The Pompy Run – 7^th June

Stood alone at 08:15 in the Wharf car park on such a beautiful sunny day I anxiously waited to see just how many fellow club members would join me with such an early start. First one then another, then 2 more until finally 18 bikes and 22 members arrived, filling the car park all smiles and greeting each other. Nice to see Nick Dingwall’s son-in-law joining us as well, hope you enjoyed the day.

First a big “thank you” to all of you for turning out so early, thus making all the planning worthwhile and my day. After the appropriate briefing for the Drop Off system, identifying my trusty “Tailender”, Bob Mack, we actually set off on time (has to be a first). The system soon got into its stride and we negotiated our way through some tight twisty and narrow roads of Berkshire and Hampshire. Through Penwood, Highclere, skirting Crux Easton Woodcroft, through Whitchurch via Micheldever station to Woodmancott, East Stratton, Northerton, New Alresford, Hinton Marsh, past quaint thatched cottages, red brick and flintstone walled houses typical of that area to arrive at “Loomies” the motorcycle café on the A32 just about 10:20.

Loomies was busy, but everyone managed to get a cup of tea or coffee etc and chat or browse the many different models and styles of machinery parked up.

From Loomies we made our way for the last 20 miles to Portsmouth even negotiating the final section of the M275 and in to the Historic Dockyard without losing anyone (well apart from John Otterway who went looking for Wendy who was actually with us. That’s his excuse anyway) and park up for people to do their own thing.

Some went off to Gun Wharf to sample the gastronomic delights of the many and various eateries whilst a good number visited the Mary Rose and other vessels and museums in the dockyard. I remember the TV pictures of the Mary Rose being lifted from the sea bed and 33yrs later in its environmentally controlled building it is now in the final drying out stage. What they have found and have on display is truly remarkable.

All in all it was a great day out with brilliant company and quality riders in brilliant sunshine. I trust you all enjoyed yourselves as much as me, makes you proud to be part of such a great club.

Ian D

Thanks to Steve Moxey for the photos.