This month we have called an important EGM for the Centre to provide a sort of plebiscite whereby the Centre’s Committee has developed a revised Centre Constitution for consideration and adoption if found to be acceptable. Dave Cleveland has circulated a rationale for the changes along with the revised constitution but in short we aim to clarify what is involved in becoming a member of the Thames Valley Centre with the right to vote at Centre AGMs, etc. The purpose is to give all members a voice in the Centre and its future development. The Committee feel that with the adoption of the new constitution we should be in a good position to provide a firm foundation for the future. I hope you will be able to join us at the EGM – please see details listed under Events. If you are planning to come, please contact Mike Aldrich so that we accommodate your attendance. I look forward to seeing you there for this important meeting.
Recently while reading the Sunday papers, I received an interesting email from Chris Beck stating that my recherché Roadster Lightweight as it was competing at the Brighton Speed Trials, was captured in a photograph by an Octane magazine photographer and that we appear in the November 2014 edition. Fame at last was Chris’s retort. I had to use all my mercurial ways to get over the shock. At the time of writing, I am hunting the newsstand to obtain a copy of the latest Octane magazine. We had had a great day at the Trials; I would like to thank Dave Collins, Steve Bridge and Richard Jones for their support during the day along with all the others overlooking us from the Gods. It was great to see Roger Shadbolt competing in his newly acquired red Morgan four/four of CVH vintage, I believe. Roger always provides sound admonition on the day.
Back in September Tim Jones held his expedition of a trip to Mapledurham. Lucy and I answered all the questions but not necessarily in the right order. It was a challenge requiring navigational skills combined with tenacity that was needed in abundance. Also, there was a lovely cruise on the River Thames as well as a visit to Mapledurham House and its Mill. Thirty-five people attended with nineteen Morgan sports cars involved. A great turn out which looked great in the Bird In Hand car park. On behalf of the Centre, I would like to thank Tim for his hard work in getting this event on the road taking in the delights of Hurley, Marlow, Sonning, Henley, Reading, Caversham and finally of course Mapledurham with interesting clues to solve and follow. I would also like to congratulate Ian Wilson for his well-earned victory. His prize is a day out in a Morgan Three wheeler provided by Richard Thorne Classic Cars. I would like to thank Richard Thorne very much indeed for his kind support of this event. As to Lucy and I, missing the boat has been the story of our lives.
This month we are making a welcome return to the delightful National Trust property at Basildon Park, with its beautiful grounds and gardens. I will guide you round the grounds and woods on Sunday 23rd November – please meet me in the main car park at 11 am. A visit to the house is possible during the day also. I hope you can join us – if so, I will see you there. Please see further details on our events page.
Finally, I would like to mention the McMillan Coffee Morning held on 26th September run by Nicola Thorne at Richard Thorne Classic cars. I would like to thank all the Centre members that were able to attend. Hundreds of pounds were raised in aid of McMillan Cancer Support during a very successful and enjoyable morning. I would like to congratulate everyone that took part and Nicola’s cakes were delicious. Well done to all.
Take care, see you all soon – Roger.