Ray's memorial run 120622

 

10 riders, one pillion and 3 well wishers met at Morrisons in Tiverton for this memorial run for Ray who was a stalwart of the Devon section almost since it's inception, fulfilling the role of secretary for over 30 years. we were pleased that Ray's son Graham could come along, riding with his wife Liz, down from Swindon especially.

I explained that this run would be in 3 parts, the first I would lead to a lunch stop at Whiddon down services then Graham would lead us to where Ray's ashes were scattered, there we would have a toast and a

reminisce. a third part would be that we would go back to the waterside cafe at Bow for a coffee if anyone wished.

I lead out on time at 1100, with Ian and Andy agreeing to do back marker duties, in what promised to be a good weather day. The route was out of Tiverton on the Witheridge road before turning off to Thelbridge and on to Black Dog. From there, the route was through Morchard Bishop to Morchard road where I had warned to take care crossing the A377. A trip through Down St Mary lead us to another tricky junction out on to the A3072 where I had to ask the marker to see people out. A left turn in Bow took us on to Spreyton then on to Whiddon Down, on arrival we found that Andy was missing and it was found that his clutch cable had parted so he was awaiting recovery, ( he has let me know that he arrived back OK though the big lorry that arrived did expect a TR6 car not a TR6 motorbike!.

After lunch at the Hog and Hedge, Graham lead us to Moretonhampstead and up on to Mardon Down where we all parked up and had a wee tot of Ray's favourite as a toast supplied by Graham and Liz cheers!.

From Mardon Down, Graham and Liz left us to make their long way back whilst we made for Bow dropping off North Devon guys on the way. Once at Bow, we remaining three had a grand cup of coffee and appreciated another great day, riding our bikes in good company.

Thanks to all who helped to make this a memorable event and commiserations to Andy and to those section members who would have been on the run were it not for illness. It was nice to see Bill Rowciffe, ( Ray's cousin ), at the start to see us off .

Next ride out is June 20th an evening meet at the Exeter Inn Chittlehamholt but do keep an eye on this blog for any changes, next run is July 10th from Jonseys cafe at Winkleigh, please attend as Ian is leading and always gives us a great run.