Bruges Weekend Summer Party Lille Twinning Poole Dream

Bruges Weekend Summer Party
Lille Twinning
Poole Dream Machines
Prom Ride
Hot Rod
Diner
Chiddingstone Castle
Fairford Airshow
The Not-so-Silent Grey Fellow Returns...
A Few Words From The Editor
Well, here we are in the middle of silly
season and boy, have we been busy! There
really is no excuse to not be able to find a rideout to suit your needs, so I sincerely hope you?re
having a great time out there, whatever you?re up
to!
It being the height of riding season, I?ve
noticed the members of 1066 Chapter are well
and truly spread widely across the globe,
enjoying your passion for the marque. Some
have been to the Benelux H.O.G. Rally, others to
the 23rd European H.O.G. Rally in Croatia. Many
have simply joined forces with Chapter friends to
travel and widen their horizons, whilst enjoying
the comfort that only a Harley can bring.
However, let?s not forget those who?ve been dipping (or diving in some cases!) into our great 2014 ride
-out
calendar, enjoying our beautiful countryside, whether within our beloved ?Sussex by the Sea? or further afield.
Whatever it is you?ve experienced on the bike this year, I can guarantee you?ve had a great deal of fun and
made some lasting memories, and friends, along the way. And that?s why I want you to write to me and inspire us all
to take that next trip!
The observant amongst you will notice that this particular edition is slightly larger than normal. This is because I
wanted to include as many of your articles as possible whilst maintaining (hopefully!) the look of a professional
magazine - something you would actually want to pick up and read. For this, I would like to thank Steve Willis, Dealer
Principal at Shaw Harley-Davidson for allowing me the opportunity to do so, and for his continued support. We?ve had
some major events in the last couple of months and I hope you?ll enjoy reflecting upon them here, whilst allowing your
eyes to rest upon some occasionally very silly photographs!
So, enjoy a rather embarrassing photo of me (thank you Scottish Bob, I love you too) and hopefully this, your
magazine.
Morrelli
Lil? Sew ?n Sew
Patch sewing service!
£3 for patches and £5 for top rockers.
For arrangements contact
1066 Chapter member
Amanda Andersson 07974 046126
H.O.G., Harley-Davidson, H-D, Harley, Buell and all individual model names of motorcycles made by HarleyDavidson used in this publication Are registered names or trademarks of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company.
1066 H.O.G. Chapter No: 6746
2
Director?s Musings
The longest day has gone already and the nights are drawing in. But what a
fabulous riding season to date we have been able to enjoy! I hope you have managed to
take part in some of the many and varied rides Andy and his team have put together, not
forgetting, of course, the away trips.
This leads on nicely to Richard Kent?s successful trip to Lille, enjoyed by a good
number of you. Unfortunately I was unable to go on this occasion, but the feedback I
have received has all been positive. The work involved between Manu and Richard is
immense. Having arranged back-to-back exchange trips over the last three years with
the Lille Europe Chapter, Richard and I have taken stock of the position. To keep things
fresh and exciting for all concerned and to manage the workload, we have decided that
we will plan to meet up with Lille Europe on alternate years. This means Lille will come to us in 2016.
But do not fret! We have plans to link with others among our European cousins. While we are not able to give
any details yet, as things are in the very early stages of planning, we believe you will be pleased with the results.
Suffice to say, if it?s a H.O.G. Chapter, they will know how to party and we will have a fabulous ride to the location.
Watch this space...
Another space I know you have been watching is SofER. Plans are well-developed now, and hopefully by the
next edition, we will have a full announcement. If you have seen the SofER Facebook page you will have read Barry?s
update. It really is going to be a very professional event with a great new site, working with a company who are as
excited about our event as we are.
Of course, the summer would not be complete without our Summer Party held this year in honour of Skelly and
the Colonel. Around 130 people enjoyed a fabulous warm evening under the stars with Legacy providing the music
and Kev organising the entertainment masquerading as Karaoke. The hog roast was finished in style (is that the
correct description?) by Dennis. Can we ever erase the vision of Dennis walking around with a full rack of ribs in his
mouth?
As is customary on the occasion of the summer event, we present a number of awards. This year I was
pleased that Steve George was able to collect, for the 4th year running, the Chapter Mileage Challenge trophy from
Marjory Rae (UK H.O.G.) for the highest total mileage and the most participants. This is no mean feat, and we would
not get anywhere near this result without Steve?s dedication and enthusiasm.
The HOG awards this year were presented to:Skelly ? 4 ½ years as Chapter Director. We have come a long way in those years, a testament to the hours spent.
Now of course, he is Rally Manager, coordinating the efforts to put on a brand new rally for 2015.
Colonel ? Skelly?s assistant working behind the scenes, doing the work that makes things run smoothly but that one
doesn?t see. Our website is just one of the Colonel?s achievements. Again the Colonel is heavily involved in SofER.
Clive ?Medic? Butler? our very own resident paramedic. Clive has put in many hours training your road crew so you
can be confident that if ever needed, any one of them would be able to provide first response support in the event of
an incident, not only on a ride, but anytime that help is needed.
Des ? otherwise known as Tracey?s chauffeur. Des takes his role as photographer?s rider very seriously. He has to be
able to move within the ride safely and be aware of us and the traffic around him to allow Tracey to take her shots. To
that end, he attends road crew meetings and often completes the recce rides so he knows what will be happening on
the day.
All of the recipients gave of their time and energy willingly and I was very proud to be able to present these
H.O.G. awards in recognition.
Kev decided to step down after the Retirement Party, and our new Events Officer, Richard Taylor, will be at the
helm for the End of Season Bash. We have a lot of miles to ride before then so let?s make the most of the warm
weather.
See you on the road sometime soon!
Bealy - Director 1066
3
Dealer Update
Sun, sun and more sun! And who says we don?t have summers
anymore?
2014 seems to be flying past with no sign of slowing down. It feels like
just yesterday that we were looking at the 2014 model range of HarleyDavidson and now we will soon be looking at the 2015 bikes! The Dealer show
is fast approaching, where we get the opportunity of checking out all the new bikes and products available to us
throughout the rest of this year and into next. Karolina will be getting the Motorclothes book and will be able to let you
guys take a sneaky peek at what is on offer.
As usual, we have no idea of what changes Harley-Davidson will make this coming year, but I?m sure there will
be no electric bike!
We had a great party here for Skelly and the Colonel, which we all enjoyed as much as you did. Fantastic band,
great food and bar, courtesy of The Foresters in East Hoathly. Many thanks to all the events team and helpers over
the weekend, and also to those who came back on the Sunday morning with their hangovers to help clean up!
Usually at this time of year, I?m getting excited about the SofER Rally as I?m sure everyone else normally is. It is
a very sad thing that we will not be able to hold our annual H.O.G. Rally, but rest assured I know the SofER
Committee is very close to announcing a super new venue for next year!
As you can imagine, we are still extremely busy here at the Dealership. Bike sales are doing great, as well as
parts and service. Workshop times are still about 2 weeks, and for full custom SS&C bikes, we are well into next year!
With all the new bikes leaving the Dealership, it means we have many new Chapter Members. Please make
these guys feel welcome at our pub evenings and ride-outs, and be sure you make them part of the 1066 family.
Hope to see you down at the shop for some cookies and coffee real soon.
Gary T
4
Head Road Captain?s Report
We are now about two thirds of the way through the riding season. To date, as I write
this, we have had thirty two rides take place this year. That's not including any of the prom or
wedding escorts we have done, for which we have raised an impressive £325 so far. And hopefully
by the time you read this, Steve George?s dealer ride went ahead, as it's had to be cancelled twice
due to bad weather. I think he may need to start talking nicely to the man upstairs.
Wolfie had a successful trip to the Royal International Air Tattoo at Fairford, and we also had
around 40 bikes make the trip over to France to visit the Lille Chapter and party the night away. I
would just like to thank Richard Kent for all the hard work and time that goes into organizing such a
trip.
As always, there?s much more to look forward to, including a Magical Mystery ride, Ace Caf?
reunion and Hellfire Caves, to name but a few.
Back in July, Wolfie organized the wedding escort for Jon Talbot-Jones and Jackie. I have
known Jon for many years and it was a privilege to be able to help Wolfie out on the day. It turned
out to be a great event. The day started with a gathering of the troops at Polegate services where
there was about a dozen of us. We then headed on down to the Frankland Arms for the second
pick up, where we amassed around twenty two bikes and also a 1958 Chevy Belair, courtesy of
Sue Knight and John.
We then made our way to pick up the bride. Wolfie led the car and I led the bikes. Wolfie said, "We'll only be
ten minutes getting the bride". Half an hour later, after lining all the bikes up with a space in the middle for the Chevy,
and all of us by this time very warm, the car appeared. We arrived at the Registry Office about half an hour late, and
as we entered Arundel, we literally had the town centre at a standstill. While the wedding formalities were being
undertaken, we all headed off to the Bury Hill Café for some lunch, and await our summons to return to Arundel to
pick up the happy couple. After a few photos of the newly-weds, we then escorted Mr. & Mrs. Talbot-Jones to their
wedding reception in Steyning, where we were greeted by the guests and a nice cold drink.
A great day was had by all, and it will, I?m sure, be a day they will remember for a long, long time.
I look forward to seeing you all out on the road at some point. Ride safe.
Andy
5
Events Officer
Well this is a surprise...!
When I read the last magazine, I had no idea that I would be
writing an article in the next one as the Events Officer!
Following a successful Summer Party, thanks to Kev Ridout, I'm
pleased to say that the End of Season Lunch and the Christmas Party
planning are coming on well. Prices are currently being finalised and
tickets for both events will be going on sale at the Main Chapter
meeting at the Six Bells in August
The End of Season Lunch will be at the Wok Inn
(www.wokinn.org), Laughton on Sunday 26th October 2014 from
midday to 4:00pm for an 'eat as much as you can' buffet followed by a few speeches including the ?Ride Of The Season? award... Probably followed by more buffet?
The 1066 DJ will be in attendance providing video/music and there will be a picture show from the 2014
season.
This event is by ticket only as the Wok Inn need to know how many to cater for.
The Christmas Party will be at the East Sussex National on Saturday 13th December 2014. The theme this year is
'Gatsby and the 1920's?.
?It?s the time of the prohibition and the roaring 1920?s - the time of illicit gambling, drinking, gangsters
and molls, feather boas and cigarette holders, and of course... the Charleston!
Get ready for a 2014 Christmas party night of fun and frolics, kicking off with a delicious three course
meal, swiftly followed by casino tables to get you on your toes, before dancing the night away.?
Fancy dress is optional, but preferred, so why not put the old Tommy gun in the violin case and come along
with your Moll?
Again, this event is by ticket only.
Overnight B&B at the hotel is £85 for a double or twin room. Contact the hotel direct with your credit card
details to book a room quoting ?1066 131214? to get the preferential rate.
There is, of course a lot more summer riding before then?
Richard
East Sussex National,
Little Horsted,
East Sussex.
TN22 5ES.
Tel. 01825 880088
6
Membership Officer
Many of you will be shocked at the number of members we lose at
each renewal. Consistently, the number is between 70 and 80.
There are many reasons as you would imagine, but by far the most
likely not to renew are new members, specifically those that joined during the
previous year.
So, this message is for all you new members out there. If you bought a
new bike, got your free H.O.G. membership, and joined 1066, you must
engage with us.
As a Chapter, we make a great effort to make everyone welcome. We
do everything we can to involve you in what?s going on. The New Members?
Pack is designed to make you want to find out more about the Chapter and all
the intricacies of the world of Harley-Davidson and H.O.G. As well as our huge
ride program (we are a bike club first and foremost) we have a great social life,
which is open to everyone including their spouses.
There has just been another Newcomers? Ride too, which was a great
opportunity to get to know those who make things happen in the Chapter. But
if you don?t get involved, don?t get to start to know everyone, and don?t do
many ride-outs, you won?t get it! When your H.O.G. renewal is due the next year,you might not renew, because you
got nothing out of it. That means we have both failed - 1066 and you, and that is a great shame.
It is now August. There is still loads of time to get to know everyone, and be known. On a personal note, I have been
a Chapter member for 10 years, and it has been one of the best things I have ever done.
Welcome to the new members that have joined since the last magazine issue: Peter Johnston, Nigel Bowley,
Ryan West, Ian Denyer, Michael Shelley, Robin Vincent, Steve Prescott, Stuart King, Alex French and Affiliates Carol
Heasman, Sandra Shelley, Christine Brown and Jackie Denyer. We hope to see a lot of you over the coming months
and years. Perhaps there?s afuture Committee member or Road Captain amongst you. As always, if any of you have
any membership issues, please let me know.
Dougie
The Lord and the Biker
A biker was riding along a California beach when suddenly the sky clouded
above his head and, in a booming voice, the Lord said, "Because you have tried to
be faithful to me in all ways, I will grant you one wish."
The biker pulled over and said, "Build a bridge to Hawaii so I can ride over
anytime I want."
The Lord said, "Your request is materialistic, think of the enormous challenges
for that kind of undertaking. The supports required to reach the bottom of the
Pacific! The concrete and steel it would take! It will nearly exhaust several natural
resources. I can do it, but it is hard for me to justify your desire for worldly things.
Take a little more time and think of something that would honor and glorify
me."
The biker thought about it for a long time. Finally he said, "Lord, I wish that I
could understand my wife. I want to know how she feels inside, what she's
thinking when she gives me the silent treatment, why she cries, what she means
when she says nothing's wrong, and how I can make a woman truly happy."
The Lord replied, "Do you want two lanes or four on that bridge?"
7
8
Summer Party by Paula Flint
Please would I do a write-up on the ride-out and party? Oh dear. ?From a trike?s perspective and because I attended
both events?. Oh dearie me. Karma springs to mind. I tell my daughter there?s always a positive in every challenge, no matterhow
hard you have to dig. Digging very deep, the only positive I can find is the blessing that I probably won?t be asked again! You see,
although I was there in body, some of it is, shall we say, a little sketchy. Of ?sound mind? I?m not so sure about, but therewas
definitely a lot of spirit. Methinks a bit of poetic licence may be called for.
Feeling a little like the poor relation, I find myself sitting at the VERY back of what I?m guessing was a good 30+ bikes and
three back markers on the way to The Fountain pub in Ashurst (was it?). My sense of direction is fairly dismal at the best of times
(I?ve yet to live down navigating as pillion with a map the wrong way up) so am fervently hoping the road marshals won?t loseme.
It wasn?t long before the convoy had disappeared into the ether, leaving the markers and Yours Truly occasionally catching
up with the tail-end at a drop-off. For the most part, it felt as if I had a personal escort on my own little ride-out, doing my level best
to keep up. I distinctly remember a lot of bends and a fair smattering of potholes. On a bike the bends are magic. However it?sa
whole new ball game on a trike - more work and definitely not so much fun having to steer instead of lean. I also tend to attract
every single pothole going, partly because it?s me and partly due to having that extra wheel; one of them is bound to hit!
That said, the route was extremely pretty, going through quaint villages I didn?t know existed (nor am ever likely to find
again for that matter). By ?quaint?, also read ?narrow?, and passing oncoming vehicles sometimes took a bit of negotiating
- to my
consternation in case I got left behind. Trikers also get to see all the sights and, after pulling into a lay-by so one of the road crew
could return to Shaw?s with an engine fault, a second decided to take advantage of the bushes in front of me. Umm? most cruel
and necessitating a pit-stop after refuelling at The Kings Head!
I can recall going through Hurstpierpoint with great clarity. Yeesss? busy Saturday with a wedding - my first hot weather
experience sitting stationary on a Harley for any length of time. Oh boy! Could I find neutral? Could I heck! Roasted chestnuts
sprang to mind and I felt a twinge of compassion for members of the male persuasion (so to speak).
Lunch was a pleasant, laid-back affair, and the pub in an idyllic location, visited as we left, by some large steam engines.
We were almost immediately taken along an extremely narrow dirt track, strewn with potholes. ?Holy crap!? I thought (rough
translation)? ?breathe in Paula!? I have a guardian ?pot hole? bell kindly given to me by Tex and had to wonder why the guysfell
about when I told them my bell had jangled nearly all day!?! The track however, was the precursor to a wonderful scenic route over
the Downs to the A27, and I totally loved the blast back in the sunshine with nearly all the convoy in sight. Part of the gang again,
yaayy!
A brief stop at Shaw?s and then check-in at the Boship for a pre-hog roast drink. Or five. Hmm. According to Facebook (!),
the speeches were good and the karaoke videos hilarious. The hog roast must have been pretty good too as, by the time we finally
rolled up, all that was left was the bone which Dennis proceeded to romp about with between his teeth. I think that was before the
drunken male bonding started at which point the bar nearly toppled?twice. A big thanks needs to be said to the shuttle -bus star,
Craig, who did a sterling job and to everyone who contributed to a most memorable day. Or at least as much as some of us can
remember!!
9
LILLE 2014 by Richard Kent
Well, nearly a year in the organising, and the day had arrived. 8am the troops assembled at
the Eurotunnel complex to meet Lille Europe Chapter in Calais. What could go wrong? 40 bikes booked
on the trip, and I was busy marking everyone off, when Grinny says, ?Oh I passed a bike on the
M20; I think they ran out of petrol.? So I won?t mention you, Colin Moore.
Anyway, as we were called for loading, another tells me, ?Oh, just to let you know my passport is
3 months out of date!? So I won?t mention you, Dennis Pearson either. It was then that the Deserter
turned up fully fuelled, so off we went to board the 09:20 shuttle - or so we thought!
After getting lined up, I am told that due to an overbooking, my group will be on the 09:36! Not
very happy, I made my thoughts clear to the guy controlling the boarding gate who, true to his word,
loaded us first on the 09:36.
Yes, we arrived in France and after the shortest ride with back markers, we arrived at the
arranged meeting place just outside the complex. After a quick welcome, the Lille Europe Chapter led us
to the hotel, and marshalled it in true French fashion. All went to plan. The newer members and those on
their first visit riding with Lille were very impressed. I was impressed that it wasn't raining and that Mr.
Pearson had crept under the passport radar.
After checking in, we were led to the Dealership for lunch and the afternoon ride. Lunch looked
great. 1066 were called up to be served, when I was beckoned over to Manu. Apparently, one of our
members had got lost on the way back, so three of Lille's Road Crew were dispatched to locate the lost
soul whilst I and one other walked around trying to find the lone biker. After around 10 minutes, the lone
biker was found and escorted back to the dealership. So what was lunch like? Someone please tell me,
as I shared Anne Hutchinson?s cheese which was especially sent out for as she?s a fussy eater (David?s
words, not mine. I mean, I wouldn't lie would I?) Note from Anne: I?m not fussy! I have a severe gluten
intolerance.
It was then a lot of activity started to happen. Oh yes! In true Lille tradition, it started to rain. Well,
it had to, didn't it? So after discussions, we decided to cancel the afternoon ride, as it passed through a
forest and the road had been washed away. Back to the hotel bar then, sounded like a good plan, until
the party started at 8pm. Oh what a night! as Frankie Valli would say. Everything was perfect: tables and
room decorated to perfection, great food and company. The speeches started the night. Enough of that
laughing everyone! I tried, with the help of Anne giving me a crash course in French just a few hours
before, but it had disaster written all over it (especially when Anne informed me it was a really hard
speech). Even the policeman from ?Allo ?Allo sounded better than me! But, as I said, I tried. I asked Manu
if it was OK. His reply? ?Non. Catastrophique!! Stick to anglais.? The presentation of the plaques was
made, and then the crazy night of fun started. Frank decided to have a fight with Dom from Lille Chapter,
which I think we won. The group Route 59 took to the stage and the evening just got better and better.
Grinny was seen dancing. Yes he was! With the Union Flag and not a tricolour in sight. So the evening
finished England 2 France 0.
Err, Sunday! I had explained to members that the Sunday ride to Arras was early. ?How early??
they asked. ?Oh, not too bad. Breakfast at 6:30am.? The replies I received are unprintable! Everyone but
one couple made it. So at 7:30am after four members of our Chapter were taken to fuel up (as they forgot
to do it on Saturday, didn?t they, Morrelli!), we were off for the 33 miles to Arras. The reason for the early
start was that the police in Arras wanted us all there before it got busy, and having 8 sets of traffic lights
to contend with, was a good point. We were met on the outskirts of Arras by the local police who led us
safely through Arras to the Wellington Quarry, a WW1 set of tunnels built by the New Zealanders.
10
Being the anniversary of WW1, Manu and I thought it only fitting that we went there and paid
our respects to all those young men who lost their lives in the name of peace. Everyone will have a
memory of some sort to take with them as it was very moving. It really hit home at the end of the tour,
when you looked up the staircase which led to the front line, you could imagine the fear that must have
been going through their minds. I think most groups stayed for at least 10 minutes at this spot, something that will stay in my mind for a long time. I think you will all agree it was well worth the early start!
After photos, Manu phoned the police to escort us into the Grande Place. As we were riding
over the cobbles I thought, ?So glad it?s not raining!? What a stupid thought- we?re riding with Lille
Chapter! So after negotiating slippery cobbles, we were ushered into the Grande Place where we all
parked up thinking, ?That?s it; we are now here.? But alas, no! It was just for that Kodak moment in front
of the Town Hall, and 1066 did us proud with a great rendition of our National Anthem. After more Kodak
moments, we were on the move again to a secure parking place, so back to the cobbles we went. After
only 5 minutes we were all safely up on the pavements with the help of specially-made asphalt ramps.
The bikes were safe as Marco and Manu had laid on security guards with dogs to protect them all. We
had around 2 hours in Arras to do our own thing. Most of us hit the bars and cafés for lunch and explored
Arras. The group I was in went to a pizzeria where the lady owner couldn't do enough for us. Now our
Assistant Head Road Captain, Mitch, had taken plenty of stick from the Friday night. I don?t think he will
ever sleep with Frank Aldridge again (sorry, share the same room), but Mitch has a great sense of
humour and took it all in the manner it was meant. So when he went off to visit 'la loo', he came back to
find he had a table for one all set up on the opposite side of the road (Scottish Bob?s idea). Even the
proprietor was in on the act! We even presented him with the bill, all good fun. Manu and Dom couldn?t
understand; they asked me, ?Is this English humour ??
What I didn?t tell you is that Marco is Chief of Police for Lille, and he had arranged for the police
escort and secure parking in Arras with his counterpart, the Chief of Police for Arras, whom many of us
had seen when they had their photo taken. Thanks go out to both of them.
Anyway, time had come for the ride back home, so after saying goodbye to some of 1066 heading off to Paris, and the Lille members not escorting us back, we had a great dry ride back to the shuttle.
Arriving at the entrance, we parked up and said our goodbyes to the remaining Lille Chapter members.
It was just after Manu said to me that it was great, no rain (yeah right), that the French rain god
decided we were going to get soaked! Just as we get back on the bikes, another member who will remain nameless (Alan
Burgess) tells me he?s lost his number for the shuttle as it was on his phone,
which had run out of battery power. So I give him the first 4 digits and my French comes back to me:
au revoir Alan. It was the normal farce getting through customs, but everyone including Alan and Dennis
Pearson arrived back in Blighty safe and sound.
So let?s recap. Things to remember: Check you have enough fuel to get you to the destination! Make
sure your passport is in date! Don?t ride off trying to find petrol on your own! Don?t share a room with
Frank Aldridge! And remember your shuttle number or take a phone charger!
I would like to finish by saying I think we all had a great time. It was great to see many new faces
as well as old ones on the trip, and I believe we all have some great memories of the weekend. Hope you
will join me in the future. Thanks to my French teacher, our photographers Janette, Lin and Frank, and
my two back-markers for the shortest ride ever, Dougie and Lin, Steve and Agata.
Once again, thank you all for supporting the Lille Twinning 2014.
Ed? No, thank you Richard, on behalf of everyone, for organising it. We all had a wonderful time.
11
by Garry Mason
We set off on a beautiful sunny afternoon to meet up with the guys in a lay-by near The Frankland Arms,
Washington. When we arrived Tony, Ron and Bob were already waiting, so we knew we?d found the right spot. Not long after,
new member, Nick arrived and we soon heard the roar of the others coming down the road. So it was time to join the ride with a
rolling pick-up!
About seventeen bikes set off to Loomies, the famous
biker café on the A272. No matter how many times I ride this
road, I never tire of it. Cruising through Storrington, Pulborough
and out towards Petworth and Midhurst, as you look to the left,
you can see the most beautiful backdrop of the South Downs
and Cowdry Park.
On through Petersfield and one of my favourite parts of
the ride, the long sweeping bends leading to Loomies, remind
me of what motorcycling is all about. Pulling in to the café, we
were all soon parked up and ready for bacon butties or
anything else you fancied! We spent about 45 minutes there
and then The Vicar ran through a quick briefing explaining
that we would be going on to Winchester and taking the M3
leading to the M27 and going on the A35 ? and turning off of
that and heading towards Wareham. After a further stop for fuel and refreshments, we headed towards Corfe Castle. As we rode by, we caught a brief
glimpse of the castle which really is an impressive sight.
The road leading from Corfe Castle to the chain ferry across Poole
Harbour was stunning, with gorgeous views of the harbour. We parked up
briefly in the queue to wait for the ferry and met two fellow H.O.G. members
from the North who were on tour. Once on the other side, we passed
through Sandbanks (which everyone will remember is the most expensive
real estate in the whole wide world!). We skirted around the magnificent
Poole Harbour and arrived at Poole Quay at about 6pm. The weather was
still glorious and even at that time there were hundreds of bikes already
there. I have to say the marshals were very professional and soon had us
all parked up. It really is a very impressive showing of bikes, and what is
really nice is that it brings together so many like-minded people with just
about every single bike represented. Dave told us all to meet back at
8.30pm for the ride home. We all went our separate ways to find food and
drink and things to look at! Chris and I were staying in Poole overnight so
didn?t ride back with the others. I would like to thank Dave and all the other
Road Crew for a great ride and a wonderful afternoon and evening.
12
Chiddingstone Castle by Michael Hogtog
Well, who knew Chiddingstone had a castle, let alone a castle which hosted such a magnificent day dedicated to
all things Japanese? There were ?still? exhibitions such as Samurai Warrior armoury and swords, lacquered items of distinction
and bonsai trees, but to mention a few. I believe that ?Scottish Bob? bore an uncanny resemblance to one of these displays
(Ed- see back page).
The ?live? exhibits included a very talented man (if lacking in charisma) who demonstrated the art of chopping thing
s with his
mighty chopper ? or a samurai sword, as it is better known. Being a multi-disciplined individual, he then went on to lead the trio of
drummers in a Japanese drum recital. And then, there was the Japanese calligraphy. This really was a sight to behold and your
1066 Chapter representatives did remarkably well in maintaining a distinguished demeanour at this farcical display. It really was
quite astonishing. If Gus, the ride leader, decides to repeat this ride next season, it is worth a visit just to witness the calligraphers.
In case you were wondering, the ride to the castle involved a great number of twists and bends with lots of stopping. And
then setting off, mainly at junctions, but there was the odd traffic light and roundabout for our amusement. Twenty-three bikes and
one trike attended the ride which had been planned meticulously by Gus. The stalwarts at the back were Clare (providing the
glamour), Micko (providing the intimidation) and Morrelli (aka the Enforcer, providing the authority).
13
Fairford Airshow by Bryan Croft
... or as Bryan tells me, ?Amber, Amber, Who the hell is Amber??
Four of us left Caterham as the ride left Black Down Services. We had a few wet spots but only dampness was in the
air as we arrived at Bucks Barn, the second pick-up point. Ten bikes departed on damp roads, and as we headed west, following
the A272 and stopping at Loomies for a great breakfast, the roads dried out. We had a good ride until we reached the Stonehenge
area where there was a diabolical traffic queue, which must have been 2 miles in both lanes, so we had to concentrate as there
were dirty great lorries as well as everything else. It was good to see that most drivers were very considerate and pulled over to
give us more room as we passed down the centre, but you always get the odd one that has to try and shut the door (we had two),
but we all got through OK and were on our way again to Devizes where we were staying for the two nights.
Having arrived at the digs with some time to relax before going for dinner, a cuppa and getting things sorted was in order.
We all wandered up to The Crown where we had one of two long tables. With 14 of us to serve, the waitress was kept busy, but
service and food was first class. While waiting for pudding, it was debating time about the other long table full of ladies and two
men. Were these noisy ladies perhaps a ladies choir or Morris dancers? Wolfie was duly nominated go over and ask them, to the
great amusement of the rest of us. And guess what? They were all school teachers, and one named (you guessed it) Amber.
Having all had a great evening, it was time to walk back to the digs, only to go outside and find it was spitting with rain. With a very
early start the next morning, leaving at 6am for Fairford, it was time for bed.
With the nearest garage only 200 yards away, we filled up and set off to with a view to arrive about 7am. A busy ride, but all
went well till we arrived at a traffic light that wouldn?t let us go. After waiting for ages, all the other lanes were stopping to let us out,
but ours stayed red, and it was obvious that we had to just go (don?t tell anybody). We arrived at a field that had been usedthe
previous day so the ground was hard and very dry, and parking was good and firm. Even at this time, it was obvious that it was
going to be a very hot day. Needless to say it was now like fashion week - off with all the leathers and wet gear, and out came
shorts, sandals and straw hats.
It seems that every body had a great day, with the climax being the Red Arrows Display Team. Tip of the day: sit close to
the Press scissor lift, get the wife to flutter her eyelashes at the Press man, and get the offer of going up in the lift with the Press to
see the show from 20 feet up. Ask Steve George.
After a very hot and tiring day, it was back to the bikes and get ready to leave for Devizes. That evening was spent with
some going to The Bell which was in walking distance, and some riding to The Crown again, only to find more noisy ladies having
a night out. It turned out that it was a birthday party, and needless to say, Tone ended up having photos taken with the birthday
girl.
Then it was time to get to bed ready for our ride home the next day, stopping in Marlborough at Polly?s Caf? for a great
English breakfast, before continuing the ride back home.
Wolfie had done a great job in recceing, organising and working out the ride that made this a great weekend for all of us
who went. So a big thanks to Wolfie and the Road Crew for their special efforts in making this a great ride.
14
Bruges by Bev Beechey
On the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings,
19 of us on 14 bikes crossed the English Channel.
Or rather, we went underneath it on Le Shuttle. The
weather was perfect for a meander through northern
French farmland led by JP and with our rearguard made up
of Dougie, Hutch and Barnie. We parked up in Cassel, a
lovely village on top of the only hill for miles around. After
walking up through the park to see the panoramic views
and a statue of General Foch, we made our way to lunch
sitting outside in the sunshine, which became rather too
hot for some of us after a while.
On the way to Bruges, we stopped to pay our
respects to the fallen of WW1 at the cemetery at Fleurbaix.
All continued to go smoothly until we tried to enter
the underground car park in Bruges where, for reasons still unknown, the ticket barrier allowed JP through and then stopped
working, leaving a queue of overheating Harleys and riders causing an obstruction in the narrow one-way street outside. A rather
unhelpful official turned up announcing that motorcycles were not allowed in! Something was probably lost in translation (maybe
he meant there was no special parking area and we had to pay the full car rate), but eventually we all got in, after the attendant
had departed.
After meeting up in the hotel bar that evening most of us had dinner in a nearby restaurant, sitting outside in the warm
evening. Thanks to Sophia, John and I gained a fascinating insight into life in Lithuania.
Saturday was a free day for exploring. John and I began with a very enjoyable boat ride along the canals with Paul and
Jane. We walked a long way during the day with various stops for refreshments. We had thought we would walk to the top of the
Bellfort (360 steps) but when we saw the length of the queue, decided against it (nice excuse!). Everywhere we went the buildings
were lovely and picturesque.
Assembling in the hotel bar on Saturday evening, we were about to go out for dinner with Bob, Doug, Anne and Dave, when
it began to rain. A short delay while we all went to fetch waterproofs, by which time the heavens had opened, so we wimped out
and ate in the hotel restaurant instead.
Sunday morning, we assembled in the underground car park and heard about Wilky and co?s interesting trip to Brussels
(separate report). After a briefing, we again sweet-talked the temperamental ticket barriers to exit the car park, before heading off
to Ypres, passing several war cemeteries along the way. Parking in the very lovely town centre, we had time to visit the amazing
and moving Menin Gate, engraved with the names of many thousands of WW1 fallen whose bodies were never identified. All this,
plus having seen the D-Day commemorations on the TV news, brought home
to us the tragedy and waste of war and how very lucky our generation is
compared to previous generations.
After lunch at the Ypres restaurant used by the Flanders Fields
Chapter, we said our farewells before the ride back to Calais, where as
predicted by JP, the group got separated at customs/immigration. We had a
lovely ride back from Folkestone to Caterham, leaving the M20 at Ashford. As
the weather was still so warm and sunny we just wanted to keep enjoying the
ride.
It had been good to meet some members we had never met before
and I think it is fair to say everyone had a fantastic weekend, thanks partly to
the weather, but mostly due to the time and effort spent by John, Nicky,
Dougie and Lin in researching the destination, planning the itinerary, and
generally being so well- organised that it was easy for the rest of us to just
relax and enjoy the trip. Well done and thank you.
15
The Menin Gate Ceremony has
taken place every night at 8pm
since the memorial was opened in
1929, with the exception of when
Five members, Brian, Bob,
the German army took over the
Clive, Peter and Trevor had
town in WW2.
decided to ride to Brussels to see
Volunteer Fire Brigade buglers
some of the four dealerships
play the ?Last Post?, bagpipers
there. On arrival, the Brussels
play, choirs sing, and prayers are
?Capital? dealership wasn?t too
read while wreaths are laid to
impressive and we were amazed
remember 58,000 soldiers whose
to be told that the best dealership
When the shop closed at
names are inscribed on the walls
in the area was the Flanders deal- 5pm, roller shutters came down to and who have no known final
ership near where we had come
make the shop secure, but the
resting place.
from! Trying to keep to the back
Chapter house stayed open for a
roads, the five of us set off. On the few hours after. It was now almost
After the ceremony it was
way, a nice local café was found
6pm and when we were about to
back to Bruges. Twelve hours had
for a lunchtime snack. Off we set
leave, it was suggested by one of passed quickly, and well over a
again, arriving at the Flanders
the Flanders Chapter that we
tank of fuel had been used. It was
dealer around 3pm.
should visit the Menin Gate and
a great day and part of a great
see the famous ?Last Post?
weekend.
The Flanders dealership was ceremony. Having no idea where
stunning with a huge range of
we were to go, a member of the
Bob Wilkinson
bikes on display alongside a large Flanders Chapter offered to escort
amount of accessories and
us a good part of the way.
clothing. Going to the back of the
The trip to Bruges had a
day of ?Do your own thing? on
the Saturday.
shop we were welcomed by some
of the Flanders Chapter. We
passed though a doorway into
their Chapter house. A fully
kitted-out club room with a bar,
children?s area, pool table, darts
board, plasma TV, and lots of
comfortable seating. Beer was
reasonably priced alongside soft
drinks.
Jottings from the Not so Silent Grey Fellow (aka Dougie?s bike!)
I emerged from my winter quarters in March with over 7300 miles on the clock after a really busy 1st season. We
went as far north and west as Stornoway, nearly as far south as Venice, and to Slovenia in the east in two long trips. Both
accompanied by my near identical twin Merlin 2, piloted by John & Nicky Pedder.
This year has been quiet in comparison, but we?ve been to Bruges for a long weekend, and to Lille, and jolly good trips they
were too. All the bikes behaved themselves, which is more than can be said for some of our owners. At 7.30am at the hotel at Lille,
while all us bikes were raring to go, our silly riders were busy dancing the Cheeky Chappie, looking like complete plonkers! They
can be so embarrassing at times. For the first time in my life, I experienced the way the French handle ride-outs. Wow! I couldn?t
believe it. You leave the hotel, and the Road Crew have blocked the road. We might do that too. Then you get to a roundabout,
and they?ve blocked traffic coming at you from the left. Great! Side roads coming in on your right? Blocked off with a Road King or
Glide sitting there imperiously. Drivers meekly waiting for us to pass through. It?s like being in a cavalcade, very excitingand a fast
way to get about. Of course to do this the Road Crew have to be at the front, and when they?ve been dropped off, there?s onlyone
place they want to be. You guessed. Back at the front! They will come blasting by, sirens blaring, hazard lights flashing like quasi
traffic cops, and this goes on until the destination is reached. It is totally different to the way we do it and very full-on. I don?t know
how they get away with it, our police would go potty if we did it, but that?s the French for you.
Then we?re approaching Arras, and Lille Chapter have arranged a police escort into town. I?m queued up alongside
Poshbird?s Heritage. A policeman is explaining to her what is happening. She is saying ?d?accord,? ?d?accord? (I understand,
OK).
Dougie asks Clare what he said. No idea says Clare, don?t understand French! Oh well.
Lin is very much in favour of keeping my top box on at all times. Permanent fixtures in there now are a hairbrush (not for
Dougie), wash bag (why?), a large bottle of Gaviscon, a spare pair of shoes, and space is reserved for a kitchen sink (sorry,
handbag). However, Dougie is allowed exclusive use of my two screen pouches, but everything possible gets taken off when he?s
solo, including the screen. The top box was useful for bringing back chocolate from Bruges in 70º F temperature, including a
th
life-size (10?) chocolate willy for Dougie?s daughter?s 50
birthday. Let?s just say, it kept it?s integrity!
Now, I know I?m a big heavy old thing, but that?s no excuse for Dougie to keep dropping me, and I got a bit fed up with it.
Cue a slow riding session with JP one sunny Sunday morning in Bexhill doing figure of eights, slaloms and circles on full lock.
There I was with heating pipe insulation cable tied to my crash bars going round in circles with him concentrating like mad trying to
keep me upright. Thankfully, we didn?t have an audience apart from a few stray dogs.
The latest is I?ll soon be homeless as my garage is going to be knocked down and replaced so I?m going to need temporary
digs. If there?s a warm cosy garage out there with another Harley to keep me company for a few weeks, please let Dougie know.
16
Prom Ride by new member Ryan West
A quick shower after work and a dash to the meeting point of Black Down
Services saw the start to the prom ride. I had a good chat with Kevin and then David,
although we were rudely interrupted by the arrival of Andy on his new sporty with its (as he
stated), 'I-wanted-something-a-little-louder!' exhaust. A briefing by Gus, which was brief, and off
we went. A few spectators in the car park enjoyed the sight as we headed off to Rotherfield to
meet the lads. Only a few minutes and some traffic works, and we all arrived at the cul-de-sac
where the prom lads lived.
I think we may have made an impression as a few of their neighbours came out to view
the noisy sparkly bikes. The lads looked very dapper, and I was a little concerned that the
helmet hair wouldn't go down well but they didn't seem too bothered. A quick chat and we set off
to take them to Barnsgate Manor for their big do. The drop-off system worked a treat, and no
troubles, except maybe it worked a little too well, so we had to pull over to re-group and wait for
a few minutes as we may have been too early to make an impact.
We left as a convoy and pulled into the entrance and along the drive to the party where
a little tooting and screaming of the v-twins seemed to impress all who were waiting outside. I must admit it was very impressive
and even an old school friend of mine who is the restaurant manager sent me a text saying, "Best prom entrance ever", which says
it all really. A handshake and a friendly farewell from the road crew saw us all leave to make our way home. I really enjoyed it and
hope to participate again on a similar ride.
Hot Rod Diner by Steve Pitt, aka Spit!
Just imagine, a nice hot Sunday morning, a gang of mates, a leisurely ride
through Sussex and Kent, and ending up at a brilliant destination...to be topped off
with a large burger and
chips, served to you by a
1950s waitress! Well,
thanks to Andy Leaney,
this happened on Sunday
8th June: the Hotrod Diner
ride. What a great ride,
with a good turnout from
Black Down Services to
Gravesend, through the
heart of East Sussex and
Kent.
The Diner itself was
great, with loads of 40s
and 50s garage signs on
the walls. One read, "If it
can?t be fixed with a
hammer, it must be an
electrical fault." There
were many other bits and
bobs, including an old
jukebox, playing all the
oldies.
So thanks to Andy for a great day. It really was Rock 'n Roll.
Graham Owen in new TV series of Man v. Food
17
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COMMITTEE SUPPORT OFFICERS
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18
Morrelli
Tony
Amanda
Richard
Scottish Bob makes ancestral discovery
that rocks nation!
?I just never saw it
coming. One day I
was a proud Scot, the
next I was learning
the ancient art of
Japanese calligraphy?
ride-outs & trips away until the next edition
August
September
October
Mystery breakfast
Sat 16
Mitch
Working windmills
Sat 6
Nick
USA? California
Thu? Thu 2-16
Selsey
Sun 17
Magigal mystery ride
Sun 7
Tony
Bodiam Castle
Sun 5
Morrelli
?Medic? Clive
Denby Vineyards
Sun 24
?The Vicar?
Ace Cafe Reunion
Sat 13
Richard
H-D Dealer ride
SAT 30
Steve G
Posh picnic
Sun 14
Clare
Crossness pumping station
Sat 31
JP
Redoubt Fortress
Sat 20
Melissa
TBA
Sun 21
H-D Dealer ride
Sat 27
Steve G
Hellfire Caves
Sun 28
Andy
19