TR Action 237
At the May group meeting I distributed a list of forthcoming events, but was met with complaints from some members that they could not read it, having forgotten the appropriate spectacles. Large print versions were suggested. There was lengthy discussion about classic and modern car prices. We concluded that classics were holding their value and in some cases increasing despite the recession. Modern car prices were also picking up in some cases because of a shortage of quality used cars. The door rubbers on Nick Wright’s TR6 were also compared with others and we concluded that the reproduction ones were too bulky.
On the 16th May four of us supported a fund raising event at St. Giles Church in Sandiacre. We were joined by a selection of other marques including MG and Jaguar.
For the open day on 24th May at the new Mercia Marina south of Derby, Barry (TR4), Rex (TR4), Rob (TR6) and me (TR6) convoyed to the event and met Steve (TR5) there. It was nice to relax and chat for a few hours, but the event will be remembered for the very high quality bacon butties served in the café.
Summer weather was still with us for the Nottingham Autokarna held at the magnificent Wollaton Park on 31st May. This is the main annual rally of the Pre-War Austin Seven Club and is supported by many other vehicle clubs. Over 500 vintage, veteran and classic vehicles were on display at this popular event, along with a new car motor show, entertainment, refreshments and a small fun fair. Consequently it is one of the largest shows in the region. Our group display, located alongside friends from Notts TSSC, comprised eight TRs – TR3A, TR4, TR5 and TR6.
It was too cold to hang around outside in the evening for the June group meeting. Seventeen people attended - eight TRs, one Stag and a Vitesse. There was much discussion about the pros and cons of modern technology, particularly points vs. electronic ignition and engine vs. electronic fans. Some preferred the roadside ‘repairability’ of the original technology and most of those with electronic ignition admitted to carrying the wherewithal in the boot to convert back to points at the roadside…
There were ten TRs for the July group meeting, including Rob Buxton’s TR7 V8 and Rob Forster’s ‘new’ Stag. The latter is a 12,000 miles un-restored time warp vehicle. It amazes me that vehicles like this are still turning up.
On 5th July some of us attended the summer gathering at the Royal Oak in Car Colston, organised by David Cope of the Riley Register. This is always an interesting and well-run event, which as usual included a 40-mile scenic run round the local area. Our old friend Terry Goodlud joined us for this; unfortunately, he has had to part with his TR but still enjoys the friendship of the Trent Group and attends events whenever he is able.
TR Action 235
It has been a few months since my last report, for which I apologise. That report ended with our trip to Duxford and my overdrive problem. I am ashamed to admit that low gearbox oil level was the cause. The final event of the season was a trip to a classic car show at Uttoxeter Racecourse. On the journey Rex Wyer had an interesting experience on the A50 when the Surrey on his TR4 decided to undo itself at 60 mph. Luckily those in front of him noticed his absence from the convoy and found a convenient lay-by to wait for him to catch up. The day failed to clear up as forecast and the grey and cold weather sent us home early.
The evening of the October 2008 meeting was cold and breezy after a showery day. However, four Triumphs turned out including our friends Lee Godfrey and Dave Harvey from the Triumph 2000/2500/2.5 Register in a Triumph 2.5PI and Triumph Stag respectively. I must admit that I am not sure what was discussed at the meeting because I spent most of it talking to one of the members about trains and model railways.
The Trent Group Annual Dinner was due to be held on the evening of 5th February 2009 but was postponed because of heavy snow earlier in the day. A rapid thaw late in the day enabled four of us to turn out for a pint. The dinner eventually took place on 19th February and was attended by thirty members. We enjoyed an excellent meal and all had a good time. Bob Millington chose the occasion to announce his forthcoming wedding to Julia.
The April meeting at The Seven Oaks was very well attended with twenty-one people who were treated to free chips by the Landlord. It was dry but very cold - despite this a TR4, Spitfire and four TR6 owners braved the weather. Included were Ben Gammon, who was keen to show off his newly restored TR6, and Darren Salmon with his TR6. Darren’s car was already very good, but he has improved it further by detailing the engine bay during the winter months. During the meeting we started to plan some trips for the summer and have so far decided to support the Nottingham Autokarna and Rolls Royce Hucknall shows. Some of us will also be travelling to the Lincolnshire Aviation Centre in July. For further details of the Trent Group programme and events in the area drop me a line. Updates will also be put on the Forum.
