magazine of the citroën specials club

Transcription

MAGAZINE OF THE CITROËN SPECIALS CLUB
1
Editor
Callum Beveridge
47 Old Mill Lane, Inverness, Highland
IV2 3XP Tel: 01463 231787
Email: [email protected]
ADDRESS LABELS
Carole Chitty
MAILING
Peter and Margaret Cook
3
6
9
14
32
37
44
45
Chairman's Notes
Editorial
MemSec’s Report
Letters
Classified Ads
2009 AGM Minutes
Monthly Meetings
GenSec’s Report
7
8
23
28
31
33
34
41
46
North Wales & West Mids
Welsh Rarebits
Cotswold Chat
East Mids/Mid Shires
North Thames Gas
Not So Wild West
Scotland Frozen North
East Coasters
Down South Roundup
11
22
24
29
31
36
43
47
10,000 Foot Run
New 2CV Van
Exploring Normandy
Alton Classic Car Show
Slovakia 2010
Suspension Arm Bearings
Caux Retro
End to End in a Tin Can
CARTOONS
John Wheatley
Printed in England by:
Paul Hackett
The next ‘FLAT OUT’
GOES TO THE PRINTER
on 5th February 2010
The next Flat Out will be issued around March 1st
Please send articles by e-mail or typed.
CSC Homepage
www.citroenspecialsclub.org
Copyright
Neither the Editor nor the officers of the Citroen
Specials Club are necessarily in agreement with
opinions expressed in this magazine. Such opinions
are entirely the views of the author and imply no
recommendation by the Citroen Specials Club
All rights reserved. Apart from any fair dealings as
permitted under the terms of the Copyright Design
and Patents Act of 1988, no part of this magazine
may be reproduced in any form whatsoever without
the written permission of the Citroen Specials Club
2
Front Cover: Poster for last years Caux
Retro
CHAIRMANS NOTES
YOUR CLUB NEEDS YOU
As you all must know by now our
‘FLAT OUT’ editor Callum is standing
down at the next AGM, he has given
the club over a years notice about his
intention, and he will NOT be doing
the job after the AGM, so this could
be the penultimate Flat out magazine
you will receive.
We need to have a new editor in
magazine after the next AGM. We
place to take over from the AGM, so
that ‘flat out’ will continue with out a cannot let this happen !!
break.
“SO LADYS AND GENTS YOUR CLUB
NEEDS YOU”
This position of editor is one of the
most important in the club, as the
magazine is the main contact point
for all members with news of events,
area reports, features etc and has
grown over the years in to a magazine
the club should be very proud of. it is
important that it does not stop and it
continues to be a main source of
information for every one, as a lot of
members are not on-line this will be
the only way they can keep up to
date.
The position is open to any member
male or female, even joint members
may consider it a job they could do,
and no previous experience is
necessary. If you think you have what
it takes to be the editor why not give
it a try. You can contact myself,
Callum or any of the committee for a
chat about the job and what it
entails. If you are interested please
get in contact soon, as time is flying
by and we will not have a ‘flat out’
3
Every thing is in place to produce the
magazine, with all the necessary
computer equipment, software and
contacts for printing, posting etc.
You would not have to re-invent the
wheel. The committee and Callum
are prepared to help with all the
training, assistance and advice
needed to get the new editor up to
speed, so you would not be left on
your own.
I make no excuses this is a desperate
call for a member to step up to the
job
PS
while writing this the rain has been
lashing down again. Maybe some
boating articles could useful, fitting a
seagull outboard perhaps?
keep on revving
Steve
Officers
Chairman:
Steve Parrish
023 8089 2071
Secretary:
Dr John Fowler
01423 867410
Treasurer:
Alan Peacock
01727 862971
Carole Chitty
01252 620 128
Membership
Secretary:
16 Ivor Close, Holbury, Southampton, Hants
SO45 2NY
email: [email protected]
“Rivendell” Shortsill Lane Flaxby
Knaresborough, N Yorks HG5 0RT
e-mail [email protected]
Verazze, 61 Windmill Avenue, St Albans, Herts
AL4 9SJ e-mail: [email protected]
8 Forest End, Fleet, Hampshire,
GU52 7XE e-mail: [email protected]
Area Representatives
North Thames:
South East:
South:
South West:
Cotswolds:
South Wales:
North East:
Vic Braybrook
01277 622 331
Vacant
Carole & Peter Chitty
01252 620 128
Ron Bishop
01225 335777
Gordon & Allyson Burch
01594 562844
Vacant
Contact: Rob Raikes
01656 668 683
East Midlands:
Jim & Joy Barry
(Midshires Sub-Group) 01536 724 512
Richard Williams
01772 628470
Scotland:
Jennie White
01387 370 291
North Wales &
West Midlands:
Northern
Ireland
Philip Costin-Kelly
01384 567804
Raymond Lloyd
02892 587156
8 Forest End Courtmoor, Fleet,
Hampshire, GU52 7XE
2 Beresford Gardens, Landsdown
Lane, Weston Bath, Avon BA1 4NX
6 The Barracks, Parkend, Lydney
Glos. GL15 4HR
E-mail [email protected]
90 Heol Bardd, Bridgend,
Mid-Glamorgan CF31 4td
email: [email protected]
Vacant
North West:
11 Meade Road, Billericay, Essex
CM11 1DE
164 Polwell Lane, Barton
Seagrave, Kettering, Northants
NN15 6UB
316 Brindle Road, Bamber Bridge
Preston, Lancs. PR5 6ZL
E-mail [email protected]
Whitelaw Cottage,
Carlesgill, Westerkirk Langholm,
Dumfrieshire DG13 0NZ
42, Timbertree Road, Cradley Heath
West Midlands, B64 7LE.
19 Monaville Av, Lisburn, Co.Antrim,
Northern Ireland BT28 2DF
East Anglia:
Bob Hartley
01473 730 434
East Midlands:
David Field
(East Coast Sub-Group) 01522 753372
19 Grove Hill, Belstead Village,
Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3LP
Warren House, 24 Cherry Tree Lane
Nettleham, Lincoln, Lincs. LN2 2PR
North Wales:
The Oaks, Preston Gubbles Rd. Bomere
Heath, Nr Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY4 3LU
Contact: Bob Lloyd
01939 290216
4
Falcon Contact:
Joyce Taylor
01728 746 155
Specials Contact:
Richard Perfitt
01525 876 671
Pembleton Contact:
Dave Parr
01386 793042
Derek Smith
01753 868 537
Dicky Dawes
01373 461589
Technical Advisers:
Regalia Sales:
Ridge Cottage, Glevering
Hill, Wickham Market, Woodbridge,
Suffolk IP13 0DG
10 Monmouth Road, Harlington LU2
Dunstable, Beds.
e.mail:[email protected]
Oaktree Cottage, High St, Inkberrow
Worcs WR7 4DY.
4 Sherbourne Drive
Windsor, Berks SL4 4AE5
55 Pedlars grove, Frome,
Somerset BA11 2SX
e.mail: [email protected]
14 Spender Close, Exmouth, S Devon
EX8 4LP
Lynda Kiley
01395 263163
Handbook Technical info: Jim Barry
01536 724512
164 Polwell Lane, Barton Seagrave
Kettering Northants NN15 6UB
2010 Summer Holiday
at Abergele, North Wales.
Just a little update to let you all know things are progressing well on all fronts in
organising this year’s ‘Big Do’. You will have found the booking form in this
Magazine. Booking early will give you a better chance of the grade of caravan that
you want, the grades & costs etc are all in the Booking Form.
Being spread over 4 nights we hope to show you some of the splendour of the
Welsh country side with a little bit of flexibility in the program should the weather
turn bad on one day.
All types of camping are also catered for, with hook ups if required. If you want to
stop the weekend before or after, or stop the full week, that can be arranged as well.
But please note, the costs will be quite a bit more (we got our massive discounts
solely due booking the caravans Monday to Friday) and the Summer Holiday
events are only being held Monday to Friday.
Our Booking Co-ordinator, Terry Pearson, is waiting for YOUR completed
booking form.
Philip, Terry and Team.
5
EDITORIAL
Hello,
With all the wet weather that England’s
been getting, I feel a little embarrassed to
admit that I’m still using my car weekly in
the fine winter weather that we’ve had
here in the highlands. Makes up for our
summer I suppose!
In this issue you’ll find a write-up on the
excellent 10,000 ft Yorkshire Dales run
on page 5.
where we had great weather, good
company and stunning scenery. For those
On the home front, I’m in the midst of a
that missed it, you can find video and
Dyane restoration, improving my tin
photos online at:
bashing and welding skills. If anyone has
got some tips for welding 0.6 mm steel
http://10000ftcarrun.co.uk/
they’d be most appreciated!
There are also reports on the summers
Caux Retro run, Alton Classic Car Show
Some people still insist on sending me
and the second and final instalment of
hand-written articles for the magazine, and
Andrew Crathornes ‘End to End’ report.
whilst I have no objection to this, can you
please ensure that you pay the correct
John Plaister gives us sound advice on
how to tighten up your rear ends on page postage on all items sent this far North (I
36 and Deauville Cars Limited exclusively know who you are… :-)
unveil their new van conversion for 2010
on page 22.
You’ll also find enclosed details of next
springs AGM along with the minutes of
last years meeting and a nomination form
for this year. If you’ve never been to one
before, it’s definitely worth the experience
as this is the last one to be held in England
for a while! For the more adventurous,
there’s a scenic run-out on Saturday led by My stint as editor has almost come to an
end. If you fancy taking over, I’ll give you
a local expert! Hopefully, he won’t get
all the computer help you need. Don’t
lost this year!
wait too long though, you’ve only got until
Plans for the 2010 Summer Camp are well the end of March to learn the ropes…
advanced and a booking leaflet is included
in this issue. Further details can be found Callum
6
NORTH WALES—WEST MIDS
Hi everyone,
of the 2008 ‘Adrian Flux Trophy’ with his
much admired and respected “HJS”
special. New members, Ian & Sandra
Edwards, also visited Tong for the first
time in their wooden bodied special another
car that caused a lot of interest. This was
the last meeting in 2009 at Tong and I
could not have been more pleased with the
turn out and variety of cars attending.
Well its 2010. We hope you had a really
good Xmas & New Year. This Xmas we
had most of the family for Xmas day, so
different from last year when just the two
of us sat down to our Xmas meal, both of
us having had surgery only a few days
before.
A year later were both as fit fleas, and so I
hope are Section Members and indeed
Club Members who have had health
problems during this year. It’s amazing
what difference 12 months makes and how
quickly it goes. We really wish you all
good health for 2010.
Wed 18th Nov saw a smaller turn out at
The Bell at Belbroughton but much banter
and laughter made it a very good meeting.
Since my last scribble we have had only
meetings and meals, no runs. However,
Terry, Natalie and I went to a meeting in
Wales at Ty Mawr, the 2010 Summer
Holiday venue, to discuss the evening
meal requirements and attend to other
details.
I’m writing this just before our Xmas
Lunch at Cannock with 40 people booked
to attend - not bad you might think, but I
pose this question. Why are Club
Members (out of our Section) willing to
travel over a hundred miles each way to
come to a NW&WM event when local
Section Members don’t attend a really nice
do? Answers please on the back of a £10
note.
The Sunday 2nd of Oct meeting at Tong
had 12 members turning out including
Paul Smithers a new member at his first
“meeting”. Let’s hope we did not put him
off!
I have asked at our meeting for any new
ideas or new events for us to attend during
2010. I have had a couple of suggestions
but more would be welcome. Please get in
touch.
The 21st Oct Wednesday meeting went off Just to end, we wish you all a great 2010
well with 9 regular members turning out. with good health, and happy, trouble-free
driving.
It must have been a good meeting, it did
not end in tears.
Safe Driving,
Sunday 8th Nov saw 20 members and 6
cars at Tong, a Le Patron, a Manx, a
Philip & Natalie
Pembleton, 3 Specials and not one Lomax!
One of the members attending, making his
first visit, was Howard Smith, the winner
7
Diary 2010
If you see something you would like to come to please write it down now; the best place
would be on the window by the phone. A little bit of reglazing is a lot better than missing one
of the events.
2010
January Sunday 10th The Bell at Tong, noon, TF11 8PS
Wednesday 20th The Bell at Belbroughton, 8.00pm DY9 9XV
February Sunday 14th The Bell at Tong, noon, TF11 8PS
Wednesday 24th The Bell at Belbroughon, 8-00pm DY9 9XV
March
Friday 26th to Sunday 28th
The Club’s AGM at Morecambe.
June
Monday 21st to Friday 25th C.S.C Summer Holiday. at “Park Resorts “
The resort is at Ty Mawr, Towyn, Abergele, Conway, LL22 9HG.
The booking form is in this Magazine.
Welsh Rarebits
Just a few word's from the ' Land of Song ', to let everyone know that although the
'area' of the Principality known as South Wales, really does exist, albeit not very active
CSC wise.
Val and I are in touch with Pete and Val Miller, Phil. Whitmore (Whitmore Upholstery)
and occasionally I see John Hemming ( fellow member of the Dieppe Dash ) who has
sold his GSA-engined trike, but I'm afraid no member of the S.Wales section has been
in touch, sad really.
We are sorry to hear that Carole and Peter Chitty's Daewoo car had been shunted in the
rear on a motorway, but thankfully they were ok. Some of you may remember that I
was involved in a similar incident in 2003, when the 'idiot' behind wasn’t looking and
smashed into my Lambda, and he won.
Keep safe, thinking of you all.
Bob Raikes.
8
Membership Secretary's Report
With the New Year just starting and new
memberships coming in the club is looking
very good with nearly 500 current
memberships to date. Thank you to some of
the shamed and named from the last month’s
issue of the magazine. If you know any
members from that list please can you jog their
memory, as they will not receive the last two
magazines edited by Callum.
Which of course brings me on to a serious
worry!! What are we going to offer our
members in the way of a newsletter or
magazine next year?
PC followed by Tony Page, once again the club
stepped in and a bought him a computer which
was passed to the next incumbent, Brian Peters.
Over this time the pictures went from rather
black murkey images to jpeg images in black
and white. When Callum took over he brought
a lot of expertise to the role and both the
format and the images improved again along
I can hear some of you saying “Well we shall with the printing of the magazine, which has
also improved over the years to give us the
still meet up at the pub or shows – as we do
now, we will still have our little area camping excellent value magazine we have today.
What will happen in the future? Will there be
weekends”
further issues of the magazine? Only if
But what about those who live just that bit
someone comes forward to take over.
Whoever volunteers does not have to do better,
further out? This was not what the club was
formed for and we have had 21 years of a great just keep it going. A lot of the items come in be
email so they can copy and paste the articles.
association, don’t let it die, however slowly,
Callum is willing to help but he cannot carry
just because we have no Editor for the
on because of his other commitments.
magazine!!
The magazine is so important for issuing
news and events and not everyone is on the
Internet to access any on-line information.
Remember the people on the committee at
the moment are already working hard to
make this club the best club for you but
without a magazine this will it all be in vain.
The editors so far have taken the magazine
from strength to strength as technology has
advanced. We started of with 6 issues a
newsletter from Trevor Richens, then a
magazine from Phil and Andy Davison with
their Amstrad Computer. Five years later
things were looking up when the club
purchased a Starwriter for the new Editor, Tom
Lucas, this would produce a better quality
script and the occasional front cover photo.
Geoff and Sue Dean took over with their own
9
Its up to you!!
I have contacted Footman James about Bill
Watkins letter in the last Flat Out and a couple
of queries from other members. The new man
there is looking into the queries for me and I
will be able to give you an update in the next
magazine.
Happy New Year Citroen Specializing
Carole Chitty
Welcome to new members
Cotswolds
1858 Tim Rumney, Prestbury,
CHELTENHAM,
GloucestershireGreen Lomax
223 2CV6 Dolly
North East
1856 Andy Stafford, Balby,
DONCASTER. S.
YorkshireBurgundy Lomax
323 WFA 616S
N.Wales/W.Mids
1861 Allan Griffiths,
SUTTON WEAVER.
CheshireBlue Lomax 223
Q335 NCP
Scotland
1859 Tom Rae,
EDINBURGH. Scotland
Pembleton Supersports
South West
1860 Patrick & Janet Wilson,
Batheaston, BATH, Avon. No
special at present
1862 David Roberts,
LAUDER. Berwickshire BR
Green XGM 853X
1864 Mark Langlass & Karen
Roberts, Bere Heath,
WAREHAM, Dorset. Jasmine
Yellow Lomax 223 EKR 761T
“Jasmine”
South
1863 L J (Joe) Smith,
HAMPTON, MiddxBRGreen
Lomax 223 Q172 JOD
Caux Retro Cars
10
East Anglia
1857 Tony Inwood, Little
Massingham, KINGS LYNN,
NorfolkBlue Lomax 223
The 10,000 Feet Run
not available.
The thought kept crossing my mind, “I wonder
if we’ll see them on the way home? Nah, not a
chance, one coincidence is enough for one
day.”
Imagine our surprise when, between Kirby
Moorside and Helmsley the Grasshopper hove
into view again! As we passed I hallooed
“STOP!” and we came to rest in a convenient
lay-by. Much shaking of hands and kissing of
We arrived in Pickering and were moving
cheeks with our fellow Pembletonistes and
slowly in a queue to the traffic lights when a
after several “ Well really “ and “ I say”
familiar silhouette loomed in the middle
distance. As we inched towards each other, my expressions of surprise, the upshot was that the
suspicions were confirmed, a Pembleton was 10,000 feet rally was mentioned.
approaching! Who could it be? As we neared
each other I recognised the familiar sight of Jan Here endeth the long-winded preamble.
and Spike Stephenson in their Grasshopper.
We were both moving and could only shout a THE 10,000 FEET RALLY
greeting as we passed and then parted.
The 10,000 feet rally, organised by CSC
On to the coast at Sandsend for a stroll along
the front, the beach and a sandwich and coffee member Malcolm Hopwood took place on 26th
in the excellent Wit’s End Café. The rest of the September. Originally run by the Cycle
afternoon took in a small Gallery/studio and a Touring Club, it takes in eight major hills
which add up to a total of 10,000 feet climbed
quick shuftie at Runswick Bay before we set
and descended. Hard work on a bicycle.
off back towards home. I had tried to text
Spike with a view to making a rendez-vous for Having watched the weather forecast for a
week we were lucky to awaken to another
afternoon tea at the Forest & Vale hotel in
Pickering on our return trip but his phone was glorious sunny day.
On August 22nd Pam and I were out on a
spontaneous run to the seaside, having woken
up to a glorious sunny Saturday morning.
Pootling along on the road between Helmsley
and Pickering I was idly speculating on the
chances of meeting interesting vintage or
special cars and decided that the odds were
fairly well stacked against.
11
Dave and Nicki Parr had arrived the previous
evening with Silverfish in the trailer and were
under strict instructions to present themselves
for breakfast at 07.45 with a view to getting the
cars warmed up at 08.30.
Porridge and scrambled eggs consumed,
motoring coats, hats, gloves and goggles at the
ready, we hit the road at 09.00. The road to
Ingleton was not too busy and with the sun
behind us we made good time arriving in the
car park at 10.00. A good selection of
Lomaxes, Avions, Marlins, 2 Teal Bugattis, a
JZR, DRK, JBA, a Burton, a Marcos, a Grinall
Scorpion and a couple of ‘one-offs’ were
waiting and the arrival of Silverfish and the
Silver Surfer brought the Pembleton contingent
to 5. My apologies to any I’ve missed.
An unexpected face appeared in the crowd,
David Stevenson from Malbernat was there. He
was over from France and was staying with
Spike and Jan who had found a Lomax for him
to drive in the rally. Now that’s what I call
dedication!
After meeting friends old and new we set off
towards Hawes.
The road runs over spectacular moorland
countryside, passing the famous Ribblehead
viaduct on the Settle-Carlisle railway, A brief
stop in Gayle and then the long climb up to the
top of Langstrothdale Chase and down the
upper reaches of the Wharfe valley to
Kettlewell where we re-grouped.
We then headed north again through Littondale
with steep gradients and the eastern slopes of
12
Pen-y-ghent providing more spectacular
scenery. We encountered several groups of
cyclists and I wondered if any of them were
CTC members with the same goal as ours. I
note from their website that the Winged Wheel
logo indicating Cyclists Welcome (which often
used to be seen alongside “Teas with Hovis”
enamel signs) has been replaced by a more
‘appropriate’ modern graphic.
Sic transit gloria.
(Gloria was ill in the van)
Darren Howard had a pen thrust into his hand
just as he was setting off to drive home to
Worcestershire. This must increase the reserve
price for the eventual eBay auction.
Jenny, from Scotland’s Frozen North,
presented Malcolm with a bottle of single Malt
and bottle of wine as a token of thanks for an
excellent day’s entertainment.
The run was so relaxed and flexible that the
general consensus was that we should prevail
upon Malcolm to organise another for next
year.
The single track road led us to Helwith Bridge
where we had an excellent lunch in the pub
garden in full sunshine. There were 21 Citroen
and other specials in the car-park.
From there we drove towards Clapham Station
and on into the “Forest” of Bowland. This
turned out to be virtually treeless (being a
Yorkshireman I never did trust those shifty
Lancastrians!) but it provided another
spectacular drive through wild moors. We regrouped again at Stocks Reservoir in a
pleasantly shaded car-park where a couple of
other specials joined the party. One Lomax had
hit a rock with the
nearside front wheel
causing a “bleb” to appear
in the tyre. The wheel was
changed and I think that
this was the only hitch in
an otherwise perfect day.
The final stage was
through the Gisburn
Forest (where there were
some trees) and we ended
the run in the car-park in
Ribchester.
Here, Jan Stephenson
donned her Le Mans
‘Team Pembleton’
overalls and I think all
participants added their
autographs to her left leg!
13
We said our farewells and with the setting sun
behind us, set off back towards the A59. As we
passed Skipton we followed a green and black
vintage saloon which Dave recognised from
the number-plate as a 2 litre Crossley. We
overtook it on the way up Beamsley Hill
towards Blubberhouses, and finally got home
to Markington for 19.00h.
I think it would be fair to say that all the
Pembletonistes wish to pass on their thanks to
Malcolm for his efforts and would agree that
“A jolly good time was had by all”.
Duncan Grimmond
LETTERS...LETTERS...LETTERS...LETTERS...LETTERS...
Evidence for the Defence?
Your Honours
I have best asked to provide a character reference after
the unfortunate incident that happened in Inverewe
gardens in August.
It is true that whilst admiring the vista from the
terrace, an elderly lady, perched upon a mobility scooter
was observed by members of the CS club proceeding in
an orderly fashion. It is also true that a little later she
was seen picking up speed on a sharp decline, turning
and heading toward several steps.
A member of the party, who should remain anonymous, did indeed misinterpret this change
of direction as an attempt by the elderly lady to entertain the amassed crowd as a Evel
knievelesk stunt.
The cry of YEEHAAAW!!!! made by the person who’s anonymity I feel I must protect, was
merely an exuberant yell intended to encourage the stunt attempt.
I agree it was very regrettable that she, whilst looking up, in an attempt to wave to the vocal
audience member, may have misjudged the jump and landed in the herbaceous border.
It is also regrettable that rather than rush to the ladies aid, he crumpled to the floor, hiding his
laughter behind the conifers.
I was glad to hear that the only injury of the day was a stitch in my side, and an ear bashing by
Judy.
Please take into account Chris’s previously good character, slight grumpiness, inability to
change into the right gear, or keep up in traffic, when you decide on the sentence.
Lesley Asbridge
Stainless Steel Exhaust
Just had a stainless system custom made and fitted to my V6 Carlton Commando. Brilliant
service from:
Mr Clutch, Canterbury, Kent
Tel 01227 477002
Recommended!
Anthony Shelton Lomax Pilot (230)
14
123 ignition
I feel that I must add my bit on the subject of the 123 Ignition Unit. During the build of my
Lambda 3 ' Rarebit's', I decided to go 'electronic', as I had heard of the 2CV coil 'overheating'
and other problems with the Standard set-up.
Previously, I had used a Lumenition Opto. triggered system with their recomended coil, in the
build of my Buckland B3, which gave no trouble at all, brilliant, so I decided to get in touch
with the manufacturer, they said that they did an Opto system for the 2CV engine as well, job
done; or so I thought !
Initially, everything appeared ok, but once the engine got 'hot', say in traffic, it would cut-out,
and would not start until the coil had cooled.
I tried every combination of coil types, from standard car types to Fiat 500 ones, all to no avail.
I even connected them in 'series' and 'parallel' , used different ohmic values etc etc: then I heard
it could be a fuel problem, so I fitted a 'solid state' electric pump with a fuel pressure regulator,
still no cure.
A chance conversation with Bill Johnson of West Midlands about said problem resulted in him
mentioning a Belgium company that was making a completely ' encapsulated ' electronic unit
called the 123 Ignition, so Bill kindly got me one; the instructions were clear, and the unit easy
to install.
It really was a fantastic piece of kit, so much so, that in the end I removed all of the previously
mentioned items, the engine ending up completely 'standard' including the mechanical fuel
pump and 2CV coil which ALWAY'S remained cold, EUREKA.
Bob Raikes
Member # 651
NOJA NORTH SPAIN
Many of you will remember the trips to Noja in Spain organised so well by Alan and Carole
Peacock in 2002-03 (or there abouts). Well in September 2010 I intend to return along with any
interested others.
Those members who made the trips to Noja before will recall how well we enjoyed it, For those
who missed out you now have a chance to sample the delights of the Northern part of Spain.
As a general guide its format will follow closely to the original run, drive the little cars down to
Portsmouth, board the ferry to Bilbau which is promoted by P&O as a mini cruise, then a 40-45
mile drive along the very good coast road to the camp site at Noja.
As yet no programme of activity is proposed, this will be sorted by any others wishing to go
along on this trip. Should anyone be interested in joining me call by phone or e-mail, my details
are in the members book.
Terry Baldwin 1091j
15
Retirement
Well after 20 years of faithful service, I have
decided to retire the
little 2CV engine.
But what to replace it with? another 2CV,?
like most people I have
always wanted that little bit more extra
power......the motoguzzi
engine looks really nice in a lomax but I
always preferred a boxer engine, so I turned
my thoughts to a BMW. The exhaust pipes
of the air-cooled motor spoiled the
appearance so after some careful measuring
decided on the R850 oil head.
It is now up and running, and on the first 2 outings I am very pleased with it but will let you
know of further developments after the first couple of thousand miles.
If anyone else wishes to have a go, I have another BMW motor for sale - please see classified.
Ken Edwards
Members Handbook
I always knew the Members Handbook
would come in useful sometime, that’s why it
has always been carried in the Lomax.
The 25 mile journey to my MOT Testing
Station coincided with the first frost of the
year. As I hadn’t yet fitted the "Perspex"
muff to the grill , the carb developed terminal
icing. The solution - "adapt" the Members
Handbook to form a muff ! Result continued the journey with no further icing
and successfully obtained an MOT Pass !
Anonymous (1048J)
(Ed—thanks for that Terry. A Top Tip!)
16
123 ignition unit ~ 'FINALE'
It was very satisfying to see the 'LETTERS' defending the 123 ignition unit in the last edition
(127) of Flat Out, (responding to my criticism of it after such an extended period of problems).
They simply confirm my original observation that it is an excellent design, very well engineered
and finished. However, the fact remains, no matter how fastidiously the unit may be 'surgically'
implanted, a unit which has a fault remains faulty, and, with the variance of intermittent and
inexplicable problems I considerably extended my frustration by refusing to accept that such a
well made component could be suspect.
In contrast, the other reaction the article produced, was from a surprising number of equally
disillusioned users, having suffered the same disconcerting let down.
On the positive side, one such sufferer supplied me with the name, address and e-mail address
of "Albert " ~ with the comment that he and other owners of an ailing unit had had their unit
repaired by him following a couple of e-mails. ( I think it would not be correct for me to
forward anything more than his e-mail address which is ‘[email protected]’ )
I did likewise and, without delay, "Albert" asked me for my address, offering to supply a new
PC-board, which he did within a few days (No charge) ~ (such service really cannot be faulted).
At the time I forwarded my address, I took the opportunity to raise with him, the query "........I
think I already know the answer, but as I am in contact with you, I will ask anyway, - Is there
any practical test that can be applied to find if the unit is operating correctly ? (If there is it
could well avoid endless frustration)".
His handwritten reply to this was with the
replacement PCB -- " ? NO, I THINK NOT ! ". (Unfortunately )
A last word on the subject. ~ The replacement PCB is a very different item to the original,
incorporating ALL embedded miniature components, well complimenting the quality of this
unit.
John Cruse ( 1158 J )
Thank You
Many thanks to John Pindar for the use of his lomax 223 on the 10.000 footer. Wonderful
lomax, performed superbly and never missed a beat-one of the best I have driven.
We had never met him before but he was so helpful - a gentleman - and as I had not experienced
it, drove up to the pub on Tan Hill to meet him and his wife in 2cv for lunch on the Sunday
before returning his car
-so for the 2 Stev/ph/enson cars it was more than 10.000ft.
David Stevenson
17
A Riposte to Badger
Some of you will know that 'Badger' and I exchange online pleasantries about our respective
trikes.....following one of his recent outbursts (the old fella is gradually losing his ability to filter
twixt mind and mouth) I felt the need to respond in kind. I hope that you'll all appreciate this in
the spirit that it's meant and that it may raise a smile or two!
Oh Badger, Oh Badger, I'm really put out,
What I did to deserve this, when I have done nowt,
to deserve your lambasting and outward aggression,
and nasty comments 'bout my piston compression!
Just for the record, I'll have you know,
There's nowt wrong with my tricycles suck-squeeze-bang-blow!
Ok, the valves may occasionally tinkle,
but look at those chrome bits, see how they twinkle!
With bodywork shiny and enthusiastically buffed,
and when folks admire her, I'm royally chuffed!
Not the BRA, Badger, I meant my sweet wife!
You see for me fella, there's just more to life
Alas dear old chum this means the car sits in slumber
Instead of roaring along, sounding like thunder!
My annual mileage barely tips over a grand,
And yes my dear dad is always on hand
For without his help I won't win the battle,
Of convincing you sir that my tappets don't rattle!
So to settle this now and to save face,
I challenge thee Badger to a deux-cheveaux race!
While you've been working on pots that are larger,
We've cobbled together our own supercharger!
Peer underneath my bonnet loo-vers
And look at my pair of industrial hoovers!
Six-Fifty-Two? I care not how large,
It won't match my Dysons deliverin' the charge!
To think that you'll win is really absurd,
When my bagless-compressor hits 90 in third!
And knocking your confidence more out of kilter,
I've kept the onboard anti-allergen filter!
You see I know that your engines smokes,
So this keeps the nasties from my Solex chokes!
And to show you that cheating does sometimes pay,
I'll let you in on my Dick Dastardly way,
I'm gonna loosen those spangly spinners,
To make sure my TwinVortex Turbos are winners!
Keep 'em Growlin' mate!
Neil Haslam (1067J)
18
Tech - Torque
Lomax 224 Rear Wing Brackets Stay Failures: Over the years, my 224 has had several
rear wing problems, two stay fractures and a wing to stay separation. As I built the car
in 1998-2000, I had the newer type of much lighter bracketry. In addition, rather than
being bolted onto the bracket, the fibre-glass wings are bonded onto the brackets using
a hi-grab adhesive - no visible attachment bolts. The problem is, should you need to
remove the wing from the bracket, you run a very real risk of damaging the wing, as I
once found to my cost. So, to repair fractured brackets, it is best to leave the wing
attached which makes life rather difficult when welding.
So, to cut the story short, I decided, as many 224 owners have done before me, to
transfer the rear wings from the rear suspension arms to the body. The obvious down
side to that though is, a much larger gap must be left between the tyre and the wing to
allow for suspension travel. So, aesthetically, the arrangement does not look as neat - in
my opinion. Still, fed up as I was with bracket failures which clearly were as a result of
vibration though the suspension arms, I decided that it had to be done. So, how did I do
it?
Keith Bradshaw very kindly welded triangular strengthening plates to both brackets and
the axle mounts were then cut off. After loading the suspension with two volunteers
sitting on the car, the wings were offered up to the body and holes marked on the rear
of the body. Holes were then drilled in the body just above the boot floor line to accept
threaded rods which go through the body of the car and attach to brackets bolted to the
floor of the boot. These threaded rods have also afforded me a degree of adjustment to
get the positioning of the wing relative to the tyre exactly right before locking the nuts.
The threaded rods are concealed inside aluminium tubing, painted to match the car.
So, thank you to Keith for the initial welding work and to the invaluable help from Pete
Herbert who providing moral support, technical expertise, and another pair of hands
bearing in mind that at times you are working underneath the car, inside the tail and on
the outside of the car all at the same time.
Lomax Supplied Headlight Mounting Bracket Failure: Lastly, for those of you who did
not se my warning on the CSC Web Forum in November, a rather disturbing tale from
East Coaster Paul Turner. It seems that during some routine work on his engine, Paul
noticed that one of his Headlamps was at a rather peculiar angle. On closer inspection,
he discovered that the flat plate welded to the top of the headlamp bracket which holds
the headlight, was cracked to within 3/16" of a total failure right through. In other
words, the only thing which would have held the headlight on would have been the
wiring loom which, during a fast motorway run, could have been a disaster. Not only
that, but the other headlight bracket was in a similar state.
19
Interestingly, this car has not been on the road for that long and was the car which
passed the MSVA first time as reported in Flat Out. The offending piece of sheet steel
is very thin and obviously subject to vibration with the relatively heavy headlight
hanging on it. Strangely, further down the tube, the bracket for mounting the plastic
indicator, is three times thicker and supports a much lighter indicator, usually made of
plastic.
So, I urge all Lomax downers with Lomax supplied headlight brackets to remove both
headlights and check the top bracket for signs of stress fracture. Beefing the bracket up
is fairly straightforward and very much worthwhile in my opinion.
David Field
Congestion Charge
I was very interested to read Bill Watkins letters in the
November newsletter with reagrd to the Dartford Tunnel
toll charges because at a recent club pub meet, a question
pertinent to us owners of three-wheeled vehicles came up
for discussion.
Do vehicles, such as ours, have to pay the London
Congestion charge?
I understand that motorcycles are exempt from this charge,
but does this apply to motor cycle combinations?
If I remember correctly, when the Citroen Specials AGM
was held in South Wales, the Severn Bridge authorities
agreed to waive the toll charge for our three-wheelers.
Perhaps somebody out there understands the differences that
are applied and could also let us know how the London Congestion Charge affects our
three-wheeled behicles
Dennis Page (1590)
20
Wooden Specials
Attached are two pictures of my recent projects. The first is a long-term build that doesn't really
mesh with the Specials philosophy, but then, I don't know if it fits into any convenient category.
Closest perhaps to a traditional US hot-rod since it entertains a large V8, but the wooden body is
based on 1960's European design elements.
The second is much closer to what I once began and was forced to abandon when I returned to
the US from Sweden more than a decade ago - that is, much closer to the light weight, relatively
'simple' and decidedly retro design of many 2CV specials. In this case very like a Lotus 7, but
with a body/frame constructed entirely of wood.
The picture was taken today and shows the lower half of the body/frame tub after I have
sheathed the outer surface with fibreglass and epoxy. The motor mounts are finished and the
old MG engine will be
inserted next for
measurements to complete
the cowl / dash / footwells
etc. The bonnet will be strip
planked in birch, with the
fenders of vacuum laminated
maple.
I've spent a bit of time
browsing the Picasa albums
you've put up on the web - it
looks like you've been
having fun!
Best regards,
Ken Ryan, USA
21
New 2CV Van Conversion
I attach a sneak preview in to next years van
conversion. Available from Jan 2010.
Basically you remove the 2cv hood and boot
lid and rear outer wings and rear doors. Then
remove the 2 rear lights.
Take the new fibreglass complete van rear
section and place over the car.
Bolt in to B post and replace rear light. Before
placing rear doors on remove excess metal
parts back to bar behind drivers head and
strengthen up inside with box section over
drivers head and foam up around sections at
rear.
Spray rear section same as front to match. Van
back can be fitted in under a couple of hours,
but finishing the inside takes a lot longer but it
is a simple van conversion.
As you can see we did not go down the route
of making a standard van but what we
envisaged that in our design, what an old 2cv
van would have looked like if Citroen would
have made.
The roof line compliments the 2cv bonnet to
give it a more authentic look. The maroon one
has recently been delivered to a customer and
he is well pleased.
Mike Richards, Deauville Cars
22
Cotswold Chat
Christmas is now over and we hope you enjoyed the festivities and are now enjoying a
good start to the new year.
Having heard that some parts (probably most) of the country have had some rain every
day for 50 days we expect that most of our cars are now, like FiFi, tucked up warm in
the garage. The numbers for the December meeting were somewhat depleted as the
North Wales/West Mids had their Xmas lunch on the same day but Phil Gilman and
Terry Tomlin both braved the weather and turned up in their specials – rather them than
us.
The annual lunch is arranged for February 7th 2010 by which time we will all have
recovered from the excesses of Christmas and the New Year and be ready to start
again. Contact us for menu details if you are interested.
Let’s hope that this year brings a bit more sun so that we can all get the cars out and
have fun.
Gordon & Allyson Burch (Membership No. 1462J)
Lay off our Badger
Now listen young Hazzer what’s all this about?
Over the noise of your engine you know we must shout
In order to be heard by the rest of the crew
When we hear the tappets rattling we’re all sure that it’s you.
With your Twin vortex turbos and anti allergen filter
You’ve knocked poor old Badger quite out of kilter
He’s scheming away to make FiFi go faster
And one thing’s for sure – you’ll never get past her.
Now Badger’s not young in fact he’s quite old
But the thing to remember is he’s really quite bold.
Alas ‘cause of you he’s in a terrible state
He’s up in the garage working until quite late.
He’s sent off to Hoover, Electrolux too
For their compressors will go with Parish’s FooFoo
And if that’s not enough to get your toes curlin’
He’s now grafted in a second hand Merlin.
The speed is quite scary with the aerodynamics
Much slicker than anything you’ve seen in your comics
So watch out young man if he’s ever your way
You’ll soon find out - cheating just doesn’t pay.
23
Exploring Normandy
July 2009
Brian Lofty had been taken ill on the
Friday of Caux Retro weekend and admitted to hospital. I am pleased to
report he is now much better, Evelyn
was looked after so well it was amazing, she was offered a free hire car by
a local garage so that she could visit
Brian and park easier. . In fact we
found all the people of Allouville very
friendly as usual and had many a few
enjoyable hours were spent at the
Poussardes and the Vieux Normandie.
stay on with us after the Caux Retro
event to ‘Explore Normandy’, Keith
and Josie Macdonald, Peter and Val
Miller and Peter and Della Harris, and
with the help of club member Ian
Avery (JZR owner and CSC member)
and Renaud (Grinnell Scorpion owner)
who shared a room for the night, Michel, our host for the event weekend,
managed find rooms for us all in his
Chambre d’hote, Excellent. We love
visiting there and have already booked
to next year with Michel.
As nearly everyone else had gone
home, Chris Day, Don Eden and
Lynda Kiley decided to stay on so that
Evelyn would not be on her own in the
Stadium. She collected Brian from
hospital on Tuesday and after a couple of days to recover they set off and
had a reasonable trip home. Luckily
Brian’s illness had been an infection,
which was easily treated with antibiotics.
On the Saturday run out
(Ballade) round the Cantons,
Ian Lowther’s Lomax 223 had
a problem and no sooner had
he mentioned it than a local
villager was there to repair it
at no cost.
Sunday saw us all lined up
along the roadside for the
Classic Car Show in shich Don
won the Mayors Cup in his
Pembleton, Rocket.
Three couples had decided to
24
their natural settings.
We then spent some more time at
Cauxville en Caux by the river and it
was here that someone ran into
Our meal in a restaurant in Cauxville
en Caux was less pleasant as we had
left it very late to eat and could only
find seating outside for our large
group, we did not eat until
10ish and by then it was getting rather chilly.
We said goodbye to Peter
and Della Harris who were
spending a few days to
travel back to their ferry and
home also to Chris and then
Don and Lynda, unfortunately we did not see a message from Don and Linda to
say they had broken down
but they managed to get it
sorted and arrived home
safely
Keith’s Hoffman, they had left a note
with an address on the windscreen.
Keith managed to bang out the dents
in the wing and it was all sorted when
we visited the old lady responsible,
who was obviously very upset about
the accident. Thankfully all amicably
sorted.
Honfleur was very busy but just as
quaint and beautiful town as ever.
Getting out of the car park was an adventure as we did not realise there
was a pay station to visit first, just
hope they did not have CCTV to see us
ducking under the barrier, or there
will be a knock on the door one day.
Keith and Josie in their HoffmanTravelling along the river and using the
free bacs to take us across, we drove
bought one. He drove it to his recent
to Pont dAudemer, a lovely town we
wedding and it takes pride of place at
had come through on our trip to HonCaux Retro. The museum has a lot of
fleur a few days before. We found a
dioramas using stuffed animals in
lovely quiet spot in the market place
We visited the Nature Museum in Allouville, run by Jean-Pierre Jacque
who was so enamoured by the Lomaxes last year that with our help and
the help of David Stevenson promptly
25
and sat down for a meal. A few minutes later there was a dreadful din of
honking horns as a wedding party
came through and later when they
came back to the church, the pealing
of bells deafened us. Ahh, the joys of
a peaceful French way of life.
We moved on then to the South of
Normandy where we stayed in a gite
near Lovelot ready for the next car
show at La Renuard on the Sunday.
We again travelled about – visiting the
Pegasus Bridge, which now has a new
Museum with a full size replica of the
Horsa Glider, and the old Pegasus Bailey Bridge in the grounds. The exhibits were well displayed and very interesting. We had a snack in the Godet
Café where we were served by Madame Godet the daughter of the wartime owners who hid three parachutists and kept them safe from the Germans over the days of ‘A bridge to
far’.
fields. It started with sheet lightening
in the clouds and by the time the rain
came we could not see the end of the
garden for the curtain of cloud and
rain.
Twenty minutes later it was all over
and the haze lifted to show a beautifully harvested field full of huge round
sheaves.
On Saturday we visited famous Harass
du Pin, the home of the French National Stud. We cheekily joined the
end of a guided tour and were able to
see the Percheron horses very close
up. These beautiful horses are the
largest heavy horses in the world.
Our trip from there through the Swiss
Normandie was miserable as it started
to rain as we were going through one
of the little villages so we could not
see very much, a stop off at a restaurant by a lake to warm up and we
were off back to the gite and an evening of Spanish Dancing in Lovelot.
But again disappointment as the enOn Thursday evening we had a terrific
tertainment was just finishing. We
thunderstorm and the local farmer,
went for a meal at the local pizzeria
having been warned of the impending
where one of us actually ate a pizza
storm had spent the day harvesting his
26
sorts of ‘Old Timers’ of motoring and
farming in all the fields. Dicky Dawes
was awarded a prize for his Somerset
car ‘Sprocket’.
without cheese!
We did manage to see the Bastille
celebration fireworks on the way
home.
The ‘Car Boot’ had some unusual
items for sale. I WAS NOT tempted,
but we did buy some of the local produce, which of course, included the
local Camembert.
The local commune of La Renuard is
the village where friends of Gary and
Becky Shearing, Jan Hallwood and her
husband live, the villagers organise
the Fete and Car show in the village
every year and here we joined up with
Gary and Becky, Dicky and Pat Dawes,
Ron and Janet Bishop and newly reAll in all a very enjoyable trip.
joined members David and Jane
Magee. David Overton was camping at Carole and Peter Chitty
Vimoutier and came with our crowd
on Sunday. They weather had turned
out fine and we assembled with all
27
EAST MIDLANDS (MID SHIRES) REPORT
By the time you read this, Christmas will
be over and dusted. Our first date of the
year will be to join the East Coasters for
their New Year Lunch at Woodhall Spa,
Lincolnshire on the 10th January. Jean &
Terry Baldwin, Lynda & David Brownlie,
Phil & Sheila Ryan and Alan West enjoyed
their Christmas Lunch with the West
Midlands on December 6th. It’s lovely
seeing Terry getting out and about again.
We are already looking forward to
organizing some shows for next year.
The main project on the agenda at the
present time, for us, is the 3rd Stilton
Cheese Run scheduled to take place on
the 26th April 2010 (Drive it Day). Already,
we have had 27 cars entered with a
contingent from the Pembleton Team of
the Le Mans 24 Hours fame showing a
keen interest. So far, we have a good
selection of Kit Cars already taking part
including a number of entries from the
CSC, in what is now becoming, the Spring
Event of the Year. We have enclosed
details of the event again and look forward
to receiving entries from many of you.
With plenty of Bed and Breakfast/ camping
facilities available in the area, why not
make this the next most important event of
the Spring next to the AGM. Proceeds go
the Air Ambulance to help towards their
spiraling costs.
Another big story in the news today (7th
December, yes we are not the only ones to
get a chivvying from Callum) was the news
that The Grand Prix was to stay at
Silverstone, and in Northamptonshire, the
home of British racing. Some years ago,
when we held the Summer Gathering in
Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, the
question was asked, what has
Northamptonshire got to offer, except a
motorway going through it. Well, if you are
able to come on the Stilton Cheese Run,
you will find out.
Another event still in its early planning is
the trip to Norway. Costs for the ferry are
approximately £800 if we are to choose the
DFDS route to Oslo. At this moment in
time, an alternative is being investigated
from Hirtshalls or Frederikshavn in
Denmark to Larvik in Norway Unfortunately
this route arrives about 02.30 a.m, which
makes accommodation difficult. . It’s a
shame that the Newcastle – Stavanger
route doesn’t operate anymore. The timing
of the trip will be late June to mid July and
the overall cost is £2k estimate. Luckily,
we do have contacts in the Porsgrunn
area. It certainly helps to have contacts in
the country you envisage visiting.
It only leaves Joy and myself to say that
we hope you enjoyed a Happy Christmas
When we first started planning this event 4 and Hogmanay and look forward to seeing
years ago and were deciding what charity you at the AGM or some event in 2010.
to sponsor, Air Ambulance was chosen,
mainly for their part in helping Bob Raikes Don’t forget we meet up at 4th Sunday
get to a hospital as quickly as possible
of the Month – Meeting at 12 p.m. at the
after his near fatal accident. He was on his Gliding Centre, Sibertoft Airfield
way to a Summer Camp at the time and he (between Husbands Bosworth and
would not have survived the road journey Welford on the A5199)
otherwise, so we would like as many
people as possible join us to improve on
Please contact Jim Barry on 01536
our £500 donated in 2009. Web site:
724512 to confirm attendance.
http://stiltoncheeserun.webs.com
Jim and Joy Barry
28
Alton Classic Car Show
26th September 2009
Stalls in the High Street were selling
farm produce and the normal stores
were all very busy. There was a lovely
party atmosphere. Lots of hydraulic
lunches were consumed – even some
by exhibitors! After lunch the judging
panel checked us all out for the prize
giving presentations later.
Bedside alarms roused many
exhibitors to a crisp, clear, sunny
morning for the Alton Classic car
show. Owners of some 50 (mainly
English) cars assembled for a 0830
breakfast at a country pub. After
which we all set off for a 23 mile
drive through rural lanes to finish in
this busy North Hampshire market
town.
Prizes were awarded for a number of
categories:
•
•
•
•
The convoy was quickly fragmented
by the normal Saturday morning
traffic at the intersections, some
drivers turned left or right down
incorrect routes and others often
followed. At one stage we saw a
string of cars coming towards us in
the opposite direction!
•
Best Motorcycle – a beautifully
presented 1968 BSA Bantam
Sport
Best American car – 1928
Plymouth Fury (winner last
year)
Most interesting – A Military
truck –
1934 Bedford Q-R
Radio Shack
Best Turned Out – 1951 Ford V8
Pilot ( ex Blackpool Police Car)
Best in Show – A 1930 Austin
Seven Box Saloon.
The Four members of the club who
brought their cars all voted the day a
great success. Jack Semple showed
his recently acquired wooden bodied
4Wheeler. Richard Holt created much
All appeared to find their way to
Alton around 1030 where the bigger
cars (many American and some
Military trucks) had already
assembled.
The sun shone and the jazz band
played as we all wandered round
talking to owners about their cars and
answering questions about ours.
29
interest with his home built military
look-alike RFH special.
The organisation was good and the
event again was free, so we are all
going back again next year. Why not
join us! Keep the end of September
free for this.
Carol and Peter Chitty came in their
John Robson 1800J
cream Super Tourer Lomax, Peter
looking like a Russian Commissar in
the early morning chill and Pam and I
took Custard Muscles, our Lomax
tricycle. One member had suffered a
broken chassis a couple of days
earlier and unfortunately couldn’t get
it welded in time.
This year’s event was the biggest yet
with over 180 cars (including just a
handful of motorcycles).
30
North Thames Gas
5th. Entry forms are available on www.
thedockyard.co.uk. (send them in as soon
as possible). The other event is the
Chiltern Hills Vintage Vehicle Rally on
Sunday 16th May 2010 at Woodlands
Farm, Aston Clinton, Bucks. Entry forms
are available on www.chilternhillsrally.
org.uk. In the past Jim Maude has arranged
for us to join his other Club's stand.
Unfortunately, this is not possible anymore
I have had notification of two events for
this year. The Medway Festival of Steam and we have to book our own Club area
(depends on number entering) or go in
and Transport at the Historic Dockyard,
Chatham, Kent, is on the 4th and 5th April, with the general entries.
2010. We go on Sunday 4th because the
Crossing may be more congested on the
Vic and Denise
A Happy and Prosperous New Year to
everybody, and let's hope all our events are
sunny ones! Not much happeneing this
time of the year. The only activities in our
area are the first Sunday of the month
lunches, to keep in touch. These are still
well attended, but please note the the last
one is in April.
Slovakia - Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd May 2010
At the Caux Retro event in July 2009 the group from Slovakia invited everyone to a Car Show in Slovakia on a similar basis to the Caux Retro event. As
you can see I now have the proposed dates and am trying to put together
some more information. Our friends from Allouville Bellefosse will be going
and also some JZR Pilots and Grinnell Scorpion owners from England. Our
English speaking contact in France is now unable to go and I have agreed to
see what I can do. Peter and I are NOT going so we really need someone,
who would like to go, to be a contact and if not organise at least to liase with
others.
I am desperately searching for a business card that I had from one of the
group last year who would have been willing to help with anyone going to the
World Meeting of 2CV Friends in the Czech Republic (I never throw anything
away – until this year of course, so I am keeping fingers crossed it will turn
up!!)
I have opened a list of names so if you are interested please contact me and I
will get in touch with the organiser.
Carole Chitty
31
Classified Ads
For Sale
Pembleton Supersport. 2006. 76300 miles. £3450
ono. Citroen 602cc 2CV based three wheel car.
Correctly registered. Engineer built. Well
maintained. Garaged. Used regularly. MOT August
2010. Tax May 2010. Would advise a viewing to
appreciate the pros and cons. Genuine reason for
very reluctant
sale.
I thought I had
sold the car to a
friend. However, due to changes in his personal circumstances
he is no longer in a position to buy the car.
I am only selling it (and at least two others of my collection)
because I will no longer have the time to get the most out of
enjoying the car (purchasing a holiday home in Cornwall).
Regards
David Searle
(07979461287)
For Sale
BMW R850 eight valve oil head, only
3,800 miles, price £650.
Tel Ken on 01278 444270
For Sale
A pair of new 15" Wheel Rim Embellishers (ECAS Part No. 21600)
£20 (plus p&p).
Contact Dennis Page on 01502 713498 (Suffolk)
32
Not So Wild West
Now that the days are getting shorter, activities prepared Lomax so that they can continue their
and outings are few and far between and more travels abroad.
time is spent in the garage "fiddling"!
Leo and Vanessa are arranging the January
However, on Friday 2nd October my youngest lunch on Sunday 3rd and hope that many of
you will join us to celebrate and welcome the
son arranged another day out at the Castle
New Year.
Combe racetrack through a website called
"Turbosport". The weather was not too bad ,
February's meeting will, hopefully, be arranged
dry but rather chilly , we all had a very
by "Yours Truly" at the HARE & HOUNDS in
enjoyable day and despite most of the cars
Lansdown Road where we will also discuss
attending being hotted-up Fords my little
plans for the forthcoming season.
Lomax did attract some positive attention.
The following weekend a few of us gathered at
Babbacombe for a relaxed, enjoyable break and Bryan and Yvonne have kindly and very
courageously volunteered to host the March
to celebrate the end of another season. Once
again many thanks to Carol for organising it on lunch which will be held somewhere near their
Highbridge home.
our behalf.
Suddenly Winter was upon us...and who forgot
to put his clocks back ? Silly old b.......
Not a lot else has happened but on 1st
November we had the first of our regular
winter Sunday lunches at the Oliver Cromwell,
near Bromham and a delightful after dinner
gathering at Pete and Julie Taylor's home in
Devizes. We were thrilled to be joined by new
members Bryan and Yvonne Giles who braved
the elements in their beautiful little yellow four
wheeled Berkeley which is now powered by
our trusty friend the 602cc. Brian and his wife
are very pleased with the conversion which
now gives it really good performance and
makes it a very useable every day car. I should
also like to welcome Patrick and Janet Wilson
who, although both long term motorcyclists,
are now searching for a reliable and nicely
Please do your best to support events and trips
that are arranged - they are for your benefitand a good attendance is really gratifying and
makes all the effort worthwhile- plus it's
always great to see old friends. See you all
soon , meanwhile , warmest regards Ron
Ron Bishop (Member No. 847)
Monthly Meetings
January ……………….
Leo & Vanessa Smith
February ( SW.Area Planning Meeting )
Ron & Janet Bishop
March ……A volunteer is still required .. Please
Look forward to seeing many of you soon , meanwhile , keep smiling !
33
Scotland Frozen North
By the time you read this, Christmas
will have come and gone, but
hopefully the thirty members who
came to our Christmas weekend will
still have some good memories! Craig
and Lesley arrived early on Saturday
morning and worked non-stop, helping
get things ready, until we went down
to the meet everyone at the Douglas
Arms. Many thanks to you both!
and she never stopped smiling! She
was accompanied by sisters Elizabeth
& Naomi along with Mum & Dad.
A very good and protracted meal,
with non-stop talk on all of the
tables. Then we were visited by
Santa Claus preceded by a bell ringing
Albert. Presents for everyone with
the help of Elf Judy, in a music
playing hat, with lots of Ho, Ho, Ho’s!
For four couples, this was their first S.
F.N event. We welcomed new
members Tom & Vicki Rae from
Edinburgh and Graham & Eileen
Edmonds from Newton Stewart. Also
meeting us for the first time were Ed
& Sandy Elliot from Newton Stewart
and ex-Cotswold members John &
Margaret Plaister, from Kendal.
However, the start arrival was
Beatrice Morgan, four and a half
months old, dressed in a Santa outfit,
It was a unique sight to see the oldest
S.F.N. member presenting a present
to the youngest, both in Santa Claus
outfits. When Chris re-appeared, he
found that Santa had left a big
snowman for him with flashing lights.
Look forward to seeing it in the Rigby
garden along with the gnomes and
hedgehogs etc.
Elf Judy had a pottery Santa riding a
polar bear – Santa must have noticed
the polar bear which usually rides
around in the Red Baron.
Nearly everyone then went back to
Carlesgill. No snow and ice this year,
but lots of rain and mud. All the
usual crowd were there, most having
travelled long distances in Scotland
and England. However, it was pretty
amazing to have Catherine &
Raymond with us coming from
Armadale. For those who don’t know
their Scottish Geography, Armadale is
on the North coast of Scotland, so this
was quite a journey.
A good evening followed with nonstop ‘craic’, more food and some
liquid sustenance. Magic from Ian,
34
kept us well amused, even when he
explains things, you still can’t see
what he has done. Later in the
evening, Iain MacRobert showed us he
can still keep money in an upturned
glass – very strange!
Late in the evening, some departed
home, others to B&B’s or
Hotels and some staying on
at Carlesgill.
More clearing up in the
morning, followed by Chris
& Judy, Blue John and
Catherine & Raymond going
on a fairly long walk with
Merlin, Chessy and me.
Rainbows, wind, rain and
hail resulted in some rather
wet trousers, When on
return, these were
exchanged for pyjamas and bath
towels, this was a sight to be seen!
After some drying out, down to
Langholm again for lunch, where we
met up with Lesley –Craig was away
enjoying himself in the mud and
water on a trials run. Judy looked
rather fetching in her smart grey top,
teamed up with my un-smart trainer
bottoms!
So that’s another Christmas weekend
over, Next event is Tan Hill – you
know you want to join us, going up
over 2000 ft in snowy, freezing
weather!
We managed to get an outline
programme sorted for next year.
We’ve filled in the months, but
haven’t got the actual dates for most
events. You’ll find this below.
Jennie
Events for 2010
Jan 10th
Mar 26th-28th
May (late)
June 21st-25th
July 10th-11th
July (Late)
Sept 17th-19th
Sept (Late)
Oct
Raid Tan Hill. Organised by les Hiboux, Leeds 2CV Group. Contact
Jennie. Tan Hill 01833 628246. Bunk House accommodation – ring
direct.
AGM in Morecambe
“Reivers Raid” (Iain & Janet)
Summer camp
Glamis Castle Motoring extravaganza
Highland Soiree (Callum)
Selkirk Rally
Lakes Run Part III (Craig & Lesley)
Dales Run Malcolm (North West)
35
Suspension Arm Bearings
When I stripped down the rear suspension on
“Firebird” to fit the parts for coupling both
spring/damper sets to the single rear wheel, I
found that there was no split pin holding the
castellated nut, which was loose and battered.
extension.
Looking at the Lomax build manual, you will
see that on Page3 the instruction to:“Tap the castellated nut ----- using a drift”
Please don’t do this as you will gradually
destroy the nut and you have no control of the
tightening torque.
A suitable spanner can be bought from almost Use your castellated spanner together with a
any of the specialist suppliers or you can make torque wrench to tighten the nut to 35-40lb.ft.
(4-4.5Nm.) then back off the nut until the first
one.
available split pin hole lines up and fit a
suitable split pin.
The manual then goes on to state:“ --- tighten up the large collar (for this read
castellated nut) and then slacken off by about
¼ of a turn.”
This will ensure that the loads are carried by
the whole bearing assembly and not just a
very small part of it. Should give better
handling too.
NO! NO! NO!
This will leave
excessive play in
the taper roller
bearings which
will soon lead to
bearing failure as
shown.
GOODBYE TO NASTY NOISES FROM
YOUR BACK END!
The rear wheel of a 223 does what two wheels
did in the donor car, it also generates a greater
offset load on the bearings from the arm
36
Sorry for preaching to the converted but some
obviously believe the Lomax manual to be a
gospel.
John and Margaret Plaister (301)
CITROEN SPECIALS CLUB
MINUTES OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
MORECAMBE, 29 MARCH 2009
accepted as a true record of its
proceedings without further
amendment.
Committee Present: Chairman:
Steve Parrish, Vice Chairman: Alan
Peacock, Treasurer: Peter Chitty,
General Secretary: Dr John Fowler,
Membership Secretary: Carole Chitty,
“Flat Out” Editor: Callum Beveridge,
Regalia Rep: Lynda Kiley, Area Reps
listed at Item 10 below.
1. Welcome Opening proceedings
at 1030hrs, Steve welcomed a record
attendance of 100+ members to the
Club’s 20th AGM and hoped all were
enjoying their stay on Morecombe
Seafront. He then asked for a
minute’s silence for Ron Huston and
John Harman who died in the past year.
Jennie White read out a letter from
Alice Huston thanking the Club for our
participation in Ron’s funeral.
2. Apologies for Absence Apologies
had been received from Bob, Sylia and
Sally, Dicky and Pat Dawes, and from
David and Shirley Tyne. Steve noted
that Dave and Linda Brownlee had
been delayed in France, while nothing
had been heard of late from Bob Raikes
or from Pete and Bonnie Carbutt.
3. Examination and Acceptance of
the March 2008 AGM Minutes
Copies of the last AGM minutes were
included in the last “Flat Out” and
available at the meeting. They were
37
4. Chairman’s Report. Steve
noted this was his first AGM after a
year in office. Nevertheless, there is
little doubt that Club is in excellent
health; as shown by record membership
numbers and last year’s quite
superlative 20th Anniversary Rally in
Belgium. Steve then proposed a vote
of thanks to Alan Peacock for his
efforts over 4 years as the Club’s last
Chairman, for definitely raising our
profile abroad and for his ongoing
assistance as Vice Chairman in recent
months. Steve also thanked Alan and
Carole as well as Bill and Mary
Johnson for their superb organisation
and leadership of the Belgium Rally.
Although noting that many of last
year’s events had been spoilt by bad
weather; Steve thanked all Area
Representatives for their constant
efforts, without which the Club would
be much diminished. Steve then
congratulated Callum for the excellent
content and extra colour in recent “Flat
Outs”. Finally, Steve thanked Brian
and Heather Peters for handling
Regalia Sales for the past 2 years and
he introduced Lynda Kylie who had
recently taken over such duties. Steve
then presented a clock on behalf of the
Club to Peter and Margaret Cook to
mark their retirement from distributing
and posting countless “Flat Outs” for
the past 19 years. Steve then
awarded the Club’s 2009 Nic Francois
Award for Outstanding Contribution to
Alan Peacock for his constant efforts in
leading and supporting the Club over
recent years as well as his extra work
in standing in as our temporary
secretary last year. Finally, Steve
presented certificates to the following
past winners of the Adrian Flux
Trophy. 2005 – Mike Butler, 2006 Carole Chitty, 2007 - John Whitely,
2008 - Jennie White . All such awards
were universally acknowledged.
5. General Secretary’s Report
Since taking over as General Secretary
at the last AGM John had organised 3
routine Committee Meetings at
Shipton-under-Wychwood in the
Cotswolds, as well as this AGM
Weekend. He reminded members
they were very welcome to sit in on
any Committee Meeting and to call
him for details as required.
John had
booked the Club’s participation in the
major Kit Car Shows at Stoneleigh (3/4
May) and Newark (20/21 June) for this
year.
Finally, John advised that the
Club’s third-party insurance covered
only static events, so incidents or
accidents on club-organised runs would
only be covered by members’ own
motor policies. Therefore, all
organisers should ensure that no
element of competition be included in
any CSC “moving” events.
38
6. Treasurer’s Report. In explaining
the CSC Accounts Sheet as at 31
December 2008 with a balance carried
forward of £3956.87, Treasurer Peter
Chitty stressed that the Club’s present
financial position was most
satisfactory, particularly as annual
subscriptions now coming in had risen
to £17.50. Peter then confirmed that he
was standing down as the Club’s
Treasurer after this AGM. There
being no questions, Steve then
proposed a vote of thanks to Peter for
his tireless service as the Club’s
Treasurer ever since its founding 20
years ago. This was passed
unanimously.
7. Membership Secretary’s Report.
Carole Chitty reported that our
membership had risen steadily from
100 at the CSC’s inception, to a current
membership number of 1830 and an
all-time record of 520 active members
today. Some had left and rejoined a
number of times over the years so it
was often difficult to track individuals.
That so, Carole asked Area
Representatives to advise the
Committee of serious illnesses or
deaths among members in their areas
so the Club may send appropriate
messages.
8. ‘Flat Out’ Editor’s Report
Callum thanked the Executive
Committee, all Area Representatives
and others for their excellent
contributions to the magazine over
recent months; which had largely
their respective areas:
driven its success. He nevertheless
condemned “last-minute” entries and
South
Carole Chitty
appealed for further articles and
North Thames Vic Braybrook
pictures to aid smooth production of
South West
Ron Bishop
future editions. He indeed reminded
Cotswolds
Gordon & Alyson
everyone that the next “Flat Out” goes
Burch
to print within the next week and that
North Wales/
he would stand down as editor at next
West Midlands Philip Costin Kelly
year’s AGM.
East Midlands Jim Barry
North West
Richard Williams
Scotland
Jennie White
9. 2009 Major Events. Having
reminded members of the Club’s
regular participation at the Stoneleigh In thanking Richard Williams and
and Newark Kit Car Shows, Steve
Malcolm Hopwood for their excellent
asked David Field to update the
road run to the Lake District, and
meeting on his planning for the 2009
indeed all area Representatives for their
Summer Camp at Woodhall Spa,
efforts on members’ behalf over the
Lincolnshire. David advised that 93 past year, Steve noted that Bob Hartley
members in 50 cars were booked in for (East Anglia) and Keith Bomber
a super weekend to date, with all on(Northern Ireland) were absent.
site cabins and caravans taken. Extra
B&B and tented accommodation was 11. Nominations for Committee
still available and David asked
and Related Elections Taking control
members to book as soon as they could of the meeting for the Chairman’s
so planning could be finalised. David election, John noted that Steve had
then gave a background to the Roy
served only one year of the normal 4Bagshaw “Piston” Trophy which he
year term and that no alternative
then presented to the Club. Steve
nominations for this post had been
confirmed that this superb trophy
received. Alan thus proposed that
would be awarded for Technical
Steve Parrish continue as the Club’s
Innovation at our Annual Summer
Chairman for a further year. The
Camps.
motion was seconded by Jim Barry and
passed unanimously.
As previously noted, Peter Chitty was
10. Area Representative
Introductions and Questions. Steve standing down as the Club’s Treasurer
and Alan Peacock had volunteered to
referred to the comprehensive area
reports in each “Flat Out”; and asked
assume these duties. There being no
the following Area Representatives to other candidates, Steve proposed that
say only a few words about activities in Alan be elected as Treasurer. This
39
motion was seconded by Jim Barry and
was passed unanimously.
In response to a question from Jennie
White, John advised that Peter Chitty
had been nominated to take over as the
Club’s Internal Audit duties from
Carole Peacock. Such a transfer was
proposed by Terry Pearson, seconded
by Steve and passed unanimously.
Jennie White stressed that that her
original search for this venue had
shown that large hotels now filled well
in advance. Thus any booking for the
2010 AGM and Summer Camp must
be made as soon as possible.
Answering a question from Terry
Pearson, Jim Barry confirmed that an
12. Location of next AGM With all international rally as organised by the
present confirming by a show of hands Dutch 2CV Club would be held in
that they were at least satisfied with all 2010.
aspects of the Broadway Hotel’s
Ron Bishop offered to organise the
facilities, food and service, Steve
proposed that John confirm terms with Club’s 2011 Summer Camp in the
South West.
the hotel management before a final
decision on the next AGM’s location is
Richard Williams advised that our Club
taken at the Club’s next Committee
would be invited to participate in an
Meeting on 18 April. This approach
International Citroen Car Club meeting
was approved unanimously.
to be held at Pickering, North
Yorkshire in August 2012.
13. Any Other Business
Peter Chitty gave brief details of the
There being no further business, Steve
Club’s recent commercial agreement
with insurance brokers Footman James, Parrish wished everyone an excellent
lunch and a good trip home, before
which should generate considerable
closing the meeting at 12.15 hrs.
revenue for the Club. Carole Chitty
then provided an extended background
to the scheme; and in curtailing the
Steve Parrish, Chairman
resultant discussion Steve stressed that Dr John Fowler, General Secretary
1st Apr 2009
the Club could and would not
recommend any particular insurance
provider to its members.
Chris Rigby was training for the
London Marathon, where he would be
running for Diabetes Research. Any
sponsorship or donations would be
warmly received.
40
‘EAST COASTER’S’
Bellies, all eat tons of Lincolnshire
Sausage and all speak in an
unintelligible local dialect! But why
the 1st October? On this date in 1536
the men of Louth first rose up in
rebellion over Henry 8th's
Reformation. By 6th Oct, 40,000 men
from all over the county were camped
around the Cathedral in Lincoln,
demanding that Henry respect local
churches and their treasures. Sadly
the rebellion failed, and the leaders
were ruthlessly executed, but the
Lincolnshire rebellion remains an
important part of Tudor history and is
a great example of local people
standing up for their rights. And
where does the term Yellow-Belly
come from? In recent years, the term
has been applied to any person born
or bred in Lincolnshire, however,
there are various theories about the
origin. Of those, the favourite is that
it refers to the colour of the belly of
frogs and newts which frequented the
marshes in the middle ages. Although
these species are rare today, they can
still be seen occasionally in local
Although there had been mention of it ponds.
in the local press in advance, the 1st
At the beginning of October several of
October crept up on us and, quite
frankly, we missed an opportunity to us attended the small but perfectly
formed Classic Meet in the Market
make our presence known to the
Square opposite our Pub, The Chase,
Lincolnshire community. Why, well
in Market Rasen. The usual mix of
the 1st October is Lincolnshire Day
and has been for the past four years, classic vehicles were there but,
regretfully, the beautifully restored
ever since we acquired our own
maroon Morgan which we usually
County flag. Lincolnshire Day is of
drool over failed to appear this year,
course the day that we all sing the
however, there was a particular
Lincolnshire Poacher, all wear
favourite of mine, a Jowett Javelin. I
something yellow being YellowA happy New Year to one and all from
Lincolnshire. So what of the back end
of the 2009 season? The day of our
Monthly Meeting in September at The
Chase in Mkt Rasen brought home one
reason why I ask that any casual or
first time attendees at our meetings
check with me first before travelling
any distance. Our meeting clashed
with a race event at the Market Rasen
racecourse which doesn’t often
happen, but when it does, it is very
disruptive for two reasons. Firstly, not
only our meeting place ‘The Chase‘,
but all of the other pubs in the Town
are full of race-goers. Secondly, all of
the road approaches both to and
through Market Rasen are chock-ablock with crawling traffic which
makes life very difficult. Whilst this
has been the only clash this year, we
will ensure in future that the Market
Rasen Race Calendar is checked
before our February Planning Meeting
so that an alternative Monthly
Meeting date can be planned if
necessary.
41
had the great pleasure of owning one programme for 2010 will be posted on
of these as my first car in the 60s and the CSC Web Forum and in Flat Out.
which I bought for £45!
The final Monthly Meeting of 2009 saw
Those who attended our penultimate 13 of us putting the world to rights on
a day dominated with outbursts of
Monthly Meeting this year at The
Chase at the end of October enjoyed heavy rain. Much of the discussion at
this meeting was about a project
lovely sunshine. Making his first
being undertaken by tinkerer
appearance at The Chase was new
extraordinaire Pete Herbert who is
member Glen Moore from Grimsby
who has recently bought a Lomax 223. quietly developing a home designed
and built valve which fits inside either
Unfortunately, Glen was ‘on-call’
the standard 2CV filler/breather or
from work and so his visit on this
the cut down Lomax unit. A working
occasion was brief, however, it was
good to see him and we say welcome prototype is already on a car after the
operation was checked first with a
to the East Coasters. Conversation
water-manometer. All seems well so
eventually turned to the various
far and after initial talks with a local
shows we have attended throughout
fabricator, it looks as though the cost
recent months and then to the new
2010 season of events. New boy Keith for a conversion set may be
considerably cheaper that other
Bradshaw became quite animated
about the prospect of attending local solutions to this problem. We’ll keep
you posted as development continues.
millionaire Larry Riches’s Saturday
night live music extravaganza the
Finally, next time you grumble at
night before his Classic in the Park
having to fill up your Special after
event at his Manor House in West
Ashby in September. This is something completing 200 miles plus on a
tankful, have a thought for those
we have not previously done but
individuals who buy one of the fastest
which sounds like great fun. Larry
road cars in the world, the Bugatti
engages a band of some sort (an 18
Veyron. This returns just 11.7mpg!
piece swing band last year) and
And just to put this in context, at full
visitors to the event bring their own
food and drink for an outside picnic in throttle, (a mere 254mph), it returns
just 2.46 mpg. Keep driving at full
front of the Manor house
whack and you'll be out of fuel in just
accompanied by music to dance to.
12 minutes. Now that is thirsty!)
For those who wish to stop over and
make an evening of it with no fears
about drinking and driving, there is a David Field
small charge for camping in the
paddock which seems quite a sensible
option. This will be discussed more
fully at our Planning Meeting in
February after which out provisional
42
Southern Section Caux Retro Weekend Normandy
for the 30 or so cars and Vespas in each
group. Coffee stops, aperitifs and lunch
were again provided and cars assembled
after the run at a nearby chateau to enable
their owners to reminisce on the day’s
events..
Warm sunshine, superb hospitality, and a
variety of 300 plus vehicles of all types
were enjoyed by many members during
the weekend in Normandy organised by
Carol and Peter Chitty.
The vehicles present ranged from a
monowheel , Solex powered bicycles, motorcycles, tricycles, cars, tractors, military
jeeps and trucks and of course a good
showing from the club of Grinnal’s,
Since 1995 the town has organised a historic wheels festival and invited participants from Belgium, the Czech Republic,
Slovakia and the UK to bring vehicles and
participate in this event.
Citroen Specials Club members either
camped or were allocated host families in
Allouville and the surrounding villages
and towns. Well presented meals and
drinks were provided free of charge in the
village hall from our assembly on Friday
evening until we all dispersed on Monday
morning. A Czech duo entertained us with
Mississippi Blues music on Saturday evening and during the ‘show’ day on Sunday
when the public were charged 3€ to enter
the display area
Nicole and Daniel our Hosts for the weekend
JZR’s, Avion’s, Lomax’s, Pembleton’s.
Peter Hill brought his single seater and
Kiwi Dave came with his 2CV trike.
Some stayed in the area after the event before heading home using various ferries
according to convenience.
Lots of additional images can be seen on
www.flickr.com/photos/bellrock2
On Saturday some of the participants went
on organised drives in convoy, shepherded John Robson 1800
by a number of motorcycle riders who
rode ahead to stop traffic at intersections
43
MONTHLY MEETINGS
Regular local meetings not listed in the main diary:
South:
The Cricketers Arms pub, Chestnut Avenue, Chandlers Ford
(Eastleigh), Hants. Last Sunday of the month, 12 noon.
The Foresters Arms, Kirdford, Billingshurst, West Sussex RH14 0ND
Tel: 01403 820205. 2nd Sunday of the month, 12 noon.
South West:
The Live & Let Live, Frampton Cotterell, Nr. Bristol 3rd Monday of
the month. Details: Derek 01454 250 959.
The Borough Arms, Bodmin, 2nd Monday of each month.
South Wales:
None at the moment.
Cotswolds:
1st Sunday of the month, 12 noon. Hunters Inn, Longdon. Contact
Gordon & Allyson on 01594 562844 for more details.
East Midlands (East Coast sub-group)
12 Noon, Last Sunday in the month (Unless this clashes with an event)
The Chase, Market Square, Market Rasen, Lincolnshire. It is
suggested that casual or first time visitors contact David Field (01522
753372) before travelling in case of an event clash.
East Midlands: (Mid Shires Group)
Monthly winter meetings (October to March)
The 4th Sunday of the month at Sibertoft Airfield (between Husbands
Bosworth and Welford on the A5199) for 12pm,
Monthly summer meetings (April to September)
The 2nd Tuesday of the month at Sibertoft Airfield (between
Husbands Bosworth and Welford on the A5199) at 7 pm
Contact Jim or Joy on 01536 724512 to confirm venue and to book
numbers
East Anglia:
The Horseshoes, Billingford (A143), 2nd Sunday of the month, 12 for
12.30 pm. Numbers need to be confirmed. Please contact Bob
Hartley, 01474 730434.
North Thames The Airfield, Galleria Site, Lemsford, Comet Way, Hatfield, Herts
AL10 0DA. 1st. Sunday of the month, Oct. to Apr, from 12 noon
44
General Secretary’s Ramblings
Morecambe Bay on 26-28 March.
At
£82pp at a top hotel in Morecambe this
really is exceptional value for a muchI am not exactly sure when this missive
will appear - but it is now fast approaching needed weekend away as the Spring breaks
after a long Winter, so please book soonest
Christmas and the weather outside in the
to ensure your own place. Just use the
wilds of North Yorkshire is still ****ing
down, - so my Lomax remains locked up form enclosed with the last magazine and
sent to me with the £20pp deposit cheques
in the garage! In the meantime, may I
made out to the Club.
wish all readers of this esteemed
publication a heartfelt but belated Merry
Finally, I have been busy of late making
Christmas and a Happy New Year; in
which I sure you will all resolve not only arrangements with hotel bosses for the
to use your wonderful cars as much as you 2011 AGM weekend; and although I will
leave our Chairman to break the good
can, but also to help our Club go from
strength to strength! Talking of which, our news about exactly where we are going, I
next AGM at Morecambe on 28 March is really must now thank our Scottish Frozen
fast approaching and with no nominations North Representative Jennie White for
searching for, finding and finally
to date your Club really needs some able
negotiating a superb hotel package which
volunteers to take over 3 area
really looks the equal of that we have
representative posts (including 2 which
have been far too long vacant) and indeed enjoyed (and indeed Jennie originally
found) at Morecambe. I will of course
from Callum as our Magazine Editor.
send further details in due course, but in he
Furthermore, please remember that you
meantime please enjoy all those wonderful
can also nominate - or indeed stand for 3 and 4 wheeled creations over the winter,
any of the other executive and area rep
posts (with the exception of Chairman); as (and even at Britain's highest pub at Tan
Hill on 4 January) - and please consider
it will be really good to have a genuine
ensuring this wonderful Club's continued
election for these rather than merely
expecting the often long-serving existing success by standing for one on the posts in
our forthcoming elections!
incumbents to soldier on, and on - and
indeed on!
With best wishes
Please therefore fill in and return the
John Fowler 01423 867410
enclosed Nomination Form - or should this [email protected]
get lost simply call or e-mail me to
discuss.
Hi everyone,
Talking of the AGM, as at today (8
December) I have 64 CSC members and
guests booked in for the Club's AGM
Package at the Broadway Hotel in
45
Down South
Not a lot going on now, ‘Chitty Chitty’
and our Super Tourer have been
tucked up for the winter and SORN,
this was a problem as Peter did it by
phone and had a message to say they
were successfully SORN but was only
sent the paperwork for ‘Chitty
Chitty’. On checking he was
instructed by DVLC to write to our
local DVLC office who promptly wrote
back and told us we could not
backdate the SORN so had to pay for
the privilege of keeping the car off
the road for another two months! He
has written and explained the
situation, which had been confirmed
by Swansea, and hopefully this is now
sorted.
Forthcoming events.
Footman James came up trumps with
our accident claim and the ‘tin top’
was indeed duly written off as
unviable to repair. The injury side of
the claim is still ongoing but hopefully
this too will soon be resolved.
Hopefully the members who organised
events last year will be willing to do
the same again this year. Perhaps
we can discuss future events in
January.
The January meeting at the Cricketers
at Eastleigh has been moved again to
the penultimate Sunday and the last
Sunday is at Carole and Peter’s for
the Boy’s Day Out at the Talmag Trial
and the Girls Day Out visiting the
local attractions. There will be a hot
supper as usual. Just give us a ring to
let us know if you are coming.
Don’t forget the Les Fils de Vitesse
and Pompy Puddleducks’ Beach Barbie
on New Years Day, bring your own
meat to cook on the provided
barbeques or there is a café in the
Amusement Arcade next door.
Happy New Year
Carole and Peter Chitty
Forthcoming Events: Contact Carole and Peter or member listed.
Jan 1st
Jan 12
Jan 19
Jan 26
Feb.17
Feb 14
Beach Barbie – Hayling Island miniature railway station. 12.00 noon.
Monthly meeting at the Forresters, Kirdford, Near Wisborough Green 12.00 noon.
Monthly meeting and New Year Lunch at the Cricketers Arms, Chestnut Avenue,
Eastleigh 12.00 noon.
Talmag pre 60’s Motocycle Trial, Hungary Hill, Aldershot.
Girls Day out 9:30 – 10.00
Monthly meeting and New Year Lunch at the Cricketers Arms, Chestnut Avenue,
Eastleigh 12.00 noon.
Monthly meeting at the Forresters, Kirdford, Near Wisborough Green 12.00 noon.
46
End to End in an Tin Can (part 2)
...Heading to Plockton now and after
a little detour, right at first T
junction and left at next signposted
'Plockton 6' caught us out and we
turned immediately left after the
right at the T junction which brought
us to a cul-de-sac so we knew we
went wrong but we got a inquisitive
look from a guy in his garden but had
no time to answer the questions so a
three point turn was hastened and
we were on the correct route again.
Through Badicaul, Drumbuie and
follow the signs for Plockton went
smooth enough apart from showers
and a bit of wind but we knew that
was coming, shame the weather men
couldn't be wrong when they forecast
rain but we weren't going to let that
spoil our trip and as we drove down
the bank to the sea we had caught up
to some of the others who had
lunched at Plockton and another
chance to find out about some of the
other cars in the group. There's a
man with a boat doing trips from
Plockton who says if you don't see
any sea lions whilst on his trip you
won't have to pay a penny.
Well Grace and I didn't!
No not see any sea lions, we didn't
take the trip just parked up, had a
natter about cars, bought fridge
magnets, postcards and some fresh
milk as you do. Time to move on
again and a fond farewell Plockton as
we began to see some familiar
surroundings soon after from June
this year and last year for me while
Pembleing about. We were by now
high on good times but were
becoming damper on wet times and
as the lazy winds were blowing about
we were finding it both cold and
damp......Boo. {Lazy winds don't go
around you-they go right through}
Turn left after Kishorn with a brown
and white sign for 'Applecross' and
'Wester Ross Coastal Trail' means the
start of the 'Bealach na Ba' and what
a route that was. I was just glad that
47
we weren't returning that way the
next day especially when a
motorcycle had turned a corner in
the middle of the road and locked up
his front wheel right in front of me.
Hooligan. We missed the gathering
point for a group photo by being late
apparently but I didn't even see
where it was supposed to be. Sorry
Callum. On the last 100 yards of the
day I made an mis-judgement by
turning right with the road instead of
leaving the road straight ahead and
into 'The Applecross Campsite' but
realized my error as I saw Fred enter
the gates so reversed back and
dismissed any mistake as I thought
the campsite was further along the
road but obviously we had made good
time somewhere between check
points.
Pitch chosen and tent first but the
damn midges were having a whale of
a time around me so Fred sprayed me
but no difference so a lot of arm
waving and strolling back and forth.
Air bed blown up, bed made, lets
escape to the pub was not an excuse
but hey was a good idea anyhow. The
Polly tunnel was becoming busy as
we entered but a table was found
48
and Fred had joined us. Food was
consumed and beer was smooth
enough to enjoy a few whilst the
company was very good even when
Lesley decided to turn on me but it
was all good banter.
Sunday morning was here far too
soon and we found ourselves rushing
to pack everything away before
breakfast but made it or at least we
weren't alone in being late. Sorry
Callum just in case. LOL.
Since we found ourselves lagging
behind yesterday we decided to
either reduce site visits or not to
indulge in so much steady running
while taking in the views but that is
impossible in this beautiful part of
the world and as usual we were soon
turning a corner with another wow.
Duncan had said to take plenty of
photographs but after 5000 you still
could take more and still not capture
the beauty of the landscape.
{dinosaur country as I recall someone
saying to me and I know just where
he was coming from.....WOW}
Well I was so busy looking around and
I don't know what Grace was up to
that we completely missed Victoria
Falls and a suggested meet up at
mid-morning. Sorry Callum. We were
however first at 'The Old Inn' at
Gairloch for lunch because we missed
the gathering of the clan. A warm
and dry by a real fire, some natter
about cars unsurprisingly and
eventually I made my mind up to
have the Mussels Mariniere for lunch
and thoroughly enjoyed it with some
home made bread. An announcement
was made by Jennie which everyone
whole heartedly agreed with that
Callum had performed an excellent
plan for our tour of 'The Applecross
Alpine Adventure'.
A lot was learnt from a very pleasant
trip to the ' Loch Ewe Distillery ' at
the 'Drumchork Lodge Hotel in
Aultbea which is officially ' The Top
Whisky Hotel in the World 'and
sounds like it was a dream of John
Clotworthy and wife Frances whom
are living that dream along with their
two dogs Lucy and Mizzi.
Sounds familiar 'living a dream'.
It was about 16.30 by now and
although we had intended to see
Corrieshalloch Gorge plans were
changed and at the A835 our
Applecross Alpine Adventure was
over and a heading was set
Northward at an easy 50 or so
towards Ullapool with the thought of
a fish supper as bait to lure us into
submission of currency into the
fisheries till.
WELL DONE that man and once again
THANK YOU for your efforts.
But were not finished yet as a trip to
a whisky distillery was mentioned
which sounded interesting to both
the wife and I even if neither of us
like the stuff so lets tootle along
there then, we decided. Uisge
Beatha, meaning 'water of life.' The
Scottish Gaelic and local name for
what we know as whisky is brewed
like beer, cider or lager which I have
done but when you would bottle
beer, cider or lager in the second
fermenting process thats when
distilling differs by steaming off the
spirit at 76 degrees and condensing it
into essentially moonshine after a
further distillation. Keg it up and
leave to mature and you have spirit
as apposed to brew in a nut shell.
If it is possible, a crack had been
overlooked by myself after replacing
both front wheel bearings, changing
the gearbox and repairing splits in
both front mudguards, however that
half an inch crack by now was
inflicting substantial damage to my
right hand side front mudguard as
some sort of punishment for
travelling along sub-standard roads
and I don't mean whilst on the
Applecross. All the roads I have
travelled on over the last week and a
bit have had some deficiency or
three and not only the speed humps
that by the way, only slow low
vehicles down.
49
So while Grace queued for supper I
got two nuts and bolts out to hold
the crack together in the up and
down plane and changed a blown
rear tail light bulb. Supper with a
few onlookers is normal with these
cars and a family approached with
the kids being about 6 or 7 and these
two kids seemed so thrilled to see my
car I told dad of myself seeing a
British Green Sports Car at the
community centre across the field
where I grew up and although I never
knew what make or model it was
because I was so young I was going to
have one, one day so he best watch
out or his two may be hooked now.
Forever forward and onward with our
tummies filled once more we were
on our way with waves and an arooga
which just tickles me every time. Up
that West coast I find myself turning
around a bend and wowing again and
again and i'm sure Gracie was
suffering earache by now with me
pointing this way and that as to look
at the latest spectacle this landscape
delivers over and over and over
again. We had been told that the
50
A836 from Lairg to Tongue was a
truly magnificent drive with splendid
views but the Loch-sides and
coastline has me in its grasp forever
and we turned left at Sledmore
Junction without any guilt of what
we may of missed.
Loch Awe, Loch Assynt, Ardvrek
Castle or ruins of, Loch Gleneoul,
Unapool, Loch Glendhu, Locha Chairn
Bhain, Scourie, Loch A Bhadaidh
Daraich, Loch Laxford, Loch Na Thull,
Loch Inchard, and the Kyle of Durness
were all admired and no wonder as
we reached Durness about 20.00 and
we saw the campsite by the side of
the road Grace suggested camping
here and I agreed it would be a good
idea as we were finally on the North
coast with our eyes tiring but not
through lack of sleep but worn out by
those fantastic views although
through damp and misty goggles
which I could only hope to describe
within this report.
Tent erected and bed inflated, car
covered with it's green tarp as I still
haven’t decided as to fit a tonneau
or not but should of by now but its
21.00 and we are off to the pub so
tonight Matthew, I don't really care.
Top Gear is on the box as we enter
and already I'm at home, ' Pint of
bitter please and a Tia-Maria with
Coke please ' any ice Grace ? Ha, Its
always too good to be true and sure
enough Top Gear has finished within
two minutes and their waiting for the
footy and I can't stand bloody
football so we move over to the
opposite end of the telly end and
enjoy a game or two of pool and put
a quid in the jukebox to keep the
music going and drown the footy
sounds out. It sounds like I didn't
enjoy the pub but I can't remember
what brand of beer it was that was
served but I would normally have 2 or
3 as a rule but it went down so well
that I had either 4 or 5 .
Greedy bugger.
Next morning and I stroll over to the
site office to pay our dues while
Grace heads off to the shower block
and I get asked for my registration
and the guys say they were just
talking about the car and
sympathised with us over travelling
in such a lovely car but in such
unfortunately poor weather
conditions but what can you do but
make the most of it so fees paid and I
return to the tent and wait for my
turn to visit a shower which was
lovely and warm just what a doctor
would order. All packed up, fuel
topped up and off to John O's today
but a special tickle for me is Bettyhill
or rather just Eastward of Bettyhill as
I seemed to have misplaced it.
51
{Sorry, Raymond and Catherine} you
must of thought where is this
Bettyhill he's talking about because
we've lived their for ________ years
and don't know where he's on
about. } Well I was travelling last
year by Bettyhill well actually
Eastward and I could remember
turning a right hand bend, climbing
up a bank and there was a low wall
on my left hand side with a phone
box in the middle of nowhere apart
from a track running up the side of
this wall towards someone's home
and it tickled me and as I was due to
call home I pulled over to give the
family an update of my trip.
Somehow I had remembered it at
Bettyhill. Sometimes I find the most
unusual things amusing which others
just don’t seem to get it.
By now and for a while certainly
since our 70 mph blast in driving hell
or was it rain and the beginning of '
The Applecross' by covering so many
miles I had assumed that if anything
was going to fall off the car it would
of by now but a person had best be
careful about what he or she
thinks.......
Another thing that never ceases to
surprise me is how a mountainous
region like Scotland can have such
beautiful golden beaches and bays
hidden around a nook every now and
again which just blow you away even
on our damp and drizzly days and
there are a few. Beaches and bays I
mean, unfortunately a few damp and
drizzly days as well.
Through Thurso and I begin to think '
Oh, we're nearly finished, oh, we're
nearly done! '
A sadness falls over me even though
we've had some wind and rain I
wasn't prepared for the end myself
and I was just beginning to enjoy
myself {had away an shite, I was
lovin every minute apart from the
torrential rainy bits and that drop
over the side of the Bealach Na Ba
when I took a look.}
An old reminder of a place we we're
now very close to by the name of
‘Dunnet’ perked me up as I
remember unusual names from last
year such as ' Doll, Street, Bettyhill,
and Dunnet which are all names of
places and a photograph has to be
taken to prove to all and sundry that
I DUNNET.
With my wife, Grace tagging along
with me how much more could I ask
for apart from some sunshine please
or even brightness and dry would do.
A lotto win and good health for a
million years would see us alright.
52
Turn left and down the road to John
O' Groats at 1600 on Monday 17th and
I knew of a large poster on the
quayside of a certain post stating
distances to the Orkney Islands,
Sydney, New York and Lands End.
So I reversed my car down the slope
towards the dock to line up for my
FREE photo and Grace dutifully takes
it I suppose to save her from having
to be in it when I say to her ' I best
move the car out of the way so as not
to get in anyone's way' and a guy
dressed similar to a fisherman says
that i'm not in anyone's way and that
he would prefer me to stay put and
indeed insisted that I stay there so
we can talk about the car and he
only turns out to be the Harbour
Master so how could I object. We
chatted a while then I moved the car
to a more suitable position where
more people were drawn by the
sound of the engine being fired up
and I dodged into the gift shops to
get my trophy.
I wish it had been a pint but no my
End to End fridge magnet to fix to my
cars' dashboard as a memento of our
quest. Well we already had an End to
End fridge magnet funnily enough on
our fridge door which I had in mind
but the shop was without these
special ones so a deal was struck
with our lass as to I have the End to
End one and I bought her a John O'
Groats pebble type.
Leaving John O's as I have mentioned
ended our holiday and my personal
challenge had been fulfilled but I
wasn't ready for home just yet and
since Fort Augustus is so special to
me we headed South to Inverness and
down the Loch but by now Grace
likes campsites and not my rough and
ready approach to camping anywhere
you can for free but it has to be
scenic, historic or just nice, so a new
campsite is open for its' first year
just around the corner from where
we want to be and with £6.00 each
our fees were paid for one night,
with a site picnic bench beside a
BMW combination and an
accompanying BMW bike the other
side of the picnic bench had waited
all day for us, so we obliged by
camping there. A few midges were
around us so we hastily put up the
tent, the airbed was inflated and bed
made, surely we're semi-pro's by now
and We drove around to the
dockside, walked up and down to
look at the boats moored up for the
night but returned soon as it was
nearly 21.00 and we were too tired
to fight off those damn midges.
In the morning it was quite bright
and dry. HOORAY.
But those damn midges are still
around and bloody hell did they get
on your nerves but wait until later
when the bumps start to come up
like stinging nettles you look like you
have the chicken pox and I'm still
scratching now a week later at the
thought.
A look at the map was a waste of
time really that morning as unless
you return to Inverness which was
53
never going to happen you have to
head to Fort William but Grace was
supposed to be back at work on
Monday and it was already Tuesday
morning and a long way from home
with me reluctant to ever return.
Well Grace had asked our youngest
daughter, Amanda, to cover for her
delivering the 'meals-on-wheels' but
she couldn't cover on Wednesday due
to prior appointments so we had one
day left and since I was due back to
work on Thursday both day and night
job and my wallet had only £60 in
reality struck home with a harsh
blow.
I refuse to return to Inverness and
travel 70 mph homeward on the A9
like we had to on our way here when
such spectacles of wonder and
magnificence are over on the West
coast beyond Fort William and with
fish and chips that melt in your
mouth from Oban we were on our
way singing 'She'll be coming round
the mountain when she comes' which
is a favourite of Matty's along with
Chitty, Chitty, Bang, Bang and a few
more.
Anyone who has never seen the West
coast of Scotland and taken in
Inveraray, Oban, Fort William and
Fort Augustus to mention the very
least will never forgive themselves
for not visiting sooner and if you have
the time do all of Scotland I would
recommend travelling in a clockwise
direction as this I found the best and
the next time I will have time to
journey through Applecross and the
Bealach na Ba and those other minor
routes with their hidden sights
waiting for my eyes to behold and
store forever or at least until the
time after as I'm sure you've not seen
the last of me you BONNY SCOTLAND!
Oban chippy or restaurant as it says
above the door had a half lobster on
it's special board which was my
choice of my Tuesday lunch while
Gracie opted for a small supper and
it was absolutely divine like all the
seafood I had eaten whilst here and
about but time stands still for no
man I once heard Rab. C. Nesbitt say
and we were feeling the sands
slipping through our fingers so our
journey once again was to take us
nearing home every spin of the
wheel.
The A816, Oban became the A83 at
Lochgilphead, through Inveraray, the
sheer enormousity of Glen Coe that is
best seen as you drive up the
mountainside then 'Rest and be
Thankful' even just to attempt to
focus on a single pine tree I dare you
to try. We however were travelling in
an anti-clockwise direction but never
54
the less and it's my third time I still
can't believe my eyes. Turn right at
Tarbet and the A82 returns beneath
us taking us into Glasgow but not
over the Erskine Bridge today but
towards the M8 and a very wet M74
more off fallen rain than actual
raining rain. Wrong type maybe but
we still got drawked and it was very
un-nerving but the M74 became the
A74M past Moffat then Lockerbie and
as we pass Gretna Green then Gretna
we enter England and on to Carlisle
to which we top up the fuel and
change direction towards Hexham
and Newcastle beyond with the A1
taking us to our A19 and not much
further to home. The car unloaded in
the fashion of 'Its all out isn't it' but
dumped on the couch, the floor and
who cares where else so longs as it's
in the house. Right open the
container and put the car to bed with
a little thank you pet. You done
good.
A message or two to announce our
safe return and I had forgot to read
the mileage so that had to wait until
the morning when after topping up
with oil I took the 'silver bullet' for a
spin and delivered Gracie's 'meals-onwheels' for her just to prove she was
in ship shape. {That's not a Topher
joke by the way}
My mileage for the whole trip is
astronomical considering the end to
end is 874 or 876 depending on who
you believe but as I considered
making the end to end alone I soon
realized that I would need to travel
twice that distance at least to carry
strangers, Phil, Duncan, Callum and
especially Gracie.
Love You.
it out once, then taking in to
consideration a jaunt to see what
Wales was about and the pleasurable
journey homeward I won't complain
as there's no point at travelling
2599.8 miles in total but wish I had
gone around the block and that it
had not cost so much in fuel mostly
due to 70mph travelling to make up
time and that Callum had sorted
some better weather as he promised
but hey that all falls into
insignificance as my Gracie came
along for the ride and we didn't have
to spend our 24th wedding
anniversary apart.
Andrew Crathorne
PS. And at a word average of only
0.326361 per mile I think I may stay
at home in the future as the hardest
part of the journey has been the
writing up of it never mind the cost
of fuel but I forgot to log some along
the way so I could only estimate so I
wont.
Thank you to everyone who made our
trip possible and as enjoyable as it
was either Applecrossers or total
55
The cars at La Roche
The CSC at Caux Retro June 2009
A Hudson Kindred Spirit, Lomax 224 and a Blackjack Avion from the ‘39
Steps’ run descend from Loch Lyon on a pot-holed unclassified road
Silverfish & Co on the recent 10,000 foot run
56

magazine of the citroën specials club

Transcription

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