Social Scene 308
Thames Valley Group – Social Scene Traction 308
Neil Pinto writes:In June three 6's and a 4A embarked on a ferry from Poole for the start of a twelve-day trip to Jersey and Brittany.The team stayed in St Helier for four nights, giving a chance to see some of the island's sights.Jersey is not very big (about nine miles by five) but the roads are narrow, so it takes time to travel just a few miles, not often getting beyond 3rd gear - a bit like the Surrey lanes which are our normal habitat, but without the traffic.The tour included some lovely beaches, a pub or four, World War Two German tunnels and the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust - aka Jersey Zoo.
The group then moved onto Brittany via the ferry to St Malo staying at a Chateau near Josselin which, from the photographs on display, is a regular venue for classic cars.In fact, the new owner has four classic cars of his own though none at the Chateau yet - understandable as the day of arrival was only his second day in ownership of the chateau.After two nights there, on for four nights in Huelgoat - managing a 5-course lunch with wine on the way for just €12.90!! –another TVG 4A joined up.After a day wandering round Huelgoat - it has a very pleasant lake and unusual standing rocks in a nearby wood – a meeting was held with three members of the Triumph Club de France - all in 4As.They led a run via the picturesque small town of Locronan to Point du Raz on the extreme west coast of Brittany (picking up a Spitfire on the way), where a few breaks in the sea mist allowed a view of the headland!!The next day involved a run to Roscoff, a lovely old port on the north coast of Brittany.The route chosen was based on classic TR driving roads with sweeping bends and very little traffic (I hope that you all stuck to the strict French speed limits, guys!).On the penultimate day the team drove to St Malo, meeting some members of the South Downs Group for lunch in Dinan.In St Malo a hotel close to the ferry had been booked within walking distance of the Old Town, and an excellent last night dinner.The last day involved a ferry crossing to Portsmouth, arriving in the UK in early evening for an easy run home.An excellent trip with everyone involved in the organising and arrangements. The traffic -free and pot hole-free roads of Brittany seem a long way from home.
Finally, I'd like to wish David Goswell, our new GL, a speedy recovery from his recent stent operation.I'm sure that a few runs in his 6 help to put a big smile back on his face!
Our regular meetings are: The Abinger Hatch on the second Wednesday of each month from 20:00, with the main meeting from 12:00 at The Surrey Oaks on the last Sunday.We're a friendly bunch and new members are always welcome.Please see TR Register website for more information www.tr-register.co.uk/thamesvalley.