Vintage Cars and the Welsh Lunch
Note: Clicking on any of the photographs will enlarge them.
My travels recently took me far north and, surprisingly, it wasn’t freezing! In fact, it turned into a fabulous weekend spent in my truly unique and classic car.
Our first stop was Leeds where we met up with friends from Reading Valley. On Friday 22nd, we set off in a leisurely convoy to The Motorist to join a number of other 41 and Tangent members. Before long, we were all handed tulip maps to guide us through the final 100 miles to Slaley Hall.
Along the way we even passed the opticians a certain person famously travelled from London to visit, all while navigating a much larger-than-expected Barnard Castle!
The hotel was fabulous and the company even better. We enjoyed a wonderful evening together before the main event the following day. After an early breakfast, all the cars were assembled for the grand photo call before Kelly and I waved everyone off at 45-second intervals. I had absolutely no idea how heavy the flag would be!
The planned route was certainly challenging, especially with an unexpected road closure thrown into the mix, but we all had a fantastic time roaring around the northern section of the Northumberland 250, stopping wherever and whenever we fancied. Afterwards it was back to the hotel for dinner, traditional entertainment and of course the awards.
Sunday was a more relaxed affair with the option to explore the southern section of the route. It truly was a fantastic weekend full of fun and fellowship and one I would highly recommend.
Back home, Tuesday was spent with Jenny and preparing for my Charity Lunch. Suddenly it all feels very real!
On Wednesday I drove to Bath Tangent. Wow, the narrow lanes and steep hills certainly tested both me and my trusty car but neither of us were fazed!
I enjoyed a lovely evening listening to an amazing speaker, Victoria Humphries, who shared her experiences of trekking to the North Pole. Margaret, one of the founder members, very kindly hosted me overnight and gave me the warmest of welcomes.
Friday saw me setting off on a very slow journey to Cardiff where we were looked after wonderfully by Penarth & District Tangent, including a fun meal out in Cardiff Bay.
Saturday brought the Wales and the Borders Regional Lunch hosted by Penarth & District Tangent. This was always going to be incredibly special as it was my first Regional Lunch as President. I also had the pleasure of inducting a new member during the day.
The event included diamonds — sadly only to admire and not to keep! We were even treated to a visit from Shirley Bassey, dressed in all her finery, who entertained us with song.
There was a brief moment of drama when one lady became unwell. Thankfully we had a fabulous doctor on hand who, never truly off duty, calmly took control of the situation. I’m very pleased to report that the lady in question has since made a full recovery.
Sunday brought our Executive meeting, although it was unfortunately overshadowed by the resignation of our amazing Membership Officer, Jo. I wish you all the very best and I know we will see you back in the future.
June arrived quickly and I travelled to Barnstaple for the funeral of Viv Foster OBE, National President from 1994–95. It is customary for us to ensure representation at the funerals of our Past National Presidents. While it is always a sad duty, it was also an uplifting farewell to a truly special lady.
On Wednesday 3rd June I headed north once again, although not quite as far this time. Instead, I let the train take the strain as I travelled to Woolton and District Tangent, one of our newest clubs.
The choice of meeting venue could not have been more perfect for someone who loves narrow boats! I received a wonderfully warm welcome before enjoying a trip around the docks on a fun restaurant boat, followed by speeches and gifts on the quayside — it was simply too noisy to do them on board!
What more could a girl want?
Now, just enough time to breathe for 48 hours before my Charity Lunch!
YiCF,
Carol