Derbyshire Dales (September 2024): Summer Runs, Shows, and Celebrations

Sarah Southwell writes (abridged from TR Acton #353): Firstly, I extend a warm welcome to Dave Callear and his signal red ’73 TR6. On a sad note, I must report the sudden death of our friend and active group member, Alan Ford. Alan was the Group’s scribe and penned our activities with a flair and he will be missed by many. Our thoughts and best wishes go to Liz, their three daughters and their families.

In July, Chris T organised a Club run to Lincolnshire. A drive out through Clumber Park, an afternoon spent exploring Doddington Hall, a night stop in Lincoln, followed by a guided tour of Reactions on the Monday morning, before heading over to the RSPB Centre at Edwinstowe in the National Forest (where those of a more energetic persuasion could enjoy a walk to The Major Oak) before culminating at Quintessential Cars for a brew and a chance to get up close to some interesting supercars (thanks to Barry G for organising that). How many more reasons are there for not joining us?

It was 2 weeks before ‘grand depart’ that England looked like they might actually get to the knock out stage of the Euros and the question was asked; ‘what if England reach the final?’ (due to the lack of clarity around the overnight stay). Calls to the hotel were made and reassurances were received that screens would be available to watch the ‘footy’. Perfect. Mutiny avoided. 18 gathered for a pre‑run breakfast questioning our expected time of arrival at the hotel. Chris reassured everyone it was an evening kick off so not an issue. ‘Oh, it’s not the football’ came the replies, ‘it’s the Wimbledon Men’s singles final this afternoon.’… Flexibility in the plan meant all needs were accommodated and, aside from the final score for England, the run was a huge success.

It has been a busy summer in the Derbyshire Dales. Our TRs have been out and about at shows around the county, including Cromford Steam Show, Hope Country Show, Chatsworth Signature Classic & Performance Motor Show and Litton Show. We even won silverware: Phil & Jenny K won Best of Show at Woolley in their TR6 & Tony H won his class at Hope in his TR4A. In August, 15 TRs and 54 members and their partners turned out for our annual BBQ in dry, sunny and warm weather. Towards the end of the evening we sang Happy Birthday to Chris T and Dave W, who was celebrating his 80th birthday, presenting them with a brownie‑stack cake which was shared with everyone.

Jim T and Simon C organised a Sunday run at the beginning of September taking in the beautiful scenery around Dove Dale and Ashbourne. Another well attended event, with over 20 TRs taking part. The following weekend saw a ‘triumph of Triumphs’ at the Great British Car Journey and once again, a healthy show of Derbyshire Dales TRs.

Now we are heading into the autumn. Some in the Group are preparing to travel to Switzerland for the European meeting, and Ian W is preparing the route for the last (official) run of the year on 6th October.