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For Android users go to the "The Club" index page (or another short page - not this one!), scroll to the bottom of the page and select "Version Web."
For iPad users tap and hold on the refresh symbol located at the rightmost side within Safari’s current URL box (the CMGOC page address). A menu should pop up with an option to see a desktop version of the website in its full glory. To cancel your request, tap once anywhere outside the prompt.
Christmas lunch - 8th december
Forty two members and guests attended the Club's annual Christmas Lunch held at a suitably decorated "La Cassotte" (but where was the model railway this year??).
We were treated to an excellent meal followed by a raffle for which over 30 (beautifully wrapped) prizes had been donated. Shirely and Byron were victorious in the short quiz.
Once again we were indebted to Brian and Mary for organising the event - a lot of work went into it which was greatly appreciated by those present! Some photos follow:
We were treated to an excellent meal followed by a raffle for which over 30 (beautifully wrapped) prizes had been donated. Shirely and Byron were victorious in the short quiz.
Once again we were indebted to Brian and Mary for organising the event - a lot of work went into it which was greatly appreciated by those present! Some photos follow:
2016 quiz night - 27th October
Our Quiz Night this year was undoubtedly a Halloween themed event as participants found La Cassotte completely covered with well over the top decorations, including grave stones, bats, spiders, odd bones, witches and the light etc. etc.
Once again Trevor and Pat (aka the beautiful Samantha) were in charge of what turned out to be a very enjoyable evening. Here is Trevor's report:
Once again Trevor and Pat (aka the beautiful Samantha) were in charge of what turned out to be a very enjoyable evening. Here is Trevor's report:
The second Annual CMGOC Quiz took place on the 27th October 2016 at La Cassotte Restaurant in Nieuil.
The Restaurant and, in particular our room, was "decorated" for Halloween and was scarily impressive!
After a slow response from members it was decided to extend the invitation to participate to friends and relatives. On the night we had 32 participants forming 8 teams of 4.
Introducing the evening Quiz Master Trevor Green explained that this was not a "University Challenge" or "Mastermind" quiz but more of a fun party games night.
Each team of four had been asked to produce a suitable team name and the following team names emerged :-
The Restaurant and, in particular our room, was "decorated" for Halloween and was scarily impressive!
After a slow response from members it was decided to extend the invitation to participate to friends and relatives. On the night we had 32 participants forming 8 teams of 4.
Introducing the evening Quiz Master Trevor Green explained that this was not a "University Challenge" or "Mastermind" quiz but more of a fun party games night.
Each team of four had been asked to produce a suitable team name and the following team names emerged :-
Geoff & Jackie Breed & Bob & Mary Quick chose " MG's Breed Quick"
Trevor & Alison Johns &Colin & Debra Pearce chose " The Thamesiders"
Brian & Mary Epton & Tim & Caroline Hughes chose " Norfolk an Chance"
Paul & Teresa Rooney & Liz Upton & Mathide chose. " Rooney's Loonies"
Mike & Angela Inglehearn & Martin & Elaine Brown chose " Frangliosis "
Mark &Lesley Lott, John Upton & Paul Broom chose. " The Raging Bulls"
Derek & Jan Walker & Ray & Annette chose. " The Hot Shots "
Amanda & Josh Broom & Andy & Lesley Fussell chose. " The Oily Rags
Trevor & Alison Johns &Colin & Debra Pearce chose " The Thamesiders"
Brian & Mary Epton & Tim & Caroline Hughes chose " Norfolk an Chance"
Paul & Teresa Rooney & Liz Upton & Mathide chose. " Rooney's Loonies"
Mike & Angela Inglehearn & Martin & Elaine Brown chose " Frangliosis "
Mark &Lesley Lott, John Upton & Paul Broom chose. " The Raging Bulls"
Derek & Jan Walker & Ray & Annette chose. " The Hot Shots "
Amanda & Josh Broom & Andy & Lesley Fussell chose. " The Oily Rags
The Quiz kicked off with five rounds of mixed and varying content ranging from General Knowledge to T.V. adverts from the 1960's.
After a light "assiette anglais" supper had been enjoyed the second half re-commenced with a further five rounds of tantalising questions ranging from Towns and Cities and a special "How well do you know France and your French" round.
At the final count-up, ably conducted by the lovely "Samantha" (a.k.a. Patricia Green) the victorious team emerged as "Norfolk an Chance " with "The Raging Bulls" a very creditable second.
The brand new "CMGOC Quiz Winners Trophy" - forged specifically for the night and imported directly from the U.K. - was presented to the worthy winners. Trevor and Pat have donated the trophy for future competitions. The runners -up received a bottle of wine.
A further brand new "trophy " was presented to the "wooden spooners" - "Rooney's Loonies" - inscribed with the motif "Must do better" !
Following the prize presentations, President John thanked Trevor and Pat on behalf of all the participants for all their hard work and organisation.
For the statistically minded the results were :-
1. Norfolk an Chance. 93. points 77% of the Maximum Possible Score (120 points)
2. The Raging Bulls. 88. " 73%
3. The Thamesiders. 83. " 69%
4. MG's Breed Quick. 78. " 65%
5. The Hot Shots. 75. " 62%
6. Frangliosis. 73. " 61%
7. The Oily Rags. 70. " 58%
8. Rooney's Loonies. 65. " 54%
Team 1 scored maximum points in Round 4.
Teams 2, 3 & 8 scored maximum points in Round 5 (too much telly watching ?). Teams 3 and 6 scored maximum points in Round 10
The consensus of opinion was that it had been a very enjoyable, sociable evening.
1. Norfolk an Chance. 93. points 77% of the Maximum Possible Score (120 points)
2. The Raging Bulls. 88. " 73%
3. The Thamesiders. 83. " 69%
4. MG's Breed Quick. 78. " 65%
5. The Hot Shots. 75. " 62%
6. Frangliosis. 73. " 61%
7. The Oily Rags. 70. " 58%
8. Rooney's Loonies. 65. " 54%
Team 1 scored maximum points in Round 4.
Teams 2, 3 & 8 scored maximum points in Round 5 (too much telly watching ?). Teams 3 and 6 scored maximum points in Round 10
The consensus of opinion was that it had been a very enjoyable, sociable evening.
Thanks once again to Trevor and Pat. A lot of work must have gone into the evening - the result was much appreciated by the members. Photo gallery follows - as usual click on one image for the complete photo and then to view as a slide show:
I.m.e. confolens - 15th October 2016
This year we made our annual charity donation to the IME at Confolens. The unit is a day centre (a school) for children with special educational needs. Having assembled at a nearby Aire we arrived in convoy and were greeted with great excitement by the children, who had obviously been waiting for the moment. Our MGs spanned 71 years between them - from Mike's 1939 TB to Trevor J's 2010 TF. We were warmly welcomed by Mme Vidal, Chef de Service and Olivier as well as the children and then invited to help ourselves from an extensive breakfast buffet. After this it was down to business - our seven cars managed to take 28 kids for rides over the course of the morning. It was then lunch time - the children went into to dining hall first and proceeded to applaud us as we walked in to take our places. The President handed over our cheque and we enjoyed a very tasty indeed lunch - we were even given pop corn to take home.
As this was our first visit to the IME we weren't quite sure what to expect. As it happened it turned out to be an extremely rewarding and hugely enjoyable morning. Our efforts really did bring some enjoyment to the faces of the children and young people - can't wait to next year!!
(For more information on IME, their website is http://annuaire.action-sociale.org/?p=i-m-e--andree-delivertoux-160003794&details=caracteristiques#description )
Photo gallery follows, as usual click on portion shown for full photo:
As this was our first visit to the IME we weren't quite sure what to expect. As it happened it turned out to be an extremely rewarding and hugely enjoyable morning. Our efforts really did bring some enjoyment to the faces of the children and young people - can't wait to next year!!
(For more information on IME, their website is http://annuaire.action-sociale.org/?p=i-m-e--andree-delivertoux-160003794&details=caracteristiques#description )
Photo gallery follows, as usual click on portion shown for full photo:
fÊte de la cagouille, st. claud - 1st October 2016
This year the weather was kind and we enjoyed sunshine and warm temperatures for our annual visit to this event. 13 cars and their occupants arrived at about 9am and were welcomed by John Lennon. They formed an impressive line up with some members splendidly attired in dress reflecting the age of their cars. As usual Trevor had organised an excellent run through some beautiful Charente countryside; the run took in the impressive Château de Verteuil after which we stopped at and messed about with the cable ferry over the Charente at Lichères - a real beauty spot.
Returning to St. Claud we enjoyed our lunch in the sale de fêtes whilst being serenaded by an accordion player. We met the mayor and then the St. Claud organiser Bernard judged the fancy dress. Mary Q was victorious and received the trophy (and several embraces) from Bernard. After dinner the Mary (and Bob) celebrated by getting out the vinyl, turning up their Teppaz in the back of their shiny B GT. and treating us to some 60's classics.
All in all an excellent day out, blessed this year will 100% better weather than in 2015. A big thank you to Trevor G.
Photo gallery follows - click portion of the smaller photos shown for full photo:
Returning to St. Claud we enjoyed our lunch in the sale de fêtes whilst being serenaded by an accordion player. We met the mayor and then the St. Claud organiser Bernard judged the fancy dress. Mary Q was victorious and received the trophy (and several embraces) from Bernard. After dinner the Mary (and Bob) celebrated by getting out the vinyl, turning up their Teppaz in the back of their shiny B GT. and treating us to some 60's classics.
All in all an excellent day out, blessed this year will 100% better weather than in 2015. A big thank you to Trevor G.
Photo gallery follows - click portion of the smaller photos shown for full photo:
remparts 2016
We had a record turn out for this mega-event held from 16th to 18th September. CMGOC's organiser Graham has submitted his report, in document format, accessible by clicking the button
| cmgoc_remparts_info_oct_2016__2_.pdf |
Photo gallery follows, as usual click on the portion shown for the full photo:
st. Mathieu mecanic' passion - 11th September 2016
This annual well attended event was held in hot and glorious weather. It featured the usual displays of an interesting mix of cars - Americana, aero engines (working), a noisy "bandas" group, a good "ballade" and an excellent lunch (with 530 people booked to eat).; great value at €5 for the drivers. Amongst our contingent it was particularly good to see new members David and Hilary in their pristine red B and also veteran member Paul in his surely now rare automatic B GT. It was a good day out. Photo gallery follows -as usual click on photo for the full picture:
fouras/Île d'aix - 1st September 2016
For this year's traditional beach meeting, following Rick and Lynn's suggestion, we chose to travel to Fouras (17). Rick led the run which started at Chasseneuil, and, after a stop for coffee at St. Jean D'Angley continued, mainly on D roads, to Grand Plage, Fouras. Many members elected to make a break of it and arrived earlier in the week and met up on the beach. This year however we had four MGs with us which is 400% more than last year (see below).
For those new to it, Fouras turned out to be a delightful place with lovely sandy beaches, an interesting town with impressive fish market and a 17th century fortress. The fortress served to defend the town and nearby Rochefort, from the English who were apparently then under the command of one Admiral Tromp (no relation).
After a short meeting we partook of picnics on the beach and then, in superb weather, enjoyed ourselves in the beautiful location.
Several members took the opportunity to visit Île d'Aix, a 20 minute ferry ride away. This had even more fortifications again constructed to defend the entrance of the Charente and the naval arsenal at Rochefort from you know who. No cars are allowed on the island and it was interesting to see the historic main street with no cars. Napoleon 1 apparently visited the island twice, the last time after his defeat at Waterloo, from there he sought to escape to the USA. This didn't materialise, he surrendered and was exiled to St. Helena. The Napoleon Museum help numerous painting and other artefacts commemorating his stay.
A big thank you to Rick and Lynn for introducing many of us to Fouras and for organising a great day out. Photo gallery follows - as usual click on the portion shown for the full monty:
For those new to it, Fouras turned out to be a delightful place with lovely sandy beaches, an interesting town with impressive fish market and a 17th century fortress. The fortress served to defend the town and nearby Rochefort, from the English who were apparently then under the command of one Admiral Tromp (no relation).
After a short meeting we partook of picnics on the beach and then, in superb weather, enjoyed ourselves in the beautiful location.
Several members took the opportunity to visit Île d'Aix, a 20 minute ferry ride away. This had even more fortifications again constructed to defend the entrance of the Charente and the naval arsenal at Rochefort from you know who. No cars are allowed on the island and it was interesting to see the historic main street with no cars. Napoleon 1 apparently visited the island twice, the last time after his defeat at Waterloo, from there he sought to escape to the USA. This didn't materialise, he surrendered and was exiled to St. Helena. The Napoleon Museum help numerous painting and other artefacts commemorating his stay.
A big thank you to Rick and Lynn for introducing many of us to Fouras and for organising a great day out. Photo gallery follows - as usual click on the portion shown for the full monty:
brantôme police horses - 18th August 2016
It doesn't seem a month ago that CMGOC spending an enjoyable day with "teddy bears" and "picnics." Today it was "horses" and "cream teas." What next?
This time it was Andy and Karen's turn to organise a great day out - this time as a joint event with our friends from AVSC. Here is Karen's report:
This time it was Andy and Karen's turn to organise a great day out - this time as a joint event with our friends from AVSC. Here is Karen's report:
We met up with 13 cars of various sorts at Massignac at 11am.
Thankfully the rain clouds departed and the sun came out. Our run took us through the historical village of Les Salles Lavauguyon, along some pretty countryside and good bends, on to St Matthieu. Here we collected 3 more cars, including our new members Bob and Corrina in their racing green B.
Amazingly we managed to keep all 16 cars together whilst travelling along a fairly direct but pretty route to Nontron. Here we went off piste slightly, through some beautiful wooded countryside, and more bends (although due to the number of cars in line our steady pace meant they were not enjoyed to the full!) Not another car in sight. After passing a lovely old roman type ruin and an abbey we arrived in Villars, and parked up in the substantial carpark at the Grottes de Villars.
Here we were joined by 3 more cars, bringing the total to 19. We found several picnic tables free in the shade, and settled down to lunch.
We wound our way through the tiny hamlet out of the Grottes, and back to Villars and on to St Pancrace along a lovely valley. We found the Brantome Police Horse centre amongst a wood, set up high, and in a beautiful setting. We were met and welcomed by Roland and his team, and asked to park on the lawn in front of the house and centre. They had promoted the day to encourage more members of the public to look at the cars and also boost attendance. First there was a film about the history of the centre, and the horses. It was humbling to see the trauma and abuse these animals had endured during their duties for the police, including during the London riots, and some were so traumatised they had to be retired early, mentally and physically scarred.
This hardworking charity allows them to recover and enjoy their retirement in peaceful surroundings.
We then met the horses in their stables, and heard more personal tales about each one. One horse in particular stuck in the mind, “Lewis” was a huge gentle giant of 19 hands, who had had a particularly difficult time at the riots, but was now doing well, and enjoyed a mint from my hand. He obviously loved the attention!
Afternoon tea followed, and a welcome cup of tea/cake/scone was enjoyed in the marquee.
We then made our way home, having enjoyed a nice run with a good mix of cars, friends, good weather, tasty tea, and above all we had got to meet these magnificent animals.
Thankfully the rain clouds departed and the sun came out. Our run took us through the historical village of Les Salles Lavauguyon, along some pretty countryside and good bends, on to St Matthieu. Here we collected 3 more cars, including our new members Bob and Corrina in their racing green B.
Amazingly we managed to keep all 16 cars together whilst travelling along a fairly direct but pretty route to Nontron. Here we went off piste slightly, through some beautiful wooded countryside, and more bends (although due to the number of cars in line our steady pace meant they were not enjoyed to the full!) Not another car in sight. After passing a lovely old roman type ruin and an abbey we arrived in Villars, and parked up in the substantial carpark at the Grottes de Villars.
Here we were joined by 3 more cars, bringing the total to 19. We found several picnic tables free in the shade, and settled down to lunch.
We wound our way through the tiny hamlet out of the Grottes, and back to Villars and on to St Pancrace along a lovely valley. We found the Brantome Police Horse centre amongst a wood, set up high, and in a beautiful setting. We were met and welcomed by Roland and his team, and asked to park on the lawn in front of the house and centre. They had promoted the day to encourage more members of the public to look at the cars and also boost attendance. First there was a film about the history of the centre, and the horses. It was humbling to see the trauma and abuse these animals had endured during their duties for the police, including during the London riots, and some were so traumatised they had to be retired early, mentally and physically scarred.
This hardworking charity allows them to recover and enjoy their retirement in peaceful surroundings.
We then met the horses in their stables, and heard more personal tales about each one. One horse in particular stuck in the mind, “Lewis” was a huge gentle giant of 19 hands, who had had a particularly difficult time at the riots, but was now doing well, and enjoyed a mint from my hand. He obviously loved the attention!
Afternoon tea followed, and a welcome cup of tea/cake/scone was enjoyed in the marquee.
We then made our way home, having enjoyed a nice run with a good mix of cars, friends, good weather, tasty tea, and above all we had got to meet these magnificent animals.
We were pleased to welcome on their first CMGOC run, new members Corrina and Bob Sewell (foreground in 1st photo) and their pristine 1968 green B roadster. As usual with a photo "gallery" please click on the portion shown for the full photo:
teddy bears picnic - 19th july 2016
Numerous teddys, two cows, a leopard, a black panther, a lion, a rabbit, a gorilla, a meerkat and other soft toys went down to the woods today for a picnic. The location, on part of Brad's Estate, was approximately......here:
The many members attending this very original event soon realised that Brad, Samuel, Jeannine and their team had put in a huge amount of effort to make it happen - trees and bushes had been cleared, tracks made and shelters and BBQs erected. Transport from the parking area to the site deep in the woods had been organised, along with a "pick up" from Montembœuf. The result was a fantastic day out for all those present (humans as well as soft toys). The weather was sunny and hot (37C) but in such a shady location everyone managed to keep cool. The soft toys indicated that they enjoyed as did everyone else. A big thank you to the organisers - an annual event?
Photo gallery follows - as usual click on the portion shown for the full photo, thanks to contributors:
Photo gallery follows - as usual click on the portion shown for the full photo, thanks to contributors:
Later: ESCAPED TEDDY BEARS!!!
Run and visit to the lake at st. estÈphe (24) - 4th july 2016
The positive weather forecast circulated to members looked somewhat optimistic when the run, composed and led by Brian and Mary, set off from Chasseneuil sur Bonnieure. A good mixture of MGs took part, including new members Christopher and Debbie in a splendid (concours?) ...er... 2CV. The route then headed south towards Montbron, passing some lovely views over far countryside. It then followed the valley of the Tardoire, near to La Chaise with it's prehistoric grottes and passed through the Gorge de Chambon where there is a large holiday centre based around a château. After this the participants drove into the Park Regional de Limousin et Dordogne with its very pretty windy lanes. Then across country to Etouars, home of France's finest bronze foundries, famous for making cannons for Napoleon Bonaparte. It finally arrived at the "Grand Étang" no less of St Estèphe . Several participants wondered how Brian could so effortlessly follow such a complex route - the answer was revealed later - he had programmed it into his GPS (very clever Brian).
Most members picnicked whilst some dined at the restaurant, the weather perked up and a group walked round the lake - this involved pulling yourself across one end in a cable operated boat. In the sunlight the lake looked magnificent. A couple of members went to view the balancing rock but failed to unbalance it. Photo "gallery" follows - as usual click on the portion displayed for the full photo (except the panoramic photos which are full size anyway):
Most members picnicked whilst some dined at the restaurant, the weather perked up and a group walked round the lake - this involved pulling yourself across one end in a cable operated boat. In the sunlight the lake looked magnificent. A couple of members went to view the balancing rock but failed to unbalance it. Photo "gallery" follows - as usual click on the portion displayed for the full photo (except the panoramic photos which are full size anyway):
brantÔme "so british" day - 19th june 2016
Tim and Caroline led our visit to this years event. Here is their report:
Somewhat alarmingly, we woke up to light drizzle but our fears were allayed as by the time we reached Brantôme at 9am, the skies had brightened and the clouds were dispersing.
By 9.30, our members had arrived and the cars were in place, surrounded by a huge turn out of other British vehicules, including other models of MG, a Delorean DMC 12, various Jaguars, a Rolls Royce, a Reliant Scimitar, a Javelin Jowetta, a Lotus, and pack of motorbikes.
We enjoyed coffee and pastries before we made an 11.30 parade of all the cars twice around the town.
A buffet style lunch was provided at 1.30, with our members, other car owners, the bagpipe band all mixed together in a cave style pop up restaurant. It was a little crowded and somewhat disorganised but there was wine in abundance and no one went hungry.
By the afternoon, the sun was blazing down and throngs of people appeared from nowhere to look and ask questions about the cars. If I am honest, we were a little surprised at just how much interest we attracted.
At 3.30pm, another parade was made and the day finally concluded at 5pm.
Apart from the cars, there were stalls selling all things British. Cheese, sausages, pies, sausage rolls, groceries, greetings cards, soap, pottery, ice cream and a 'fish & chip' van.
Overall, it was a most enjoyable day and we are already looking forward to reserving our place for this fantastic event next year.
By 9.30, our members had arrived and the cars were in place, surrounded by a huge turn out of other British vehicules, including other models of MG, a Delorean DMC 12, various Jaguars, a Rolls Royce, a Reliant Scimitar, a Javelin Jowetta, a Lotus, and pack of motorbikes.
We enjoyed coffee and pastries before we made an 11.30 parade of all the cars twice around the town.
A buffet style lunch was provided at 1.30, with our members, other car owners, the bagpipe band all mixed together in a cave style pop up restaurant. It was a little crowded and somewhat disorganised but there was wine in abundance and no one went hungry.
By the afternoon, the sun was blazing down and throngs of people appeared from nowhere to look and ask questions about the cars. If I am honest, we were a little surprised at just how much interest we attracted.
At 3.30pm, another parade was made and the day finally concluded at 5pm.
Apart from the cars, there were stalls selling all things British. Cheese, sausages, pies, sausage rolls, groceries, greetings cards, soap, pottery, ice cream and a 'fish & chip' van.
Overall, it was a most enjoyable day and we are already looking forward to reserving our place for this fantastic event next year.
A big thank-you to Tim and Caroline for stepping forward to organise our attendance at this event - as fairly new CMGOC members this is the first time they've done this; looking forward to more! Now here are some photos, as usual click on the portion displayed for the full photo:
European event of the year, 8th - 12th june 2016
Our European Event stalwarts Mike and Angela attended this year's event in Le Touquet. Mike's entertaining report, which includes stories of floods, the Somme, Tallboy Bombs, steam trains and V 2 rockets and their blockhaus, as well as MGs of course, can be accessed in pdf form by clicking the link below:
| european_event_report.pdf |
Some photos follow - as usual click on the portion shown for the full photo (except the long one!):
Loire valley visit, 6th - 8th june 2016
Thanks to Howard and Beverly, CMGOC embarked on what was perhaps the first three day event ever held by the club. Here is Beverly's report:
It was 6th June and a foggy start from Chabanais with 6 gleaming MG's. We drove the twisty lanes in our jumpers, hats and scarves praying the sun would soon come out. We stuck together to soon reach Le Blanc where we met 3 more intrepid explorers, so far so good. The sun appeared and, coffee and chocolate consumed, we set off to meet the last 2 at the Royal City of Loches. A picnic in the park was planned but floods put a stop to that. First plans scuppered so it was picnic by the river on the damp grass and then a hunt for loos! My wet bottom was soon dried by the sun, thank goodness!
Loches is a wonderful medieval riverside town and we were treated to a very informative tour by a knowledgeable and interesting guide with excellent English. There were many stairs up and down, something to remember for the future.
Then it was time for all 11 cars to head off to the hotel. Everyone had detailed instructions and even with diversions because of floods we arrived at the hotel about 6.
Well, 9 of us did! Phone calls established that 2 had taken the 'scenic route' and eventually joined us shortly after.
Feeling hot and tired it was time for a shower and beer (not necessarily in that order) in the courtyard of our comfortable and pretty hotel. We soon felt refreshed and ready for dinner here, our home for the next 2 nights. Traffic light cards ensured we all received the correctly ordered meal and after much laughter and wine bed beckoned.
Loches is a wonderful medieval riverside town and we were treated to a very informative tour by a knowledgeable and interesting guide with excellent English. There were many stairs up and down, something to remember for the future.
Then it was time for all 11 cars to head off to the hotel. Everyone had detailed instructions and even with diversions because of floods we arrived at the hotel about 6.
Well, 9 of us did! Phone calls established that 2 had taken the 'scenic route' and eventually joined us shortly after.
Feeling hot and tired it was time for a shower and beer (not necessarily in that order) in the courtyard of our comfortable and pretty hotel. We soon felt refreshed and ready for dinner here, our home for the next 2 nights. Traffic light cards ensured we all received the correctly ordered meal and after much laughter and wine bed beckoned.
Next morning, another glorious day, we all set off for fuel and the palace at Valencay. It's so important when travelling in a convoy to keep up and the french roads being so empty it's not necessary to leave big gaps. Refuelled we arrived at Valencay where the tour was self guided with a headset. From here people chose to lunch, walk, sit and/or visit the Car Museum where I think we made the their day! The museum was interesting and then we all parked our cars outside in the museum car park for many group photos.
It was a couple of hours back and this time we arrived with 10! We were improving but how did we manage to lose someone? Big gaps between cars, traffic lights and diversions. Still, they were back in time for a well deserved beer and then it was off to Chinon for dinner.
It was a nice restaurant and after meals of variable quality we made our way back for our last night.
Wednesday morning and some left us to go on elsewhere or wander home. 8 though left for a mystery tour to the one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France, Angles sur l'Anglin. We arrived much later than expected so lunch was taken instead of the planned coffee! What a wonderful surprise. We chose a restaurant opposite the ruined chateau and all had a delicious meal of our choosing. They were efficient, friendly and it was service with a smile. I would highly recommend it!
So this was the end. We all said our goodbyes and Howard and I felt that all the hard work (and some stress) had been well worth it. Not everything went to plan but the flexibilty of our members meant we all had a good time. Would we do it again? Probably, but not next year! Whose turn is it now?
It was a couple of hours back and this time we arrived with 10! We were improving but how did we manage to lose someone? Big gaps between cars, traffic lights and diversions. Still, they were back in time for a well deserved beer and then it was off to Chinon for dinner.
It was a nice restaurant and after meals of variable quality we made our way back for our last night.
Wednesday morning and some left us to go on elsewhere or wander home. 8 though left for a mystery tour to the one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France, Angles sur l'Anglin. We arrived much later than expected so lunch was taken instead of the planned coffee! What a wonderful surprise. We chose a restaurant opposite the ruined chateau and all had a delicious meal of our choosing. They were efficient, friendly and it was service with a smile. I would highly recommend it!
So this was the end. We all said our goodbyes and Howard and I felt that all the hard work (and some stress) had been well worth it. Not everything went to plan but the flexibilty of our members meant we all had a good time. Would we do it again? Probably, but not next year! Whose turn is it now?
And now here are some photos (as usual, the long photos excepted, click on the portion of the photo displayed to see the full photo):
Day 1, lunch at Loches, visit to the chateau and then on to our hotel at Beaumont-en-Véron, near Chinon for a beer and a meal:
Day 2, Filling up, Château de Valençay, lunch, and the Valençay Motor Museum
Day 3, goodbye to the hotel, lunch for some of us at Angles sur l'Anglin, and then, sadly, home
rouillac british film festival - 30th april 2016
The weather forecast was not good but six cars made it to the impressive "La Brie Qui Court" café in Brie-la-Rochefoucauld, where the occupants partook of croissants and coffee. The attempt by the Département to isolate Brie by closing the D113 failed to deter CMGOC, although it did delay a couple of cars en route to the café. Although small in number the cars represented a good cross section of MG models - the cars attending comprising a 1956 MG A, an (errr...) AH Frogeye Sprite , a 1967 B GT, a 1971 B Roadster, an MGF and an MGTF - every one different. At Rouillac we were joined by 1970 B Roadster. As usual Tony had organised a great run on some very minor but well surfaced roads - very reminiscent of a Remparts "rallye" route. After a couple of hours or so we arrived at Gourville and were shown round a little museum dedicated to the memory of the Rouillac - Segonzac metre gauge railway, which opened in 1911 and closed in the 1940s. The system seemed to be known as "Le Petit Mairat" after one Paul Mairat who dreamed up the idea.
Conveniently, the museum was next door to a bar, so we were able to drop in there for a beverage before continuing to Rouillac, where we arrived just after 2pm. The event organiser, Jean-Claude, welcomed us and pointed us in the direction of the British Beer. Outside the film centre it was bitterly cold and windy (at last year's event we were sunbathing at a roman amphitheatre!) but we braved it until 4pm and the start of the first film. "45 Years" starred Charlotte Rampling, who made the mistake of climbing up into the attic and rummaging through Tom Courtenay's photos of old girl friends from +45 years before. After the film some of us went to get something to eat but I don't think anyone stayed to watch the second film "SPECTRE." The run part of the day was great, thanks Tony, but at the cinema there was a fair bit of waiting around. Probably this would have been less noticeable if the weather had been warmer! Photo album follows as usual click on the portion shown for the full photo:
Conveniently, the museum was next door to a bar, so we were able to drop in there for a beverage before continuing to Rouillac, where we arrived just after 2pm. The event organiser, Jean-Claude, welcomed us and pointed us in the direction of the British Beer. Outside the film centre it was bitterly cold and windy (at last year's event we were sunbathing at a roman amphitheatre!) but we braved it until 4pm and the start of the first film. "45 Years" starred Charlotte Rampling, who made the mistake of climbing up into the attic and rummaging through Tom Courtenay's photos of old girl friends from +45 years before. After the film some of us went to get something to eat but I don't think anyone stayed to watch the second film "SPECTRE." The run part of the day was great, thanks Tony, but at the cinema there was a fair bit of waiting around. Probably this would have been less noticeable if the weather had been warmer! Photo album follows as usual click on the portion shown for the full photo:
aubeterre sur drone - 22nd April 2016
No less than 18 MGs (plus occupants) assembled in the by now familiar surroundings of M. Leclerc's car park at La Rochefoucauld. Amongst the participants were brand new members Alison and Trevor, driving their almost brand new 2010/11 MGTF - surely the newest MG in the club? We also welcomed the return of the newly resprayed and looking very nice, MGB of Karen and Andy. The run departed at 10h30 on a reasonable but not warm day (hoods up) and took us through some beautiful countryside. There were super views, small bridges, leafy lanes bending roads, and, no-one got lost! The run took in Rancogne, with it's pretty bridge over the Tandoire, Chazelles. Bouëx, Dignac, Lombre, Ronsenac, where we picked up more cars, Charbonnier, Bors, Longveau and Laprade, arriving at our destination.
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Run organisers Brian and Mary led us up the narrow village roads to our reserved parking, just beneath the Château. Brian had certainly gone to some trouble over this - there was even a splendid formal notice from the Maire attached to the barriers, reserving our spaces. Click to view this impressive document:
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The line up at the parking was pretty impressive - see photos below. We then walked up to the Château where we met Shaun and Bena. Bena showed us the wild orchids, all carefully marked out, which the owner has preserved and encouraged in the castle grounds. She also gave an interesting history of the 11th century castle, from medieval times and the Hundred Years War (when it changed hands several times), through the wars of religion up to the present day. The history was rather chequered, for example in 1588 someone called Jean Poltrot de Meré, a protestant from Aubetrre, assassinated the king's brother, the Duc de Guise. Things did not work out well for M. Meré, who was hung, drawn and quartered for his trouble.
After we thanked Bena some of us picnicked near the gatehouse, and the remainder walked down to a restaurant in the village for lunch. We were not surprised to learn that the village is one of the "Plus Beaux Villages De France."
After we thanked Bena some of us picnicked near the gatehouse, and the remainder walked down to a restaurant in the village for lunch. We were not surprised to learn that the village is one of the "Plus Beaux Villages De France."
Suitably refreshed we made our way to the 7th century subterranean monolithic church of Saint-Jean. With the help of some other visitors Brian skilfully negotiated a group discount and we were then treated to a truly delightful guided tour, given in English. Particularly for the first time visitor the church is an impressive structure. Begun in the 7th century and extended in the 12th century, our guide explained that it was constructed, or rather hewn out of the limestone cliff, by three teams of masons, starting from the top. Rather than construct the nearly 20m high columns and arches in the normal way, the masons simply "left" the stone for the octagonal columns undisturbed, and cleared around them. "Constructing" columns in this way was one thing, but our guide also informed us that the 6m high Romanesque reliquary was constructed by the same method. After our tour we climbed up to the balcony, which runs on three sides of the church - according to our guide a unique feature.
After this extremely interesting visit we returned to our cars and drove up to the Château for a final photo shoot and to bid farewell to Shaun and Bena.
A super, instructive, day out, impeccably organised by Brian and Mary.
Photo "gallery" follows; thanks to contributors. As usual click on the portion of the photo shown below to view the full photo - then click the arrow which will appear on the right to take you to the next one:
A super, instructive, day out, impeccably organised by Brian and Mary.
Photo "gallery" follows; thanks to contributors. As usual click on the portion of the photo shown below to view the full photo - then click the arrow which will appear on the right to take you to the next one:
spring run - 7th april 2016
The first event of the year and Brad had kindly agreed to organise the inaugural run, prior to the meeting later at Nieuil. Eleven MGs, one BMW X5 and a Megane as "broom car," assembled in M. Leclerc's car park at La Rochefoucauld at 2pm. The "broom car" doubled as a "press car". The ran started badly for some, who immediately got lost by following a silver F with a red roof down the main road, after the F driver, despite Brad's prior warning, had completely missed a right down a small side road. The F driver's excuse was that the correct road "looked as though it only went to a brico depot" - yeah yeah! Brad had anticipated this incompetence and waited for us - fortunately it didn't take long to reform the group. Despite a dire weather forecast the rain held off and several hoods were down (although some went up, and then down again later - what was going on??).
We wound our way through the picturesque Charente countryside. After a brief stop at Montembœuf, we arrived at Les Salles Lavauguyon where we stopped to visit Saint-Eutrope - not the enigmatic Bishop of Saintes himself of course, as he was martyred (probably), in the 5th century, but the 12th century Romanesque church of the same name, and under his patronage. In the church we were surprised to discover 200m² of recently restored 12th century frescos. Leaflets (available in English) helped us understand that the frescos, which represented saints, martyrdom and someone called Abbot Bozo. We learned, but we weren't surprised to learn, that both the church and the priory are classified historic monuments. Thanks Brad.
We wound our way through the picturesque Charente countryside. After a brief stop at Montembœuf, we arrived at Les Salles Lavauguyon where we stopped to visit Saint-Eutrope - not the enigmatic Bishop of Saintes himself of course, as he was martyred (probably), in the 5th century, but the 12th century Romanesque church of the same name, and under his patronage. In the church we were surprised to discover 200m² of recently restored 12th century frescos. Leaflets (available in English) helped us understand that the frescos, which represented saints, martyrdom and someone called Abbot Bozo. We learned, but we weren't surprised to learn, that both the church and the priory are classified historic monuments. Thanks Brad.
After our interesting and contemplative break we started our engines and headed through the beautiful, undulating, Charente countryside and eventually reached (only Brad knows how) "Le Soleil Couchant" at the Plan D'Eau, Verneuil. After refreshments the plan was for the "broom car" containing the official photographer and her driver, to drive to the other side of the bridge in advance of the MGs (not forgetting the X5), so that all these cars could be photographed crossing the bridge. All the MGs cars but one duly set off - once the again it was the silver and red F that messed it up, later citing "alarm functionality operator issues" - so all the cars but one where photographed.
After a brief stop by the Vienne at Chabanais we reached "La Cassotte" well in time for a deserved apero prior to the meeting. Big thanks to Brad and the official photographer for well organised and extremely interesting run; it's great to discover more of Département 16 in MGs - something new every time.
Photo Gallery follows (as usual click on a photo to view it full sized - then click the arrow which will appear on the right to take you to the next one):
After a brief stop by the Vienne at Chabanais we reached "La Cassotte" well in time for a deserved apero prior to the meeting. Big thanks to Brad and the official photographer for well organised and extremely interesting run; it's great to discover more of Département 16 in MGs - something new every time.
Photo Gallery follows (as usual click on a photo to view it full sized - then click the arrow which will appear on the right to take you to the next one):
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