VETERAN REPORT Lots of veteran activity this last month, having attended the National Veteran Rally in Cromwell and then the Pioneer Motoring Group run in Clyde two weeks later. Jenny and I trailered our 1909 Wolseley Siddeley to Cromwell, and left it locked up in the VCC compound for the two weeks so we didn’t have to take it back home again between times. Both events were extremely enjoyable, and we were glad we went. The National Veteran Rally attracted 46 entrants, including 5 motorcycles. Our Saturday run involved a long run north of Cromwell on SH8 towards Tarras, where we finished at a farm belonging to a VCC member with a shed full of MGs and other interesting buildings on the property. Running into a strong north-west wind all the way up there was a challenge for some of the lower-powered cars and bikes, but we were rewarded with a very easy run home in the afternoon which saw most of us literally blown back to Cromwell, even on the slightly uphill sections. A sunny and warm day with lake views most of the way certainly added to the enjoyment, enhanced even more by a great lunch and a hugely friendly bunch of veteran enthusiasts to enjoy the day with. That afternoon we were free to visit a few places of interest – we went to see the workshop belonging to John Martin (the rally chairman) who has a business building wooden body frames and steering wheels, to check out his projects. A social gathering that evening was held in Cromwell, with plenty of time to socialise and chat about family, and of course veteran cars, parts and projects! On Sunday morning we gathered again at the clubrooms, and then departed to the Highlands Motorsport Park where all of the cars and bikes were parked in the visitor’s park after some brief field tests. Although we were not able to do a lap or two of the circuit (not much point in a veteran car, I guess), the museum and café were open, and other attractions were all operating as well. If you’re a
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