A look back at events in 2014
A taste of the events we enjoyed during 2014 – look at pictures of the various events in the 'Gallery' section
Firstly a drive to the Fleece Inn at Bretforton.11 of us in 7 cars met at Ross, and drove through the Cotswolds to the beautiful Fleece Inn with a history stretching back 600 years.The last private owner was a direct descendant of the man who built it – she died in 1977, having bequeathed it to the National Trust. We had a good Sunday lunch seated on huge settles beside the fire – very convivial.
Next, up was a day at the Coleford Festival of Transport – the town becomes a display arena for all manner of modes of transport, and is truly a petrol head's dream! Of course, the line-up of TRs was very impressive.
We joined Glavon group for a drive and visit to the Bordesley Abbey and Forge Mill Needle Museum. Now I have to confess that I wasn't the only sceptic that had tongue in cheek at the prospect of visiting a needle museum! BUT…it was really fascinating – we'd no idea what went into making needles, nor how many different types of needles play very important parts in everyday life.The Forge Mill is a listed building, and the water powered scouring mill the only one in the world that still functions. After an enjoyable and informative guided tour, we spent time in the museum, and really could have spent far longer – masses to see, including some beautiful modern needle work. We rounded off the day with a meal at the Fleet at Twyning.
We had a fabulous day out in glorious weather in the Elan Valley on June 22nd, and were joined by our friends from Glavon group.We numbered 12 cars in all, ranging from TR 2 to 8, with only a 3 missing. Our route took us from Hereford to Kington via the A480/A44, then we continued to Rhayader and the Elan Valley visitor Centre (well worth a visit in itself, with an informative display telling the history of the building of the dams, and the wildlife present in the area).We stopped to enjoy a 'bring & share' picnic (we could have fed many more!) at the base of the Pen y Garreg dam. Then we drove a short distance and crossed the Craig Goch dam wall, and parked here to enjoy the fabulous views and take some photos.Our final stop before heading back towards Rhayader was at the point where the Elan river begins it's journey into the reservoirs. We headed south on the A470, via Builth Wells, and stopped for one last time at the Erwood Station Tea rooms for – you guessed it – a cup of tea! A really great day out.
The first Classic motor show organised by the Brecon & Radnor advertiser was held at the Brecon Beacons Mountain Centre on 3rd August. 4 of us decided to support this venture, and had a very pleasant day – cars and motor bikes from many different makers and eras were there on a sunny, if breezy day in a fabulous setting. There was lots of interest in the cars, and we enjoyed chatting to the owners of the other vehicles on display. The event raised funds for the Prince's Countryside trust.
Several cars made the journey to Harrogate for the IWE in August.The weather was kind on the Saturday, but had its revenge on the Sunday with tremendous downpours, complete with thunder & lightning.
On 24th August, Julian & Bev invited us to their home for a BBQ – 5 cars took a scenic route to get there, visiting the Kymin Roundhouse and Naval Temple, and driving in 3 counties, through forest, historic industrial areas and beautiful countryside. A line-up of 9 cars parked in the field beside the house, and approximately 23 of us enjoyed the BBQ, with a selection of salads, and finished off with a variety of scrumptious puddings, including Caroline's very clever TR cake.
We enjoyed another great day out in November – 10 cars (mostly TRs) and 19 enthusiasts met at Monmouth Leisure centre for a drive that took us first south to the outskirts of Chepstow via the B4293, then NW on the B4235 to Usk. From there we turned onto the B4598 – a beautiful drive that follows the river Usk for part of the way, and offers the surprise glimpse of a white windmill, and the Abergavenny 3 Peaks. At Abergavenny we turned North on the A465 to reach our destination – the Skirrid Inn at Llanfihangel Crucorney.The Inn is steeped in history, and is notorious for its use as a court – felons were hanged from the beams in the centre staircase! (A noose is in place as a reminder) No felons were present on this occasion, so we enjoyed a convivial meal, and took the opportunity to celebrate 30 years of Wye Dean group.
Our next get-together was at the 3 Horseshoes for the pre Christmas gathering. A good meal in good company – Jeff & Caroline put together a fiendish quiz that really tested members' knowledge of Triumph/TRs.