Our First-Thursday Noggin in December, at the Bird In Hand, had more than its fair share of rain. As you know, it specialises in beer from Butcombe Brewery. With a beer garden and seating outside the front it is just like old times, when the weather is good. We can look out for passing Moggies as has been done at our sister Noggin at the Harte and Magpie that is going from strength to strength. Let’s hope 2024 will continue such successful patronage.
Richard’s Christmas Lunch at the Harte and Magpie on 16th December was thoroughly enjoyed by all that were there. This no doubt set everyone up for the festive season very well indeed. Any chance to wear one’s Christmas jumper is always welcome.
On Monday 1st January, why not join with other car enthusiasts for an impromptu gathering of cars and car folk at The Phoenix Inn, Hartley Wintney, from about 8am to 2pm. This is where you are likely to see all types, shapes, colours and condition of cars. Vintage, Veteran, Classic, Hot-Rod they will all be there at some time. Have no fear about parking. Although there is little room in the pub car park, just do as everyone does, and park on the road leading up the pub. You can't miss where it is from the array of cars parked along the road. The pub usually has burgers, hot dogs, teas and coffee for sale outside, as well as a busy bar inside. Keep an eye open for any fellow ThamesMOGers who might be there.
Alternatively, you can go to the New Year’s Day Stony Stratford Vintage Car and Motorcycle Gathering. Starting at 09.30am, showcasing pre-1940 cars and bikes, which have pride of place in the Market Square. Expect to ‘see’ a great deal of Vintage cars and bikes and even a few commercials, expect to ‘hear’ a cacophony of engines as they celebrate the New Year with ‘one minutes noise’ at midday, expect to ‘eat and drink’ at one of the many pubs and restaurants and stalls that open up especially to welcome you. The event ends at 2.00pm. It’s free for spectators and drivers but donations to Willen Hospice would be appreciated. Visitors are requested to use the public car parks as the centre of the town will be taken up by the vehicles on display as shown on the downloadable .pdf file found on their website. https://vintagestony.co.uk/visit/
The ThamesMOG committee have an eye on 2024, when we hope to bring you an array of interesting events. If you have any suggestions for events, please contact the committee by emailing
I hope you will all take care, along with your family and friends, and that you will all stay well. I wish everyone all the best for 2024 with above good health and happiness.
Best wishes and take care, Roger.