Another change of location and venue this year, away from the South West and over into the borders. Most of the entrants had been coming to our “Runs” every year since the first one in 2009, so for most of us it was a case of renewing annual friendships before we set off. Unfortunately, Alex Young’s wife had to call off at the last minute but Alex was accompanied in his magnificent Bentley by Johnnie and Nancy Watson.
Friday Morning and Afternoon:
The start was again from the same antique establishment beside the Clyde’s Garrion Bridge in central Lanarkshire, which was used in 2012. However, not all starters did leave from there, being more convenient for them to meet up with the entourage further down the route. The full list of starters can be seen below. Apart from a dull and wet start the rest of the weekend’s weather was sunny!
List of Starters
Bob & Margaret Baillie, Kilmarnock, Jag X Type Bill & Anne Cuthbertson, Troon,E Type
Ian Smillie & Margaret Smillie, Milngavie, BMW Bill & Eileen Montgomery, Perth, SLK
Barry & Nancy Crichton, Cumbernauld, Porsche Walter & Bette Gray, Perth, MX5
Jimmy & Arlene McInnes, Troon, MGF Alex & Carol Ann Young, Fenwick, Bentley 8
Stuart & Mairi Parker, Larkhall,Honda Accord Johnnie & Nancy Watson
Charlie & Netta Young, Strathaven, Ford Pat & John Smith, Elgin, Vauxhall Corsa
Mid & Val Bruce, Annbank, Mini Ian & Louise Gemmell, Mauchline, Land Rover
From Garrion we travelled south down the Clyde Valley, though Lanark and on to Hyndford Bridge. Then west towards the M74, having done a slight detour along the old A74, we eventually arrived at Moffat where we stopped for some lunch. From Moffat, the route took us northeast on the A708. A couple of weeks earlier there had been a landslide on this road near the Grey Mare’s Tail which caused the road to be completely blocked! Fortunately, the damage had been repaired in time – what a marvellous driver’s road up to St Mary’s Loch. We then turned left at the Gordon Hotel on to the B709. This was another great driver’s road where we met up with the Grays and the Alexanders who had come directly down to join the route from Perth. It was then up to Innerleithen, along to Peebles and finally up the A703 to the village of Eddleston and the Barony Castle Hotel.
Looking forward to a nice weekend for two! (Photograph from Margaret Smillie)
Friday Evening:
The Barony Castle Hotel or as it is now known as, the Mercure Barony Castle, had recently been taken over by new management, made us very welcome. The staff seemed a bit new as well but were very helpful. Being an old building the rooms were somewhat difficult to locate. Apparently, the whole estate was taken over during World War II for the use of the Polish military who were billeted there. The hotel was comfortable and the food was excellent – which was the main thing. As usual Bob Baillie had laid on a wine reception prior to dinner – this seemed to be appreciated by all.
Gordon and Karen Clendinning were unable to be with us this year due to Gordon’s previous commitment with Top Gear, I believe! So we didn’t have the usual Scalextric Competition to keep us away from the bar. However, at the last minute, Stuart Parker had laid on a Motorsport Photographic Identification Quiz. This involved a couple of dozens or so images (all taken from our website) mounted on display boards. Despite the source of the images, heads were being scratched no end. However, everyone took part and did seem to enjoy this diversion. The results of the quiz were delayed until the following evening. Mentioned should be made of the evening’s other entertainment – our chairman’s stories. Some of which can not be repeated!
Click any image below to enlarge it
Saturday Morning and Afternoon:
The route instructions for the previous day had been in “Ball and Arrow” style from Garrion right through to Eddleston. Saturday’s route was to take us east in the direction of Berwick. However, Bob had decided to use Google Maps as this seemed a fairly straightforward drive!! The problem was that Google would get the junctions, OK but the street names used seemed to have been taken from a 19th-century street map which resulted in more head-scratching in some towns looking for the correct route! We drove down to Peebles, east through Innerleithen. bypassing Galashiels, Selkirk and Melrose, north to Earlston (with the changed street names) east on the A6105 to Greenlaw and on to Duns. This was our first official stop at the Jim Clark Museum. We were obviously not the only organisation visiting Jim Clark’s Room that day – there were about a dozen or more of various models of Lotus cars, who were on a pilgrimage to the museum. Fortunately, they were soon to depart but their cars gave us an additional attraction to ponder. For the few who had never visited this room, it was a truly rewarding experience. It would have taken many hours to examine the whole exhibit, there were so many trophies and much memorabilia.
From Duns, it was a fairly short drive down to Kelso and hence to Floors Castle. This was to be our second official stop of the day. Prior to entering the Castle itself, most members decided to have a bit of lunch in the Castle’s excellent cafe.
Floors Castle, Kelso in the Spring
Some the of “Run” group outside the Cafe at the Floors Castle in Kelso. (Photograph from Margaret Smillie)
Some the of “Run” group outside the Cafe at the Floors Castle in Kelso. (Photograph from Margaret Smillie)
Thereafter the Castle provided an insight as to how the gentry lived in days gone by. What a beautiful and sumptuous place it turned out to be. Like the Jim Clark Room, you could have spent hours looking over the whole place – indoors and out.
By mid-afternoon, most would have had sufficient culture for the day, so headed back to the Barony Castle Hotel via Selkirk, Innerleithen and Peebles to arrive back at base by 5 pm. Just in time to have a quiet refreshment or perhaps a snooze before dinner later. Looking at the snaps below, not all seemed to have taken this sensible option !!
Saturday Evening:
Much the same as the previous evening. In the absence of another Reception, due to an ongoing Wedding Reception in the hotel, we all went straight in for dinner. Service was understandably slow due to the Wedding, but the staff coped admirably – and the food was excellent once again. Following dinner everyone was anticipating the Quiz results – at least some were! These were duly announced by Stuart Parker. The Patersons were outright winners with a score of 35 marks out of a possible 50. Next were Arlene and Jimmy McInnes with 18 marks. The third equal on 17 marks, was the “Two Numpties” (Pat and John Smith) and the “Smiles”. On 16 were the “Crazy Crichton’s”, the Cuthbertson’s on 13 and the Youngs on 12. It should be pointed out that not everyone submitted their entries!! Adele and Duncan were duly congratulated on their win. They were each presented with a prize. The latter had been acquired at great expense from Sainsbury’s in Peebles – the Selkirk Bannock Shop having been closed in Selkirk on Saturday afternoon!
Sunday Morning and Afternoon:
Another beautiful day in the Borders. Before the off, we all congregated in the Hotel’s forecourt – to say farewell to those who had to get home early and those who were not staying over to Monday morning – and to get our group photos taken for the website scrapbook!
Sunday morning’s route took us up the A703 towards Edinburgh which we by-passed towards the east and eventually on to the A1. Unfortunately, we were still using Google’s instructions, which lead to a few entrants becoming a bit lost and having to use their basic navigational skills! However, they did eventually manage to get back on route. Around Haddington, we veered north towards East Fortune to our destination at the National Museum of Flight at around lunchtime.
For some, this was the first visit to this Museum which was sited on the World War II aerodrome at East Fortune Farm. Some of course had been before for driving tests, particularly those run by the MG Car Club in the 50s and 60s. It was certainly worth the visit, with lots to see, especially the Concorde which had been brought up from Heathrow in bits to be reassembled for display. Apart from the attraction of Concorde, there were several other hangers scattered around the site containing replicas and originals of aircraft of bygone days. This really was the conclusion of our weekend Run. Most people now made their way homewards, while those who had opted to stay over until Monday made their way back to the Hotel in Eddleston. Actually, there were only three couples staying on – the Gemmells, the Parkers and the Smillies.
Monday Morning Depart:
Following a very pleasant evening wining and dining, the three remnants of the weekend bade each other farewell and gently made for home. We were all agreed that it had been another very successful and enjoyable Spring Run and looked forward to a repeat in 2014.
Following a very pleasant evening wining and dining, the three remnants of the weekend bade each other farewell and gently made for home. We were all agreed that it had been another very successful and enjoyable Spring Run and looked forward to a repeat in 2014.
Thanks too to our photographers, Ann Cuthbertson, Mid Bruce and Margaret Smillie for supplying all the photos.
Entrants for this year’s Spring Run were around the same number as the previous two years. The bulk came from the central belt but two couples came from Perthshire and one from Morayshire. Keep scrolling down, or click an item to go straight to it.
The three couples from the north made their own way directly to Grantown-on-Spey, as did the Crichtons and the Coopers. The others had gathered at Lomond Shores early on Friday morning. Before starting off we had coffee – the men in the cafe facing you in the image above, while the women felt the coffee would be better in Jenners!
Click an image to enlarge
We left the Lomond shores area just after 10 o’clock making our way north via the Trossachs. This was a similar route to the one taken in 2011 but we were given an option when we reached Fernan on Loch Tay. Either we could go via Pitlochrie or directly to the House of Bruar. We could either have lunch in Pitlochry or in the House of Bruar. Either way, we were scheduled to depart from Bruar on our final section to Grantown-on-Spey just after 2.30 pm. This took us through Kingussie, Kincraig, Feshiebridge, Boat of Garten and finally after 63.3 miles the Grant Arms Hotel. All in all since leaving Lomond Shores we had travelled 160 miles – so we are all a bit tired and thirsty!
The Hotel apparently was fully-booked and as a result, we were asked to dine earlier than planned. Prior to that, there was a Reception for the entrants in a room normally reserved for the “Bird People”. Actually, we had this room for our exclusive use over the whole weekend. This allowed Gordon Clendening to prepare his Scalextric set-up in good time for the later competition(s). As you might expect, by the time it was time to go up for dinner everyone was in fine fettle. Thankfully, the meal was up to the Hotel’s excellent standard.
Reception and Dinner
After dinner, we adjourned to the “Bird Room” to relax and have coffee, etc. A raffle was also held which was won by Marion Bicket and Tricia MacKinnon. Pat Smith was a runner-up and was presented with a Paul Swift driving experience T-shirt.
On Friday evening Bob divided everyone into 2 teams, Men versus Women, 10-a-side. The selection of who played who was done at random. Initiall,y each pair had to do 10 minutes but this was taking too long, so this was reduced to 5 minutes per pair.
Friday Evening’s Scalextrix – Gordon Clendinning setting up the track
Scalextric Competition – the Women v. Men
The Men were eventually declared victors having recovered from being 4 laps down at one stage!
Saturday Morning and Afternoon
Bob and Margaret Baillie had composed a motorsport quiz which entrants had to complete during the day and hand in after dinner in the evening. To say it was difficult would be an understatement. Your Secretary could only manage one of the questions, and even then not quite sure if he had the right answer. Bob had arranged a visit to Dunrobin Castle, beyond Golspie on the A9. As this would be a 172-mile round trip, we set out just after 10 am. Fortunately, the weather was kind – not sunny but dry and a bit cold. Having by-passed Inverness we continued up the A9 over the Dornoch Firth. Most people stopped en route to the castle for coffee and snacks before we reached Dunrobin.
Dunrobin Castle Visit
Dunrobin Castle is the ancestral home of the Dukes of Sutherland since the 13th century. Over the years it has been greatly extended, seen fires, been a military hospital during the wars, a boarding school for a few years but now is back in the family hands once more. Fortunately, the castle and gardens are open to the public for part of the year. We were not permitted to take a photograph of the interior which was a pity, as it must be one of the most beautiful and lavish interiors of any noble house in Scotland, let alone Britain. I would recommend a visit to anyone who manages to be in the area. They would not be disappointed. After the tour of the interior, we had lunch within the castle.
Included in our visit to Dunrobin was a display of Falcons and other raptors by the Head Falconer of the estate. This was held in the afternoon in the gardens.
Dunrobin Falconry Display
Following the display of falcons and owls, we all made our way back to the Grant Arms, looking forward to an evening meal.
Saturday Evening
The format was similar to Friday evening although we went straight to dinner. The earlier quiz results were in, the winners being Charlie Young and Johnnie Thomson. As usual, we were entertained by Chairman Jimmy with an annual joke.
After Dinner, the second Scalextric competition was held. This time there were two competitions, one for the ladies and one for the gents. These were much more serious events. Lots of needle matches.
Saturday Night’s Scalextric Competitions – Ladies first
………and now the Men
The Ladies final was won by Arlene McInnes from Mairi Parker while the men’s competition was won by Bill Montgomery from Hugh MacKinnon. Interestingly, the ladies final was between two ex-rally competitors, while Bill and Hugh had spent their youth racing!
Sunday Morning and Afternoon
Sunday morning saw the bulk of the entrants booking out of the Hotel as they would be heading home after the two events Bob had arranged. Jimmy and Arlene McInnes had decided as they were up in the highland anyway, to have another 5 days exploring the west, taking in Skye and Uist. They made for Applecross as their first stop on Sunday afternoon. Bob had arranged a visit to the Wildlife Park, south of Aviemore in the morning and a re-visit to the Cairngorm Funicular Railway in the afternoon. But firstly was prizegiving and the “Group Photograph”! Back to top of this article
Presentation of Prizes
It was a fairly short drive down to the Wildlife park via Aviemore. As you can see from the photographs there was quite a lot to see apart from monkeys, tigers, deer and eagles.
Highland Wildlife Park
After the Wildlife Park visit only a few decided to make the return back to Grantown via the Cairngorm Funicular railway. The others were making their way home, so farewells were said. Actually it was only those who had opted to stay for the Sunday night who went on to the railway. Unfortunately the view from the top of railway was no clearer than the previous visit.
Cairngorm Funicular visit
Monday Morning, 28th April
After a quiet dinner on Saturday night, most people had had an early night. The seven couples who stayed-on left quite soon after breakfast. Everyone seemed to have enjoyed the weekend. I am pleased to report that £350 was donated to The Glasgow University Trust via Gordon`s charity Maximum Attack. It was agreed that the 2015 event should return to Grantown-on-Spey. Thanks are due to Bob and Margaret Baillie, Mid and Val Bruce for once again laying on such an enjoyable weekend. Many, many thanks.
My thanks are also to the photographers who kindly sent in the above images. I have used about 152 Photos out of a total of 282 sent in! So many thanks, Nancy Crichton, Margaret Smillie, Pat Smith and Charlie Young.
The 2015 event was once again, back in Grantown, the Grant Arms Hotel being our Headquarters for the three days.
Friday:
The start of the three-day tour was from Dobbies Garden Centre, just off the Northbound M80 at junction 6 at around 10.30 am. As you can see below we had 14 cars starting.
The first section took us via Greenloaning, Crieff, bypassing Perth and up through Dunkeld. From there we continue to head East through Blairgowrie, Alyth and to the lunch halt at Peel Farm near Kirriemuir in Angus.
After a nice lunch at Peel Farm, we now made our way north via Cockbridge to Tomintoul, which, fortunately, was free of snow. This time, however, we were using photocopies of Google maps instead of the usual “ball and arrow” instructions. Not to everyone’s taste, but fortunately, the route was fairly straightforward and no one got lost before we arrived at the Grant Arms by late afternoon. As usual, Bob had arranged a Reception prior to Dinner.
Following Dinner, it was an early night for most!
Saturday –
Saturday’s took us via Dufftown, Cabrach to Alford where we were to visit the Grampian Transport Museum where we were joined by a local member, Brian Parke and his wife Vivian. This was a most interesting visit and a revelation to most of our members from the Central belt, who didn’t expect such a marvel in a place like Alford.
Break for coffee at the Museum
On the return trip to the Grant Arms, we had the option of two routes. The shorter one went via Tomintoul while the longer one went via Huntly, both getting us back in time to freshen up for the evening.
Saturday Evening –
Our usual competition on the Scalextric track was not to be this year as Gordon Clendinning had had other commitments. After dinner, there was the expected banter but no singing!.
Sunday –
We were scheduled to depart the Hotel by 9.45 but trying to get a group photograph was delayed by a few stragglers. However, we did get away eventually.
The route on the Sunday tour took us south to see the Fort Augustus Swing Bridge on the Great Glen. Leaving the Grant Arms we travelled via Carrbridge, then south on the B862 and eventually on to the A82 just north of Fort Augustus.
Those who were now staying for another night were able to return to Grantown via either via Fort William (the longer route) or the shorter one via Drumnadrochit and Inverness, leaving the others to travel south via Fort William to Glasgow and the south.
Monday Morning –
The snow was still around in the Morning, so it was gentle run back south. Everyone agreed that it had been another great weekend despite being somewhat colder than normal. Congratulations and thanks to Bob and Mid for all their efforts in arranging everything for us.
“A few of the early runners at the start from Dunbar Garden Centre off the A1.” ……………Photograph the courtesy of Margaret Smillie
As a change, Bob Baillie for the first time had organised a route to take us into England. Our headquarters were based at the White Swan Hotel in Alnwick, a lovely Hotel right in the middle of Alnwick.
The start was from the Dunbar Garden Centre and from there we had a leisurely run, winding our way down, on-and-off the A1, to reach the Hotel for Dinner. There were 32 entrants in all, in the 15 cars taking part. As you would expect there was a very mixed selection of vehicles taking part.
Here are a few images of the Hotel taken over the three days we were there. That evening we had dinner in the hotel restaurant where the food and the atmosphere was good. The dining room was quite something, having wood panelling throughout. The timber apparently was the same as used in the Titanic.
Saturday –
On Saturday we left early to travel north to the Holy Isle to visit Lindisfarne. The weather there was fine but very windy and cold!
Following this visit we headed inland, to Andrew Cowan’s home at Broadmeadows. There Linda had provided us with a light lunch in the barn where Andrew kept his collection of Rally cars and memorabilia.
Following this it was a run back to Alnwick where some of us took time to take a look at the shops there! The others had a rest prior to having dinner. Due to the fact that the Hotel had been pre-booked for a wedding we had to travel north again to a restaurant at the Barn on the Beal. This turned out to be very good. Bob had asked Andrew and Linda to be our guests in return for allowing us to view his marvellous collection.
A not too early departure this time, we took the road north again to Bamburgh Castle, which lay on the coast, just of Lindisfarne. Again the weather was fine but very cold.
Before heading back to the Swan Hotel we visited a farm/come cafe/come scrap vehicle yard, which was, despite my description, very interesting. Then it was back to the hotel for dinner.
Monday –
Most of us departed for home just after breakfast. Congratulations are due to Bob Baillie and Mid Bruce for again laying on a wonderful weekend.
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Stuart Parker
This year Bob Baillie decided to take our Spring Run down into Argyllshire, where we would be based at the new hotel at Portavadie. As you can see above this was a beautiful base for our headquarters for the weekend. The hotel was completely new and very well appointed. The entry consisted of 49 people in quite a variety of cars.
Due to comfort problems, at the last minute, Stuart Parker had swapped his MGB for his everyday Honda Sport. Below are just some of the people that Sandy Morrison managed to capture the weekend. He did provide a huge amount of images – only a fraction are included in this report along with a few others, courtesy of Margaret Smillie.
Friday 21st, Start –
We started from Antartex Village by Balloch on late Friday morning. Unusually, we were given a choice of two routes, one being about 20 miles longer. The shorter of the two took us via Arrochar, Strachur, Tighnabruich and over the hill to Portavadie on the east side of Loch Fyne.
The longer route went via Arrochar then around the top of Loch Long to Inverary, and thence down the west side of Loch Fyne to Tarbert. From Tarbert, we had to cross the Loch by a short Ferry ride to Portavadie. Both routes were interesting and had plenty of interesting places to visit and stop for refreshments!
Tarbert and the ferry to Portavadi
Most people arrived early in the afternoon, in time to enjoy the magnificent weather and the views.
It was time to get together and renew old acquaintances. So following a Reception and Dinner in the Hotel’s Barclay Suite by the swimming pool.
Friday evening Buffet Dinner in the Hotel’s Barclay Suite
Saturday 22nd –
After an early breakfast in the Marina Restaurant, the Saturday run took us via Tinghnabruaich, Strachur to Inveraray. There we had the option of visiting the Castle at Inveraray or the famous Inveraray jail. Not quite sure how many, if any, took the opportunity to visit the jail.
We left at around 1.30 to make our way back to Portavadie via Benmore gardens, which was on the way to Dunoon. From there it was a short drive to the Hotel. Just under 100 miles for the day.
Saturday evening was again a Buffet Dinner in the Barclay Suite
Bob Baillie took the opportunity during dinner to explain Sunday’s route and the necessity of being on time at the ferries. Later he entertained the company with his guitar, singing and anecdotes.
Sunday 23rd –
After early Breakfast, which was from 8.00am, we drove the 19 miles to Colintraive where we had to catch a ferry for the Isle of Bute.
Looking down the Kyes of Bute from the viewpoint north of Tighnabruaich.
Awaiting the ferry for Bute at Colontraive
On Bute, it was another 23 miles to Mount Stuart via Rothesay. Bob had arranged not only a tour of Mount Stuart but lunch was also provided.
Plan of Mount Stuart Estate
Our car parked outside the entrance to Mount Stuart
After we had all gathered together outside Mount Stuart House, we entered via the front door, where we were divided into two touring parties.
The interior of Mount Stuart showing only a few of its treasures and paintings.
After we had lunch in the Mount Stuart Courtyard Cafe. Some had a tour of the large gardens, then we had a Round the Island Trip to the Colintraive Ferry and hence back to the Hotel, a total of 66 miles for the day.
Our last evening was again held in the Barclay Suite. Following Dinner, in the absence of any Scalextrix, Bob Baillie entertained using his extensive repertoire of songs. I few of which allowed the company to join in. Bob’s signing and guitar playing was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Leaving the question! Why had he not done this before?
Sunday Evening was a Barbecue Dinner in the Barclay Suite
Monday 24th –
Most people departed Portavadie early in the morning for home via Arrochar and Loch Lomond. Some took the Dunoon Ferry. All in all, it was a great weekend. Thanks are due to Bob Baillie and Mid Bruce for laying on interesting routes, places to visit, marvellous weather, and of course a beautiful location for the headquarters.
Back to the Highlands this year when the event was based once more at the Grant Arms Hotel in Grantown-on-Spey.
Friday Morning
The above Entrants converged at the Antartex Village, where the complete Route Book for the three days was issued. There were 40 drivers and passengers taking part on the run but a few, from the north and east, agreed to join us after the first section to Bruar. As usual there was no timing of sections, and as we would have over 160 miles to drive until we got up to the Grant Arms, entrants were encouraged to start between 10 and 10.30 am. There were two Sections on this route, the first taking us to the House of Bruar just north of Blair Atholl.
Some of the Antartex Starters
This first section used largely minor roads via Aberfoyle, the Duke’s Pass, Bris o’Turk, Killin, Kenmore Aberfeldy, through Pitlochry and Blair Atholl to the House of Bruar, around 100 miles in all. Entrants were advised where refreshments were available along this route.
The second section took us up the A9 for 40 miles before we turned right on to the B9102 and on to Grantown-on-Spey, hence to the Grant Arms.
Friday Arrival Evening
Some pics of the arrival at the Grant Arms Hotel and the Reception
After the reception, which livened everyone no end, we proceeded to dinner.
Friday Dinner
Some of the pics of the Friday Evening Dinner
Friday Post Dinner
Following dinner, we gathered at the large down-stairs room which the Bird Watching Fraternity often used. President Jimmy took the opportuniy to entertain us with some of his stories.
Some of the pics of Friday’s Post-Dinner Activities
Saturday Morning & Afternoon
We started up after breakfast and headed North via the B9138 which was a lovely run along side the river Spey passing several large establishments which the well-heeled fishermen would have used, then up the A95 snd the A941 to Elgin via Rothes. Memory of Elgin was of a pleasant but busy town with an abundance of roundabouts and traffic lights. Eventually we arrived at our first destination, the Moray Motor Museum around 11am. This was a very interesting place with “finished” cars, motorbikes, memorabilia eyc on the first floor. We were allowed “downstairs” to the workshop where several vehicles were in the process of bring restored. One noticeable feature, apart from the numerous road and speed event cars, was the number of Jaguar cars present of varying age.
Some of the pics of The Moray Motor Museum
Following the visit to the Motor Museum we were left to our own devices – some had lunch at the adjacent Decorama establishmemt – others proceed down to Logie Steading for lunch. This too was an interesting place – obviously a farm steading in earlier life which now contained several retail outlets as well as a restaurant.
Some of the pics of the Logie Steading
Having left Logie Steading it was a relatively short and pleasant drive down the A939, back to the Grant Arms Hotel.
Saturday Evening
This perhaps slightly more subdued than Friday evening, but it seemed everyone had had a very pleaant evening’
Some of the pics of Saturday’s Post-Dinner Activities
Sunday’s Excursions
Sunday’s trip was firstly, to take us on the Strathspey Steam Railway. We had done this trip in a previous Spring Runs but this time it was to be in reverse – from Aviemore and Back.. Fofrtunately the weather was kind and we were able to enjoy the Speyside scenery.
Some of the pics of The Speyside Steam Railway
After we arrived back at Aviemore Station it was only a 8 mile run down to the next event – the Highland Wildlife Park. This again, was something we had done in an earlier Spring Run. This time however we had the added attraction of seeing Angus, the first polar bear to have been born in captivity in the Wlflife Park. We were not to be disappointed – Angus lived up to his attraction -as you would from a playful youngster. From the number of sightseers there
Some of the pics of the Wildlife Park
After the Wildlife Park, we had a 26 mile run back to the Hotel via quiet side roads and through several villages before we joined the A95 and on to Grantown-on-Spey.
For various reasons, there were fewer members present for the Sunday evening dinner and entertainments.
Monday Morning
As you would expect,our departure for home was tinged with a little sadness. This had been as usual up to Bob Baillie’s standard – the route, the various venues, the hotel and of course the entertainment(s). Next year’s event was mentioned several times, with many suggestions as to where it would be. This gave Bob a lot to think about.
As you will no doubt remember there was another important event going on in London that weekend, and to get the ‘best of both worlds’ a number of members decided to travel up to Grantown a day earlier in order not to miss any of the London events on the telly! Again this year we clashed with a meeting at Knockhill so numbers were down. However, 34 members and partnersdid make the effort.
Friday Morning and Afternoon:
The first section of Friday’s 160-mile route to Grantown started from the Esso station on the westbound carriageway of the A82. There being no time controls members followed the route at their own pace – up to Balloch, Gartocharn and Drymen; through Aberfoyle to the Trossachs, over the Duke’s Pass and up to Brig o’ Turk. Thereafter via Strathyre, Lochearnhead, Killin and the Falls of Dochart, we headed along Loch Tay through Keltneyburn up to Tummel Bridge. From there it was a simple drive to the House of Bruar via Trinafour and Calvine. What a glorious drive this had been, especially if you were in open MGs like Arlene and Jimmy McInnes, and Mairi and I had been. The weather couldn’t have been better – not a cloud in the sky – and the roads! Well – MGs were made for them!
After lunch at Bruar, the 63-mile route followed the 2010 Run exactly up to Grantown-on-Spey. As far as Mairi and I were concerned this part of the route was uneventful until about 6 miles out from Grantown when the car started “acting up” – coughing and spluttering!! Fortunately, we just made it to the Grant Arms Hotel – and abandoned the car overnight, hopefully, to sort it out on Saturday morning.
Earlier, up in Grantown, the female Thursday-nighters had been getting their fascinators adjusted in preparation for the big wedding on the box.
We never heard what their partners were doing while the ladies were oohing and aahing – no doubt keeping their throats from drying out.
Friday Evening:
As usual, we had a reception before going in for dinner. In previous years Gordon and Karen Clendinning had provided a Scalextric competition, but unfortunately, Gordon had been pre-booked and was unable to be with us this time. However, all was not lost!? Bob had arranged a quiz night (courtesy of Mid Bruce) – whoever set the questions had most of us scratching our heads. The answers were to be in by dinner on Saturday but that did not halt the early starters. A raffle followed for a bottle of 18-year-old Cutty Sark donated by The Edrington Group. This was won by Kenny Allen with the proceeds going into the charity pot.
Saturday morning:
Anne and Bill Cuthbertson about to leave for Urquhart Castle in their immaculate E-Type. (Photo by Charlie Young)
The weather continued to be glorious, but before ‘the off’ the bonnet was up on the MGB as it was still not quite right! Fortunately, we had the expert services of professionals, Kenny Allen and Kenny Gunn. Which was just as well as we were getting umpteen opinions offered as to what the problem might be from all the Motor Sport “experts”. Initially, having checked that there were no fuel problems, it was decided that plugs might be the problem and new ones were required. However as the car seemed now to going OK, we set off for Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness with fingers crossed (the Kenny’s having detoured to Inverness to get new plugs).
Urquhart Castle was certainly worth the uneventful drive down to Drumnadrochit. They have made a marvellous almost hidden centre above the castle where visitors are entertained with a short cinema show of the castle’s history. On completion of the show, the curtains were pulled apart to reveal a most spectacular panoramic view of the castle with Loch Ness behind.
Photos taken at Urquhart Castle – Click to enlarge
Before we left the car park Kenny and Kenny fitted the new plugs to the MG and we left much happier (but still with fingers crossed).
Saturday Afternoon:
Fort George on the Moray Firth was our next destination. This too, for those who hadn’t been there, was well worth a visit, with lots to see. We were advised to look for dolphins from the Fort’s ramparts. Sure enough, there seemed to be dozens of them less than a 100 yards from our vantage point! They were obviously putting on a show just for us. The funny thing was that as soon as a launch carrying the Dolphin Watchers down from Inverness came into view, the dolphins quickly submerged until it had passed, then reappeared again only to dive once more when the launch was on its return journey! We wondered what the passengers had to pay NOT to see any dolphins! After lunch and a walk around the fort, we set off back to Grantown.
All seemed to be still OK with the MG until we began the long ascent up the B9007 when it started acting up again, getting slower and slower. Plus a long queue of cars building up behind us – fortunately we did manage to creep back into Grantown where the two Kenny’s had a closer look at the MG. As it turned out, the problem was eventually tracked down to the faulty wiring which was quickly sorted out. Mairi and I were more than delighted that the problem had been resolved as we had not been looking forward to the long drive down south on Monday morning with a sick motor. Many thanks to both Kenny’s.
Saturday Evening:
Following dinner, Bob Baillie and Mid Bruce decided to test members’ driving skills with two radio-controlled cars which they had produced. However, the cars wouldn’t run on the carpet; something was interfering with the radio controls (possibly mobile phones) – etc, etc. A wooden floor was used with little more success – neither Bob nor Mid or anyone else who was prepared to have a go, could get the cars moving in the right direction. There were red faces all round when a teenage guest asked if he could have a shot. Guess what? He made it looked so easy that there were no further takers. Suffice it to say, it was all a bit of a disaster, but it did cause lots of amusement.
Malcolm Noble and Marion Bicket were the winners of the quiz with all 40 answers correct!!!! In the absence of the Scalextric Competition, to finish off the evening Bob Baillie and Malcolm Noble raffled off the 12-year-old Cutty Sark (again from Edrington) which Malcolm and Marion had just won. A further bottle of 12-year-old Cutty Sark was raffled by Malcolm who targeted a bunch of whisky tasters who were also staying at the hotel. The proceeds of these raffles together with donations resulted in Bob being able to present a cheque for £412.50 to Gordon Clendinning’s Leukaemia Charity
Sunday Morning:
We all travelled south again on Sunday morning to Loch Insh to the Watersports Centre.
A much happier Mairi and Stuart Parker, now that the MGB had been sorted out. (Photo by Charlie Young)
Need-less-to-say, apart from a gentle sail around the loch, nobody took part in any of the sports on offer! We were lucky enough to see a pair of Ospreys nesting from the cruiser. All in all, it was a pleasant leisurely morning still in glorious sunshine. Some of the group who had decided to stay only two nights in Grantown made their way home after this visit to Loch Insh. The others did their own thing for the rest of the day.
Sunday Evening:
McInnes almost nodding off after dinner. (Photo by Anne Cuthbertson)
By the time Sunday evening came around, and dinner plus fluids were consumed (the food had again been excellent) most people were looking forward to bed.
There was no raffle that night — the whisky was all done!!!!
Monday Morning:
Fond farewells were said – promises to do this again – certainly next year – etc, etc. But home beckoned. What a great weekend this had turned out to be. As usual Bob Baillie had provided a great route, interesting visits, great accommodation and food, and most of all great company. Many thanks, Bob.
How did you arrange the weather? same again please, next year.
Stuart Parker
List of Entrants
Kenny Allen & Kenny Gunn Bob & Margaret Baillie Tom & Marion Bicket
Mid & Val Bruce Barry & Nancy Crichton Bill & Anne Cuthbertson
David Fotheringham & Susan Gould Ian & Louise Gemmell Walter & Bette Gray
Jimmy & Arlene McInnes Bill & Eileen Montgomery Malcolm & Anne Noble
Stuart & Mairi Parker Ian & Margaret Smillie Pat & John Smith
Another great weekend in Grantown enjoyed by 30 members and partners. Numbers were down this year as a result of clashing with other events, particularly a Knockhill Race meeting. Unfortunately, Ian and Margaret Smillie had to pull out the event at the last minute due to family illness.
Friday:
Bob Baillie had given us a very interesting route up to the official start at the House of Bruar on Friday morning taking us through Crieff, Amulree, Aberfeldy, Tummel Bridge then via Killiecrankie through Blair Atholl to the House of Bruar.
After lunch, we started off in no particular order making our way north to Dalwhinnie, Kingussie, Feshiebridge, Coylumbridge and hence via Boat of Garten to Grantown-on-Spey. The route certainly brought many happy memories of previous events such as the Highland Three day and many Scottish Rallies.
Start from House of Bruar
As usual, we were based in the Grant Arms Hotel where the food and accommodation were even better than last year. Friday finished with a cocktail party followed by dinner and then the serious business of Maximum Attack or as we knew it, the Highland Speed Challenge!
Friday Evening
Saturday morning:
…. saw us off to the Cairngorm Mountain Funicular Railway. Unfortunately, when we arrived at the foot of the mountain we could see the railway disappearing into the clouds! Apart from being cloudy, it was freezing! Anyway, we all boarded the train for the top where we disembarked straight into the Center and Restaurant. A few brave souls made for the outside but were some to join us pretty quickly! The view from the top – nil! After a wander around the centre and a welcome cup of coffee, we joined the next descending train. The trip was certainly unusual – a pity about the weather.
Cairngorm Mountain Railway
Then we made our way to the new Culloden Battle Center which stood only feet from the battle itself. After lunch in the Center Restaurant, we were given a guided tour of the centre and the battlefield itself.
The guide was excellent and very knowledgeable – providing us with many interesting facts and figures. To those not familiar with details of the battle, and that would include most of the veterans present, he pointed out that the vast majority of the Government army under the Duke of Cumberland were lowland Scots and NOT English. It was not so much as a battle more of a massacre.
Saturday Evening:
Back at the Hotel, it was quickly getting ready for a few drinks and then dinner.
A few snaps taken during and after dinner
After dinner, it was down to the very serious business of the Highland Speed Challenge which Gordon and Karen Clendinning had set up in the dining room. The layout was a bit different from last year and possibly more challenging. Perhaps this might have explained why some members declined to compete!! In addition to the Scalextric competition, Gordon had arranged a “Name the Rally Driver” competition which proved to baffle most – including a few well-known rally folk!
The Highland Speed Challenge – Scalextric track
Sunday morning:
On Sunday morning, after breakfast, Bob Baillie presented the prizes as follows:
“Name the Rally Driver Competition”
Won by the team of Susan Gould and David Fotheringham
“Highland Speed Challenge” sponsored by Guyson and The Macallan.
Gentlemen: 1st Equal – in a time of 1 minute 13 seconds, Duncan Paterson and Bob Baillie
Duncan won on a timed run-off (Bob blew it! He said he was too excited!)
Ladies: 1st – in a time of 1 minute 14 seconds, Susan Gould 2nd Equal – in a time of 1 minute 15 seconds, Mairi Parker and Marion Bicket
Prizegiving
After breakfast, most people made for home but a few stayed on for another night and a bit of sightseeing before making for home on Monday morning.
From the proceeds of the Highland Speed Challenge plus the generous donations from Guston, Macallan and Hugh MacKinnon we were able to donate a grand total of £403 to Glasgow University Trust Fund which operates as The Paul O`Gorman Leukaemia Research Centre. Members will be interested to know that to date Gordon Clendinning’s charity Maximum Attack has raised in excess of £18,000 – well done Gordon.
Of course, many thanks are due to Bob Baillie, the Clerk of the Course, Chief Marshal and altogether general factotum, for all his hard work before and during the event. Thank,s Bob.
All in all, it was again a very enjoyable Highland Tour. Something that those present certainly wished to be repeated in 2011.
Stuart Parker
List of Entrants
Kenny Allen & Kenny Gunn Bob & Margaret Baillie Tom & Marion Bicket
Mid & Val Bruce Gordon & Karen Clendinning David Fotheringham & Susan Gould
Ian & Louise Gemmell Walter & Bette Gray Jimmy & Arlene McInnes
Bill & Eileen Montgomery Stuart & Mairi Parker Duncan & Adele Paterson
Ian & Margaret Smillie Pat & John Smith Graham & Margaret Wright
Tour
![](http://vsms.tunaweb.com/wp-content/uploads/Run_2013_042.jpg ""Have you heard the one about……….? (Photograph by Ann Cuthbertson)")
![](https://www.vsma.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/Run_2013_048-768x602.jpg "Enjoying the sun before the "off" on Sunday morning. (Photograph from Margaret Smillie)")
![](https://www.vsma.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/Run_2013_053-768x1151.jpg ""The flagpole gives you great reception........." (Photograph by Ann Cuthbertson)")
![](http://vsms.tunaweb.com/wp-content/uploads/Run_2013_048.jpg "Enjoying the sun before the "off" on Sunday morning. (Photograph from Margaret Smillie)")
![](http://vsms.tunaweb.com/wp-content/uploads/Run_2013_053.jpg ""The flagpole gives you great reception........." (Photograph by Ann Cuthbertson)")
![](https://www.vsma.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/Run_2013_055-768x550.jpg "Mid Bruce and Bob Baillie, having enjoyed their "flight" in Concorde. (Photograph from Margaret Smillie)")
![](http://vsms.tunaweb.com/wp-content/uploads/Run_2013_055.jpg "Mid Bruce and Bob Baillie, having enjoyed their "flight" in Concorde. (Photograph from Margaret Smillie)")
The Hotel apparently was fully-booked and as a result, we were asked to dine earlier than planned. Prior to that, there was a Reception for the entrants in a room normally reserved for the “Bird People”. Actually, we had this room for our exclusive use over the whole weekend. This allowed Gordon Clendening to prepare his Scalextric set-up in good time for the later competition(s). As you might expect, by the time it was time to go up for dinner everyone was in fine fettle. Thankfully, the meal was up to the Hotel’s excellent standard.
The route on the Sunday tour took us south to see the Fort Augustus Swing Bridge on the Great Glen. Leaving the Grant Arms we travelled via Carrbridge, then south on the B862 and eventually on to the A82 just north of Fort Augustus.
![](http://vsms.tunaweb.com/wp-content/uploads/D2A1929_A4.jpg "Boyd asking "How's the fishing today"")
![](https://www.vsma.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018-Spring-Run_-044-1.jpg "All out at the "Glenbogle Station" before the trip back to Aviemore.")
All seemed to be still OK with the MG until we began the long ascent up the B9007 when it started acting up again, getting slower and slower. Plus a long queue of cars building up behind us – fortunately we did manage to creep back into Grantown where the two Kenny’s had a closer look at the MG. As it turned out, the problem was eventually tracked down to the faulty wiring which was quickly sorted out. Mairi and I were more than delighted that the problem had been resolved as we had not been looking forward to the long drive down south on Monday morning with a sick motor. Many thanks to both Kenny’s.
Malcolm Noble and Marion Bicket were the winners of the quiz with all 40 answers correct!!!! In the absence of the Scalextric Competition, to finish off the evening Bob Baillie and Malcolm Noble raffled off the 12-year-old Cutty Sark (again from Edrington) which Malcolm and Marion had just won. A further bottle of 12-year-old Cutty Sark was raffled by Malcolm who targeted a bunch of whisky tasters who were also staying at the hotel. The proceeds of these raffles together with donations resulted in Bob being able to present a cheque for £412.50 to Gordon Clendinning’s Leukaemia Charity
![](http://vsms.tunaweb.com/wp-content/uploads/2011-Highland-Tour-039.jpg ""Cheese" from Marion and Tom Bicker. (Photo by Anne Cuthbertson)")
