The vintage Motor Cycle Club - VMCC
The Vintage Motor Cycle Club

Essex

VMCC Section

Registered Address

Allen House, Wetmore Road,

Burton upon Trent,

Staffordshire, DE14 1TR

Dear All,

I do hope you have all been keeping well while we enjoy the hot weather?
Club night
The committee are continuing to seek a solution for a possible venue for our club nights, in the meantime:
For the 10th June we are meeting at The Jolly Sailor, Heybridge Basin, CM9 4RS (what3words: scorching.camps.consonant ). Details of the evening ride to the pub in the ride calendar (attached) and on the website.
PLEASE BE AWARE; There is a system where you have to enter your registration number to avoid a parking charge.
Upcoming rides:
All details on the website https://essex.vmcc.net/Future-Events and the ride calendar, copy attached:
The Bluebell rides have been going well, again thanks to Dave Bradley for all of the hard work in planning these. The last ride is:
Sunday 31st May; Bluebell ride 6 lead by Dave Bradley.
Tuesday 2nd June; 80th baton ride lead by Richard Parker. See below
Wednesday 10th June; Pride of ownership ride lead by John Beckinsale,**Please read the instructions for parking at The Jolly Roger.
There are then a lot of rides for the rest of the year still waiting for someone to take a lead role. Anyone?

80th Anniversary Baton Relay
I will lead the second baton ride on Tuesday the 2nd June (I do hope a Tuesday ride doesn’t offend!) starting at Writtle Green car park at 10am (meet 9:30am) to deliver the 80th anniversary baton to the East Herts. Section. A coffee stop at Ashfields Country Kitchen. Then onto meet them at 12:30pm at The Three Horseshoes, Hazel End Road, CM231HB.
The first half is a nice windy country lane route (some roads with gravel down the middle). The second half is mixed as I tried to negotiate getting to the pub without going through Bishop Stortford, avoiding Stanstead Airport and the M11.
Link to MyRoute to see the route; (Simon it won’t work for me without all of the waypoints!)


Committee Post
Just a reminder that John Beckinsale stands down as the club treasurer at the end of the year. He is happy to talk through the role with you if interested. Please do consider a role on the committee.

Upcoming Shows
21st June; Cambridge Classic Bike Show; (I may go, would welcome company) https://www.museumoftechnology.com/calendar/2025/c...
5th July; Battlesbridge Motorcycle show and autojumble; Details here https://www.battlesbridge.com/events/classic-motor...
2nd August; Museum of Power Motorbike Show; We have a stand! https://www.museumofpower.org.uk/event/motorbike-s...
2nd June (Also); Jaguar Drivers Club Car and Bike show at the William De Ferrers School, South Woodham Ferrers.
I think that is all for now
Best wishes
Richard Parker

Dear All,

Club night
We are still trying get get something organised for Wednesday 13 May's club night. Again any help with talks, if you are willing or know someone who is, would be much appreciated.
Upcoming rides:
All details on the website https://essex.vmcc.net/Future-Events and the ride calendar, copy attached:
Wednesday 6 May, Julian will lead a small/tidlers run.
Wednesday 20 May Dave Iszard will lead the 4th Bluebell ride.
Wednesday 27 May Rex Croft will lead the 5th Bluebell ride
Sunday 31 May Dave Bradley will lead the 6th and final Bluebell ride. A big thanks to Dave for organising the Bluebell rides.
80th Anniversary Baton Relay
I have agreed to lead a ride on Sunday 24th May from Tesco, Maldon at 10am to TTT Motorcycles in Sudbury to collect the 80th anniversary baton from the Anglia Section.
Also I have agreed to lead a ride on Tuesday the 2nd June (I do hope a Tuesday ride doesn’t offend!) start at Writtle Green car park at 10am to deliver the 80th anniversary baton to the East Herts. Section. Meet them at 12:30pm at The Three Horseshoes, Hazel End Road, CM231HB

Upcoming Shows
Battlesbridge Motorcycle show and autojumble 5th July; Details here https://www.battlesbridge.com/events/classic-motor...

Early notice of the Jaguar Drivers Club Car and Bike show on 2nd August at the William De Ferrers School, South Woodham Ferrers.

I think that is all for now. (I may very well have forgotten something so expect another email soon!).

Best wishes
Richard Parker

Dear All,

It sounded like Julian’s ride on the 22nd of March was a success, sorry to miss it. A shame that John Stone had to cancel his ride due to weather conditions, re-scheduled see below.

Club Nights:

April’s meeting; Wednesday 8th April 2026 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00.

We have nothing planned for April’s night, so a noggin and natter. Hopefully something comes to fruition in May.

On the subject of club nights, it is proving difficult to find speakers this year.

If you know of someone who could give a talk, please let us know. Also it is always interesting to hear of club members experience’s with restoration’s, life stories or other subjects; please consider sharing those with us at a club night. I am happy to help with I.T. e.g. scanning in slides/photos or assembling a slide show.

Upcoming rides:

Sunday 12th April, Dave Bradley will lead a ride; Tesco, Maldon, CM9 4LE, 10:00 Start, heading to North Fambridge Via Hanningfield.

Wednesday 15th April, John Stone will lead his re-scheduled ride, Sainsbury’s, South Woodham Ferrers, CM3 5QP. 10:00 Start, heading to Marthas’ Tea Room Greenstead CO9 1QY for Brunch. Approx 29 miles.

Then we have the start of the Bluebell Rides:

Sunday 19th, April, Bluebell 1:

Ride lead by Dave Bradley: Tesco, Maldon, CM9 4LE. Start 10:00, 94 Miles Coffee, Beth Chato’s CO7 7DB. Lunch, Shotley Marina IP9 1QJ. Tea, Glasshouse Peldon CO5 7QA

Wednesday 22nd April, Bluebell 2:

Ride lead by Simon Enticknapp: Tesco, Maldon, CM9 4LE. 10:00 Start. 56 Miles Coffee at Hanningfield Reservoir, CM3 8HX. Lunch at Parlor Café Creeksea CM0 8PJ.

Wednesday 29th April Bluebell 3:

Ride lead by John Beckinsale: Tesco, Maldon, CM9 4LE. 10:00 Start, 84 Miles Coffee at the Booking Hall Rayne CM77 6RX. Lunch at The Mixing Shed CB11 4UL, Tea, TBA. Ride Ends Paper Mill Lock.

Current ride calendar here:

2026 calendar

80th Anniversary Baton Relay

Just a reminder that I have agreed to lead a ride on Sunday 24th May from Tesco, Maldon to TTT Motorcycles in Sudbury to collect the 80th anniversary baton from the Anglia Section. Details to follow.

Also I have agreed to lead a ride (details to follow) on Tuesday the 2nd June (I do hope a Tuesday ride doesn’t offend!) to deliver the 80th anniversary baton to the East Herts. Section. Again details to follow.

Upcoming Shows

As in my last email:-

Suffolk motorcycle show, 12th of April: Details on their Facebook page Facebook

Battlesbridge Motorcycle show and autojumble 5th July; Details here https://www.battlesbridge.com/events/classic-motorcycle-show-and-bikejumble

Thanks

Richard Parker

And then this from Gary Sleaman:-

"Hello all,
I have been asked to send out this invitation to the Ipswich & Suffolk Section's Touring Week, 5th - 12th July. This runs up to the Breckland Touring Week 13th-19th July and then Founders Day 19th July for those who like to make a fortnight of it.
Gary Sleaman."

Camping week advert 2026.jpg

Dear All,

BLUEBELL CAMPING WEEK
The first piece of news is that we have had to cancel the Bluebell Camping week. A change of date (due to the Maldon Museum of Power having double booked the normal week) and a lack of attendees to camp for the week means we have had a rethink. Dave Bradley and others will now lead a series of runs through April and May that would have been used in the camping week. Please do read the run calendar carefully. I do hope this does not spoil anyone's plans.

2026 calendar

Club Nights

March's meeting: Wednesday 11th March 2026 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words: iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00

Annual Auction Night. Your unwanted tools and equipment will be wanted by someone! Bring plenty of pennies to spend.

April's meeting: Wednesday 8th April 2026 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words: iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00

Nothing planned yet, watch this space.

Upcoming Rides

First ride of the year will be lead by Stuart Strauss, on Wednesday 18th March. Meet 10:30am at Sainbury's car park, South Woodham Ferrers, (what three words: bashful.truckload.careless). Heading to Dovercourt, Harwich via Abberton.

On Sunday 22nd of March Julian Strauss will lead a ride starting from Battlesbridge, destination is Dobbs Weir via Norton Heath Cafe. 10:30am departure.


Other Events

I have only heard from 2 people interested in the Classic & Vintage Motorbike Show at Hedingham Castle on Sunday 28th June 2026 this summer, let me know if you are interested. I intend to let them know, at the end of this week, how many of us may be interested.

I have been contacted by Michael Parr: "The Mersea Island for the Lions Family and vehicle day is on the 22nd August. For the past two years I've managed to get some bikes from the VJMC Essex branch and a few non club member bikers, they were greatly outnumbered by the classic or interesting cars, so this year I’m reaching out to all the clubs I can think of to see if we can even up the odds."

Again please let me know if you are interested so I can let him know.

I think that is all for now.

Best wishes

Richard.

Dear All,

Not much to cover for this month. Having not ridden since December, and still a little cautious since my accident, I was out on my Honda yesterday and the roads were dry enough for me to remember how good it is to ride a motorbike, such fun. Anyway.....

Club nights

February's meeting; Wednesday 11th February 2026 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00

Nothing planned so a noggin and natter night.

March's meeting: Wednesday 11th March 2026 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00

Annual Auction Night. Your unwanted tools and equipment will be wanted by someone! Bring plenty of pennies to spend.

Upcoming rides

Nothing currently planned, keep an eye on the Calendar.

2026 calendar

And finally:

We have been contacted by Hedingham Castle who are toying with the idea of holding their very first Classic & Vintage Motorbike Show at Hedingham Castle on Sunday 28th June 2026 this summer, off the back of the popularity and success of our annual Classic & Vintage Car Show, which has been running for many years. Still very much in the planning stage but they would be interested to know if any of our section members would be interested in attending. Please let me know by replying to this email and I can let them know of possible numbers (if any!).

That's all for now - hope to catch many of you at club night on Wednesday.

Kind regards

Richard

Happy New Year everyone - I hope that you enjoyed a restful time with your nearest and dearest. A little later than normal this month but here are my January ramblings and hopefully we will have a shiny new Secretary writing to you going forward.


January meeting Wednesday 14th January 2026 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00 Annual AGM

January will be our AGM which we will try to complete in record time. I am attaching the proposed agenda together with the treasurers report. It looks like we now have volunteers for the vacant Chairman and Secretary roles (although both will need to be proposed, seconded and voted in for the appointments to be effective). All other positions will be up for re-election. Please let me know if any of you would like to step up but just want to know more about what's involved.

AGM 2026 agenda distribution

STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS VCMCC (ESSEX) 2025


February meeting Wednesday 11th February 2026 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00

Nothing arrange at the moment so it will likely just be a beer and a natter night - if we can come up with any ideas I will let you know ahead of time.


Upcoming Rides

Attached is the proposed diary of rides in 2026. We are trying something a little different this year starting in March 2026 with a ride proposed the Sunday after club night and another the following Wednesday after club night. It is hoped that by making the ride dates a little more organised we will be able to drive up attendance. Attached is the proposed diary just waiting to be populated by willing ride leaders. We are also trialling Julian's Straus's "Last minute dot com rides" which will be notified by means of the newly created WhatsApp chat group. These will be in addition to the scheduled "official" club rides but without the cover of the VMCC third party liability insurance - effectively just a ride organised possibly as late as the night before between a few "mates".

2026 calendar


Any other Business

I have been approached by the Jaguar Drivers club to see if any members might be interested in showing their bikes at a get together on Sunday 2nd August at the William de Ferrers School, South Woodham Ferrers. More details will be circulated once they are received but so far all I've been told is that exhibitors will need to be on site from 09.15.

Stolen Bike

You might have seen this in MCN but I've been contacted regarding a stolen Riley

Friends Robert and Bill Fellows, direct descendants of the founders of Riley, bought 2 years ago a 1904 Riley 3 1/2hp Moto-Bi. Returned to full running order by Richard Rosenthal's son Peter the machine has been housed locked in a fully enclosed bespoke car transporter trailer, also locked, which was housed in a locked barn, very near a family home in Ousden, Nr Newmarket.
On the night of the 15/16 December using equipment thieves cut off the locks to the barn, trailer and motorcycle to steal the Riley Moto-Bi, tools and sundries.
Robert, Bill and their family are desperate for the return of their family's precious-to-them motorcycle and welcome any contact which will help recover this machine.
Authorities including the police are informed
Photo of Riley, clearly showing its reg. mark attached
Please contact me in the first instance and I will immediately forward any help you can offer
Richard Rosenthal <perlrose1924@gmail.com> or 07307 060650

Fen Tiger Run
From: CharlesDP <charlesdp@btinternet.com>
In 2025 I organised a small run out for pre 1940 motor cycles on behalf of the Sunbeam Motor Cycle Club, it was very successful, but several people afterwards mentioned that they did not know about it. It was the first time that I had organised a run and it went extremely well. So I have decided to do the run again, on the 12th July 2026. It will start near Newmarket, Suffolk and run through the country lanes and stopping for a bite to eat at the Charles Burrell Steam Museum in Thetford, (they have agreed to open it especially for us on that day) then meandering back through the Fens to the starting point.
Entry forms available from my email address above.
Regards
Charles

Ipswich & Suffolk Touring/Camping week

5th July to 12th July 2025

The event will be based at Bickers Action, Ivy Farm House, High Street, Coddenham, Ipswich, IP6 9QX. The entrance to the site will be sign posted from the B1078. Please follow the signs as the road in the village is small. Campers can arrive anytime after 12.00pm on Sunday the 5th July, participants will be able to camp overnight or visit on any of the days. The field has one permanent toilet and we are hiring in additional toilets and a shower. NOTE there is no electric hookup. The campsite will close on Sunday 12th July at 11.00am.

Monday 6th July to Saturday 11th July ride outs each day. All routes are between 60 and 90 miles. All routes are via route sheets, but there should be someone for you to follow if you are not confident with these. All route will be available from sign in, and you can select which route you do on which day.

Day visitor welcome See our website for more details https://ipswichandsuffolk.vmcc.net/Touring-Week

Angus Logansmith

07802439996


Finally

Phew - I think that's all for now - hope to catch up with you either at the AGM or if the weather warms up on the road.

Cheers all

Simon

Hi All,

Given the extremely hazardous conditions expected tomorrow, and the difficulty in confirming venues to host our intrepid voyagers, Dave has taken the difficult decision to cancel his planned New year's day ride tomorrow.
Sorry everyone but there's always next year!
Happy New year everyone.
Thanks

Simon

I did trail this in my December roundup but I've now had confirmation that there will (possibly) be a New Year's Day Run to be led by Dave Iszard, oddly enough on January 1st 2026.

Starting at Tesco Maldon 9.30 for 10 o/c.
About a 40 mile route with a planned coffee stop at Rayne Station.
On to lunch at The William Boosey, Hatfield Peveral.
Might be cancelled if the weather is unsuitable. Keep a watch on WhatsApp > VMCC ride outs. Facebook and email.
Contact Dave 07543901340 in need

November club night's quiz arranged by John and his lovely wife Ann was once again a real triumph (not the bike), even though yet again "we was robbed", this time by team Fletcher - we accepted defeat as gracefully as ever, even though I am sure that I have seen a couple of his team members on the Chase!

The weather has turned decidedly cold and wet but I am delighted to report that my electric jacket and gloves work extremely well, and the charging circuit on my R75 is more that up to the challenge of running them.
Unfortunately my Venom is still stubbornly refusing all attempts to fix its first gear woes. So far it has flummoxed me, our esteemed chairman, and even the chairman of the Essex velo club has gone ex-directory. I'm currently giving it a damn good ignoring to see if that fixes it!
Enough of my ramblings and on to business:-

Club nights

December meeting Wednesday 10th December 2025 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00

Nothing planned for our last meeting of the year, so it will just be a chance for a natter and xmas card swap, although we have dug deep into our pockets and arranged a Free Christmas buffet so if you skip dinner to join us hopefully there will be some festive nibbles to fill the gap.

January meeting Wednesday 14th January 2026 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00 Annual AGM

Early notice that January will be our annual AGM meeting and as you are already aware we are still looking for a new Chairman and Secretary as they are eloping together. All other positions will be up for re-election. Please let me know if any of you would like to step up or just want to know more about what's involved. I do have a couple of possible candidates that I am trying to get more than just interested - but there is nothing better than a willing volunteer.

Upcoming rides

Nothing currently planned although there are rumours about a possible "New Years Day" run. If this becomes more than just idle musing I will let you all know asap via email, web and Facebook and Julian's newly established WhatsApp group. If you haven't joined that yet then I urge you to do so - all the details are in my last months email.

That's all for now - hope to catch some of you at club night on Wednesday - I will be the one with a mouth full of nibbles and a loaded paper plate!

For those of you that we don't see at club night from myself, and my fellow committee members we wish you a Very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year and many thanks for all your support in 2025.

Kind regards

Simon

Dear All,

At our committee meeting earlier this week, we discussed the forthcoming retirement of our Chairman and Secretary at the next AGM. The reality is, that if no one comes forward to take responsibility for these key roles, the simple fact is that the section will no longer be able to function, and we will be forced to close down.

This may sound a little dramatic, but I am afraid that is the reality that we as a section are facing.

So for the final time, I am reaching out to all of you to see if, for the good of the section, any of you would be prepared to stand up and be counted. Obviously Dave and myself would be happy to outline what exactly is required of each role. Neither of them are overly onerous however, as both of us have been in place for over five years, it really is time to get a new injection of thoughts and ideas.

Thanks

Simon

Hi All,

I hope you all enjoyed your extra hour in bed at the weekend - but aren't the nights drawing in now? Funny that.
Not much to report this month as the year's riding starts to slow down. Julian and Stuart postponed last weeks ride due to forecasted rain but like when Steve postponed his ride for the same reason, when the day dawned it wasn't actually too bad. Hope that at least some of you will be able to make the revised ride on Thursday this week and that the weather holds up this time.

Club nights

November meeting Wednesday 12th November 2025 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00
November club night will be the opportunity to demonstrate your outstanding brain power and knowledge, with the excellent and fun Beckinsale annual quiz night. Prizes galore and bragging rights round the bar! Last year team Strauss rode out the winners, and I am sure will be keen to retain their crown. Bring along your nearest and dearest (as well as any clever friends) and see if you can knock them off their perch.
December meeting Wednesday 10th December 2025 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00
Nothing planned for our last meeting of the year so it will just be a chance for a natter and xmas card swap
January meeting Wednesday 14th January 2026 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00 Annual AGM
Early notice that January will be our annual AGM meeting and as you are already aware we are looking for a new Chairman and Secretary as they are eloping together. All other positions will be up for re-election. Please let me know if any of you would like to step up but just want to know more about what's involved.

Upcoming rides

Julian and Stuart Strauss's Revised Ride to Peldon
Thursday 30th October 2025 The revised ride will be approximately 40 miles starting from the Barge carpark Battlesbridge 10:00 for 10:30. Ending at the glasshouse in Peldon, where food will be available. (If you get any pictures or have a write up, I would love to be able to add them to the website, cheers, Richard)
We are looking at providing more structure to ride arrangements in 2026 to make it easier to know when and what's planned but Ill let you know more about that shortly.

Any Other Business

In 2026 the club is planning an 80th anniversary global baton ride. There is more detail on the main website, but basically the idea is that sections around the UK will meet with their neighbours and pass on a baton. It's taking place April/May time and I've tentatively agreed that we will meet up with the Ipswich and Suffolk group on 17th May and then pass it on to the East Herts section shortly thereafter.

And from the Scottish branch

The National, in Blairgowrie, has been booked for the last weekend in July (3pm Friday 24th - 12 noon Monday 27th). Main event is Saturday 25th.
The S&T, from Cultybraggan, near Comrie, is the following weekend 1st & 2nd August. The Wee Run Frae The Doc's Auld Hoose in Blairgowrie is the last Saturday in August (29th) - see attached entry form:- Doc's Run ENTRY FORM 2026. Collectively these three events attracted THREE HUNDRED motorcycles from 1902 - 2000 with a pleasing number of flat tankers and girder fork machines completing all three. Any questions ? Just get in touch with Alistair Huddleston
07788475849

That's all from me - now I'm off to revise and watch some episodes of Pointless, the Chase and Mastermind to get ready for the big quiz.
Cheers all
Simon

Further update:-

Hi All,

In light of the shocking wet weather predicted for Thursday Julian and Stuart are postponing their ride due to take place this week to next week Thursday 30th. They will also shorten it slightly but start times and locations remain the same - Barge carpark Battlesbridge 10:00 for 10:30.
Cheers

Simon

Hi All,

Really pleased to advise that at club night last week Julian and Stuart Strauss have very kindly offered to lead an impromptu ride this month - details are as follows:-
Ride to Brightlingsea
Thursday 23rd October 2025 The ride will be approximately 45 miles starting from the Barge carpark Battlesbridge 10:00 for 10:30.
There will be a refreshment stop at Pelham.
Hopefully the weather will be kind to us, and those of you that are either retired (or unemployed) please do your best to support them.
Cheers
Simon


If you want more details about my Moto Morini 250, or you missed the talk, my YouTube channel is here https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCv0lsJrrCLnNE7bD2...

Best wishes, Richard Parker

Hi everyone,


Here is my October update for you. After the last minute cancellation of Steve's proposed ride due to the forecast of rain the day turned out to be a bit overcast but actually dry, I received a very unimpressed email from Steve who has now cancelled his subscription to the weather channel! He's currently on holiday but has promised that he will try to reschedule before the cold and wet weather sets in.
Club nights
October meeting Wednesday 8th October 2025 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00

Richard Parker of this parish will be presenting a talk about his experiences rebuilding his 250 Morini from a box of bits. Those of you that have seen the results will know that this promises to be an entertaining and interesting presentation - no pressure then Richard ;)

November meeting Wednesday 12th November 2025 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00

November club night will be your opportunity to demonstrate how clever you are, with the return of the excellent and fun Beckinsale annual quiz night. Prizes galore and bragging rights round the bar! Last year team Strauss rode out the winners, and I am sure will be keen to retain their crown. Bring along your nearest and dearest (as well as any clever friends) and see if you can knock them off their perch.

Upcoming rides

Other than the possibility of Steve and Johns re-scheduled ride I am afraid that there are no further rides planned for this year. The weather still seems to be warm and dry though so if anyone fancies arranging a last minute trundle just let me know and I will alert our members.

I know that you might think its a little early, but I will pull together a schedule for 2026 and circulate that for you to take a look at and start to think about any rides that you might want to lead or get involved with next year.

Any other business

Changes at the top - your section needs you!

As I announced last month Dave Iszard has decided after a long tenure to step down at the next AGM as Chairman and it is also time for someone else to shoulder the Secretarial responsibilities for the club. I was deafened by the volume of responses to my previous message (not). It would be great to get some new blood with new ideas and enthusiasm to take the club forward. Do please have a think about whether you could help out - Dave and I would be very happy to chat through exactly what the roles involve - they are not overly demanding and can bring a lot of satisfaction.

Finally I have been asked by the centre to forward the following email from his daughter regarding Alan Hummerstone -

"Dear All,

I am sorry for this 'send to all' email but having managed to access my Dad's email address book I thought it was the best way to let you all know that my lovely Daddy passed away at home on Sunday 21st September.

He had been poorly for sometime but in the last two months had three hospital admissions and was finally diagnosed with very advanced and aggressive bladder cancer.

His funeral is taking place at Crownhill Crematorium in Milton Keynes on Thursday 9th October at 3:30pm. We are asking for no flowers but instead donation to Thames Valley Air Ambulance a charity, that as an enthusiastic biker, my Dad always supported. Donations can be made via Tribute to Alan Hummerstone, 1942 - 2025 and there is also a link on the tribute page to join the service online if you are unable to travel or cannot make it.

Kind regards Clare"


I think that's all for now
Cheers

Simon

Hi All,

I am delighted to advise that Steve Back has very kindly stepped up and will now be leading a tiddler bike ride next week 17th September starting from Writtle carpark 9.30 for a 10.00 departure. From there we will be stopping at Bretts in White Roding for coffee and then on to the Rayleigh Arms at Terling for around 13.00 where the ride will end.
Lets hope the weather holds out for us.

On a separate note we announced at club night that Dave Iszard has decided after a long tenure to step down at the next AGM as Chairman. In a similar vein its probably time for me to step back and let someone else take up the Secretary role. It would be great to get some new blood with new ideas and enthusiasm to take the club forward. Do please have a think about whether you could help out - Dave and I would be very happy to chat through exactly what the roles involve - they are not overly demanding and can bring a lot of satisfaction.
Cheers
Simon
Hi All,
Another late missive I'm afraid - no excuses except to say that nursing duties have taken precedence over all else. My wife's cast finally came off on Thursday, The bones have healed well, but she's been told it will take at least three months until the swelling goes down and she will hopefully get some use back in it. Anyway back to club events. We are rapidly entering into autumn now and the nights have started to really draw in. Time to make sure that all your electrics and lights are up to par just in case you get caught out late. Dave Iszard has finally managed to sell the last of Dave Overy's bikes as well as one of his own. Prices are really depressed at the moment and I doubt we will ever see a return to the previous heady heights. Anyone fancy a Gold Star for 7k or a Velo Thruxton for 10k if you do there are lots of "bargains" to be had - just don't expect them to be an "investment" :)

Club nights-

September meeting:

Wednesday 10th September 2025 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00

We did think about scheduling a ride in for this evening, however with the nights drawing in it was decided that might not meet with a great uptake and my idea for an interesting speaker was unfortunately declined so instead it will be another natter night.

October meeting:

Wednesday 8th October 2025 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00
Richard Parker of this parish has agreed to deliver a talk about his experiences rebuilding his 250 Morini from a box of bits, only to throw it down the road at a diesel covered roundabout on the way to founders day. It seems to have withstood the ordeal pretty well though, so he must have done a decent job. A shame the same could not be said about him as his escapade resulted in a fractured collar bone and six fractured ribs. - ouch! Should be an interesting talk especially the bits about 3d printing - enough said.

Upcoming rides:

I am sorry to say there are no rides arranged this month - there is one in the diary for 17th September which George was going to lead for us before he absconded to Norfolk, and a couple of other placeholders, but the absence of ride leaders means that these are unlikely to take place, unless someone would like to step up?

Any other business:

Gary Sleeman asked me to send the following message round on behalf of a former member "Hi my brother was once a member of VMCC he owned a 1924 BSA 500cc, he has sold his bike some years ago, he has in his garage a brand new single bike trailer all the ancillaries included, would anyone in the club be interested in buying the trailer at a reasonable price, his name is Peter Howell & he lives in Harlow Essex."
Gary's email address is " gary.sleeman1@gmail.com
if anyone is interested and he can put you in touch.
That's all for this month - hope to see at least some of you on Wednesday.
Cheers
Simon

Hi All,

Welcome to my August round robin - apologies that it is a little late but I'm just back from a visit to Scotland where my wife was unlucky and fell off the train. She managed to break her Humerus and left wrist so I'm in full on nursing mode.
Injury's seem to be the order of the day at the moment as our webmaster Richard Parker also took a tumble on his way to the Founders day. His Morini appears to have handled the trauma better than his body which suffered six broken ribs and a broken collar bone - ouch - get well soon Richard.
Ironically without any foresight (honest!) July's club night had a really interesting presentation from Ian Davey covering his experience as an RAF helicopter paramedic and hospital A&E specialist. He was clearly very passionate about his subject and I am sure we all learnt something that I hope we never need. I think that he was a bit phased though when he started talking about open heart surgery, and certain audience members proudly announced that they'd had that op and offered to show their scars!
The July Strauss ride was another success but it would be remis of me not to mention that one of our sections pre-eminent offroad specialists took an embarrassing tumble as we turned "off road" into the carpark for our morning coffee stop. "I bet you will write about this you bugger' he said -( happy to oblige :)
On to business

Club night

August's meeting on Wednesday 13th August 2025 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00
Afraid that I won't be able to make this one - and we haven't arranged anything so it will just be a chance to have a gentle ride out to the pub and have a natter with your friends.
September's meeting on Wednesday 10th September 2025 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00
A couple of irons in the fire - I'll update you all next month

Upcoming rides

Steve and John's August ride on Sunday 10th August starting at Tesco Maldon 9.30 for 10.00 departure - coffee stop at Abberton Reservoir about 10.45 ish finishing at the Prince of Wales Great Totham for lunch around 13.00. For those of you with long memories this is the ride that was abandoned two years ago due to a puncture so lets hope our ride leader has better luck this time!
John Beckinsale will lead a ride on Wednesday 20th August starting at the layby on the A414 3/4 mile east of the A12 interchange 9.30 for a 10.00 prompt departure . First stop at the Booking Hall Rayne for coffee followed by lunch at a new Café the Mixing shed he's found at Wendens Ambo for lunch and if time permits a stop on the way back at the Blue Egg Great Bardfield.

Any other business

Sunday 3rd August at the Museum of Power Bikemeet:
Once again we will have our Gazebo at this event and we are looking for willing volunteers to bring their bikes along to show on the stand - you need to be there by 9.30 at the latest but you will get free entry to the show as a reward - just let the stewards on the gate know that you are showing on the VMCC stand. It was being organised this year by Richard Parker but due to his off Rex Croft has stepped up and I know would welcome assistance to put up and take down the gazebo.
As always I have attached the most recent diary of rides - still plenty of sunny days and nights ahead with lots of spaces if you fancy putting your hand up to lead a ride???

2025 Calendar (updated August)

That's all for this month guys and gals hope to see at least some of you either at club night or on one of the rides.
Cheers
Simon

Welcome to July's round robin - I hope you are all enjoying the spectacular weather we have been having.

Junes European night has come and gone, unfortunately not as well supported as last year - maybe because it was something new last year - or perhaps because George didn't post about it on every Social media page known to man! Nevertheless those that did attend enjoyed a nice night in the sunshine (bit of a theme developing here).
Steve and Johns ride took us to northern Essex for a change, again with a decent turnout - Dave Coatsworth's shiny Suzuki GT750 proved that Japanese bikes can be just as unreliable as their British counterparts, when the clutch cable broke just as we were leaving the start point. I understand that he and Mandy enjoyed a challenging ride back to Runwell negotiating the traffic without changing gear, to pick up his retro RS Kawasaki, and they still got to the lunch stop before us. He kept to the speed limits at all times "honest officer".
An impromptu ride organised by Paul Weston saw 13 riders (unlucky for some) show up for a terrific ride through some amazing roads in the cool evening sun (see what I did there?). I thought I knew most of the nice biking roads around here but just as I thought "ah I know where we are now" he ducked down another side road. We ended up at the White Harte in Margaretting Tye where they were delighted to see us and took loads of pictures. It was such a good night even our resident Jonas bikes kept running throughout!
Pauls ride was arranged with only five days notice so if you fancy having a go why not dip your toe in the water?

Now onto this month.

Club night
July meeting Wednesday 9th July 2025 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00
We have something a little different for you this month - Ian Davey is a medic (formally from the NHS) who is going to come and talk to us about his experiences of blood and gore. He has also worked in the RAF on their recovery Helicopters (just like prince Andrew but without the Epstein connection) and we are anticipating some very interesting tales of Daring do. He did offer to run an open clinic as well, but knowing the activities of some of our membership, we politely declined - has that nasty little rash cleared up yet Izzy?
August meeting Wednesday 13th August 2025 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00
Afraid that I won't be able to make this one - we are looking for a speaker or ideas and suggestions, so please let the committee know any requests otherwise it will be a natter night.
Upcoming rides
Wednesday 2nd July
In a change to what I advised last month the ride is to be led by Dave Bradley Starting from Tesco’s Maldon 9.30 for a 10.00am departure then riding 31 miles to the first coffee stop at the Parlour Cafe at Creaksea NB they only take card payments so no cash I am afraid. From there approximately 20 miles for lunch at the Museum of Power where the ride will end. A little shorter than normal but the weather looks a tad uncertain at the moment.
If you want a little sport just ask Dave about his original planned return route from Shotley - i'll say no more!
Wednesday 16th July
The Strauss brothers will be leading a ride starting at Sainsburies, South Woodham Ferrers, 9.30 for a 10.00 departure, from there we will be riding a magical mystery tour but with a Tea stop at around 11.00 and then ending for lunch at the Puddle dock café. I have no idea how long the ride will be but on past performance my guess is that the timings for the arrivals might slip a little!

Any other business.

Sunday August 3rd Museum of Power Bikemeet 9.30 at the latest
Once again we will have our Gazebo at this event and we are looking for willing volunteers to bring their bikes along to show on the stand - you need to be there by 9.30 at the latest but you will get free entry to the show as a reward - just let the stewards on the gate know that you are showing on the VMCC stand. It is being organised this year by Richard Parker and Rex Croft and I know that they would welcome some assistance to put up and take down the gazebo.
Several emails from the centre - in no particular order:-
Scottish S&T Rally 2nd & 3rd August
From Alistair Huddlestone
MANY, MANY THANKS to all those who have already entered (around 90 for The National and around 50 for the S&T). NB the entry for The Wee Run Frae The Doc's Auld Hoose is on the BACK of the National form and its FREE this year.
Perhaps you can persuade one or two others to come along to BLAIRGOWRIE and / or CULTYBRAGGAN to swell the numbers even further. Details below

Entry Form 50th Scottish National 2025

80th Anniversary Baton Relay
This event will run through the spring, summer and autumn of 2026. This time each VMCC Area will have its own Baton, this should allow all section to participate, by flexing their calendar to include “meet-up rides” to other section(s). The Area Reps will have or be getting in touch through the summer to co-ordinate with the Section Officers to plan the riding days. Please support this activity aimed at bring sections together. Please note because of the 80th the Founders Relay Rally (the one day event) usually at the 1st Bank Holiday in May, will not be held in 2026.
Manx Rally Schedule 20 - 22nd August2025
Wednesday 20th Sign on from 10am at Laxey Prom, Leaving at 11am go to road run Court House in Ramsey. Thursday 21st assemble at Court House in Ramsey, from 10am. Leaving at 11am for short run, re-assembling at St. Johns 12:15pm Cavalcade ride into Peel Day. Lunch provided. Rosettes will be awarded. Concourse. Tuesday 26th assemble at Ramsey Court House, from 12pm, leaving at 1pm Road Run to Dennis Bunnings house in Maughold. Arriving about 2pm. Annual Awards EVF vouchers refreshments provided Thursday 28th assemble at Court House Ramsey from 9:30am, leaving at 10:30am. Start & Finish Ramsey 90 miles Parish Run around Island. Lunch provided at St. James’s Church Dalby. 12:30-2:30pm Back to Ramsey Court House about 4pm Entry form attached below
1925 ISDT Commemorative run 10th August

Manx-Rally-Entry-Form-2025-final

From Salisbury to Cheddar see attached flyer below
I have also attached the most recent diary of rides 2025 Calendar (updated July) - still plenty of sunny days and nights ahead with lots of spaces if you fancy putting your hand up to lead a ride???
That's all for this month guys and gals hope to see at least some of you either at club night or on one of the rides.
Cheers
Simon

ISDT Commerative Run

Hi all,

A very quick email to let you all know about a couple of new rides that have just been arranged and have only just been added to the diary.
RIDE One:
This Wednesday 18th June Paul Weston will lead an evening ride 18.30 for a prompt 19.00 departure from the car park behind the McDonalds at the Boreham Interchange what three words edgy.bumps.shows (post code CM2 5PS) The ride will be approx 32 miles (around 90 minutes) and will end at the White Harte in Margaretting Tye where hopefully food will be available (if not the Horse and Groom in Galleywood is nearby).
RIDE two:
Stuart and Julian Strauss will lead a ride on Wednesday 16th July 9.30 for a 10.00 departure starting at Sainsbury's South Woodham Ferrers the ride will be a magical mystery tour with a coffee break at around 11.00 and will end at Puddle dock cafe.
Great to see people stepping up to lead rides - please do your best to support them.
Up to date ride calendar is attached and there are plenty of spaces for others to step forward - just saying! 2025 Calendar (updated 15th June)
Cheers
Simon

Hi all,

June's update for you all - Starting off with what may well be George Smith's last ride with us before his emigration up to Norfolk. He led a jolly ride starting at Bill Cullen's workshop to admire all his wonderful four wheel and two wheel toys and finishing up in Goldhanger.
The Pride of Ownership night had a decent turnout for the ride in led by John Beckinsale. Ultimate winner, almost unanimously voted for, was Mark Gelsthorp's Flying Merkel. He built it a few years ago now and he told me it was based upon an old Harley 883 but with a solid rear end. In my view it really is a lovely looking machine, and despite the straight through pipes not really that noisy, although it does blow up loads of rubbish if you follow him along the road. His departure from the gravel in Writtle car park left a cloud of dust that I heard worried the emergency services!
20250514 Pride Ownership Night 0120250514 Pride night run 08












We also had the Distinguished Gentlemen's ride organised by our Chairmans daughter Mandy Gaymer with a few of our members supporting it. So far she has raised over £100,000 since starting her efforts for Prostate cancer research and men's mental health initiatives. A brilliant achievement.
Finally I led a ride through to Bures to meet up with the Ipswich and Suffolk VMCC group - a lovely ride through the countryside of Essex (even if I do say so myself) with a lunch and natter at the Eight Bells.

Group nights

June's club night 11th June 2025 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00
June's night will be our European club night when we invite all our members to bring along their European exotica. As long as its not raining expect to see a plethora of Italians from our resident Mafiosi replete with sharp suits and dark glasses, but I also expect to see a clutch of BMW's amongst others. Obviously Czech, French and Spanish machines are equally welcome. I have invited the Marquez brothers to bring their bikes if Dorna will allow it, but I don't hold out much hope - they're really too modern anyway. Last year I believe that we had nearly forty bikes so it would be great if we could beat that number this year.
July's meeting; Wednesday 9th July 2025 at the Bell Inn Woodham Ferrers CM3 8RG (what three words.iterative.tougher.recital) 19.45 for 20.00
We are looking at a couple of possibilities but nothing concrete yet - i'll let you know once something is firmed up.

Upcoming rides

Wednesday 4th June
Ride to be led by Steve Back and John Ruth meets at Tesco car park Great Notley (Braintree) just off the A131 9:30 for 10:00 start. What 3 Words - slurping.wonderfully.entitle
Coffee stop at the Old Butchers shop Cafe - Balsham by approx 11:00 (just above Linton in Cambridgeshire) Lunch at the George Cavendish approx 13:00. Leave no later than 14:30 Afternoon tea Greenstead Green cafe aprox 15:30. The ride should be about 70 miles (or less if you are Steve and your bike throws in the towel earlier!)
Wednesday 2nd July
Ride to be led by Dave Bradley Starting from Tesco’s Maldon 9.30 for a 10.00am departure.
He has two runs prepared, which one he uses will depend on the weather on the day.

ROUTE 1 Shotley Marina.

24 miles to Coffee at Beth Chato’s Gardens
24 miles to Lunch at Shotley Marina
29 miles to Afternoon Tea at Abberton Reservoir
14 miles back to finish at the MOP
93 miles total for the day.
ROUTE 2 Thaxted
26 miles to Coffee at Ongar Sports Club
27 miles to Lunch at the Swan Pub in Thaxted
25 miles to Afternoon Tea at The Saddlery at Ingatestone.
78 miles total for the day

Any other business

I've had a few more people come forward offering to lead rides which is really great to hear. For some reason the 4th June was really popular with three separate people asking to lead on that day. I've attached the most up to date version of the ride diary so take a look and pick a date.
There are currently a couple of dates free in June with no ride leaders, but if those don't work for you please just choose a day and time to suit you or indeed any other month.
Finally I have received a message from the centre and been asked to circulate to our section. Basically on another section's organised run, both last season and again at the start of this season, they have had an incident where a rider turning right was struck from behind by another rider taking part in the event. In both cases riders received injuries and machines were damaged.
I have been asked to remind riders, when following others, to allow sufficient space to be able to stop safely in the event of a rider ahead of them pulling up unexpectedly.
I am very pleased to say that's not something we have experienced thus far but useful to heed the warning nevertheless - "there but for the grace of god............ and all that"
That's all for this month guys and gals hope to see at least some of you either at club night or on one of the rides
Cheers
Simon
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