Tour – 2019 Spring Run

27th to 30th April

Friday Morning Start

This year’s Spring Tour was destined to be held in Cumbria, primarliy to visit M-Sport a loction which had been requested to visit for many years by several members.

As usual the event had been organised by Bob Baillie and started fron the Hetland Garden Centre south of Dumfries just off the A75.  A simple route had been devised by Bob Baillie using Google Maps.

The usual entrants (33 in all) gathered at the garden Centre prior to starting off at around 11.30.  The route would by-pass Calisle, down the A689 towards Cockermouth and hence into M-Sport’s premises in time to start the tour of M-Sport by 1.00pm.

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M-Sport

Overview of the M-Sport’s eventual facilities at Cockermouth. The track is now complete. Other areas such as 1,6,7,8,12 and 13 in the above plan are currently under construction.

To those who don’t know, M-Sport was an enterprise started and now run by one of our members, Malcolm Wilson.  He was a well known rallyist in the UK as well as in Scottish events. During the competitive phase of his career, while he was searching for bits for his rally car, he decided that he could make a business by selling these “bits” to fellow rallyists……… the rest is “History” as they say.

Having spread his wings he now runs an International company that produces complete Rally Cars for major manufactures for the World Rally Championship, as well as a few privateeers.  Malcolm nearly always accompanies his cars around all the World Rally Championship events!

Our members were delighted to be taken round M-Sport’s facilities.  Understandably, we were not allowed to take any photographs of their workshops or the vehicles being prepared – not just for World Cup Rally cars but racing cars including several Racing Bentleys!

He has certainly come along way since I first met him while running the International Burmah Rally during the 60’s and the 70’s.

ALL photographs shown in this article are curtesy of member Margaret Smillie, unless shown otherwise, and they were taken in M-Sport’s own “Museum”.

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Friday Evening

Following our amazing visit to M-Sport the route took us down through the centre of the Lakes to our headquarters in the Newby Bridge Hotel at the foot of lake Windermere.  Bob had arranged a reception followed by dinner in the Hotel.

Having been suitably refreshed we proceeded to dinner where most of us were to be seated at one very long table.

Following dinner it was back to the bar to plan the following day’s activities.

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Saturday Morning, Afternoon and Evening

The plan on Saturday was firstly to visit the Lakeland Motor Museum which was less than a mile along the A590.  Prior to visiting the Museum a few members took time to visit the Hotel’s garden to inspect several ancient statues.

After this visit having left our cars in the museum car park we were bussed along to Lakeside where would board a steamer.  This would take us up Lake Windermere to Bowness where we could alight to shop or have some lunch.

Unfortunately the rain came when we were cruising on Winderemere but a nice relaxing afternoon none-the-less.

“Back on land” we were back to the Hotel for Dinner, etc.

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Sunday Morning

First thing on Sunday Morning was to visit one of the only remaining bobbin mills in existence in the Lake District.  They first began during the Industrial Revolution when the cotton trade was at its height in the Midlands. Being close to where cotton cloth was being made, the Lakes were ideal place to produce bobbins used to hold the threads used in weaving.  Lots of water power and plenty of trees were the ideal magterials to produce the many millions required initially in the Midlands but latterly throughout the whole world. With the advent of used for steam power, the use of water declind as did the many mills themselves.  Today there are only a handful left.  The one we visited is now just a museum but a very whorthwhile place to visit.

Following the visit to the bobbin mill we were left to visit several sites south west in and around Burness-in-Furness, includingCumnria Crystal in Ulverston.  We visited the Dock Museum in a Victorian Dry Dock in Barrow-in-Furness which was also worth a visit.  Following this was a pleasant run back to Newbridge via the north edge of Morecambe Bay.

Sunday evening was a good bit quieter than the previous evening causing a number of our members having an early night.

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Monday Departure

Following a leisurely breakfast most gathered in the Hotel forecourt for a “photoshoot” unfortunately not all stayed on for this event.

Finally it is time to thank Bob and Margaret Baillie for all the time and effort they had put into providing yet again a marvellous Spring weekend.  Where to next Bob?

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Tour – 2021 Autumn Run

Autumn Run              19th September 2021

List of Participants

Bob & Margaret Baillie	Barry & Nancy Crichton	Ian & Wilma Marwick
Willie& Marnie Crawford	Billy & Ann Cuthbertson	Tom & Marion Bicket
Ian & Margaret Smillie	Charlie Young	Mid Bruce
Bill & Eileen Montgomery	Chris & Mary Paton	Hugh & Pat MacKinnon
Alastair & Isabel Muir	John & Audrey Methven

 

26 members in 13 cars attended this well organised event, starting off at Garrion Bridges Garden and Antiques Centre at 11.00am destination Hetland Hall Hotel, Carrutherstown, Dumfries and Galloway. After suitable sustenance we set off on a 103 mile run to Heltand Hall Hotel.

Signing on at Garrion Bridge Garden Centre.

This most interesting Run had been created by Bob Baillie and Middleton Bruce with no doubt two or three runs to check everything.

We were supplied by Bob and Mid direction sheets using the familiar Ball and Arrow system featuring signposts and inter and total mileages. The route took us on most interesting A and B roads which were a pleasure to drive on. The route took us through Lanark, Biggar, Peebles, Moffat and Lockerbie with notes on food and toilet stops a thoughtful and necessary part of any route directions.

On arrival at Hetland Hall the group checked in and familiarised themselves with the Hotel before meeting in the bar for pre-dinner drinks.

Dinner looked interesting and the food turned out to be excellent.

After dinner we retired to the “Lounge Bar” for tea and coffee. Chairman Bob suggested that a visit to the Devil’s Porridge Museum nearby would be a good choice for the next day.

The Devil’s Porridge Museum commemorates H.M. Factory Gretna which was the largest munitions factory during the First World War. The Factory was built to alleviate the significant lack of ammunition, “The Shell Crisis” experienced by British soldiers fighting in France in 1915. It was agreed by the whole group after their visit that it is a “must” if in the area.

The “House Keeping” arrangements finished by chairman Bob producing his guitar and a sing song ended the evening.

Monday 20th September

Some of the party managed to visit the Porridge Museum in the afternoon of the 20^th as restricted numbers meant we could not all be accommodated. Another area of interest which would be visited in the morning was Caerlaverock Castle and Nature reserve. Only the foundations of the Castle remain and it is thought to be one of the earliest stone built Castles in Scotland, around 1300 and surrounded by a double moat and replica trebuchet. Unfortunately due to falling masonry the Castle was closed during our time there.

The adjoining nature reserve proved to be an interesting alternative featuring various viewing areas which gave a very good view of barnacle geese, the entire population of Svalbard, Norway which winter on the Solway, a most interesting visit.

Most of the group had booked for one overnight stay, some for two and Nancy and Barry Crichton and Ian and Margaret Smillie for three nights.

A vote of thanks must be given to Bob Baillie and Mid Bruce for arranging the route and visits of interest. Good byes were wished to those leaving after breakfast and with wishes and a reminder that we will come together again at the Spring Run in 2022, which will be published on the Web Site soon.

Barry Crichton

Vice Chairman

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Tour – 2012 Spring Run

Friday 20th to Monday 23rd April

This year’s run was a departure from the three previous runs which had been based at the Grant Arms in Grantown-on-Spey.  Although the Grant Arms had served us exceedingly well in the past, it was felt that a change of location and scenery was about due.  As it turned out, we couldn’t have gone much further south and still remained in Scotland!  Bob Baillie and Mid Bruce had devised a route which took us to the North West Castle in Stranraer as our headquarters for the three nights.  Entries were down slightly from previous as you can see from the List of Entrants below.  Most Entrants were from Ayrshire and the central belt but some came from much further afield.  Unfortunately, David Fotheringham and Susan Gould had to pull out at the last minute due to illness.

List of Entrants

Bob & Margaret Baillie, Mazda 2, Mauchline    Ian & Margaret Smillie, BMW, Milngavie

Barry & Nancy Crichton, BMW,  Cumbernauld   Stuart & Mairi Parker, MGB,  Larkhall

Charlie & Netta Young, Mercedes, Strathaven  John & Jay Thomson, Mercedes, Hamilton

Tom & Marion Bicket, Mazda 6, Symington   Bill & Eileen Montgomery,  Perth

Ian & Louise Gemmell, Land Rover, Mauchline  Jimmy & Arlene McInnes, MGTF,  Troon

Walter & Bette Gray, Mazda MX5,  Perth    Billy & Anne Cuthbertson, E Type, Troon

Pat & John Smith, Vauxhall Corsa,  Elgin    Mid & Val Bruce, Quantum 2+2,  Annbank

Tommy & Elma Scott, Audi A3,  Kilmarnock  David Fotheringham & Susan Gould,  By Stair

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Friday Morning and Afternoon:

Those not from Ayrshire had been given a route from Garrion Bridge on the Clyde, which took them to The Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway where they were to meet up with the others.

After a welcome cup of coffee in the new museum shown above, at around 11 am, we departed to follow a common route which took us down, as close to the coast as possible, to Ballantrae. This year Bob had decided, instead of using the familiar ‘ball and arrow’ instructions, to use Google’s downloaded instructions from the net instead! These appeared fine on paper but heads were being scratched no end over the whole weekend as a result!  I suppose it did add to the fun (but not to some tempers)!  From Ballantrae, we headed inland via Colmonell and Barrhill to Newton Stewart where we stopped for lunch and a stroll around the town.  By this time we had driven about 65 miles from Alloway (those from Garrion another 41 miles while those from Elgin another 240 miles!!)  Fortunately, so far the weather had been pretty fair.  The three “going open”, the Cuthbertson’s E-Type Jaguar, the McInnes MGTF and the Parker MGB, had only to stop once because of a rain shower, to put their hoods up before we got to Newton Stewart.  From there, it was only a short main road 25 miles to the final stop at Stranraer.  Unfortunately, the McInnes and the Cuthbertson’s, who had decided to go open again, were really caught short by a sudden and torrential hail storm halfway along the A75.  But we all arrived unscathed and looked forward to what the hotel had to offer.

 We were certainly not to be disappointed with the North West Castle Hotel.  The accommodation and food were really excellent, certainly, up to the standard we had come to expect in previous Runs.  Before dinner, many entrants took a stroll around Stranraer harbour. 

  Friday Evening:

Bob Baillie had laid on a reception before dinner in the Hotel’s Jubilee Room. After dinner following custom, our Chairman, Mr James W. McInnes entertained the company with a few amusing tales!  Thereafter the proceedings continued in the Jubilee Room.  Gordon and Karen Clendinning had again brought their very large Scalextric track for us to enjoy.

Friday evening’s competition was laid out to allow for a marathon Knockout Race Competition.  Names were drawn from a hat and paired.  The winner of each pair going on to the next level until the eventual winner was found.  This turned out to be Tom Bicket with Bill Montgomery as runner-up.

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Saturday Morning and Afternoon:

The weather on Saturday was more settled being sunny but cold. We started off at 10 o’clock more or less in convoy. The route for the day was to take us all around the Mull of Galloway.  We headed south initially to Logan Botanical Gardens where there was a stop. Everyone enjoyed walking around this well-established garden – amazed at the variety of flora and just how far ahead the plants were compared to our own gardens at home, due to the gulf stream weather.  

From Logan, we travelled as far south as possible to the lighthouse at the end of the Rhinns of Galloway.  Just before the lighthouse was the Gallie Craig Coffee House where we had a welcomed lunch looking out over the Irish sea.  

The weather continued to be fine as we drove up the Rhinns to Portpatrick – for another stroll and another break for more refreshments!

The route then took us up to the north of the Mull to Kirkcolm where there were wartime bases for Sunderland Flying Boats – then it was straight back to Stranraer –  and for some a welcomed siesta!

Saturday Evening: 

A reception was followed by another excellent dinner, which again was followed by a story or two from our Chairman.  These were enjoyed not only by our own company but also by the adjoining table of golfers! Thereafter we adjourned to the Jubilee Room where Gordon had laid on a slightly different layout for a five-lap Time Trial.

Entrants were given a few practice laps prior to being timed officially. There appeared to be no limit on the number of shots that were allowed so the competition became quite fierce, especially among the female entrants. As you will see from the results below showing the top dozen results, the ladies showed the men just how it was done! The slowest time of the evening was recorded by our esteemed Chairman and Story Teller in Chief (who shall remain nameless to protect the McInnes family name).  It should be pointed out that not all present cared to show their talents, or lack of same, by not entering the competition!  Enough said!

Sunday Morning and Afternoon: 

As some were heading home at the end of the Sunday run, at breakfast Bob presented the prizes to the Scalextric Maximum Attack winners.  He also presented Gordon Clendinning with a cheque for £385 from V.S.M.A., again to be given to the Glasgow University Trust towards Gordon’s leukaemia charity.

After photographs were taken (for Cutty Sark the Spring Run’s sponsors) we set off shortly after 10 o’clock.  We again went south, this time as far as the Isle of Whithorn village.

We stopped at the Isle of Whithorn for a quick look around the harbour before heading north to Gatehouse-of-Fleet where lunch awaited us at the Murray Arms Hotel.

 

 

 

 

Lunch in the Murray Arms, Gatehouse-of-Fleet

With little time remaining, we headed up to Laurieston to the Bellymack Farm in time to see the Red Kites being fed at 2.0 o’clock.  Unfortunately, when we got there the rain started but we were able to make use of the ‘Hide’ where an officer of the RSPB enlightened us on these marvellous birds.  If you have never seen such a spectacle as their feeding, I would highly recommend a visit to the site if you are ever in the area.

The group broke up after the Red Kite visit, with the majority making their way north for home, while the dozen who remained made their way back to Stranraer.  As the weather was still slightly inclement (it was bucketing), few, if any of us, took Bob’s recommended route to Newton Stewart and hence to Stranraer, via the Raider’s Road through the Galloway Forest.  The main road was hard enough!

Compared with the previous two evenings, Sunday night at the hotel was very quiet!

Monday Morning:

The remaining few said their farewells on Monday after breakfast.  It was unanimously agreed that it had been another most enjoyable weekend.  Looking forward to the next one.  Bob Baillie had again provided the ingredients for the Spring Run – interesting route, interesting places to visit and some not so gentle evening competition!  Many thanks again Bob and Mid. Well done.

Many thanks are also due to all the entrants who sent in the above photographs.  Much appreciated.

Stuart Parker  17th May 2012

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Saturday’s Time Trial Results (5 laps)

1st   Mid Bruce                    56.7 seconds

2nd  Tommy Scott              56.4 seconds

3rd   Bill Montgomery        56,7 seconds

4th   Eileen Montgomery    57.9 seconds

5th   Anne Cuthbertson    58.0 seconds

6th   Billy Cuthbertson     58.5 seconds

7th   Margaret Smillie      60.0 seconds

8th   Mairi Parker             62.0 seconds

9th   Bob Baillie                 64.0 seconds

10th  Ian Gemmell              65.0 seconds

11th  Pat Smith                   67.0 seconds

12th  Margaret Baillie        68.0 seconds

Tour – 2013 Border Run

Friday 5th to Monday 8th May

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

Duncan & Adele Paterson, Newton Mearns, VW   Hugh & Tricia MacKinnon, Houston,  XK 140

Mid & Val Bruce, Annbank, Mini    Ian & Louise Gemmell, Mauchline, Land Rover

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 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.

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!

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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.

 

 

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 !! 

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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!

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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.

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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.

Stuart S I Parker,  28th May 2013

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Tour – 2014 Spring Run

Friday 25th to Monday 28th April

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.

List of Entrants

Friday

Morning & Afternoon

Evening

Scalextric Competition

Saturday

Dunrobin Castle

Falconry Display

Scalextric Competition

Sunday

 Prizegiving

Highland Wildlife Park

Cairngorm Mountain Railway

Monday

Depart

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List of Entrants

Bob & Margaret Baillie, Jaguar X Type, Mauchline    Ian & Margaret Smillie, BMW, Milngavie

Mid & Val Bruce, Jaguar X Type, Annbank   Tom & Marion Bicket, Audi TT, Symington

Charlie & Netta Young, Ford Kuga, Strathaven   Barry & Nancy Crichton, Mazda MX5,  Cumbernauld

Johnnie & Jay Thomson, Ford Kuga, Hamilton   Bill & Eileen Montgomery, Mercedes SLK, Perth

Stuart & Mairi Parker, Honda Accord,  Larkhall   Jimmy & Arlene McInnes, MGTF, Troon

Walter & Bette Gray, Mazda MX5, Perth   Billy & Anne Cuthbertson, BMW, Troon

Pat & John Smith, Vauxhall Corsa, Elgin    Hugh & Tricia MacKinnon, Porsche 944, Houston

George & Carol Cooper, Porsche 911, Kilsyth   Gordon & Karen Clendinning, Mazda, New Galloway

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Friday Morning and Afternoon

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!

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Friday Evening

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.

Coffee and Quiz 

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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!

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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.

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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!

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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 

 

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 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.

Stuart Parker                                                                    17th May 2014

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Tour – 2015 Highland Spring Run

24th to 27th. April

The 2015 event was once again, back in Grantown, the Grant Arms Hotel being our Headquarters for the three days.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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!.

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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.

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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.

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Stuart Parker

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Tour – 2016 Spring Run

25th to 28th April

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Sunday –

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.

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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.

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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

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Stuart Parker

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Tour – 2017 Spring Run

21st to 24th April

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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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 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.

Awaiting the ferry for Bute at Colontraive

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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Stuart Parker

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 Some of the people who were there

Tour – 2018 Spring Run

27th to 30th April

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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

Some of the pics of our Departure

 

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