are strictly 21st century. It uses MicroThermo insulation sandwiched between a rough canvas shell and soft flannel lining to provide a cosy night’s sleep. The detachable base layer doubles as a head rest and the whole thing can be rolled up and used as a carry bag.

I'm a big bloke, and fantastically Robens realise that we’re not all the same size, and offer 2 sizes - regular & XL. price: £124.99 more at » www.robens.de

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Britpart are delighted to now be an approved stockist for the entire ARB range of products in the UK. For nearly 40 years Britpart has been synonymous with parts for Land Rovers and now we are expanding our range of quality aftermarket parts with the introduction of the ARB catalogue for a multitude of 4x4 vehicles.

arb4x4uk.co.uk

ARB’s range of products for the off-road and pickup market includes Air Lockers & > Compressors

Recovery Points & > Equipment

> Canopies

> Roof Racks

> Drawers

> StealthBar Bumper

> Lights

Steps & Side > Protection

Upgraded > Suspension

> Tyre Accessories

> Rear Protection

> Underbody Protection

ARB accessories & suspension products for a wide range of manufacturers & models Ford Ranger / Isuzu D-Max / Jeep Cherokee & Grand Cherokee & Jeep Wrangler Land Rover Defender & Land Rover Discovery / Mitsubishi L200 / Nissan Navara & Pathfinder / Toyota Hilux / VW Amarok

sales@britpart.com

KLEAN KANTEEN 16oz STACKABLE STEEL PINT When going camping or travelling having a durable, non-breakable pint pot is a must, so ditch those inferior plastic cups and upgrade to this 16oz Klean Kanteen stainless steel cup. It is a lightweight single wall design that is stackable, and clipable to your bag with the addition of their silicone pint ring.

Klean Kanteen create the high quality reusable products (my original Klean Kanteen stainless steel water bottles, that I bought from the USA about 15 years ago, are a bit dented but still going strong).

As a company they work hard to bring benefits to the people and places they work with, and are a certified B Corporation, and were officially certified Climate Neutral in February 2020. price: single cup - £9.95 4 pack - £37.95 pint ring 4 pack - £4.95 more at » www.kleankanteen.co.uk

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LEATHERMAN FREE T4 MULTIPURPOSE TOOL Leatherman has unveiled an extended range of vibrant colours in its T4 multipurpose FREE collection – Crimson, Navy and Evergreen.

Launched in 2019, the Leatherman FREE collection reinvented the category that Tim Leatherman created 37 years ago. One of the most compact offerings in the Leatherman FREE family, the T4 is a small and mighty multipurpose tool. At just 121.9g, it fits easily into a pocket, but punches well above its weight when it comes to performance. It has 12 tools and every feature is accessible on the outside, allowing for tools to be easily opened with one hand.

Tools include knife, pry tool, package opener, awl, bottle opener, wood/metal file, Phillips screwdriver, medium, small and extra small screwdrivers, tweezers and scissors. price: £84.95 more at » leatherman.co.uk

New Stuff we've discovered this month CTEK D250SE

Whether you’re taking a weekend trek into the wilderness in your 4x4, on a road trip of a lifetime in your motorhome or driving between jobs in your work van, you need an on-board charging system that keeps your fridge, tools and other electrical devices charged quickly and reliably.

Compatible with smart alternators, the D250SE delivers 20A of power to charge, condition and maintain any 12V auxiliary battery whilst on the move from the alternator, solar panels and even wind power.

When the auxiliary battery is fully charged, the D250SE will automatically redirect maintenance charge power to the starter battery. The D250SE can maintain a stable output up to 20A to vehicles fitted with smart ECU controlled alternators and also has a temperature sensor for optimised charging, regardless of weather conditions. price: £349.50 buy in the UK: amazon.co.uk

KUMHO CRUGEN KL33 The fact that Jeep selected the KL33 for OE fitment on its Renegade model says much about the tyre’s all-round credentials.

Especially developed for the particular needs of the ever- expanding SUV sector, the all-season KL33 provides a decidedly impressive degree of comfort at all speeds, coupled with good handling characteristics and notably low levels of noise.

The symmetric tread is of four groove design for optimum aquaplaning suppression, while 3D shoulder blocks ably aid wet weather grip.

Balanced traction characteristics are guaranteed in both wet and dry conditions. KL33 is currently available for rims of 15 to 20 inches in diameter and a mix of H and V speed ratings.

Further information on Kumho’s extensive range of 4x4 tyres can be found at www.kumhotyre.co.uk

GOODS & GEAR Ever since I began using our Robens Vista 400 inflatable tent, I’ve become a bit of a fan of their products, and I’ve assembled quite a collection.

ROB E N S SE A RCHE R C H A I R

The recent product to adorn our camping pile is their tough and surprisingly comfortable Searcher foldable chair.

Once removed from its own carry bag, which is included, it only takes around 10 seconds for me to connect all the legs and be ready to lounge for the rest of evening.

The sturdy steel frame is lightweight and has a maximum load of 120kg, or if you’re old like me and prefer it in old money, that’s 18.9stone. Compared to other chairs of its ilk, it’s shaped so that it sits at a more sociable angle making it ideal for gatherings with friends and family, as well as sitting at a table for lunch, though it has to be a low table as the seat height is only 43cm.

In practise, because the feet don’t open that far apart, on uneven ground it can be a little tippy, but once you’re aware of that you’ll be fine. If you like to man-splay whilst sitting, you may find that the bottom of your thighs can catch a bit on the front corner edges, and therefore it can become a bit uncomfortable. I’ve found that this is typical for the kind of chair it is, and is easily remedied.

When you’re done, the legs come apart like that of tent poles as they’re held together by elastic and once folded and put away in its bag the whole thing measures 50 x 14 x 12cm.

The seat itself is made from 600D 100% Oxford polyester with the mesh fabric being 100% polyester for enhanced breathability and comfort.

Overall it’s a well built and comfortable chair that’s ideal if you’re short of space. price - £28.99 more at » www.robens.de

Robens have kindly sent us one of these handy chairs to giveaway.

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GOODS & GEAR UST T EKF IRE LED FUE L-FRE E LI GHT E R There are times when I want a simple, no nonsense product that just works when I want it to, no matter what the conditions. Take lighters for instance, over the years I’ve had numerous Bic lighters in my pack, they’re cheap and cheerful and easily replaced, but in windy conditions they are as useful as a chocolate fire guard.

Wouldn’t it be great if a lighter exists that didn’t have a flame, and could be fuelled up using a USB? Say hello to the the lightweight, compact UST TekFire Fuel-Free Lighter.

Basically it’s a windproof, flameless, electronic lighter that requires no butane fuel or adjustments for altitude. It features a built-in, rechargeable lithiumion battery and is supplied with a USB cord for easy recharging from any USB port and battery pack.

Attached to its base is a ParaTinder wrist lanyard that can be unwound for around 3 feet of allpurpose paracord with an added single tinder thread for when you have no other means of starting a fire.

It also features a 10 second time-out safety feature, meaning that it switches itself off after 10 seconds of continuous use, and being bright orange means that when you put it down somewhere, it’s almost impossible to lose.

Reliability is important for any outdoor kit, so for 4 weeks, twice a day I used it to start a fire using both Fatwood and other fire-starting materials, and it continuously worked a treat, and I haven’t had to recharge it yet.

It's definitely a tool that’ll stay in my safety kit. price: £31.95 more at » www.whitbyandco.co.uk

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GOODS & GEAR CAM PINGAZ 600SG XCE LE RA TE ST O V E One of the problems with having a 4x4 without a tailgate is that there’s nowhere to cook meals, unless of course you cart around a table, but sometimes that isn’t practical. With that in mind I needed to find a stove with tables attached, like the Campingaz 600SG. So what makes it special?

Not only is the 600SG a twin burner stove with two removable non-stick side tables at either side, but it also has four telescopic legs. Because of its foldaway design it’s both compact and easy to store in your vehicle, and with a large handle it’s really easy to carry to and from your chosen cooking spot.

Setting it up is equally as easy, from underneath, simply remove the two nonstick side tables, four telescopic legs and fabric shelf. Screw in the legs, clip on the the side table extensions, using wing-nuts (which can be a bit fiddly), and attach the thin spindle supports. Lastly, unfold and attach the fabric shelf half way down the legs, this also helps the overall rigidity.

The full, one-piece lid opens up and is secured in place with one support, I’d prefer two, and something a little more sturdier, but so far it’s done its job and the lid has never blown shut.

Using the Piezo ignition system, there are a couple of ways in which to cook. The 600SG features two powerful Xcelerate burners complete with removable, non-stick grids, so you can slowly simmer a hearty casserole or enjoying tasty griddled burgers and sausages. And, if you remember to put water in the bottom of the grill pans they’re really easy to clean.

Campingaz’s Xcelerate technology creates a lower yet more powerful flame and features a downstep burner design, which makes the flame more wind resistant. This also means that you speed up your cooking time with the added bonus of reduced gas consumption.

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GOODS & GEAR Any criticisms?

Not really. As I mentioned at the start, fitting the side table extensions using wing-nuts can be a bit fiddly, but it’s no hardship. From the factory they’re pained black, and you’d be better repainting them bright orange, as when they’re dropped, and you will drop them, they’re easily found. The tables themselves aren’t huge, but good enough to keep plates and condiments on, as well as preparing food as they’re also non-stick and very easy to wipe clean.

With the lockdown in place we haven’t had the opportunity to take it to many places, but we’ve used it at Muddy Towers and it’s proven worthy as a practical twin burner stove. The side tables are only really useful for resting condiments on and preparing food, they’re not really designed to eat from.

So far the 600SG has proven to be a cracking stove, and because all the components are stored inside, it makes it easy to carry and transport. more at » www.campingaz.com price: £118.20 buy in the UK » amazon.co.uk

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GOODS & GEAR MSR FLEX 3 SYSTE M In my quest to slim our camping kit down, I came across MSR’s Flex 3 System, which is essentially a 10 piece, 3 person cooking system.

All nestled together like a fat Russian Doll, the kit contains 3 mugs (with lids), 3 deep dish plates, 2 hard-anodized aluminium pots (3.3ltr & 2.3ltr), a lid with strainer and a removable pot handle. All packed together it weighs in at just over a kilogram and measures 22.2 x 13.3cm.

In practice it works really well, the insulated mugs are well designed, if not a quirky shape, and very effective at retaining the temperatures, whether you’re drinking something hot or cold. Their lids have a drinking hole and vent, though they’re only press-fit, so accidentally knock them on their side and you’ve lost your cup of inspiration, so be careful.

We really like that fact that all 3 plates have tall sides, as when you’re camping you often don’t have the luxury of flat surfaces, so when you put the plate down it’s unlikely that your spag-blog will end up sliding off onto the floor.

The anodized aluminium lid has 2 strainers and fits both pans. It’s also crimped at one point to allow a small metal hook on the outside of the larger pot to hold it in place for storage and transport.

The larger hard-anodized aluminium pot is great for boiling water for pasta, whilst the smaller pot has a scratch resistant nonstick coating and is better suited for food. Both pots have capacities printed on the inside that saves you from guessing.

If I have one complaint, it’s going to be the insulated locking handle for the pots. Although it’s relatively easy to detach and attach, there really should be 2 handles within the kit as it becomes a bit awkward when you’re juggling the two pots over a hot stove.

Overall it could be argued that it’s a bit on the pricey side, but MSR are very well respected in the outdoor community so you can expect great quality and longevity. more at » www.msrgear.com price: £104.99 buy in the UK » amazon.co.uk 76

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GOODS & GEAR

C OOL CA M P I N G B RI T A I N

I’ve been a huge fan of Cool Camping for a while, and I’m actually quite excited that their brand new 2020 Cool Camping Britain directory is now out. It’s bursting with the best tent-friendly campsites in the country, though caravans and campers aren’t discriminated against. This fully updated third edition has been expanded to feature 175 stunning campsites and showcases the very best of British camping, from the cliff tops of Cornwall to the forests of furthest Scotland.

New discoveries in the third edition include a tiny campsite in the grounds of a Devon vineyard, a remote eco-escape on North Wales’ Llynn Peninsula and an off-grid Eden within cycling distance of central London. Woodland camping, seaside camping, family-friendly sites and campsites with campfires are all covered with over 80 brand new additions to the guide.

There’s one particular site I want to try ASAP, and that’s just off the A499 at Aberafon. Nestled between the mountains and sea, as well as a proper caravan site there’s a small camping field next to a partly sandy, yet wild beach that’s full of rock pools, and you are even allowed a campfire on the beach, just imagine that on a balmy evening.

Hand-picked from thousands of campsites across Britain, these carefully selected places to pitch are brought to life with entertaining, insightful reviews, alongside practical information

on facilities, opening times, what to do nearby, how to arrive by public transport and where to find the nearest pub.

In addition, every single campsite comes with an array of colour photographs, making this a campers companion that’s perfect for inspiration as well as information. price - £13.70 more at » coolcamping.com

buy in the UK » amazon.co.uk

Here at Muddy Towers we are big fans of the Cool Camping books, so we reached out to them and they happily gave us a copy to giveaway to one lucky reader.

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wri t es Simon says One of the best pieces of advice in life is:

Never text your ex!

I would like to propose that this should not just be taken in the context of a significant other that you may have shared intimate moments with, it should also apply to cars, trucks and bikes!

It is fair to say that most of us, at some point, will have wondered what happened to that beautiful creation that you once shared your life with, that you lavished your wages on, that you got involved with despite all the advice from your mates and probably caused you a certain amount of sleepless nights.Yes, I am still talking about vehicles!

Like me, if you’ve driven Land Rovers your ownership experience will have definitely involved some of the more sweary vocabulary.Your wallet will have also been emptied to cover the expense of items that were not even itemised on

your to-do list before they broke, expired, imploded or otherwise gave up.

However, we move on, we sell the heap of crap and buy another one, usually just as unreliable and costly - cue smug sniggers from our readers who don’t buy Solihull shite.

After a while we can think back to the good times, the days when nothing broke, when everything just worked, and, in a similar fashion to the way you can never quite remember how bad toothache feels once the dentist has pulled the offending gnasher, we long to see the old girl again.

Having an interest in a niche motoring sector like 4x4s means crossing the path of the new victim, sorry, owner of your previous ride, is not that uncommon, and so it is with me.

I know the whereabouts of several of my previous Land Rovers...

The one I owned the longest, a 1996 Land Rover Discovery 300TDi, is still in the family. I bought it ex-demo and added 185,000 miles to the odometer before it was involved in an accident (not my fault).

I bought it back from the insurance company who deemed it unworthy of repair and two members of my family have struggled to keep it alive for the past five years. I believe it is currently off the road due to a total inability to drive in a straight line!

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censored for the sensitive eyes of our green oval loving readers

I also had a 1984 Land Rover 110 which I bought from a landscaping company. It was their runabout hack, and despite looking like a total shed, benefitted from a 200TDi retro-transplant and a galv chassis. It was at one of the last great Billing Land Rover shows that, on a whim, I placed a ‘For Sale’ sign in the window. Within a few hours it was sold!

A few years later I saw it again at the LRO show in Peterborough. The new owners had done a lot of work to it, and used it as a weekend camper for attending events. It looked fabulous.

One of the more unusual Land Rovers I owned was a Series II Ambulance which I actually got for free. A neighbour had it sitting on his driveway for several years and it hardly ever moved. Then I heard that he was trying to get rid of it and just wanted someone to take it away. Well I transferred it from his driveway to my Nan’s driveway, and it sat there for a few more years while I figured out what to do with it.

In the end I decided to place a ‘make me an offer’ advert on one of the forums, and that truck didn’t hang about either. I still see it at events from time to time, thankfully in a much better state than when I had my name on the V5.

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The last one is the only one I ever really regretted selling, my Defender 130 Azalai Camper. This was built for us by a French Company, and we enjoyed several family holidays and road trips all over Europe. For personal reasons, *cough* Divorce! *cough*, it had to be sold. A couple from New Zealand bought it and spent over six months touring Europe in it before selling it again.

When I saw it re-advertised I was very sorely tempted, but just didn’t have the money (mostly down to the aforementioned divorce that was still ongoing, and draining me of all liquid assets).

I lost track of it after that. There were a few rumoured sightings over the next couple of years, but I thought it had just been driven into the sunset by an overlanding enthusiast.

Until just a few weeks ago when I received a message on Instagram asking if I knew anything about Azalai Defender campers, from a bloke in Japan!

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He’d bought it and had it shipped over. This prompted me to follow him on Instagram (@defender130overland) and see where he’d been, which instantly depressed me more than anything.

He was enjoying it the way I was supposed to have done.

I still see the updates, it has undergone some very nifty modifications since I had it, but it is mostly the same. I’m sure it is now been sworn at in Japanese, but I still miss it.

Has anyone else bought back a vehicle they’d previously owned?

(I should add, just for clarification, and in case my current significant other reads this - I have never texted an ex!)

Words & photos - Simon Hastelow

Defender 130 photos courtesy of @defender130overland THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

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Last month I waffled on about how to prepare a standard 4x4 to tackle 90% of the UK greenlanes and the odd Pay & Play site, by keeping it as near standard as possible and only changing the tyres, suspension and adding good quality recovery points. If you were paying attention, at the end I also suggested getting some off-road training lessons to teach you about you and your vehicle's limitations, as well as recovery techniques.

It’s always good to hear feedback, and some of you questioned the need for new suspension, which is fair enough. I included suspension because having had numerous 4x4s in the past that ran on original suspension, I learnt quickly the transformation fitting new springs, and even leafs made, not just off-road, but on-road, too.

As an example, I fitted new Pedders suspension to Deux Smurf before lock down, and not only has her on road handing been transformed, but she flexes better whilst green-laning which in turn means that all four tyres are in contact with the ground with less chance of wheel-spin and the loss of traction.

So, what’s next?

Well, how long is a piece of string, as the saying goes, let’s begin with damage control.

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Protection I’m not taking about fitting huge bull bars and winch bumpers, though I’m not against them, but protecting your vehicle from damage is always a good idea, so let’s start with the basics; protecting your undercarriage.

Hidden rocks can do a lot of damage, whether they’re under water in a mild looking stream, or in the centre of muddy ruts, and generally speaking it’s the steering that gets it first. Companies like Ratel-X Industries over in Rossendale make decent looking steering guards for Defenders and Discoverys.

Next of course are your diffs, the lowest part of your 4x4 if you have a traditional beam axle 4x4, and they’re just hanging there without a care in the world, until the rock that you managed to avoid with your steering decides to have a meet and greet!

There are a few different types of diff guards on the market, the tyre that you can attach with a hefty bolt or two, to those that are welded into position. Don’t skimp and just buy one for your front, buy two, both diffs matter.

Fuel tank guards are the next thing to consider. Yes, busting a hole in your rear diff can be a pain, but at least you can disconnect your rear drive a limp to safety, but when you’ve just lost a full tank of unleaded, or veg oil, that’s a serious amount of money you now have soaking into the ground.

If you have a Defender you can buy rear corner bumperettes that Photos courtesty of www.ratel-x.com

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prevent your rear wings from getting damaged when you’re edging off a large rock. These are a worthy investment, especially if you have a 110.

The side steps on Deux Smurf are exactly that, steps, they’re only used for standing on when I’m securing our open canoe to the roof bars, I’d expect them to bend like a banana if I relied on them to protect her sills whilst driving over rocks. There are many companies out there who supply and will even fit a pair of sill, or rock sliders, and they can be really useful.

Light guards can be effective at protecting expensive new HID headlamps and the like, but I’ve seen too many get ripped off when a stubborn branch becomes trapped inside the guard and the light, which equates to bodywork damage.

What about Bush cables? You know, those two highly strung wires that are attached between a wing and a roof rack. Well, they’re designed to protect your windscreen from getting penetrated by errant branches, so if you’re constantly driving through heavy bush they’re ideal, but they’re illegal, apparently, for road use, and depending on your MOT tester will be a fail, so be careful.

They’re also good for decapitating zombies and hanging out wet undies to dry…

Photo courtesy of www.milneroffroad.com

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Snorkels BRITPART RAISED AIR INTAKE Now I’m not particularly keen on wading through deep water, not only can it bugger up your bearings and brakes, but you never know what’s lurking in the depths. If water is deep enough that you need a snorkel, then I’d recommend buying a boat! That said, a snorkel is also useful for when driving in dusty conditions, so if you’re planning on a lot of Saharan adventures, it maybe worth an investment.

On the subject of deep water, axle, or diff breathers are worth their weight in gold, and it doesn’t have to be deep water for them to be useful in, either.

ARMAX SNORKEL|200 SER 10/15ONw When you drive through a puddle that is near or above diff height, you are dunking a hot diff into cold water, and when you dunk something hot into cold water, it shrinks, am I right lads?

A diff breather, which is a long piece of tubing that runs from your diff to somewhere high in the engine bay, allows for hot air to exit when your diff gets dunked in water as opposed to through the seals.

Photos courtesy of www.britpart.com

SNORKEL FORTUNER 2015 1GD-FTV

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Lockers Finally, for this month at least, let’s talk about after market diff locks, though I guess this only applies to older 4x4s, as newer vehicles often come equipped with decent traction aids, and even front and rear diff locks, in the case of the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon.

Locking the diffs prevents wheel spin by sending equal drive to both wheels on an axis, regardless of terrain or traction, so with front and rear diff lockers (either selectable or automatic) you’ll be able to crawl through most obstacles with little or no wheel spin.

I keep thinking that, at some point I should get a rear locker fitted to Deux Smurf, it’s an extra bit of security that’s the difference between getting through, or up an obstacle without using too much power and momentum that can inevitably lead to breaking something. But I’ve driven her along some gnarly lanes and she manages just fine.

Photos courtesy of www.britpart.com

Next month I’ll take a look at what things you should carry in your 4x4, whether it’s for an afternoon’s greenlaning mooch, or longer.

Disclaimer - again, I’m not an expert and make sure you tell your insurance company.

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acebook Page of the Month Once, not so long ago, if you wanted to catch up with like minded enthusiasts, you’d join a forum. It appears these days however that Facebook has taken over the mantle for the place to go for information. So, in the aptly titled ‘Facebook Page of the Month’ every month I will invest hours of time, effort and energy searching Facebook for interesting and relevant groups so you don’t have to. It’s serious work, or so I tell Muddy Madam!

Northern Greenlaners https://www.facebook.com/groups/2345956515616014/ WHO STARTED IT? It was a decision made by a few of us; we used to be called North West Greenlaners, but a decision was made to change the name, because we wanted people from all over the country to be interested. North West seemed too isolated and specific to one area. We currently have 4 admins whose 4x4 are shown in the pics.

WHEN? The big change came with the re-branding to Northern Greenlaners in January '20, and since then we have held raffles, and planned some exciting trips, some of which have been delayed due to Covid-19. We are hopeful to continue with plans soon, and continue growing and evolving the group.

WHY? We wanted to form a group where like minded people could get out into the countryside and enjoy the freedom a 4x4 brings, but also to take the sting out of planning routes and getting stuck on your own.

We have members from all over the country so there is always someone out somewhere enjoying the greenlanes. This has also meant there has been successful recoveries made through posts in the group.

We've seen the group transform into a hub where people can connect easily to ask for help, or spread helpful tips, warnings of lane closures, and of course have a bit of banter

Black Isuzu D-Max Wayne Lannen Green Isuzu Rodeo Corey Whitfield-Smiles White Nissan Navara Dave Peters Silver Range Rover - Liam Bird Photographs by Cassie Fyfe

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HOW MANY MEMBERS SO FAR? So far we have just over 750 members with new people joining daily, obviously a lot of them just like to see what we have been/are up to, plus we are always happy to help out fellow members where possible whether it be with helping fix a car or just advise over chat.

We never aimed to be the biggest just an active group with happy members, which will continue to be the aim regardless of numbers.

AREA? All of the UK, We have spent the majority of our time in The Lakes,Yorkshire, & Northumberland - we have members that travel from far afield to join these trips, so we have future plans for trips that will be more accessible to our more southern members.

ARE THERE PUB MEETINGS? We haven’t done any pub meets as we feel it's not something that mixes with driving, while everyone enjoys good pub grub we definitely don't condone drinking and driving, plus we have members which enjoy cooking for the group while out which always makes for a great experience and mingling time to chat with the other 4x4 owners, we also do camping weekends which are a firm favourite.

CAN MEMBERS ORGANISE THEIR OWN TRIPS? As long as they are confident enough and follow the rules then yeah absolutely, its always great to get people involved with planning and gives us a better idea of where people are wanting to go and what kind of lanes they prefer, we don't own the lanes and we wouldn't stop anyone who was just looking to enjoy themselves however we would advise any beginners to put their names down for any laning organised by admin so they get a chance to experience a range in difficulties of lanes and witness correct recovery procedures.

If you, or your group, would like to be featured as FB Page of the Month send us a quick email to:

POTM@themudlife.co.uk THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

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John's Place...

It all began at the beginning of December 2006 on the Difflock website, which was probably the biggest 4x4 forum of the day, way before the likes of Facebook took over.

T

o cut a long story short, one of our fellow 'Difflockers' had a large family farm in North Wales, and within his land John had created his own off road course. Some bits were easy, some not so easy, and some bits are, well, just make sure you’ve already attached your tow rope!

Anyhow, as well as a few other like minded Difflockers, Barny and I were invited down for a play.

Vehicle wise we thought we'd have a change, no Smurf, as I was considering selling her, and no Tin Can (Barny's Nissan D21 Double Cab), as he’d killed the gearbox. So, it was Tweety Pie that drew the short straw. Hang on, Tweety Pie you ask? Yup, that be Barny's ’86 Yellow Suzuki SJ410Q. Only a few weeks previously, Barny had bought Tweety Pie off E-bay for the pricely sum of just £160. He rented a trailer and picked it up from Croydon, a nice 490 mile round trip. The trailer and diesel cost him a further £180.

When he got it back it was stuck in 2wd, a common problem apparently, the transfer lever can `jam` between the selectors,. It took 5 minutes to lift the lever out and drop it back in the selector slots and it was fixed. Barny also welded both the rear corners of the floor (a common place to go), and the rear off side floor to wheel arch joint, again a common place for the rust demon. The rest of floors and sills were spot on, and all original.

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The hood had rotted stitching, but the fabric was like new, so Barny dropped it off at a local tent repair specialist, and one day later it was completely sewn up hood, all for £50. Not happy with the original seats he bought some Opel Manta GTE Recaros, again from E-bay for £28 the pair. Once cleaned up and fitted to the SJ seat runners they turned out to be superb.

After replacing the bumper, stripping a the brakes, and replacing wheel bearings and so on, he booked it in for an MOT, which it passed, and Tweety Pie was ready for action.

The morning arrived, and with Tweety Pie fully loaded, these two six foot tall, facial haired blokes wearing similar coloured fleeces driving a little yellow Suzuki SJ with a Tweety Pie wheel cover set off for Wales. And yes, we received some strange glances from other motorists.

As directed, Barny and I continued down a narrow dirt track waiting for a left turn to appear, and there we where, at what John calls the 'novice' section. With the help of his trusty digger, John has created a track of twists and turns, not dissimilar to the off road track at Easton Castle. If you haven’t been to Easton Castle, just nod, smile and amuse me…

Arriving at John's farm, we followed the signs off the main dual carriage way onto a narrow lane, then turned right through an open gate, and straight away I spotted a large gazebo and BBQ. A company called Blitzworld who were showing off some of their small space framed buggies. Our paths didn’t meet that much as John had laid out a separate section for them away from the bigger 4x4s.

Whilst Barny prepared himself for the mud, I jumped out to take the odd photo. The novice section that John has created begins with quite a steep climb, and an equally steep drop into water, then follows a series of corners with humps and bumps which was easily negotiated.

John had created lots of tight tracks for us that squirm in and out of potential panel bending trees, evading low branches and hidden roots that throw you off course, it was great fun and easily negotiated in a Zook.

It was then that we met up with other fellow Difflockers, Chris in his modified Suzuki SJ, Mike who was also in a modified SJ, Paul in his Bobtailed Range Rover, a red Discovery driven by Garron, an ex trike builder extraordinair, and another, more standard black Zook SJ driven by Garron's daughter Alex and her friend Becky.

A few minutes later we were able to put a face to the man himself, John appeared out of nowhere, and after introducing ourselves he pointed out a section that he thought we should check out first. Then he vanished just as quickly as he appeared, he was a busy man that day.

There was another yellow Zook driven by another Difflock regular, 'Suzukishrek', or Graham as I would imagine his mum would prefer, with wife Julie, and three of the most well behaved kids you could ever meet.

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It’s difficult really to describe the land that John has, apart from flat. However, it does retain a lot of water, this is due to two reasons: it being equidistant between two major rivers, and below the surface is 200ft of red clay that was pushed up from ice age. Also scattered around the many open fields are what I would describe as ponds surrounded by mini forests, there is a technical term for these, ‘clumps'. These were dug for clay to build the local farms and out buildings, then used for a wild life sanctuary, especially for ducks in the 17th century.

See, not only do we like to review your potentially perfect 4x4, but we also educate you.

I wasn’t long before Barny and I caught up with everyone else just as they were entering one of John's 'clumps' (that just doesn't sound right, does it?) Again, John had designed and built some testing routes within the boundaries of this particular clump. The first victim was Mell in his earth moving, ground shaking, rumbling V8 Land Rover 90, damn it sounded good.

However, he still became stuck on a pesky root just as he was climbing out of a hole. Out with the winches then. As this particular section was quite narrow, Paul decided not to follow in his bobtailed Range Rover - a wise move we all thought.

After meandering around the tracks for a while, John was eager to show us more of his handy work along side one of the many huge hedgerows. What John had done here was to excavate huge amounts of mud and clay to create another embankment that ran parallel with the hedgerow. This he'd made tricky though as it was very undulating, and if you weren't careful the side slope would have you careering down into the hedges. It was both Mike and Andy in their super modified Suzuki SJs who had the first attempts, they both managed to complete this section, and even showed off by driving back again. After playing around this area for a while, and then eating lunch we found another water section to play in.

John called this next section the Horseshoe, basically because he’d dug a huge hole in the shape of a… you guessed it, a large horseshoe and filled with water.

Now the sensible thing to do when approaching an unknown water section would be to demount from your vehicle and check the depth with a stick or other suitable measuring device to determine the depth of said hazard. Nah, that didn’t happen, everyone drove in without a care in the world! With the murky water lapping over bumpers, everyone was having a ‘whale’ of a time - whale - geddit?

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Anyway, just around the corner, John had been even busier with his digger and had created an even deeper water hole, which didn’t take long for us all to find.

Andy was first to edge his Zook into the silty water, the entrance was severe and his little Zook appeared to change into a submarine, dive, dive, dive... ok, that was in my head.

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Then Garron in his Discovery dived in, to me this looked more spectacular, I think because the Discovery is a bigger vehicle and therefore displaced the water more. Now I'd like to say here that both Andy and Garron created the perfect bow wave as they pushed their way forward, but as the water in some places was up to their windscreens, I can’t.

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By this time the weather began to deteriorate and the light was fading too.

The flashes on cameras began to explode as, one after the other, drivers struggled to keep their vehicles in anything resembling a straight line, but John had one more trick up his sleeve before we all decided to call it a day.

For our final challenge, John had extended the corner of one of the deep ponds, so as everyone drove in they automatically leaned inwards towards the deep bit, and therefore lost traction and needed to be winched out, well, all except Paul in his Bobtailed Range Rover, he just drove in and drove out and made it look easy.

And that was it, the first of many Difflock days we had at JP’s, as we called it. So we thanked John, said our goodbyes and posted all our photos on difflock.com and looked forward to the next day out at John’s.

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web: www.nwrlr.org

Treat these two mad people to a cuppa Here are all the lovely people who have bought us some slurpy goodness this month.

Lauren E. Dave K. Lee S. Laf Peter B. Jim H.

Edward P. LR Asser Gary H.

Damian and I want to keep the mag free to read, though it costs quite a bit for us to put it together each month, so if you like what we do, we'd love it if you'd chip in for a hot chocolate every now and then, to keep us going whilst we put together the next mag.

Everyone who buys us a hot choc each month will get a name check in the mag. Buy us 2 hot chocs at one time, or become a regular monthly hot choc provider then you'll get a even bigger mention,.

Ta muchly

Thank you so much THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

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es d i R s ' r e Read

Who are you, where are you from and what do you do?

I'm Kieran, currently in residing Rochdale and work for Greater Manchester Police in the dungeons.

History of cars leading up your present 4x4 I've always been a lover of 4x4's since my dads LWB 109 Land Rover, but as insurance was an impossibility on a 4x4 at 17 I settled for an ancient Citroen AX, it lasted 8 months before it imploded. I then moved through a few cars till I bought my first 4x4, a Mitsubishi L200 pickup which I loved until the head went and it was exported to Africa.

With the money from that sale I bought my first Landy, a 1988 Land Rover 90 which was my pride and joy! The Mrs then got pregnant with our first and I went back to the family cars, an 04 Vectra then a Citroen Picasso. Gearbox went on the Citroen (surprisingly) so I had chance to by my "family" Landy, a 2000 Land Rover Discovery 2 and I will never go back!

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Present 4x4(s) A 2000 Land Rover Discovery 2 aptly named "Jessie" by my children as she wobbles and is quite loud. Bought for ÂŁ1000 from an unsuspecting victim, she's had her issues but nothing a few spanners and helpful friends couldn't fix.

Modifications done It came with a 2 inch lift all round and a brand new Safari Snorkel, the EGR blanked and brand new set of rubber. I have since removed the ACE (massive improvement) gave her a new battery as the last one give up, and that’s about it so far.

Favourite Modifications The ACE removal was a huge improvement as it was long over due and I've definitely not noticed a difference in ride quality.

Very easy to do as well for a novice fixer.

Modifications to do Well....where to start? I have a range of spottys that need putting on the front and back of the vehicle, front bumper to be removed to give better clearance. Rims to get painted black, definitely a Stage 1 Remap has to be done at some point. I think first on the list to be done though is the rear suspension to be changed from bags to springs, the only reason for this is to have one less thing to go wrong in the future. I could go on forever really theres so many, too many to list.

Favourite green-laning trip I went on a recent camping trip before the Covid-19 lock down to the lakes with a mate of mine. Both of us in our Discoverys in the bouncing down rain (where we slept due to the weather). Woke up parked next to a stunning lake with a bit of a sore head after copious amounts of whiskey consumed the night before.

Lottery win 4x4 There's so many, literally!

I'd have a fleet of various 4x4s for different things, but I think from recent conversations with a mate of mine, I'd have a custom built project by myself, a Land Rover Series 3 with a TD5 lump powering it. Completely fitted out for every camping/off-roading adventure.

Favourite car related film Gone in 60 seconds is up there I think, John Wick - his Mustang Boss 429 is absolutely stunning!

Also the custom truck on the film Polar is STUNNING! I just can't choose.

Favourite biscuits I'm a traditional biscuit eater, custard creams or chocolate digestives all day long.

Where can we find more details?

I do have an Instagram account dedicated to mine and my mate's Td5 Discoverys, and a lot of other content too!

Find us here: www.instagram.com/td5_ overland/

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Who are you and what do you do?

I’m Neil Howard and I live in Radcliffe, Manchester working for Noon Machinery Services in Stockport as the works manager (electrical engineer by trade).

I formed North West NWRLR, as seen in The Mud Life issue 13. I left another North West response group over two years ago wanting to set up a group of like minded people who want to use their 4x4 vehicles in aiding those in need in times of inclement weather or natural disasters. We now provide specialist response teams to the emergency services and other response teams in and surrounding areas of the North West, supplying trained personnel for the right situations as volunteers.

History of cars leading up to your present 4x4 Vehicles owned include: a 200Tdi 2 door Discovery 4 x 300Tdi Discoverys 4 x Td5 Discoverys and a 2002 Td4 5 door Freelander.

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Present 4x4 I currently a 2.7 Tdv6 Discovery GS with discreet mods.

Favourite Mod Coil springs converted back to air on rear, includes 2 oem air struts, a high powered Terrafirma compressor 2 solenoid to raise and lower. Upgraded the brakes to drilled and vented discs with ceramic pads and poly bushes on the bits the matter.

Modifications to do Install a air receiver tank and fit air struts to front for that extra off road height, I know it would be easier to just buy a car on air but I love this leather spec car and enjoy the challenges of making it better.

Favourite green laning trip Three days in Cumbria special driving as many lanes as possible and having 2 overnight camping onslaught with good food good friends a good drink and masses of banter.

Lottery Win Definitely a spanking new Ford ranger Raptor crew cab fitted out with all the off road goodies known to man.

Favourite film Italian job as a former grass track racer those little old British Leyland Minis Who are you, where are you from and what do you do?

Favourite biscuit Chocolate chip cookie Where can we find more details?

Me and my D3 are regularly on the NWRLR facebook page, and soon to be on Amazon TV on a brand new series of a car show where old cars are bought, tested and reported on until they are destructed.

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es d i R s ' r e Read

Who are you, where are you from and what do you do?

I’m Pete Dutton I have lived in Bolton Lancashire since birth in 1953. That makes me a 67yr old fart.

I retired from the Police with 31 years service but went straight back in to work as a civilian detention officer in 2007 and I’m still there. A bit trying at the moment with COVID 19 and PPE. A few of my close colleagues have shown symptoms and been tested but luckily only one has tested positive. Thankfully he has fully recovered. I’ve now got 44 years service but I’ll be packing in next year then I can do the jobs on my cars that I never get round to.

History of cars leading up your present 4x4 I’ve owned the following since passing my driving test in 1971.

1964 Vauxhall Viva HA 1966 MGB roadster 1968 Triumph Herald 13/60 1964 MGB roadster 1973 Triumph 2.5 PI 1968 Jaguar MK2 240 ( still got it ) 1970 Triumph Stag 1966 Jaguar E Type 4.2 2+2 ( still got half the driver’s seat ) 1964 Mini Austin Seven 1977 Jaguar XJ 4.2 Coupe 1977 Ford Escort MK 2 1966 Mini Cooper S re shelled into a clubman body 1980 Ford Fiesta 1.3 Sport 1986 Ford Fiesta XR2 1980 Ford Escort XR3 1989 Ford Escort XR3i 1973 Triumph 2000 1983 Rover 214 Convertible 1954 Land rover Series 1 86 inch diesel 1971 Range Rover classic 3.5 2 door ( now exported ) 1973 Land Rover Series 3 diesel ( still got it in bits )

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1997 Range Rover P38 4.6 HSE on LPG 1987 Land Rover 90 2.5 TD ( still got it ) 1996 BMW 320 convertible 2002 BMW 325 convertible 2006 Range Rover Sport 2.7 HSE 2007 Land Rover Puma 2.7 urban truck copy ( still got it ) had some of the bits done at Urban Truck.

1993 Range Rover classic 3.9 Vogue ( still got it ) 2001 Range Rover P38 4.0 HSE Petrol ( still got it ) Present 4x4(s) 2007 Land Rover 90 Puma 2.4 TDCi Converted from Hard top to Station wagon Urban Truck RS replica. S/S front bumper with DRL’s. S/S radiator grille. Wing top vents. All LED lights. Urban truck body stickers. Massai side windows. Land rover side steps. Black checker plate sill protectors. Swing away wheel carrier. NAS rear step. Black sawtooth alloys with 265/75/16 BFG AT Tyres. Seat bulkhead conversion. Land Rover rear forward facing seats. Apple car play. Remapped.

2001 Range Rover P38 4.0 Petrol.

New piston rings and big end bearing shells. Head gasket.

Radiator. Water pump. Auto gearbox service. Now drives like new. Still on full working air suspension.

1987 Land rover 90 2.5 TD Standard apart from side windows. Checker plating. Boost alloys and BFG 265/75/16 AT tyres.

1993 Range Rover 4 door classic 3.9 Vogue Petrol Still on air bags but soon to be converted to springs. It already had tubular branch wrapped exhaust manifolds and a different sounding exhaust. Goes like stink.

Favourite Modifications Apple car play on Puma and the remap really surprises people who think Land Rovers are slow.

Favourite green-laning trip I joined the Police in 1976, and in 1979 I was sent on a 3 day Police Land rover course,I cannot for the life of me remember where but it was somewhere in Wales, the instructor was an retired army tank commander. We were using Series 3 88s because they were the current model. We did major 4x4 training in a disused quarry. I couldn’t believe it when as I neared the top of a very steep incline he told me to stop and hold it on the foot brake. Then he said to me to put the car in reverse then switch the engine off. I did what I was told then he said to take my foot off the brake, I was amazed how well it held in gear. Then the mad man said “ Don’t touch any pedals but start the engine and it’ll go back down hill on its own. I wasn’t allowed to touch the clutch or brake and had to stamp my feet to prove it. I was so impressed with that and many more tricks that I was shown that I’ve never been without a Land Rover of some sort since.

Lottery win 4x4 New Defender 90 with all the bells and whistles.

Favourite car related film Good old Italian Job Favourite biscuits Dark chocolate digestive Where can we find more details?

I’m a bit private, I don’t do social media apart from Whats App if that counts.

I’ve not been up there for a long time but my favourite local green lane was from Sheephouse Lane car park, Rivington to the Pigeon Tower. I went up and down quite often in my 2 door classic Range Rover and various Police Land Rovers up to the ninety.

Although when I was out on a Police refresher course to get used to Disco 1, the new style instructor wouldn’t risk going up. Mind you it was a shiny brand new one.

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My Memories ARC / ALRC Rallies You may have noticed a theme in our ‘Retro Snaps’ section that a lot of the photos are taken at ARC (Association of Rover Clubs) events. Well, I was asked recently, who and what is the ARC? Let me explain...

Now named ALRC (Association of Land Rover Clubs), the National Rally has always been a significant event in the Land Rover calendar, one that can be traced all the way back to 1955.

Back then it was a two-day event, hosted by LROC Ltd, and split between two venues. Saturday was spent at the Rover Works at Solihull, which comprised of a factory tour and a 'play' on the test track, and the Sunday was then spent off road at a site at Fenny Compton in Warwickshire.

One of the competitions at the factory was where owners allowed “officials” to set faults on the cars. The owners then had to fix the fault and drive the vehicle forward across a line, and obviously, the first one across the line was declared the winner.

The events continued like this up until 1963 when the event was held at Stratford Races and Fenny Compton. According to the Association of Land Rover Clubs website, the start of the rallies began with the advent of the Rover Owners Association (ROA), with organised camping and caravanning and began moving around the country.

It was during these early events that they began to introduce the concept of the ‘trial’ with canes erected on rough ground that required the competitors to drive through.

The same happens today, the RTV (Road Taxed Vehicle) is for standard-ish vehicles and the CCVT (Cross Country Vehicle Trial) is for competition specials.

It wasn’t until 1978 when the first of Association of Rover Clubs (ARC) events took place and was hosted by the Anglian club Land Rover Club, this was rally number 23.

My first ‘National was in 1989, I was a young and impressionable 22 year old with my first Land Rover, a 1974 LWB Series 3 Hardtop. It was held at Rudding Park, near Harrogate and it was an amazing experience being surrounded by hundreds of Land Rovers and their enthusiastic owners, I was hooked.

The 1990 event was at Trentham Gardens, and by then I had sold my old LWB, had bought a sensible car, got bored with it and gone out and bought a Lightweight. My main memory of this event was a friend's dog biting another friend's hand. I was quite speechless as the Frank Elson drove us to the local hospital in his old Rangie, OSM. Cheers Frank!

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In 1991 a great time was had down at Plymouth. My Lightweight was broke, so I borrowed an ex-girlfriends Renault 9 whilst she was on holiday with her parents.

In the evenings after tea, friends and I would gorged ourselves on beer and doughnuts. It took a while, but Glyn, a member of our party, managed to remove the hard top on his V8 109 and we had ourselves a ball as we bounced our way around the scenic off road course. Ah, it brings back a nice, warm fuzzy memories.

Cannock was our destination in 1992, and friend Chris had bought a 101 Forward Control and was entered in the Family Vehicle Trial. I remember watching Chris nearly going bottom over man boob on a particular section, and a collection of Camel vehicles parked on top of a large mound.

1993 was my first visit to Eastnor Castle. I had sold my Lightweight in favour of a Rover SD1 (V8 of course), and brought along my cousin Lee. I'm sure he won't appreciate me telling you all this, but he snored and talked in his sleep, so he was evicted from the tent into the car!

A funny memory I have is about eight of us piled in the back Chris' 101 enjoying the odd alcoholic beverage (not Chris, of course).

Gareth then stood up and declared that he had to visit the loo. However, he forgot how tall a 101 is and promptly fell out the back. There was an eery silence for a few moments as we all contemplated various injuries. However he got to his feet and declared, 'It's alright, I haven't spilt mi beer!'

In 1994 we enjoyed the delights of Shottle in Derbyshire with two firsts. It was the first time in my ‘new’ 1974 Range Rover, and the first ‘National for Muddy Madam. Cousin Lee joined us again, and like last time he slept in the car. I bent the steering damper during the scenic off road route, and due to the shape of the mobile loos and the sound they made as you push and pulled the lever to flush, someone christened them the 'Turdis'!

Blankney Park was the venue for the 1995 rally and I participated my first Family Vehicle Trial as navigator with Chris in his 110 Hi Cap. We watched as LWB vehicles stomped over the SWB's as they found themselves crossaxled on the very uneven terrain. This was the first time I think that the competition sites were away from the camping area and transport was laid on for spectators.

1996 was my first wet and miserable National down in Uckfield near Brighton, but my first CCTV and Comp Safari.

I also began something that I still enjoy to this day, I wrote my first ever article for the Red Rose Land Rover Club magazine.

I also experienced my first roll-over in a vehicle as we slid off a bank in the CCVT and put a friends 88” on its side. I wasn’t driving, I hasten to add.

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1997 in Wales was great, though I did witness my first snatch recovery that went wrong. I believe it was a Unimog that was recovering a Ninety out of a muddy section of a car park when the tow ball from the 'mog came off and went straight through both front and rear windows of the Ninety. Thankfully no one was injured. On a happier note, Karen Lee and I came 7th in class during the FVT in the Rangie! I also navigated in the Comp Safari again with Chris in his Series 3 trialer - I don't think I stopped laughing!

The week long event in 1998 was simply spectacular. It was my second visit to Eastnor Castle for Land Rover’s 50th anniversary celebrations, and the 43rd National. Memories include the brilliant off road course and using the local swimming pool and sauna every night. I think the '98 National could possibly be my favourite.

This event was unusual in that it was run directly by the Association of Rover clubs with many regional and one marque clubs undertaking specific responsibilities. For example, the site and its services were run by the Midland Rover Owners Club, Lanc’s & Cheshire took on the competition activities, Wye & Welsh did the off road run along with a spectacular run to the Breacon hills. I believe that almost every UK Land Rover club had some involvement, somewhere.

My Range Rover, BVU was in a sorry state at the 1999 'National at Doncaster, I didn't know it at the time but this was to be her last.

Friends Chris and Sadie arrived in their Unimog again, well it was their only vehicle. Nothing really springs to mind during this year, though we did camp next to the 101 Forward Control club, which was nice.

The year 2000 brought another wet and miserable weekend down at Bordon, near Hampshire. As BVU was being made into a hybrid, our vehicle of choice was Karen Lee's sister's Isuzu Trooper ('orrible seats is all I can remember about vehicle). I could be wrong, but I seem to recall that it wasn't the busiest 'National and weather wise it was rain, wind, blue sky, rain, wind, blue sky and so on. According to Chris, they also experienced a scrutineer from hell who was a bit over zealous. Not the best 'National due to the appalling weather. On the plus side, I bought a bunch load of Land Rover branded clothing which I’m still wearing 20 years later!

Due to the Foot and Mouth outbreak, the 2001 event had to be cancelled, which at that time was only the second event that didn’t take place.

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2002 saw us back down to Newnham Park in Plymouth for another great event, but it was a little odd because it was our first 'National we'd been to without friends Chris and Sadie.

We endured a long journey from Lancashire in Muddy Madam's MK2 Fiesta with only a portable radio to keep us company. The weather was fantastic and we watched a Series 2 win the winching competition using a Capstan winch. The only downside was that I'd managed to trap a nerve in my shoulder blade, so I had to watch Muddy Madam put the tent up on her own as I gave her instructions from my chair - whilst enjoying a pint of Guinness…

Unfortunately in 2003, work commitments meant we could only spare a day to visit Doncaster, and whilst walking around one of the CCTV sections, Muddy Madam managed to twist her ankle and had to be rescued by an ambulance crew, which is something she manages to do quite a lot.

It was in 2004 when I abandoned Land Rover and bought the Smurf, our first Toyota, and letting my ARC membership lapse I consequently left the Land Rover fold.

In 2007 it became the ALRC (Association of Land Rover Clubs), and we took our mate Barny over to Baden Hall over in Staffordshire for a day and met up with Chris and Sadie again, it was nice to revisit the event and see some old faces. It was also intended to kick start my enthusiasm for getting Tink, my Series 1 back on the road. I was very disappointed with the lack of any trade stands, but I did manage to buy quite a few goodies from the Series 1 stand.

Sadly that was our last ‘National, due to, well, not having a Land Rover and not being a member of any Land Rover affiliated clubs.

This year it was supposed to be held at Bilsington Priory down in Kent, but of course Covid 19 put a stop to that, and for the second time in its recent history, it has had to be cancelled.

At some point I’d love to get back into the green oval fold and get back to staying over at the ‘Nationals, there was always a sense of community, a hive of activity and camaraderie at these events.

One thing I'd like to add is that it's easily forgotten that these events are only possible because of the commitment given by the many volunteers, to whom I'd like to say a massive thank you. Without you guys and gals I would've missed out on a lot of happy memories!

Whilst I’m thanking people, I’d like to acknowledge the Association of Land Rover Clubs whose website https://www.alrc.co.uk helped to jog a lot of memories.

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ARC NATIONAL doncaster 2003 RETRO SNAPS Can you spot you or your motor in these photos from bygone mud adventures?

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ARC NATIONAL - Doncaster 2003

RETRO SNAPS

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Fancy an off-road challenge?

Want to get your 4x4 filthy?

Don’t ruin our ancient byways, try out your local P&P site, join a tour or brush up your skills on a driver training day instead.

Over the next few pages we have listed many of the business that you can play, train and holiday with.

If you fancy going along, always find out what you'll need to bring along or which vehicles are allowed: • Does your 4x4 need to be road legal?

• Do you need to show proof of age, vehicle MOT and insurance documents?

• Are your recovery points secure?

• Do you even have any recovery points?

Always check with the individual site before you set off.

Remember, as well as a good quality tow rope, it’s always useful to bring along some rags and a bottle of water to clean your lights and reg plates, so you can stay legal whilst driving home!

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Pay & Play Directory

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Hill ’n’ Ditch

Essex Rochford & District 4x4 Club

Activities: Pay & Play http://www.hillnditch4x4.com 07974 398201

Explore Off Road

Activities: Pay & Play, Off Road Driver Training, 4x4 Experiences http://www.exploreoffroad.co.uk 07970 286881

Kirton Off Road

Activities: Pay & Play, 4x4 Experiences https://www.korc.co.uk 01652 245022

Frickley 4x4 Off Road Centre Activities: Pay & Play https://www.frickley4x4.co.uk 07881 590593

Cowm Leisure

Activities: Pay & Play https://cowmleisure.com 07970 101 879

Activities: Pay & Play http://www.4x4er.co.uk

Devils Pit

Activities: Pay & Play http://www.devilspit.co.uk 07764 159478

Avalanche Adventures

Activities: Pay & Play, 4x4 Experiences https://avalancheadventure.co.uk 01858 880613

4x4 Without A Club

Activities: Pay & Play http://www.4x4-withoutaclub.co.uk 07887533168

John Morgan 4x4 Driving

Activities: Pay & Play, Off Road Driver Training http://www.4x4driving.co.uk 01903 812195

Piccadilly Wood

Activities: Pay & Play http://www.piccadillywood4x4.co.uk 07984 543886

Ultra Adventure Driving

Activities: Pay & Play, 4x4 driver training http://www.ultraadventuredriving.co.uk 01978 358 444

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4x4 TOURS DIRECTORY

Highland All Terrain Single & Multiple Day Tours with Wild Camping 100s of miles of Off-Road Tracks Access to Private Estates

4×4 TOURS & ADVENTURE HOLIDAYS

The Old Filling Station, Kinlochlaggan, Newtonmore, PH20 1BX

Manor House, Chapel Lane, South Duffield, Selby YO8 6SY

tel: 01528 544 358 mob: 07708 819 157 email: info@highlandallterrain.co.uk www.highlandscenicsafari.co.uk

mob: 07974 356 516 tel: 01757 638 479 email: customers@ardventures.co.uk https://ardventures.co.uk

D-Day Tours

4x4 Adventure Tours

Ardent Off Road

Trails and Tracks 4x4 Adventures

One Life Adventure

Cambrian Way

Activities: 4x4 Tours https://www.dday1944.tours 07773 110101

Activities: 4x4 Tours, 4x4 Experiences https://ardentoffroad.com 01405 947 001

Activities: 4x4 Tours & vehicle prep training https://www.onelifeadventure.co.uk 01347 830188

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Ardventures

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

Activities: 4x4 Tours https://www.4x4adventuretours.co.uk Tel: 07769 336 099

Activities: 4x4 Tours https://trailsandtracks.co.uk Tel: 07976 393 838

Activities: 4x4 Tours https://www.cambrianway.com 01550 750274

Off Road Driver Training & Experiences NORTH

SOUTH

North Yorkshire Off Road Centre

Wild Tracks

Explore Off Road

True Grip off Road

Activities: Off Road Driver Training

Tours http://www.nyoffroad.co.uk 07787 555060 Activities: Pay & Play

Off Road Driver Training

4x4 Experiences http://www.exploreoffroad.co.uk 07970 286881

WALES Bala 4x4

Activities: 4x4 Driver Training https://www.bala4x4.co.uk 01536 772238

Activities: Off Road Driver Training

4x4 Experiences https://www.wildtracksltd.co.uk 01638 751918 Activities: Off Road Driver Training

4x4 Experiences http://www.truegripoffroad.co.uk 01233 662251

Protrax

Activities: 4x4 Driver Training https://www.protrax.co.uk 01536 772238

Avalanche Adventures

SCOTLAND

Activities: Pay & Play

4x4 Experiences https://avalancheadventure.co.uk 01858 880613

Scottish Off Road

Ash 4x4

Activities: Off Road Driver Training http://www.scotoffroad.co.uk 07711 217759

Far X Four

Activities: Off Road Driver Training

4x4 Experiences http://www.farxfour.com 01450 860275

John Morgan 4x4 Driving

Activities: Pay & Play

Off Road Driver Training http://www.4x4driving.co.uk 01903 812195

Activities: Off Road Driver Training

4x4 Experiences http://www.ash4x4.com 07581 030331

UK WIDE All Terrain Services

Activities: 4x4 Driver Training

4x4 Experiences

Self Drive Tours https://www.allterrainservices.co.uk 01792 862669

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