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Newsletter September, 2007

If you were not able to be at the recent Knockhill event and if you are not a very recent member, you will find enclosed a couple of “cling” VSMA windscreen badges with our compliments. I hope you will display them discreetly “front and rear” – more can be purchased if required. What a most enjoyable event the Classic Speedfair at Knockhill turned out to be. Despite the attraction of the Open at Carnoustie, we had over 50 members drop in to our “tent” in the Media Centre, where they managed to consume a fair amount of coffee, tea, pies and biscuits. One or two celebrates also called in including Stirling Moss and his delightful wife Susie. Alan Carlaw managed to persuade Stirling to become a member, as he was eligible to join our ranks having competed in a race meeting at Turnberry in the early ’50s!

Following the event we had a very nice thankyou letter from Knockhill……”Please thank all your committee and members for the excellent help and enthusiasm for the 2nd classic speedfair event from the Friday dinner to the finale on Sunday it was a most enjoyable days motorsport.
With best regards from Derek Butcher”…..

I recently learned from Gus Carnegie of the death of Dr John Butson. In July, while swimming in Cyprus he had a massive fatal heart attack. John competed on many Road and Forest Rallies during the 1970s and was club champion of Dunfermline Car Club more than once. He scored many class wins in his Escorts and Avenger. Quite often he would do a forest event on the Saturday and then go on to do a navigational event the same night. He also competed in the Motoring News road rallies series and was Sector Marshal for the RAC rally when it visited the Tweed Valley. He is survived by his second wife Rose and his 2 children Kim and James. He had been planning to attend the Reunion Dinner in October.

Membership – Since the June Newsletter, we have added 30+ new members to our ranks which is indeed most encouraging.

Missing people – may I thank those who kindly gave me the whereabouts of some of the “missing people” in the June Newsletter. I was able to track a few of them down. However I still get some mail returned. Here are two of the most recent:
Bob Barnett, 30 Inchkeith Avene, Broughty Ferry – this seemingly was the wrong Bob Barnett! !!??
Iain McLaren, 3 Greenfield Avenue, Alloway, Ayr – addressee “gone away”

Email addresses – Of our 230+ members, almost 180 have supplied email addresses which is great for getting information out to members easily and at no cost at all. It would be great if the 50+ members were also to join the electronic community. Emailing is very easy and great fun, plus it is secure. When I send out a “bulk” email to our members I make sure that the email addresses are not available to anyone other than the individual recipients.
One problem that does arise occasionally – when people change their email address and don’t let me know about the change! So, can I make a plea, if you have changed to your addresses (email or otherwise) please let me know.

VSMA Anoraks – Those at Knockhill would have noticed that some of our members were displaying our new VSMA badged anoraks. Indeed we took orders for more than 1 dozen there and then! If you would like to be a proud owner of such a garment please get in touch with me. They are lightweight, waterproof, water resistant and windproof garments manufactured to a very high standard, complete with concealed hood, several pockets including a very handy “mobile” pocket. The colour is dark navy and costs only £35 which includes P & P. All sizes are catered for: Small, Medium, Large, XL and XXL.

Motorsport Survey – as a follow-up from the paragraph in the last Newsletter I received the following from Motorsport Scotland:

“At the end of April, an online survey was sent to over 300 people involved in some way with motorsport in Scotland. When the survey was closed 220 responses had been collated. The following hyperlink details all the responses and comments received.
http://www.surveymonkey.comsr.aspx?smAExnLOLHtBbBi4aPjr_2fSiCwQOlx8qfz0pMApqidAFbM_3d
From the results, we are encouraged to see that the findings wholly support our objectives for Motorsport Scotland. The level of support for the specific objectives gives us some direction on which areas to target. The written comments give us a valuable insight into the views and passion that there is for our sport. We are grateful to those who forwarded our initial e-mail and would ask if you could do the same with this mail detailing the results of the survey”.

Reunion – Entries are coming in at a steady pace for our October bash. We have decided not to have the photographic competition this year but we will have the usual photographic displays of old events, memorabilia, etc. Indeed if you have any such items you feel would be of interest to members drop Alan Carlaw or me a line. As you know the main purpose of the Reunion is to renew old acquaintances and meeting new friends. We think we have prepared an interesting and hopefully enjoyable evening for everyone.

Arkive – For some time now the idea of keeping an archive of Scottish Motorsport memorabilia has been mooted between some members. This has taken a step further by the very kind gift to the Association by Nigel Kennedy of some of his collection of motorsport photographs plus other memorabilia. One of which is bound copies of “Top Gear” Magazine going back to …………. ???? ??????????????????????????????????????????????????/ ???????????????? Thought has to be given to storage of such items plus the availability to our members. Photographs can certainly be stored electronically but magazines, etc., are another matter. More on this later, but if you think you have anything of interest to our members and would wish to donate them, please let any of the Directors know.
Annual General Meeting – Enclosed you will find a Notice regarding our first AGM which will be held just before the Reunion Dinner in the Glynhill Hotel. Do come along. It shouldn’t last very long – hopefully – but you may find it interesting. More importantly, it is a time when you can air your views and give your suggestions/complaints!

Stuart Parker

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Newsletter June, 2007

Up to now, we have been circulating over 500 people with the Association’s Newsletters. But it has been decided, due to the cost of postage, that after this issue we will only being sending information out to members only. Our Membership is now over 200 but there is always room for more. If you haven’t already joined I would you urge you to do so now. Please send your membership application form, along with a cheque for the one-off Registration fee of £20 to Treasurer, Alan B. Carlaw, “Anworth”, 15 Rozelle Drive, Newton Mearns, Glasgow, G77 6YU. If you have misplaced your form get in touch with me or Alan, (Tel:†0141-616-4143 or alan.carlaw@virgin.net) and a form will be sent to you. Just to remind you – membership of the Association is open to anyone “…….who had an active involvement with any branch of Motorsport held in Scotland 25 years prior to the current year. This would include competitors, organisers, officials and those involved in vehicle maintenance”.

Missing People – May I thank those who gave me some of the missing addresses in the last Newsletter. Regrettably, I still get a number of Newsletters returned to me “addressee unknown”. Below is the up-to-date list of names and their last known addresses – if you know of any of their present whereabouts, could you please let me know.

Alan Ainslie, 4 Ashloaning, Denholm Nr. Hawick Bob Barnett, 30 Inchkeith Av, Broughty Ferry
Tommy Dickson, Dickson’s of Perth, Perth Tom Haley, 26 Reid Street, Hamilton
Ian H. Hawthorn, 68 Neilson Rd Uplawmoor George Marshall, 3 Lochend, Tweedbank, Galashiels
John McCallum, 91 Bothwell Rd, Hamilton Douglas JS Miller, 24a Murrayfield Rd, Edinburgh
Ian Thomson, Red Car Sales, E. King St, Helensburgh

Reunion Saturday 27th October, 2007 – Hopefully this one will be even better than the 2005 event. The format will be similar to the last one with lots of time for members to get together and reminisce. Members will find enclosed an Entry Form for this year’s reunion. May I remind members that they will only be eligible to purchase two tickets and that entries will be accepted on a “first come, first served” basis! If you intend staying the night, after the event, we have arranged concessionary rates with the Glynhill Hotel. Please quote the reference code (on the Entry Form) when you are making a reservation.

Annual General Meeting, 27th October, 2007 – Our first AGM will be held prior to the Reunion in the Glynhill Hotel at 6.00 p.m. The official notice of the AGM along with the Agenda will be sent to members in September.

Knockhill Classic Speedfair 2007, July 20/21/22 – The format will be similar to 2006. However, Knockhill promises that it will be “bigger and better”. Unlike last year both Saturday and Sunday will be exclusively devoted to Classic events. There will be a full race programme featuring around 60 Formula Fords; Tin Top Touring Cars; an Invitation Sports Car Race; Morgans; Scottish Sports and Saloons; Classic Rally; motorcycle displays and demonstrations; an aero display by a starduster by-plane; approximately 400 show cars, lorries and buses. Special exhibits will include Ecurie Ecosse, a guest appearance by Sir Stirling Moss driving a Vanwall; F40 celebration; children’s fun fair and many other period exhibits.
Graham Cowie, a VSMA member, is running the Classic & Thoroughbred Hillclimb stand at the Classic Speedfair so hopefully, some Association members will go along and give him a visit. After all, if he can still compete, then maybe some of our members could still compete and relive their lost youth!!!
The event really kicks off on the night of Friday 20th with a “Drivers Dinner” at the nearby Forrester Park Golf and Leisure Resort (a lovely venue). However, the dinner is open to anyone and tickets are available from Gemma Baird at Knockhill for only £40. She can be contacted at the Knockhill Racing Circuit. Tel:01383-723-337 or Fax:01383-620-167 or by Email: gemma@knockhill.co.uk. For full details, it would probably be easier to call Sasha, Gemma or Stuart Gray.
The VSMA involvement will start on Saturday morning right through to Sunday evening. As before we will be manning a tea/coffee meeting place next to the “Media Centre” in the paddock – just follow the signs. Members are being given access to a car park immediately behind the paddock but you will require the enclosed Car Park Pass to get in.
Admission will be at a much-reduced rate for our members and their guests, on the production of their membership card at the gate or they can apply in advance to Knockhill at an even lower rate (contact Emma)!

All in all, it promises to be a great couple days of nostalgia. If you didn’t manage along last year, I would strongly recommend that you do try and get along this year. You wont be disappointed.

Motorsport Scotland – You may or may not have heard of this organisation which has come about since the demise of the RSAC. The following is their first “communication”, which you may find of interest, which was recently sent to me:-

“Background
In early 2004 the Motorsport Industry Association, as a host of Brian Cameron, visited Knockhill to meet with some Scottish based businesses to review the motorsport industry in Scotland. The findings of that review showed, amongst other things that the motorsport industry in Scotland is fragmented and ill-defined with no coherent or strategic development in the sport, facilities, industry or competitors. The lack of strategy has meant little government interest or investment.
At the same time, a group of folk, who had been trying hard to find ways to help develop the sporting side from grassroots up, had come to the same conclusions about the state of the sport itself. This group included Jimmy McRae, Bruce Lyle, Gordon Hastie, Gavin Miller, Robert Reid, Stuart Gray(Knockhill) and Dave Kennedy (Bells College). To make any kind of sense of it, a radical rethink was required, and the opportunity which then presented itself to bring together all of the stakeholders from the sport, the industry, and the educators, to work together towards one common purpose, was too good to turn down. It was soon apparent, however, that to bring everyone together in the most effective way, was not as easy as it first appeared. We will only get one chance at this, so we have to get it right first time.

Key Research – In spring of last year the Scottish Executive through its Scottish Development International organisation commissioned some research into the automotive sector in Scotland and, in particular, the motorsport sector. The key findings of the report, which identified over 200 motorsport related companies from F1 suppliers to small race and rally teams, were finalised in May of last year and concluded the further needs to be a strategic plan for growth of motorsport in Scotland
A project agreement with DTI
A mapping of education and university R&D
Further research be conducted to establish current capabilities in comparison with other regions of excellence, labour force.
That the sport engage with Scottish industry and encourage cluster forming

In Stirling in November 2006 a group of over one hundred people from Scottish companies, individuals from the sport and some representatives from colleges and universities that offer motorsport related courses met at the UK launch of the Motorsport Academy. Also at that event a vision of what Motorsport Scotland could be in the future was explored and the start of a tangible process to create a meaningful set of objectives for Motorsport Scotland was started ≠ rooted firmly in the belief that, whatever Motorsport Scotland should be it must not be an `exclusive club’ but an `inclusive venture’ whose membership only requires the belief and will to bring to reality a strong commercial future for the business of motorsport in Scotland.

The term `Motorsport Scotland’ has, up till now, been loosely used to mean a body formed to create and deliver a vision for motorsport in Scotland. Now we have something tangible ≠ the structure of a plan that brings together the motorsport industry, education and our sport for the benefit of all. The UK first.
The Purpose of Motorsport Scotland is very simple. It is to make Scotland a World Class motorsport destination ≠ and to do that by 2012. A huge task and one that will require the coordinated effort and input from every Scot who has motorsport in their business, their leisure or their blood. It will involve bringing together commerce as well as the sport for it is only through sound business projects that bring value to Scotland that funding, critical to the development of the sport, can be obtained.

Objectives – To deliver this future we have developed five key objectives for Motorsport Scotland.

• 1. To develop a secure future for motorsport in Scotland with government and legislators
  We will create a motorsport strategy for Scotland that encompasses tomorrow’s as well as today’s issues. We have to consider motorsport as a leader in `green’ issues ≠ alternative fuels etc, a problem solver and not a creator for social issues and we need to build on Scotland’s assets of technology (R&D) and environment (tourism).
  We also need to be the managers of an open and regular dialogue with the plethora of governmental bodies in addition to the legislators and regulators of the sport.
• 2. To create a greater awareness of motorsport within and outside Scotland
  We shall seek alignment and market Scotland with the Motorsport Foundation to maximise fundraising from events such as National Motorsport Week. We should endeavour to find new Scottish events with an international profile. We should also maintain an excellent Centre of Communication ≠ with open and easy access. This would ultimately be the focus for any sport-related question, from how to get into the sport, either as a marshal, competitor, or apprentice, to when, and what kind of events are being run.
• 3. To support initiatives that bring new people, talent and business into motorsport in Scotland
  We will promote Scotland internationally as a motorsport destination for sport, business and education and promote inward and outward trade business opportunities through affiliation with the MIA. We will also provide a process through which new (and old) sporting disciplines can be embraced, provide support to Motor Clubs, and other organisations such as Volunteers in Motorsport to assist with marshals, rescue crews etc and work with Colleges and Universities to bring them together with our sport
  4. To provide a platform for creating alignment in Scotland’s motorsport community
  We have already started to engage the most senior members of the Scottish motorsport community and will continue to build this network. We will create a working party/forum on sporting initiatives and issue resolution and be the focal point for coordination of motorsport in industry and education as well as adopting a co-ordination role within the sport to ensure the sharing of best practice.
• 5. To run Motorsport Scotland as an efficient and self-sustaining organisation
  We shall seek funding from public bodies wherever possible through alignment to high-level government objectives. We shall also promote and manage fundraising events and work towards longterm sustained, committed commercial funding secured from the industry, government and, through charitable means, support from key individuals and trusts.

Structure
`Motorsport Scotland’ shall be a `not-for-profit’ organisation. At the outset it will be incorporated as a limited company however it will explore charitable status in the future for some, or all, of its operating activities.
It shall be a promoter, rather than an organiser, of activities which meet its operating objectives which, cumulatively, promote the brand of `Motorsport Scotland’. It will engage in operational partnerships for each of its core processes of developing the sport, the industry and the education sectors where they extend into motorsport. Partners in these sectors shall include, but not be limited to:

      Sport: The Scottish Regional Associations and the governing bodies
      Industry: The Motorsport Industry Association
      Education: The Motorsport Academy

The Motorsport Foundation is also a key partner with common National objectives and similar operating processes. Initially, the prime focus will be on four-wheeled motorsport however an open dialogue will actively pursue all motorsports activities so that maximum leverage for common objectives can be had.

Governance and Operations
Motorsport Scotland will be governed by an operating executive team. Also, patronage shall be sought from key motorsporting Scots and established figures from the target development sectors of sport, industry and education. The inaugural operating executive team shall be fixed for the initial period whilst the operating processes are established and thereafter a system of ordered change will be used to maintain a balanced and representative `executive. The `executive shall give their time freely to Motorsport Scotland.
It is not envisaged that Motorsport Scotland shall have a permanent staff, however, Motorsport Scotland shall create arrangements with its partners to provide the facilities and resources for core administrative functions. It is envisaged that to deliver objectives, it may be required to enter contractual arrangements for specific projects with third parties ≠ this will be at the discretion of the operating executive.

For further information contact:
Industry & Education: Brian Cameron +44 (0) 1340 810436 e-mail bcameron@tbxltd.com
Sporting: Bruce Lyle +44 (0) 7771 717517 e-mail brucelyle@bigfoot.com ”

Obviously, the aims of this organisation are very commendable. I’m sure, like me, you would wish them well, and would wish to support them in their endeavours.

That’s all folks.

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Newsletter March, 2007

May I wish you compliments of the season – I trust, like me, you are looking forward to a year of entertaining Motorsport. It has been some months since I last put “pen to paper” and for this I apologise. There are a few items of information I should mention initially. The first of these concerns the notation below the Association heading above. We were delighted that Lord Bruce agreed to become our Patron. He has had a very long association with Motorsport in Scotland and it was only fitting he should have been our choice as Patron.
Jackie Stewart and Andrew Cowan, although both now retired from active competition, are still closely involved with Motorsport. Jackie perhaps is still the best known Scottish name in Motorsport throughout the world, and it was natural that we should have approached him to be our Honorary President. Similarly, Andrew Cowan, always remembered as one of the world’s rallying legends, particularly in the marathon events of the ’60s, was approached to be our Honorary Vice-President. Fortunately, both immediately agreed to accept our invitation to fill these posts.

The next item of information concerns the forthcoming Reunion. We decided to change the date so as not to fall on an F1 weekend. Indeed, it now comes at the end of the F1 season. So, the 2007 Reunion will now take place on Saturday, 27th October in the Glynhill Hotel Paisley. Ticket Application forms will be sent out to members probably around June. Members will only be eligible to purchase two tickets and I should point out that the reunion will be open only to members of our Association and that entries will be accepted on a “first come, first served” basis!

Presently, our Membership stands at nearly 200. If you haven’t already joined I would you urge you to do so as future details of any of our events will only be sent to members.  Please send your membership application form, along with a cheque for the one-off Registration fee of £20 to Treasurer, Alan B. Carlaw, “Anwoth”, 15 Rozelle Drive, Newton Mearns, Glasgow, G77 6YU. If you have misplaced your form get in touch with me or Alan, (Tel:†0141-616-4143 or alan.carlaw@virgin.net ) and another form will be sent to you. Just to remind you – membership of the Association is open to anyone “…….who had an active involvement with any branch of Motorsport held in Scotland 25 years prior to the current year. This would include competitors, organisers, officials and those involved in vehicle maintenance”.

I trust you noticed our “new” logo which appears above in place of the Cooper-S. The Mini belonged to me but was driven by J.W. McInnes and navigated by myself during the ’60s. Sadly, the Mini too has gone. As you will see the new logo is quite simple but hopefully it will become well know in the future.

Sad to report two of our members have passed on since the last Newsletter. Lord Monro of Langholm, better known as Hector Monro, died last August. Although known more for his political activities, he was a member of the South of Scotland CC and had competed in rallies, autotests and races. The other death was that of Jack Wilson who also died last year. Jack started his motorsport career with the Austin Apprentices Car Club in 1938! He competed in many events including the Lands End at Easter in 1939, the Three Day Highland and Circuit of Ireland rallies. He had also competed in trials including the Moorfoot Trial. He took an active interest in motorsport all his life and had a great collection of memorabilia. Along with his son Murray, he attended both the VSMA Reunions despite his advanced years.
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Knockhill Classic Speedfair 2006 – what a great day, as anyone who was there will tell you – over 70 members came along to our “stall” in the Media Centre including some well-kent faces – however, some were too busy competing (Roy Allingham, etc) to have time to drop in, or some were just too busy spectating or blathering – like Logan and Sandy Morrison among many others. President McInnes, as usual, was to be heard waxing eloquently over the PA system on occasions, although by the end of the day he was quite hoarse and for a pleasant change almost speechless!! However, he did a grand job over the two days. Our thanks go to the other Directors and their partners/friends who manned our coffee stall throughout the day. Thanks too, go to the Knockhill event organisers for providing such a varied and enjoyable day of nostalgic motorsport. We look forward to this year’s event……..

……….Knockhill Classic Speedfair 2007 – we were recently invited to attend a planning meeting of the event’s organising committee. Andy Watson and I both attended. Stuart Gray gave a rough outline of their plans for 2007. It will be held over the weekend 20th to 22nd July. The format will be similar to 2006. It will be “bigger and better”, but unlike last year both Saturday and Sunday will be exclusively devoted to Classic events. On the social side, on Friday 20th July, Knockhill is hosting a “Drivers Dinner” at the nearby Forrester Park Golf and Leisure Resort. Tickets are available from Gemma Baird at Knockhill for only £40! She can be contacted at the Knockhill Racing Circuit. Tel:01383-723-337 or Fax:01383-620-167 or by Email: gemma@knockhill.co.uk.
On the racing side, the following championships hope to be included – 50’s Sports Cars; Tin Tops; MG Equipe; Morgans; Formula Ford 1600; Formula Junior; Scottish Sports and Saloons and the Irish FF 1600. There will also be a Speedfair Trophy race for any single seaters. On Sunday, there will be Club racing and Motor Cycle demos, while there will be a strong rallying theme on both days. There will be the usual static stands and several parades over the two days. It is hoped to have many personalities from the past in attendance including Sir Stirling Moss, Damon Hill plus a few other well-known names from the past, plus of course a few famous Scottish names. All in all, it promises to be a great couple days of nostalgia. If you didn’t manage along last year, I would strongly recommend that you do try and get along this year. You won’t be disappointed. I hope to be able to send you details of entry, etc., nearer the time.

Following the last Newsletter, I had a number returned “addressee unknown”. Below is a list of their names and their last known addresses – if you know of any of their present whereabouts, could you please let me know so that I can keep them on the mailing list.

                                   Tom Haley, 26 Reid Street, Hamilton George Marshall, 3 Lochend, Tweedbank, Galashiels
                                    John McCallum, 91 Bothwell Rd, Hamilton Douglas JS Miller, 24a Murrayfield Rd, Edinburgh
                                    Ian Thomson, Red Car Sales, E. King St, Helensburgh
Extracts from RSAC Motorsport Newsletter dated 13 February 2007, which you may or not be aware of:

RSAC Motorsport has reached a crossroads. Last year the MSA made the decision to withdraw the support it had been providing for the last decade. That financial assistance had been put in place primarily to allow us to help develop the sport in Scotland. That funding concludes this year. The Board considered alternative ways of keeping the ship afloat but, in order to prevent a financial meltdown which would have done no-one any good, we took the decision to close the office in Linwood and to make Jonathan Lord and Catherine Higgins, both of whom were extremely loyal and long-serving employees, redundant. By taking this decision at a relatively early stage, we have been able to meet our full redundancy obligations, and to meet all our financial obligations, both now, and moving ahead. RSAC Motorsport is in a sound financial position to carry on with its plans for the future, which include continuing to provide the route authorisation facility for rallies on the public highway in Scotland as agent of the Scottish Executive, continuing to run the Scottish Rally and Three Lochs Classic, and taking on any other suitable motor sporting activity which can be found with a suitable fit. You will be pleased to hear that the boys have just concluded a new deal with Dumfries and Galloway Council, to run the `Scottish’ there for the next three years. It will run this year on 30 June.

MOTORSPORT SCOTLAND LAUNCHED
Following the restructuring mentioned above, several of our Board members felt that their real focus was the support and development of the sport, and we have taken ourselves off to try to do that. So Jim McRae, Gordon Hastie and Bruce Lyle are no longer part of the future of RSAC Motorsport. Together with Gavin Miller of The Inside Line, the man responsible for the MSA’s Rally Elite scheme, and Robert Reid, our World Champion Rally Co-driver, they have teamed up with Brian Cameron, who has been working with the MIA (Motorsport Industry Association) in Scotland on a completely new initiative, which should bring the industry, the educators, and the sport itself together with the common objective of strengthening and supporting Motorsport, the industry which depends on it, and society with which it becomes involved, like students of engineering and local communities. A grand plan, which is going to take some serious effort to achieve! To go with it, they have come up with a grand name ≠ Motorsport Scotland ≠ hardly original, but hitting the mark squarely. Motorsport Scotland will be sending its own newsletter to the RSAC Motorsport mailing list, and to anyone else who would like to receive it. The first of these will be published very shortly, giving details of what they have achieved to date and their next event which is scheduled for the end of February.

RSAC MOTORSPORT NEW ADDRESS
Following the closure of the Linwood office, the following address should be used for all correspondence related to route authorisations and RSAC Motorsport events:

PO Box 3333 , Glasgow, G20 2AX Tel/Fax: 0141 946 5045 E-mail: mail@rsacmotorsport.co.uk

SCOTTISH RALLY 2007
There was good news just before Christmas with confirmation that Dumfries and Galloway Council had agreed to support the RSAC Scottish Rally for a further three years from 2007 to 2009. This partnership, has been in place since 1997, may well be the longest between an organiser and a local authority in UK rally history, and we are very grateful to the Council for their confidence in us and in the Scottish Rally. Plans for 2007 are well advanced. Because of the Jim Clark Rally’s move to a late May date, we took the decision to move the Scottish to the end of June in order to ensure a better spread of events within the Scottish rally calendar. The Scottish is now five weeks after the Jim Clark and six weeks before the Speyside. The rally continues to be a round of the County Saab Scottish Rally Championship, the Brick and Steel 205 Ecosse Challenge and the Five of Clubs Championship, and we look forward to welcoming competitors from all three series. The route planning team reports that there will be a couple of new stages and double usage will be kept to a minimum. The popular Heathhall spectator stage, only a mile or so from the centre of Dumfries, will again feature. Regulations will be available in April and will automatically be sent to registered competitors in the three championships mentioned above. If you’d like to compete and aren’t a championship contender, please write, phone or e-mail to our new office address to reserve a copy.

THE NATIONAL PARK ARGYLL RUN   –  Sunday 11 March 2007
Sponsored by the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park In association with RSAC Motorsport Limited and The Caledonian Classic and Historic Motor Sports Club Ltd.
The Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park and the Scottish Motor Museum Trust are organising a commemorative run which will be the final event in a year of celebrations marking the centenary of the opening of the Argyll Motor Works. This famous A listed building was once the world largest motor car works and this fantastic building is still the most palatial car factory ever built. Every single motor car produced by the world famous Argyll Company in Alexandria was road tested locally in this area. The rally will take you on many of these test routes including the specially-opened Rest and be Thankful, which became internationally famous in the 1950s when the RSAC ran its hill climbs on this tortuous mountain road. With over £1500 of prize money there are major prizes to be won, and we invite both individual and club entries. There will be an overall individual prize; a Concours prize; a rally event prize; and a major Club prize. Club entries will consist of three or more entries from one club. The entry fee is £25 which will include a reception in the fabulous Marble Halls of the Motor Works. For more details contact: Douglas Anderson: 01382 731755 Motoring Heritage Centre: 01389 607862 Information on the Web: www.caledonianmsc.com www.motoringheritage.co.uk

THREE LOCHS CLASSIC 2007
Looking further ahead, Saturday 18 August sees the RSAC Three Lochs Classic for Veteran, Vintage and Classic cars. Based in Rhu, this event consists of a road run and a Concours d’Elegance. More details from the RSAC Motorsport office.

That’s all my news folks!!

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Newsletter June, 2006

This Newsletter will duplicate some of the information I emailed in March to those who had given me their email address. However, this is to keep everyone up to date on what’s been happening since our last reunion in April 2005 and give you some information on future plans.
At the time of the Reunion, it was agreed to formalise the “Association” and invite others to form a Committee along with Alan Carlaw, Jimmy McInnes and myself. As a result, we were delighted to welcome on board: Adele Paterson, Newton Mearns, Bob Baillie, Mauchline, Bill Dryden, Aberlady and Andy Watson, Glasgow. All of these people have been, and some still are, fairly representative of the Motorsport fraternity of Scotland.  At our first Board Meeting, the following positions were confirmed:-

Chairman: Mr James W. McInnes
Vice-Chairman: Mr Robert Baillie
Secretary: Dr Stuart S.I. Parker
Treasurer: Mr Alan B. Carlaw
Ordinary Board Members: Mr William N.A. Dryden, Mrs Adele Paterson and Mr Andrew E. Watson

Since the Reunion, we have had a couple of meetings to decide the future of the Association. Everyone was very enthusiastic and full of ideas! One of the first things we discussed was the format and purpose of the Association. For legal and financial reasons we felt we should become a private limited company. This entailed drawing up proper Articles and Memorandum of Association, in which rules for membership and the purpose of the Association, etc., were outlined. It was agreed that membership of the Association would be open to anyone “…who had an active involvement with any branch of Motorsport held in Scotland 25 years prior to the current year. This would include competitors, organisers, officials and those involved in vehicle maintenance”. Our purpose would be “To organise events of a Reunion nature on a regular basis. To keep a database of members which would detail the nature of their Motorsport involvement”. After several letters to Company House, Edinburgh, I am delighted to inform you that we are now an incorporated Private Limited Company (No.302075) known as the “VETERANS OF SCOTTISH MOTORSPORT ASSOCIATION”, a Company limited by Guarantee.

We decided that the Association would be non-profit making. However, to allow it to function and flourish, a one-off Registration fee of £20 would be levied on those wishing to become members (Subscribers) of the Company. It was felt that this fee would be enough to cover the future costs of administration, meetings, etc. To this end, I have enclosed a Registration Forms which should be returned along with the fee to Treasurer Alan Carlaw who will send you confirmation of membership. In due course, an official membership card will be sent to you.

What will you get from this “Life Membership” of the Association? Well, you would be guaranteed participation in future reunions as well as other related Motorsport events which we hope to negotiate. It was suggested that we have the next reunion later this year but it was decided that this was too soon. It was therefore agreed that the next one would be held in 2007. This will take place on Saturday 6th October 2007 in the Glynhill Hotel, Paisley – details later but put the date in your diary.

The first of these “other” events will be the first Scottish Classic Speedfair which is being held on Sunday 23 July, 2006 at Knockhill from 10 am to 5 pm. It promises to be a very exciting and enjoyable day. Stuart Gray of Knockhill informed us that apart from various cavalcades, displays, rally sprints, etc., there would be about 3 hours of racing interspersed throughout the day. In addition, there should be some VERY exotic cars on display!! From what he said there should be something for everyone – from “Grandpa to the kids”. Most Clubs will be represented but we have been given the use of part of the Media Centre as a meeting venue for our members! You will be able to use this as a meeting place, put your feet up, and maybe have a cup of something! We have also been given 200 free Parking Passes which will allow access to the parking area behind the paddock. From there it is only a short walk to all the action and the Media Centre. Ordinary punters will only be able to park away from Knockhill and use the ‘Park and Ride’ which Knockhill is laying on. Not only that, our members will be able to gain entry to the event at a concessionary price of £8 (normally £15) to be paid at the gate. Application for these car Passes should be made to Alan Carlaw on the enclosed Form. Please note that only one pass will be issued per member.

It is hoped that this will be the first of many such events, but further details of the event can be had from Gemma Baird, Event Co-ordinator at the Knockhill Racing Circuit. Tel:01383-723-337 or Fax:01383-620-167 or Email: gemma@knockhill.co.uk or visit www.knockhill.com for the latest news of the event.

Finally, a bit of a plea. We have over 500 people on our database but only 120 have given an email address. I’m sure there must be a lot more have (or have access to) email addresses. It would certainly make things so much easier if I could send/receive information by email. If you are on email why don’t you just email me and I will get your exact email address that way.

Yours Sincerely,

Stuart Parker

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Newsletter May, 2011

Firstly may I welcome Brian Gowans from Dalbeattie who has joined his brother Norman in our Association.
The newsletter this month seems to be all about veteran runs which I suppose is quite appropriate considering that’s what we are. A report on our own Highland Tour from 29th April to 2nd May will appear later. Needless-to-say this was a glorious success. What a marvellous weekend this turned out to be not a cloud to be seen for the full four days! Bob Baillie must have a friend in higher places!

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The Argyll Run
The Caledonian Classic & Historic Motorsport Club (CC&HMCC) Argyll Run was held on Sunday 27 March. There were some really beautiful Classic cars to be seen before the off at Lomond Shores, Balloch. There were several V.S.M.A. members competing or officiating.  One, was the Clerk of the Course Jonathan Lord who flagged us off from a very cold, yet sunny, start.  Other members involved, included Graeme and Sandra Henderson (works replica Healey 3000), Brian and Marion Hopkins (Morgan 4/4), Donald and Trica MacDonald (Porsche 911 ), Hugh MacKinnon and Olly Ross (Aston Martin DB6), James Rae and Will Moffat (MGB V8) and of course Mairi and myself (MGB roadster).
The weather remained cold but sunny, showing off Argyllshire at its glorious best. The route took us through Glen Fruin, Arrochar, up to the Rest & Be Thankful where entrants were allowed to have a go at the Old Rest. Regrettably, the surface was really in a terrible state so there were to be no heroics! From there we motored down Hells Glen and on to Strachur, Ardentinny, across to Tighnabruaich via the famous Viewpoint, over to Otter Ferry and finally back via Strachur to finish at Arrochar. It was a great days’ motoring on marvellously quiet roads thoroughly enjoyable!  Graeme Henderson was an unfortunate casualty having to retire early and head home having damaged the Healey’s silencer on a cattle grid on the old Glen Fruin road.

The whole event brought back to me fond memories, as the route was almost identical to my very first rally with the Glasgow University Car Club, while I was a student at GU in the early 1950’s.

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The Flying Scotsman Rally – 1st to 3rd April 2011
This was an event run by the Endurance Rally Association open to Veteran, Vintage and Pre-War Cars. The entry consisted of six Classes, divided by age ranging from Pre-1919 (only 3 cars had entered) up to Pre-1941, the latter group being subdivided by capacity, which ranged from 1495cc Aston Martins and Rileys up to an 7979cc Bentley!† Crews had come from all over the world including Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, USA, etc, and of course GB.† The 690-mile route lasted three days, avoiding motorways. The first day’s route started from Brooklands, the home of British motor racing since 1907,† took in Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire, then headed north via the Cotswolds, the Welsh Marches to the first overnight halt in Cheshire.† The second day took in the Yorkshire Dales and the North Pennines ending at Carlisle for the second overnight halt. The last stretch took in Drumlanrig Castle, though the counties of Dumfries and Galloway, the forest of Ae, Glengap, Laurieston, Gatehouse of Fleet along the single track roads through Glentool Forest and past Loch Doon, reaching the Kames Motorsport Centre in the late Sunday afternoon to finish at the Dalmahoy Hotel on the outskirts of Edinburgh.†
Several of our members were involved with marshalling duties.† Stuart Turner reported that he had been marshalling a control in the Cotswolds.† Donald and Trish MacDonald ran a time control near Drumlanrig before going up to Kames, while Jonathan Lord ran the Control at Drumlanrig Castle.† David Barlow was out with 5 friends running a couple of timing points south of Cumnock while Ian Gemmell and others from East Ayrshire CC manned the final tests at the Kames Motorsport Centre, Muirkirk.† Others like Bill Barr were happy snapping the passing competitors en route. Throughout the route there had been many tests† and trials, the last of these being at Kames.† This was an obvious place to see these old cars in action and quite a number turned up to see how they looked and stood up after such a long drive.† We were not disappointed.† Over 80 had started from Brooklands and after the three days only 9 were forced to retire.† This was a quite remarkable feat considering their age and the length and terrain of the route they had to cope with -† amazingly the three pre-1919 were included in the 75 finishers. Following the final test at Kames, the competitors would be glad to be driving the Lang Wang en route to the finish at the Dalmahoy Hotel, Edinburgh.

Forthcoming events

The International Auto Ecosse & Motorsport Event – This is another Veteran occasion being run by the Caledonian Classic & Historic Motor Sport Club† on 4th and 5th June which you might be interested in spectating or even entering.† This is the second tour being run in conjunction with Club Triumph using the rally roads of the 50’s and 60’s. It starts at Gretna on Saturday 4th June and finishes on Sunday 5th in the Isle of Bute having had an overnight in Balloch. On Saturday the cars can be seen at the East Ayrshire’s Kames circuit and at Forrestburn Hill Climb and the Rest and Be Thankful. The Hill Climbs and autotests are optional for competitors in the 400 miles route.† To date, there are 49 entrants including VSMA members, the Robertson brothers, Grainger and David competing in their 1969 Mini Cooper S.† I’m sure these two will certainly not be hanging around! They can be seen at Kames on the Saturday at around 1.0pm.

Knockhill Classic Speedfair, Sunday 31st July

As I mentioned in the February Newsletter, VSMA will again be at this event, having missed out last year. Timetable of events has still to be finalised but the action will be from around 9.30am. We can be found in the Media Centre from 10 am so please drop in for a chat, a seat and a non-alcoholic refreshment. We have been again allocated a parking area for our members in the gravel area (on the left as you drive towards the top gate, beside the Kart Centre). I have enclosed a site plan with a VIP Car Parking Notice.

Stuart Parker, 18th May 2011

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Newsletter February, 2011

I regret to admit it is now six months since the last Newsletter was issued last July. Since then we have had our AGM and our 4th Reunion both held in October.

Annual General Meeting, Saturday 23rd October 2010 – This was our 4th AGM, and again this was held in the Glynhill Hotel Paisley before the start of the Reunion, and again there were sufficient numbers to have a quorum. There was no change in Board Membership. Jimmy McInnes remained as Chairman, Bob Bailiie as Vice-Chairman and also as Treasurer, Stuart Parker as Secretary. The other Ordinary Directors were Kenny Allen, Mike How, Hugh MacKinnon, Adele Paterson, Duncan Paterson and Andy Watson. Bob Baillie reported that VSMA financial state was healthy and there was no other controversial business. Hon. President Sir Jackie Stewart had donated a signed copy of his new limited edition book “Collage”. This was a truly magnificent leather-bound detailing Jackie’s incredible motor racing career told through the archive of the Stewart family which his wife Helen had faithfully kept. It included many items of memorabilia collected over the 10 years of his life in Formula 1. It was unanimously agreed that this magnificent gift should be raffled that evening at the Reunion

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Membership – Our membership now stands at 288, as we have gained another 3 new members and lost none!

The new members are:

     Bill Crabb – Dundee

     Martin Jeffrey – Aberdeen

     Harry Simpson – Edinburgh

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4th VSMA Reunion –

This followed shortly after the conclusion of the AGM.  The attendance at 101 was down from 169 in 2007 which was a bit disappointing for the organisers. Despite the poor turnout everyone seemed to be enjoying the evening. During dinner Chairman Jimmy did his usual walk-about interviewing a few well-kent members present including Ian Scott-Watson who threw light on aspects of his involvement in starting the late Jim Clark on his fantastic racing career.

Entertainment was provided by John Cleland (twice BTCC Champion and Thunderstorm Champion) and Mike Ward, a well know international rally co-driver through the past 40 years! Both had everyone in stitches recounting some of their adventures during their motorsport careers.

Sir Jackie Stewart’s “Collage” was duly raffled. This produced a grand total of £600 which had been decided to give to Dyslectic Scotland. An excellent effort – and thanks to all who contributed.
One unfortunate aspect of the event, at least for those staying overnight in the hotel, was the failure of the plumbing system for those residing on the 2nd floor. Not the best thing to happen if you were looking for a hot shower in the morning or using the loo!!

As to the future – the Directors have decided to look at ways to improve the turnout at such Reunions (these were one of the main reasons for the formation of VSMA originally). Several suggestions were made at a recent Board Meeting including changing the format, moving the venue around the country, etc. If any member has suggestions these would be very welcome – just let me know and I will pass them on to the Board.

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Glasgow start of the Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique, Thursday 27th January –

As you will know, the evening prior to the Start a Gala Dinner was held in the Crowne Plaza Hotel primarily for the 40+ starters (if they wished to attend) and anyone else who wished to be there. So, my wife Mairi and I decided to attend. We were joined by Jimmy and Arlene McIness both of whom we discovered had done seven Montes between them! As far as we could make out there were several other VSMA members present including Roy Campbell (who compered the evening), Stuart Turner (who was the principal guest, Graeme Henderson, Donald Heggie, Donald Fisher and of course Jonathan Lord. I am sure there must have been other members present. VSMA were certainly well represented.

There were several “foreign” tables – a large French contingent (a very noisy lot) and a very large Japanese contingent (about 20+ in all for just 2 cars – also noisy). I am sure that few of the “foreigners” spoke English let alone Glasgwegian resulting in a constant hubbub! This added to the terrible acoustics – sitting in the middle of the room we couldn’t hear very much at all which was a pity. The meal itself was OK and our table company was excellent. We left before the cabaret started (a drag artist) so I couldn’t comment on that!

The Start, the following evening was just as busy and exciting as I remembered it from the 50’s and 60’s. The organisers must have been delighted with the response from the general public. Hopefully, it will again be a regular January feature.

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Highland Tour 2011, 29th April to 2nd May 2011 –

Once again we have decided to base our trip in Grantown-on-Spey.  Bob Baillie has managed once again to get ideal rates from the Grant Arms Hotel. The weekend has been arranged to allow members to go for one to four nights. I would advise you to send in your entry soon, certainly before 14th April, as places are limited. Having been over most of the route I can assure you of a very pleasant Highland drive. Bob, as usual, has arranged some interesting visits and evening entertainments!

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Knockhill Classic Speedfair, Sunday 31st July 2011 – According to Stuart Gray this has to be a one-day affair. At the moment it looks as if we will have sufficient helpers to man the Media Centre cafe this year. Hopefully, I will be able to give you more details.

Stuart Parker

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Newsletter February, 2015

I trust you have all recovered from the Xmas and New Year festivities.  Mairi and I spent this time with our grandchildren, our daughter and her husband in Singapore!  Hot and sticky, but very pleasant none-the-less.

In the last Newsletter I reported that Watt Gray had had a heart attack.  I am delighted to report that since then he has had by-pass surgery and is doing very well.  Another cardiac casualty was our Hon Vice-President Alan Carlaw who, over Xmas, developed heart problems requiring the insertion of stents.  Fortunately, he too is now doing well.  Everyone, I’m sure will wish Watt and Alan both a speedy and complete recovery.

On a lighter note, I have just received information from member Jack Davidson who has just created a new website, which went live on 28th January (see below).  It contains images Jack has taken over many, many years.  He has accumulated in the region of 50,000 negatives – mainly of motor sport, and more recently something like a further 50,000 digital images which are NOT motor sport.   Not all of his 100,000+ photographs appear in the new website.  Have a look, apart from the sections on Motor Sport there are many very interesting images.

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Some of the other items of news this month –

New Members

Death of Members

V.S.M.A. Members’ Database changes

Other interesting sites to visit

2014  A.G.M.

More on the 2014 Reunion

2015 Highland spring Run

YouTube Clips

Amusing Bits and Pieces

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New Members:

I am delighted to welcome the following to membership of our association.  Some details on these members can be found on clicking their name –

Rosemary Smith from Dublin
Anthony Reid from Oxford
Ken Wallace from Edinburgh
Robin Wallace from Edinburgh
Raddy Sarafilovic from Bearsden, Glasgow
Rob Wilson from Yarm, North Yorkshire

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Death of Members:

You will remember from the email I sent out from Singapore that David Black had died just six weeks before his 100th birthday.  I am pleased to report that a few of our members were able to attand his funeral in Perth. Thanks are due to Barry Crichton who provided an obituary on David.

Thanks are also due to Graham Gauld who also kindly provided information on JockRussell for writing Jock’s obituary.

Another death to report was that of Bob Flockhart from Bearsden who died on 11th August last.

Details on all of the above can be found in  the Past Veterans Section.

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Changes:

Below are changes members have submitted –

    Tom Coffield,jr has changed his address
    John Clark moved from Aberdeenshire to Fife
    Brian Park has moved to Alford
    Bob Baillie has moved AGAIN back to Mauchline !?
    Jack Davidson’s has a new email address
    David Robertson has a new email address
    Jim Murray has a new email address

All these changes can all be found in the Members and Details section or by clicking on the member’s name.

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Interesting Sites to visit:

Apart from Jack Davidson’s new website, there is another site which Jimmy McInnes apparently has spent a few hours visiting on line –  Philadelphia Motor Museum , which he highly recommends.  Great details of many vintage and veteran cars.

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Annual General Meeting, 28th November:

Again this was held in Boyd Tunnock’s premises in Uddingston.  We were delighted to welcome a few stalwart members to swell our numbers!  As you would expect from such an event it passed without any upsets or outbursts.  Indeed the main topic after the election of Directors and Office bearers, was the quality of the spread Boyd had again provided – truly excellent.  Bob Baillie would certainly recommend the pies!  There were no changes in  the Directorate – McInnes, Chairman; Baillie, Vice-Chairman & Treasurer; Parker, Secretary;  Board Members – Adele & Duncan Paterson, Kenny Allen, Hugh MacKinnon, Andy Watson, Charlie Young, Barry Crichton and Donald Gordon.  Boyd was duly thanked for again allowing use of his premises.

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2014 Reunion:  

Shortly after the last reunion I posted a review of the Reunion on the November 2014 Newsletter, and as usual, urging them to have a look!.  After reading the report John Stuart kindly emailed to say that he found the report interesting and the named photos very useful.  He regretted that he had met very few of those present but it was good to put faces to names.   He also said that he had competed in stage and road rallies in the 70s and 80s, he would go back to historic stage rallying tomorrow if he could afford to.  Just now he has had to content himself with an annual outing to the 4 day Rally Costa Brava Historic, a ‘regularity’ rally likened to Motoring News events of old!   2014 would have been his 5th time but the event moved from April to October and he could not make it that time.   Good to hear John that you are still active.  Below is a snap of John in his vintage Austin on the event.

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2015 Highland Spring Run, Friday 27th to 30th April:

In case you have deleted or misplaced the email with the details of this event, here they again-

 Entry Form

Bob’s Letter

ASRs

Hotel Booking Form

Click on one of the above to upload its PDF

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YouTube Clips:

Just a few, which are best viewed in Full Screen and maybe with the sub-titles on.

Cheap Flights   –   a lament!	Click here
A few minutes of undiluted joy!	Click here
Southwest Airlines Safety Presentation  –  certainly NOT from Ryanair	Click here
Not sure what this fellow’s up to but………..  It will make you smile!	Click here
Finally, one for most of our older members  –  or maybe those not so old!	Click Here

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Amusing Bits and Pieces: Just a few this time probably from our Chairman, Jimmy McInnes (I think).

Bird Strikes

Researchers for the Ministry of Transport found over 200 dead crows near greater Manchester recently, and there was concern that they may have died from Avian Flu. A Bird Pathologist examined the remains of all the crows, and, to everyone’s relief, confirmed the problem was definitely NOT Avian Flu.
 
The cause of death appeared to be vehicular impacts. However, during the detailed analysis it was noted that varying colours of paints appeared on the bird’s beaks and claws. By analysing these paint residues it was determined that 98% of the crows had been killed by impact with lorries, while only 2% were killed by an impact with a car.

MoT then hired an Ornithological Behaviourist to determine if there was a cause for the disproportionate percentages of truck kills versus car kills. The Ornithological Behaviourist very quickly concluded the cause:  — when crows eat road kill, they always have a look-out crow in a nearby tree to warn of impending danger.
 
They discovered that while all the lookout crows could shout “Cah” “Cah”, not a single one could shout “Lorry.”  !!!

[At least now Jimmy wont be able to use this one on the Spring Run -one hopes.]

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Snow Ploughing in Dublin

On a bitterly cold winter morning an Irish husband and wife in Dublin were listening to the radio during breakfast. They heard the announcer say, “We are going to have 8 to 10 inches of snow today. You must park your car on the even-numbered side of the street, so the snow ploughs can get through” so the good wife went out and moved her car.

A week later while they are eating breakfast again, the radio announcer said, “We are expecting 10 to 12 inches of snow today. You must park your car on the odd-numbered side of the street, so the snow ploughs can get through” The good wife went out and moved her car again.

The next week they are again having breakfast, when the radio announcer says, “We are expecting 12 to 14 inches of snow today. You must park….” Then the electric power went out. The good wife was very upset, and with a worried look on her face she said, “I don’t know what to do. Which side of the street do I need to park on so the snow ploughs can get through?”

Then with the love and understanding in his voice that all men who are married to blondes exhibit, the husband replied,  “Why don’t you just leave the car in the garage this time.”

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Blonde Handy Woman

A young girl in her late teens, wanting to earn some extra  money for  the summer, decided to hire herself out as a “handy woman” and started canvassing a nearby well-to-do neighbourhood.   She went to the front door of the first house and asked the owner if he had any odd jobs for her to do. 
“Well, I guess I could use somebody to paint the porch” he said.  “How much will you charge me?”  Delighted, the girl quickly responded, “How about £50?”

The man agreed and told her that the paint, brushes and everything  she would need were in the garage.  The man’s wife, hearing the conversation, said to her husband,  “Does she realise that our porch goes ALL the way around the house?”  “That’s a bit cynical, isn’t it?” he responded. The wife replied, “You’re right. I guess I’m starting to believe all those dumb blonde jokes.”

A few hours later the blonde came to the door to collect her money…. “You’re finished already??” the startled husband asked.  “Yes,” the blonde replied, “and I even had paint left over so I gave  it two coats.”
Impressed, the man reached into his pocket for the £50 and handed it  to her along with a £10 tip.

“Thank you,” the blonde said, and, by the way, it’s not a Porch,  it’s an Audi.”

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That’s all folks………………. !

Stuart Parker, February 2015

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Newsletter May, 2015

A shorter Newsletter this month, following on our spring Highland Run.  A report on this year’s Run will soon be uploaded to the Events Section, so please just keep checking the Events Section.

Dates for your Diary

New Members

Death of Members

Amusing Bits and Piece

Dates for your Diary :

      McRae Rally Challenge: This is being held over the weekend of 16/17th May at Knockhill.  It is being advertised as a special Rally festival which is taking place to mark the 20th Anniversary of Colin McRae’s 1995 World Rally Championship win. As well as a 30 mile, 10-stage Rally, in association with Coltness Car Club; this event will showcase some of Colin’s most iconic competition cars – including the 1995 Championship winning Subaru.  Many famous rally names will be competing there including WRC Champion, Stig Blomqvist, Kris Meeke who recently won the WRC Rally Argentina, David Bogie and many others.  Further details of this event including details of admission charges, etc.,  can be found by clicking  here.  Apart from the rally stages to see there will be lots of iconic competition cars from the past. A few VSMA Directors will also be there including Charlie Young, Andy Watson and myself, hoping to enlist some new members to our association.  Maybe we will see you there!

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      Fintray Hill Climb: While at the recent Doune Hill Climb, Charlie Young and I bumped into member Trevor Park (son of Brian) of the Grampian Automobile club.  He was keen to promote the 50th Aniversary of Fintry Hill Climb on the 15th/16th August.  Being a leading light in GAC he hopes to encourage some of those who had competed on Fintry if possible 50 years ago to come along (not necessarily to compete)!  Details will be issued later to those interested.

Interestingly, just last week I received a copy of a beautiful 30 odd page A4 sized magazine/brochure from member Jack Davidson. This production shows the ‘Half a Century of Speed Hill Climbing’ at Fintray Hill Climb.  It is packed with photographs, B&W and colour, taken over the past fifty years at Fintray together with the history of the event from its early days under the auspicies of Aberdeen & District Motor Club up to the present-day organisers, the Grampian Automobile Club.  The history is both interesting and at times amusing – a very good read.  Of course most of the images come from Jack’s enormous collection of pictures which he has been scanning digitally over the past few months. I’m sure many of our members who had or still are competing on hills will be keen to get a copy of this publication.  If anyone is interested in obtaining any of Jack’s motor sport images you only have to ask him (Te: 07736 679520).   Copies of ‘Fintray at Fifty’ can also be obtained via Jack’s website – they cost only £7.50 (plus £1.50 postage)  –  click on the above image for details.

New Members : 

We are delighted to welcome the following to membership of the Association.  Some details on these members can be found on clicking their name –

Kenny Gunn, Rutherglen
Tim Mackay, Edinburgh
Iain Mitchell,  Perth
Richard Morris, Kingholm

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Death of Member:

I am sad to report the recent death on 24th March, of Rustie Wilson.  He was the younger brother of Hamish Wilson, Hamilton.

Although not a member of VSMA I was also sad to hear of the death of Lance Morrison who was a member of Lanarkshire Car Club in the 1970s.  A full obituary of Lance can be seen on John Fyfe’s Motor Sport Website  “Jaggy Bunnet“

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Amusing Bits and Pieces:

          Prince Charles is visiting an Edinburgh hospital.  He enters a ward full of patients with no obvious sign of injury or illness and greets one.  The patient replies: “Fair fa your honest sonsie face, Great chieftain o’ the puddin race, Aboon them a’ ye take yer place, Painch, tripe or thairm, As langs my airm.”

        HRH is confused, so he just smiles and moves on to the next patient.  The patient responds: “Some hae meat an canna eat, And some wad eat that want it, But we hae meat an we… can eat, So let the Lord be thankit.”

       Even more confused, the Prince moves on to the next patient, who Immediately begins to chant: “Wee sleekit, cowerin, timrous beasty, O the panic in thy breasty, Thou needna start awa sae hastie, Wi bickering brattle.”

        Now seriously troubled, Charles turns to the accompanying doctor and asks, “Is this a psychiatric ward?”  “No,” replies the doctor, “This is the serious Burns unit.”

Really Sorry!!!!!!!!!!!

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So much for marital bliss !!

 

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That’s all folks………………. !                                                 

Stuart Parker, May 2015

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Newsletter November, 2014

Well, the 5th Reunion has passed and now we have the AGM to look forward to.

The Reunion certainly went very well and seemed to be enjoyed by all.  Have a look at the photographs in the Past Event section which I have just uploaded to the website.

One of the photographic displays at the Reunion depicted the story behind George Cooper’s Cooper Sports MG Prototype.  I have transferred this completely to the website – it is certainly worth a read.  It can be found in the “Tales from the Past” section.

News just in –  I got an email from Bill Montgomery to inform me that Watt Gray had to be admitted to Hospital on 1st November with a heart attack.   Hopefully, Walter gets well soon.

More, the very recent news is that Jock Russell has died recently.  I have no details of this but would be VERY grateful if someone could supply information on Jock to me.

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Address Changes – 

All members’ addresses, phone numbers and email addressescan be found in the “Members and details” section. Clicking on an underlined name will take you to that person’s page for more detail.

Duncan Ferguson has a new email address.

David Halley has moved to 2 Townhead Cottages, Mossdale, Cumbria, CA11 0XQ

Tel: 01768 779026.

Allan MacVarish has a new email address.

Ronnie Stuart has a new email address.

Matt MacKenzie has moved to 49 Houghton Drive, Hillside, Montrose, DD10 9PA

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Death of Members –

I am sorry to report the death of the undernoted member.

 Joe Baird,  Helensburgh who died on 15th Feb 2014

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New Members –  On a happier note, I am glad to report the addition of seven new members into VSMA.   (Click on an underlined name to take you to their page)

John Cleland from Melrose.
Charlie Harrison from Edinburgh.
William Henderson from Falkirk
Andy Kelly from Greenock.
Paul Mason from Dullatur.
Russell Paterson from Madderty, by Crieff.
David Swinton from Morpeth.

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Here are some of the other items of news this month –

Derek Palmer’s new project

Request from George Robinson

Eric Dymock’s New Website

Request from Michael Malcolm

Request from Non-members 

Images from Allan MacVarish

Fifty Years Celebration

Interesting Youtube Clips

Amusing Bits and Pieces

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Derek Palmer’s New Project –

You may have learned that Derek has a new project ongoing  He is now running a 2 car works team in the BTCC for the Support Our Paras charity using injured guys to run the car.  Have a look at the website ‘Infiniti Support Our Para’ Launch‘ to see the launch at the Guild Hall in London and get the latest news of their progress. They are based at Mallory Park and Lesmahagow and any of the members will be made more than welcome if they want to go and see what Derek does.  So much for retiring Derek –  next year with this new 5-year contract.

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Eric Dymock’s New Website – 

I mentioned Eric’s blog in the last newsletter but he now has a new website which is certainly worth a visit if you are interested in what going on in the world of Motor Sport (past and present).  Were you aware of what was going on in Europe just before the start of World WarTwo? Have a look at his article on the crisis times in motor sport just around the start of WII.  There are many other articles which are also certainly worth a look such as this year’s Goodwood Jaguar.

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Fifty Years Celebration –

2014 celebrated the opening of the Forth Road Bridge some 50 years ago and also the same year that Jim Clark won the British Touring Car Championship.  It was appropriate that Knockhill managed to arrange an event to celebrate both these events, by showing a few of Jim Clarks’ competitive vehicles and allowing them to be driven over the closed road bridge.  Not many of our members managed to get to this event but fortunately, Sandy Morrison did.  Below are a few images of this event that Sandy kindly provided. 

Request from George Robinson –

George is in the process of writing up his rally and race years.  He is looking for information on the last Burmah International Rally (I was the CofC of that Burmah and unfortunately I shredded everything I had on the event).  He is looking for List of Starters and Results.  And, has anyone got a photograph of his Ford RS rally car?

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Requests from Non-Members – 

A request for information regarding cars from the past.

This a Rod Brisby who is trying to trace the history of a TR2 he bought in the 60/70s.  He had been looking at our site and in the 1950s section of the public Photographic Gallery, he noticed a car which he thought might have been the one he bought. The car in question is the one behind an MK2 Jaguar, a green TR2. in the photograph titled “Very early Scottish Rally.  The TR2 car had been rallying in Scotland prior to his buying it in Dumfries in 1972.   It was in British Racing Green with a black hood, but perhaps a hardtop (colour unknown), registration number OWK 788.  It had been in a barn since 1972 and he has now started the restoration!  Let him know if this vehicle is known to anyone, please.

Rod can be contacted at brisrd@aol.com, Rod Brisby, Country manager (UK) Lake Engineering, Tel: ++447922147501 or ++4571992257

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Request from Michael Malcolm –

Michael emailed to request information on the identities of the people in the attached photograph.  As he wrote –

“You may be aware that there is an infamous Foster & Skeffington photograph of “Team 55” taken in a field at the end of the ’67 Scottish after they won the team prize. Several of us are struggling to remember the names of all the “worthies”.  One in particular is Stuart Brown’s co-driver.  The oldish chap (even then) with glasses next to Stuart.  All my memory has on him hat he may have been a doctor.  (Ed: Don’t thinks so – he is confusing the person with me  –  I did co-drive for Stuart Brown on many events, maybe this one but I am NOT in this picture).  Ring any bells?”

 

I recognise Arthur Jasper and Jimmy Rae but apart from Stuart Brown, none of the others (it’s an age thing).  If anyone does recognise people in the picture, let me or Michael Malcom know.

Stuart Parker

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Allan Macvarish Images  –  One of our still active elderly members, Allan, is still competitively active – if it’s not Hill Climbing it’s Go-Karting.  We still have a few similarly active members in our ranks – Kenny Allen and Jock Miller to name just two.  Anyway, Allan sent a few snaps just to prove he’s not on the scrapheap yet!

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Interesting Youtube Clips –

Just a few, which are best viewed in ‘Full Screen’

Do you know when you are growing old?  Watch this and learn!	Click here
An ideal mobile phone?	Click here
Have you seen this unusual Honda Ad?	Click here
Finally  ………. For those who love music……. A Super Market Anthem	Click here

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Amusing Bits and Pieces – 

Just a couple this time probably from our Chairman, Jimmy McInnes (I think).

About this time of the year, older taxpayers will again be receiving another ‘Winter Fuel? payment.   This is indeed a very exciting programme, and I’ll explain it by using a Q & A format:

         Q. What is a ‘Winter Fuel’ payment ?

        A.  It is money that the government will send to taxpayers.

        Q.  Where will the government get this money ?

        A.  From taxpayers

        Q.  So the government is giving me back my own money ?

        A.  Only a smidgen of it

        Q.  What is the purpose of this payment ?

        A.  The plan is for you to use the money to purchase petrol, electricity…..or a high-definition TV set, thus stimulating the economy

        Q.  But isn’t that just stimulating the economy of China ?

        A.  Shut up

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This next one is again related to money matters.   It came from my brother George who suggested I should forward it to Wee Eck prior to the recent referendum!  I do apologize if this offends anyone!

 THE TAX SYSTEM EXPLAINED IN BEER

Suppose that once a week, ten men go out for beer and the bill for all ten comes to £100.  If they paid their bill the way we pay our taxes, it would go something like this..

The first four men (the poorest) would pay nothing.
The fifth would pay £1.
The sixth would pay £3.
The seventh would pay £7.
The eighth would pay £12.
The ninth would pay £18.
And the tenth man (the richest) would pay £59.

So, that’s what they decided to do.

The ten men drank in the bar every week and seemed quite happy with the arrangement until, one day, the owner caused them a little problem. “Since you are all such good customers,” he said, “I’m going to reduce the cost of your weekly beer by £20.” Drinks for the ten men would now cost just £80.

The group still wanted to pay their bill the way we pay our taxes. So the first four men were unaffected. They would still drink for free but what about the other six men? The paying customers? How could they divide the £20 windfall so that everyone would get his fair share? They realised that £20 divided by six is £3.33 but if they subtracted that from everybody’s share then not only would the first four men still be drinking for free but the fifth and sixth man would each end up being paid to drink his beer.

So, the bar owner suggested that it would be fairer to reduce each man’s bill by a higher percentage. They decided to follow the principle of the tax system they had been using and he proceeded to work out the amounts he suggested that each should now pay.

And so, the fifth man, like the first four, now paid nothing (a 100% saving).

The sixth man now paid £2 instead of £3 (a 33% saving).
The seventh man now paid £5 instead of £7 (a 28% saving).
The eighth man now paid £9 instead of £12 (a 25% saving).
The ninth man now paid £14 instead of £18 (a 22% saving).
And the tenth man now paid £49 instead of £59 (a 16% saving).
Each of the last six was better off than before with the first four
continuing to drink for free.

But, once outside the bar, the men began to compare their savings. “I only got £1 out of the £20 saving,” declared the sixth man. He pointed to the tenth man, “but he got £10”

“Yes, that’s right,” exclaimed the fifth man. “I only saved £1 too.
It’s unfair that he got ten times more benefit than me”
“That’s true” shouted the seventh man. “Why should he get £10 back, when I only got £2? The wealthy get all the breaks”

“Wait a minute,” yelled the first four men in unison, “we didn’t get anything at all. This new tax system exploits the poor”

The nine men surrounded the tenth and beat him up.
The next week the tenth man didn’t show up for drinks, so the nine sat down and had their beers without him. But when it came time to pay the bill, they discovered something important – they didn’t have enough money amongst all of them to pay for even half of the bill.

And that, boys and girls, journalists and government ministers, is how our tax system works. The people who already pay the highest taxes will naturally get the most benefit from a tax reduction. Tax them too much, attack them for being wealthy and they just might not show up anymore. In fact, they might start drinking overseas, where the atmosphere is somewhat friendlier.

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If you have got this far can I remind you that the Annual General Meeting of the Association will be held on Friday 28th February at 6 pm in the Thomas Tunnock Ltd premises in Uddingston.

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That’s all folks………………. !

Stuart Parker, November 2014

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Newsletter September, 2014

Just spent a very pleasant three weeks with my son and his wife in Ithaca, which is located in northern New York State.  Unfortunately, the weather was the same as in Scotland – cool and wet for the first two weeks!  However, the last week has been glorious 84 and NO clouds!  However, we’re back home on Wednesday and looking forward to the next couple of months with a visit to the Bo’ness Hill Climb Revival this weekend and the 5th VSMA Reunion next month.  So, lots to do.  The Newsletter this month is pretty brief – we have too busy!!

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Address changes – All members’ addresses, phone numbers and email addresses can be found in the “Members and details” section.

Fraser Anderson now has a new email address.

Jack Davidson, has moved to “Havendale”, 14 Hillend View, Winchburgh, West Lothian,  EH52 6WB  Tel: 01506 890846

David Seaton, now resides at 3 Medwyn Park, West Linton. EH46 7HA, Tel: 01968 660074

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Death of Members – I am sad to report the death of the following members:

Billy Chapman died on 9th April 2014.

Ian Cunningham died suddenly on 9th November 2013.

Iain Provan was killed on 1st June 2014, while spectating on the Jim Clark Rally.

Tom Legget died on 14th June 2014

You may have already been aware that when a member has died his/her entry will no longer appear in the “Members and their Details” section. All information about them where known, apart from their address details, will now have been transferred to the “Past Veterans” section.   Clicking on one of the names above will take you to the appropriate place in that section.

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New Member – On a happier note, I am pleased to welcome a new member from Kingswell, Aberdeen – namely John Plenderleath.

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Here are some of the other items of news this month –

Interesting Stuff from Members

“Depart d’Ecosse”

Interesting Youtube Clips

Amusing Bits and Pieces

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Eric Dymock emailed me with his daily blog which he felt might interest members. The article makes great reading even after such a number of years.  In it, he relates to his escapades in the 1964 Spa-Sofia-Liege rally as a junior Motor staff reporter, and incidentally reporting on a few of our members including Stuart Turner, Johnstone Syer and Logan Morrison.   Stuart Turner who was the BMC competitions manager at that time, could not conceal his delight. He had not only scored the second win with a big Healey but also “We broke the sound barrier – we got a Mini to the finish of the Liège.”

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Pat Smith also emailed requesting confirmation of a couple of photographs in her local motor museum in Moray in Elgin where some of her own memorabilia are on display. We were able to identify one of the photos as that of Tom Bicket in the 1970 Scottish Rally but the other was of a Rally plate from the 1959 Tulip Rally.  It was suggested that it might belong to a  F.W.Attwood (British) in an MG TF.

 

Unfortunately, we know no more about F.W.Attwood.  Can anyone help Pat?

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‘Depart d’Ecosse’

Just received an email from Douglas Anderson promoting his new book ‘Depart d’Ecosse’ which highlights on the Scottish Connection to the Monte Carlo Rally.  You may not be aware that Douglas was the main instigator of the return of the “Rallye Monte Carlo Historique” to Glasgow as one of the starting points.  The book will be launched on Thursday 6 November 2014 at the Blythswood Square Hotel, Glasgow in the Monte Carlo Suite, from 6 pm – 8 pm and we are invited to attend.  As part of the launch, the official Automobile Club de Monaco video of the 2014 Rallye Monte Carlo Historique will be shown in the Monte Carlo Suite cinema.  However, Copies of the book can be pre-ordered by on the attached PDF form for the special offer price of £30.  Pre-ordered copies will be available for collection at the book launch when the book will be released.  Please write on the order form if you wish to collect your copies at the launch.

Copies of the book will also be available for sale at the book launch on 6 November at the launch price of £35. After the release date, copies will be available in selected booksellers, including Waterstone’s, at the price of £39.99.There will be a print run of 1000 copies.  To secure a copy, please return the order form to the publisher, Argyll Publishing, as soon as possible. Perhaps a Christmas present for a friend or for yourself.  Click on the image on right to reveal a PDF for printing out the Form.

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Interesting Youtube clips:  Just a few, which are best viewed in ‘Full Screen’

For those lovers of Italy………………..How go tell the time in Italy…….!	Click here
Toys for grown-up boys………………….Alan Carlaw will love this I think?	Click here
Strickly for service crews…………….How to change tyres while driving	Click here
Finally  …………………………………….. For those who love a bit of’60s music	Click here

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 Bits and Pieces which may amuse : Can’t remember who sent these – Probably Malcolm Parkin and our Chairman   –  if not my apologies.

Lonely Heart Advertisements  (From Malcolm Parkin?)

Fun-loving but overweight Buckie based turf-cutter, presently unemployed,


Gemini, seeks nimble sexpot, preferably South American, for tango


sessions, candlelit dinners, and nights of screaming passion.


Must have own car and be willing to travel. Box 09/08

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Heavy drinker, 35, Glasgow area, seeks gorgeous sex addict


interested in booze, fags, Celtic football club, and starting fights


on Sauchiehall Street at three in the morning. Box 73/82

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Bitter and disillusioned Dundee man, recently rejected by long-time fiancée,


seeks decent, honest, affectionate woman, if such a person still exists


in this cruel world full of unreliable two-faced bitches. Box 53/41

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Ginger-haired Kelty troublemaker, gets slit-eyed and stroppy after


a few scoops, seeks attractive, wealthy lady for bail purposes,


and maybe more. Box 84/87



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Artistic Edinburgh woman, 53, petite, loves rainy walks on the


beach, writing poetry, unusual sea-shells, and interesting brown rice


dishes, seeks mystic dreamer for companionship and more,


as we bounce along like tumbling clouds, on life’s beautiful


crazy journey. Strong stomach essential. Box 12/32



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Chartered accountant, 42, seeks female for marriage.  Duties will


include cooking, cleaning, plus attending business and social


functions.  References required.  No timewasters. Box 23/45

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Bad-tempered, foul-mouthed old bastard, living in damp cottage at 
the arse end of Orkney, seeks attractive 21-year old blonde lady with 
big chest. Box 40/27

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Satanist, Alloa area, seeks like-minded lady for wining


and dining, good conversation, dancing, romantic walks, and


slaughtering animals at midnight under the flinty

light of a waning 
moon. Box 52/07



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Attractive brunette, Gartcosh area, winner of Miss Wrangler Jeans


competition at Framptons Nightclub in 1978,


seeks nostalgic man, not afraid to cry, for long nights of


comfort-drinking, and listening to Abba records. Box 30/41



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Govan man, 32, muscular build, piercing blue eyes, seeks alibi for


the night of October 24th. Box 60/45

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Below is some helpful advice on how to best help the U.K. Economy by spending your ‘Winter Fuel’ cheque wisely:

*If you spend the money at Asda or Tesco, the money will go to Gibraltar, Ireland & Luxemburg.

* If you spend it on ebay your money will go Ireland.

* If you spend it on petrol your money will go to the Arabs.

* If you purchase a computer it will go to India, Taiwan or China.

* If you purchase fruit and vegetables it will go to Kenya, Spain, or Morocco.

* If you spend it in your corner ‘Asian mini-mart’ no tax will be paid, it will be used in drug deals and eventually will be conveyed to Pakistan in a large suitcase.

* If you spend it on ‘cheap’ cigs it will end up in Rumania or Bulgaria.

* If you give it to Oxfam 20% only will go abroad and 80% will remain in the hands of the administrators, who will spend it on fact finding missions to Cayman Islands, Thailand & Mauritius.

* If you buy an efficient car it will go to Japan or Korea.

* If you buy a  luxury car it will go to India or Germany.

* If you pay off your credit cards or buy shares, it will go to management bonuses and they will hide it offshore.

Instead, keep the money in the UK by:

1. Spending it at car boot sales
2. Going to night clubs
3. Spending it on call girls
4. Buying cider, beer or scotch
5. Getting yourself a Tatto
6. Visiting a bookie
(These are the only UK businesses still operating in the U.K. )

Conclusion:

Go to a night club with a tattooed call girl that you met at a car boot sale and drink beer day and night !  It’s the patriotic thing to do.  No need to thank me……just glad I could be of help.  (Ed: You can tell this is definitely from our Chairman)

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Something definitely from our Chairman:

The following is a series of actual quotes taken from insurance or accident forms. They are the actual words of people who tried to summarize their encounters with trouble.

“I collided with a stationary truck coming the other way.”

“The guy was all over the road; I had to swerve a number of times before I hit him.”

“I pulled away from the side of the road, glanced at my mother-in-law, and headed over the embankment.”

“In my attempt to kill a fly, I drove into a telephone pole.”

“I had been shopping for plants all day and was on my way home. As I reached an intersection, a hedge sprang up obscuring my vision. I did not see the other car.”

“An invisible car came out of nowhere, struck my vehicle, and vanished.”

“The indirect cause of this accident was a little guy in a small car with a big mouth.”

“I was unable to stop in time, and my car crashed into the other vehicle. The driver and passenger then left immediately for a vacation with injuries.

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If you have got this far, can I remind you to get your entry in for the Reunion next month.  If you already have, my apologies.  If you have misplaced you entry form, just let me know and I’ll send you another one.

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That’s all folks………………. !

 Stuart Parker, September 2014

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