Although it wasn’t official at the start of the weekend, this was our first opportunity to visit another area in our new role as Area Liaison Officers.
The weekend began on Friday 14th April, when members started to gather at the Holiday Inn, Braintree, with Sue and Mike there to welcome participants. The evening was spent enjoying a carvery at the nearby Toby Inn, before Karl handed out some excellent route booklets and sent us off to do our homework.
After breakfast the next morning, we gathered in the hotel car park ready to set off for a 60 mile run around the Essex countryside. There were several challenges to be undertaken on the way, including taking photographs of ‘45’, spring flowers, post boxes and of course as many other Triumphs as possible. It was interesting to note that Norfolk isn’t the only county with a pothole problem, as many of us spotted one pothole being used as a milk store! A road closure between Bures and Sudbury meant a small detour from the route was required, but it wasn’t too difficult to navigate our way around and get back on track.
The run finished at Blake House Craft Centre, where we were able to browse the craft shops and have a spot of lunch. Brian also took the opportunity to prove that he can still get under his car as a leak in the petrol pipe needed a fix. There was an option to do a further 50 mile route but most seemed happy to relax and chat before heading back to the hotel for celebratory cake.
Saturday evening saw a larger gathering at the Toby, followed by drinks at the hotel with a slide show of the day’s photos, a presentation of prizes and a raffle.
Unfortunately, we were unable to stay for the Sunday run as we headed up to Lubenham for the TSSC AGM, followed by the trip home. Over 300 miles clocked up over the weekend, the furthest we’ve been in a while without the caravan.
