The Journal of theLeicestershire & Warwickshire Volkswagen Owners’ ClubThe Journal of theLeicestershire & Warwickshire Volkswagen Owners’ Club

Issue 53Issue 53

w w w . l w v w o c . c o . u kw w w . l w v w o c . c o . u k

t seems a long time since I sat down to write a “chatter” column, in fact I think it was a week after GTI International. That was early summer and here we are now with autumn Ijust around the corner, tomorrow being the first of September.The verdict on this

summer is, as far as I am concerned, poor. Not quite as wet as last year but pretty dismal nonetheless. After retuning from two weeks in Menorca we came back to a family loss as my Father in Law died the next day. We very nearly were not around when he had his stroke as we were going to Kimbolton the next day, but as we didn't arrive home till 9.30 pm the night before, decided it was simply too much to make the early start the next day. It turned out to be good fortune as we were around to deal with all the problems. Two weeks later it was time for our annual trip to Knutsford and the VW North West show held in Tatton Park which adjoins the quaint Cheshire town. As usual we travelled up on the Saturday and stayed over at Tatton Dale Farm which is actually on the Tatton Estate. During the evenings of the week before, I had spent quite some time under the Cabrio, preparing for the concours at the show. No surprise given August's weather, it poured down all the way there. Bugger!!! Despite a struggle to get the car re-prepared on Sunday morning, it just about scraped the class win against my closest rival, William Shaw from Yorkshire. Despite the poor weather on the Sunday morning of the show and the even worse weather the day before the event, the show itself seemed to be a success with higher numbers than before, both in terms of general attendance and in concours entrants. Some classes in the classic air cooled part of the concours did seem to be struggling but the exception to this was the Van classes. The splitties were awash and so, for that matter, were the Bay's and the T4 & 5's.

Since Tatton Park Val and I have attended two club events, the first being the evening walk through Bradgate Park and following Noggin & Natter at the Bradgate Arms, big attendance Val and I and Ian! Today as I write, was the walking treasure hunt around the pretty local town/village of Market Bosworth, again massive attendance. Given the fact that it takes quite some hours to organise the event, very disappointing! Two teams took part, my daughter Carla & Terry and Teresa & Andy Iwasiuk and family. I know it's supposed to be summerish and a few are on holiday still, but are you the members not interested? If so, what other kind of events would you like to see us arrange? Give me a call or drop me a line, because if the attendance at these two events is anything to go by, we've obviously got it wrong! I'm hoping that next week's Coventry Motoring Festival will rekindle my enthusiasm. (This was written before the Coventry Run, which was unfortunately cancelled due to the weather! - ed.)

New from Volkswagen this month (September) will be the exciting new Scirocco. This is being built in VW's Portuguese plant, unlike the previous generations which were built by the coach builder Willehelm Karmann at Osnabruck. The restyled nose and grill have proved a change in direction from the gaping mouth shown in the Iroc design concept and the current infatuation with the twin grill shield design which has been in favour with VW and Audi. By making the Scirocco at a normal plant in Portugal it would seem that VW have managed to keep the purchase price down and the new car appears to be going on sale at only a slight premium above the Golf, which of course it shares its running gear designs with.

Chairman’s ChatterChairman’s Chatter

Editor’s WritesEditor’s Writes

Rob Loughrey looks back at the last few months

Jeremy R. Bromley on the last few months.

The Scirocco launch engine will be the 2.0 litre TSI which it has in common with the Golf GTI amongst others. The transmission will be either 6 speed manual or 6 speed DSG. This combination will give the Scirocco a nippy 0-62 mph in 7.2 seconds and a top speed of 146. Overall fuel consumption is said to be 37.2 mpg. This adds up to quite an attractive package, along with 18” alloys, ESP and adaptive chassis control ACC. This system uses electronically adjustable dampers giving 3 driving programmes, normal, comfort and sport. Diesel engine variants both 140 and 170 will follow along with the 1.4TSI, this time producing 160BHP.

Hard on the heels of the Scirocco in January of next year will be the MkVI Golf. This has a more sculpted body than before, although being still recognisable as a Golf. The grill area again moves away from the current twin shield style to a similar design to Scirocco. Not surprisingly the new Golf is said to be the most advanced, safest generation yet. The new design makes the car look wider and flatter than the current model and I think has more of a similarity with the MKIII & IV. One of the reasons the MkVI arrived so soon is a drive by VW to reduce costs on the assembly line which I have constantly heard have been high with the MKV. The new GTI engine is said to produce a further 11 BHP above the current models 200. This won't be available at launch but will follow also next year. It will be interesting to see what enhancements are included in the GTI as the MKV has been successful by having a distinctive face that bit different to the other models in the range. I'm sure VW will want to do the same again. More on this on the next page.

Well that's it for another issue and I look forward to seeing you all at the future events. Don't forget to check out the dates page and the club website for updates and messages.

I'm hoping for an Indian summer before the dark season is on us again!

Rob Loughrey - Chairman.

Hi folks. First of all an apology regarding the lateness of this latest issue of the club newsletter. There’s been a lot going on in the Bromley household recently, not least that I spent nearly 6 weeks in the Himalayas, experiencing India delights (well, actually Dominos’ Pizza most of the time). But that’s a different story for another day. I hope you like this issue, sparse though it is. I’ve tried to include some details of the newest offerings from VW, and there’s been a lot going on recently with the new Scirocco, Passat CC, Golf VI etc. (the cover shot is the Golf VI GTi Concept, recently shown to the public at the Paris Motor Salon). Lots been going on with the Bromley fleet too, the Fabia that has served us well over the last year has gone in favour of a Seat Toledo V5 from 2001 in black metallic. A bit of a bargain it was, but needs a bit of work. On the whole we’re very pleased with it’s levels of comfort and abilities. Hopefully I’ll be able to give a more full assessment next issue. For now, as they used to say... Keep Beetlin’

t seems a long time since I sat down to write a “chatter” column, in fact I think it was a week after GTI International. That was early summer and here we are now with autumn Ijust around the corner, tomorrow being the first of September.The verdict on this

summer is, as far as I am concerned, poor. Not quite as wet as last year but pretty dismal nonetheless. After retuning from two weeks in Menorca we came back to a family loss as my Father in Law died the next day. We very nearly were not around when he had his stroke as we were going to Kimbolton the next day, but as we didn't arrive home till 9.30 pm the night before, decided it was simply too much to make the early start the next day. It turned out to be good fortune as we were around to deal with all the problems. Two weeks later it was time for our annual trip to Knutsford and the VW North West show held in Tatton Park which adjoins the quaint Cheshire town. As usual we travelled up on the Saturday and stayed over at Tatton Dale Farm which is actually on the Tatton Estate. During the evenings of the week before, I had spent quite some time under the Cabrio, preparing for the concours at the show. No surprise given August's weather, it poured down all the way there. Bugger!!! Despite a struggle to get the car re-prepared on Sunday morning, it just about scraped the class win against my closest rival, William Shaw from Yorkshire. Despite the poor weather on the Sunday morning of the show and the even worse weather the day before the event, the show itself seemed to be a success with higher numbers than before, both in terms of general attendance and in concours entrants. Some classes in the classic air cooled part of the concours did seem to be struggling but the exception to this was the Van classes. The splitties were awash and so, for that matter, were the Bay's and the T4 & 5's.

Since Tatton Park Val and I have attended two club events, the first being the evening walk through Bradgate Park and following Noggin & Natter at the Bradgate Arms, big attendance Val and I and Ian! Today as I write, was the walking treasure hunt around the pretty local town/village of Market Bosworth, again massive attendance. Given the fact that it takes quite some hours to organise the event, very disappointing! Two teams took part, my daughter Carla & Terry and Teresa & Andy Iwasiuk and family. I know it's supposed to be summerish and a few are on holiday still, but are you the members not interested? If so, what other kind of events would you like to see us arrange? Give me a call or drop me a line, because if the attendance at these two events is anything to go by, we've obviously got it wrong! I'm hoping that next week's Coventry Motoring Festival will rekindle my enthusiasm. (This was written before the Coventry Run, which was unfortunately cancelled due to the weather! - ed.)

New from Volkswagen this month (September) will be the exciting new Scirocco. This is being built in VW's Portuguese plant, unlike the previous generations which were built by the coach builder Willehelm Karmann at Osnabruck. The restyled nose and grill have proved a change in direction from the gaping mouth shown in the Iroc design concept and the current infatuation with the twin grill shield design which has been in favour with VW and Audi. By making the Scirocco at a normal plant in Portugal it would seem that VW have managed to keep the purchase price down and the new car appears to be going on sale at only a slight premium above the Golf, which of course it shares its running gear designs with.

Chairman’s ChatterChairman’s Chatter

Editor’s WritesEditor’s Writes

Rob Loughrey looks back at the last few months

Jeremy R. Bromley on the last few months.

The Scirocco launch engine will be the 2.0 litre TSI which it has in common with the Golf GTI amongst others. The transmission will be either 6 speed manual or 6 speed DSG. This combination will give the Scirocco a nippy 0-62 mph in 7.2 seconds and a top speed of 146. Overall fuel consumption is said to be 37.2 mpg. This adds up to quite an attractive package, along with 18” alloys, ESP and adaptive chassis control ACC. This system uses electronically adjustable dampers giving 3 driving programmes, normal, comfort and sport. Diesel engine variants both 140 and 170 will follow along with the 1.4TSI, this time producing 160BHP.

Hard on the heels of the Scirocco in January of next year will be the MkVI Golf. This has a more sculpted body than before, although being still recognisable as a Golf. The grill area again moves away from the current twin shield style to a similar design to Scirocco. Not surprisingly the new Golf is said to be the most advanced, safest generation yet. The new design makes the car look wider and flatter than the current model and I think has more of a similarity with the MKIII & IV. One of the reasons the MkVI arrived so soon is a drive by VW to reduce costs on the assembly line which I have constantly heard have been high with the MKV. The new GTI engine is said to produce a further 11 BHP above the current models 200. This won't be available at launch but will follow also next year. It will be interesting to see what enhancements are included in the GTI as the MKV has been successful by having a distinctive face that bit different to the other models in the range. I'm sure VW will want to do the same again. More on this on the next page.

Well that's it for another issue and I look forward to seeing you all at the future events. Don't forget to check out the dates page and the club website for updates and messages.

I'm hoping for an Indian summer before the dark season is on us again!

Rob Loughrey - Chairman.

Hi folks. First of all an apology regarding the lateness of this latest issue of the club newsletter. There’s been a lot going on in the Bromley household recently, not least that I spent nearly 6 weeks in the Himalayas, experiencing India delights (well, actually Dominos’ Pizza most of the time). But that’s a different story for another day. I hope you like this issue, sparse though it is. I’ve tried to include some details of the newest offerings from VW, and there’s been a lot going on recently with the new Scirocco, Passat CC, Golf VI etc. (the cover shot is the Golf VI GTi Concept, recently shown to the public at the Paris Motor Salon). Lots been going on with the Bromley fleet too, the Fabia that has served us well over the last year has gone in favour of a Seat Toledo V5 from 2001 in black metallic. A bit of a bargain it was, but needs a bit of work. On the whole we’re very pleased with it’s levels of comfort and abilities. Hopefully I’ll be able to give a more full assessment next issue. For now, as they used to say... Keep Beetlin’

Volks NewsVolks NewsThe latest news from Volkswagen/Audi Group

Golf Mk IV (by Dave Hammond)

he current VW Golf V became available in the UK from 2004 and there was a technical advance over the Golf IV. At the same time something had to give Tfinancially for Volkswagen with production of the new Golf V – I feel this was the

standard of the interior car quality, for example the seats in the GT model were not so supportive and the plastic dash not quite as tactile as the IV, but still good when compared with competitors. I have an ‘06 Golf GT 2.0 Tdi 140ps (DSG) which in the current extensive range of Golfs would now be classed as the Sport model as VW introduced a new GT Golf range with either the 170 Tsi (1.4 petrol) or Tdi (2.0 diesel engines) with 140ps and 170ps p ow e r u n i t s re s p e c t ive l y . T h e differences in specification of the GT over the Sport range include a different, deeper front grill – similar to the Audi A3 - 17" alloy wheels as standard and ‘GT’ logos to the front grille, rear and on the steering wheel. Volkswagen pay great attention to detail and this has always given them a reputation as a quality car manufacturer in my opinion, which is reflected in resale prices.

Volkswagen now may be wanting to introduce the Golf VI earlier than expected in order to reduce spiralling costs of the current model range, German press reports have said. VW designers want to give the Golf VI a more exciting look with either a single front grill like the new Audi range or a chromed grill like the new VW Passat. VW engineers and designers have been ordered by Volkswagen AG executives to simplify construction of the new model to cut costs.

German news magazine Der Speigel has reported that VW factory workers currently need 48 hours to produce the current Golf V with competitors needing about half the time to produce a similar car. Especially the door construction of the current model needed repeated readjustment putting up the cost by 300 euros per car. Volkswagen’s ‘works councils’ have criticised management for the high production costs, citing an over-emphasis on unnecessary technical details! But Volkswagen have apparently denied the report that the Golf VI would come earlier than planned. But the reputed Auto-Motor-Sport magazine has said that it was unclear whether VW could still afford such a big choice in the Golf range. It is possible that VW could produce the Golf VI as a sporty three-door version while merging the five-door and Golf Plus into a different model.

Volkswagen is currently facing massive cost-cutting measures, especially at its main production factory at Wolfsburg.

Latest Breaking News 26/9: VW UK will have available to order a range of ‘special’ deals on the current Golf V model to be announced early October. This may include some of the many options being included as standard but on a reduced model range of vehicles, also the colours available being reduced. (I think they call it “running out” the current model !) Dealers are reported to be accepting orders for the new Golf VI from as early as January next year (09).

Also the new sixth generation Golf GTI will be on sale by next summer with same 2 litre engine as the current GTI Edition 30 which has a 230ps unit capable of 0-62mph in 7.2seconds and mind blowing top speed of 148mph but an improved 37.6mpg

The new Passat CC (by Jeremy R. Bromley)

Volkswagen has announced prices for its new four-door, four-seater coupé, the Passat CC, which is available to order from retailers across the UK from next week, Friday 16th May. The first cars, if ordered now, will start arriving in the UK in mid-July. The entry-level CC, the 1.8-litre TSI 160 PS will cost £21,040 RRP on the road, with prices rising to £31,120 for the range-topping 3.6-litre V6 300 PS.

The Passat CC opens a new market n i c h e f o r Vo l k s w a g e n a n d strengthens the company's range of models in the hotly-contested B-segment. With high quality and impressive specification levels across the range, the Passat CC is likely to appeal to private and fleet buyers alike.

Having tested out one of the 2.0l Diesel models I can confirm that the quality of fit and comfort is extremely high, indeed with all the right options this could be a serious contender to a Phaeton (with which it shares factory space at Dresden) for comfort. Also, interestingly, having looked at the prices and specification levels, and it is actually a very close run thing as to whether I would prefer one of these or a New Scirocco for a similar price. (about £25k should see a nicely specced version of either). I didn’t get the chance to

try out the “Park Assist” system which automatically guides you into a parking space.

Looking very smart on it’s 18" alloys the interior in Vienna Leather was nicely cosseting and the seats very comfortable. I p a r t i c u l a r l y l i ke d t h e frameless windows on the

Volks NewsVolks NewsThe latest news from Volkswagen/Audi Group

Golf Mk IV (by Dave Hammond)

he current VW Golf V became available in the UK from 2004 and there was a technical advance over the Golf IV. At the same time something had to give Tfinancially for Volkswagen with production of the new Golf V – I feel this was the

standard of the interior car quality, for example the seats in the GT model were not so supportive and the plastic dash not quite as tactile as the IV, but still good when compared with competitors. I have an ‘06 Golf GT 2.0 Tdi 140ps (DSG) which in the current extensive range of Golfs would now be classed as the Sport model as VW introduced a new GT Golf range with either the 170 Tsi (1.4 petrol) or Tdi (2.0 diesel engines) with 140ps and 170ps p ow e r u n i t s re s p e c t ive l y . T h e differences in specification of the GT over the Sport range include a different, deeper front grill – similar to the Audi A3 - 17" alloy wheels as standard and ‘GT’ logos to the front grille, rear and on the steering wheel. Volkswagen pay great attention to detail and this has always given them a reputation as a quality car manufacturer in my opinion, which is reflected in resale prices.

Volkswagen now may be wanting to introduce the Golf VI earlier than expected in order to reduce spiralling costs of the current model range, German press reports have said. VW designers want to give the Golf VI a more exciting look with either a single front grill like the new Audi range or a chromed grill like the new VW Passat. VW engineers and designers have been ordered by Volkswagen AG executives to simplify construction of the new model to cut costs.

German news magazine Der Speigel has reported that VW factory workers currently need 48 hours to produce the current Golf V with competitors needing about half the time to produce a similar car. Especially the door construction of the current model needed repeated readjustment putting up the cost by 300 euros per car. Volkswagen’s ‘works councils’ have criticised management for the high production costs, citing an over-emphasis on unnecessary technical details! But Volkswagen have apparently denied the report that the Golf VI would come earlier than planned. But the reputed Auto-Motor-Sport magazine has said that it was unclear whether VW could still afford such a big choice in the Golf range. It is possible that VW could produce the Golf VI as a sporty three-door version while merging the five-door and Golf Plus into a different model.

Volkswagen is currently facing massive cost-cutting measures, especially at its main production factory at Wolfsburg.

Latest Breaking News 26/9: VW UK will have available to order a range of ‘special’ deals on the current Golf V model to be announced early October. This may include some of the many options being included as standard but on a reduced model range of vehicles, also the colours available being reduced. (I think they call it “running out” the current model !) Dealers are reported to be accepting orders for the new Golf VI from as early as January next year (09).

Also the new sixth generation Golf GTI will be on sale by next summer with same 2 litre engine as the current GTI Edition 30 which has a 230ps unit capable of 0-62mph in 7.2seconds and mind blowing top speed of 148mph but an improved 37.6mpg

The new Passat CC (by Jeremy R. Bromley)

Volkswagen has announced prices for its new four-door, four-seater coupé, the Passat CC, which is available to order from retailers across the UK from next week, Friday 16th May. The first cars, if ordered now, will start arriving in the UK in mid-July. The entry-level CC, the 1.8-litre TSI 160 PS will cost £21,040 RRP on the road, with prices rising to £31,120 for the range-topping 3.6-litre V6 300 PS.

The Passat CC opens a new market n i c h e f o r Vo l k s w a g e n a n d strengthens the company's range of models in the hotly-contested B-segment. With high quality and impressive specification levels across the range, the Passat CC is likely to appeal to private and fleet buyers alike.

Having tested out one of the 2.0l Diesel models I can confirm that the quality of fit and comfort is extremely high, indeed with all the right options this could be a serious contender to a Phaeton (with which it shares factory space at Dresden) for comfort. Also, interestingly, having looked at the prices and specification levels, and it is actually a very close run thing as to whether I would prefer one of these or a New Scirocco for a similar price. (about £25k should see a nicely specced version of either). I didn’t get the chance to

try out the “Park Assist” system which automatically guides you into a parking space.

Looking very smart on it’s 18" alloys the interior in Vienna Leather was nicely cosseting and the seats very comfortable. I p a r t i c u l a r l y l i ke d t h e frameless windows on the

Your help requestedYour help requested

Calling all Golf Mk1 and Golf Mk2 owners

January 15th 2009 is the launch of the NEW GOLF MK6

Arthur Prince Volkswagen o f L o u g h b o r o u g h , Leicestershire are planning a celebration of the launch of which all are welcome.

As part of the launch I have been asked if I can assist in helping them fill their showroom with an example of each of the first five generations of Golf.

The later cars (Mk5, 4 and 3) have already been sourced. However we are still in need of a good example of Mk1 and Mk2 to complete the line up.

Why have we been asked? Well this stems from our organising of Stanford Hall VW show and the type of cars that the show attracts. Cars do not have to be concours standard, but clearly need to be more than a daily hack if they are to be displayed in the showroom.

If your car is not taxed over the winter months or you prefer not to drive your car on the winter roads, Arthur Prince will transport your vehicle to and from their premises.

In return for the loan of your vehicle you will be provided with a courtesy vehicle and also be invited to enjoy a meal at the local Country Club.

If you think you may be able to help by providing your car

from Thursday 15th through to Sunday 18th January please mai l : treasurer@lwvwoc.co.uk or call Andrew Dytham on 07801 254211.

A couple of gems from the Bromley Tower’s VW archives this issue. First of all on the left we have July 1990 AutoCar & Motor announcing the new T4, and below VW ( S a f e r ) M o t o r i n g advertisment for some cowboy organisation’s club meet in Stanford ;) They’ll never last these things.

doors, which as they seal upwards on starting the ignition produced no more windnoise than a normal Passat. I tried a manual gearbox, but look forward to a drive in a DSG pulled version to make a good comparison. Frankly, I think it looks fantastic, and has all the good qualities of the normal Passat, without the “forget it” looks.

Old Volks NewsOld Volks NewsItems from the archives

Your help requestedYour help requested

Calling all Golf Mk1 and Golf Mk2 owners

January 15th 2009 is the launch of the NEW GOLF MK6

Arthur Prince Volkswagen o f L o u g h b o r o u g h , Leicestershire are planning a celebration of the launch of which all are welcome.

As part of the launch I have been asked if I can assist in helping them fill their showroom with an example of each of the first five generations of Golf.

The later cars (Mk5, 4 and 3) have already been sourced. However we are still in need of a good example of Mk1 and Mk2 to complete the line up.

Why have we been asked? Well this stems from our organising of Stanford Hall VW show and the type of cars that the show attracts. Cars do not have to be concours standard, but clearly need to be more than a daily hack if they are to be displayed in the showroom.

If your car is not taxed over the winter months or you prefer not to drive your car on the winter roads, Arthur Prince will transport your vehicle to and from their premises.

In return for the loan of your vehicle you will be provided with a courtesy vehicle and also be invited to enjoy a meal at the local Country Club.

If you think you may be able to help by providing your car

from Thursday 15th through to Sunday 18th January please mai l : treasurer@lwvwoc.co.uk or call Andrew Dytham on 07801 254211.

A couple of gems from the Bromley Tower’s VW archives this issue. First of all on the left we have July 1990 AutoCar & Motor announcing the new T4, and below VW ( S a f e r ) M o t o r i n g advertisment for some cowboy organisation’s club meet in Stanford ;) They’ll never last these things.

doors, which as they seal upwards on starting the ignition produced no more windnoise than a normal Passat. I tried a manual gearbox, but look forward to a drive in a DSG pulled version to make a good comparison. Frankly, I think it looks fantastic, and has all the good qualities of the normal Passat, without the “forget it” looks.

Old Volks NewsOld Volks NewsItems from the archives

Has your driving licence expired?Has your driving licence expired? Fireworks, Stanford HallFireworks, Stanford Hall

Reader’s writesReader’s writes

Andrew Dytham brings this pearl of wisdom Sarah Dytham brings a report on this years fireworks extravaganza

wning a car means an annual slew of admin for insurance, tax, MOT and servicing. But I never realised that my driving licence might be up for renewal any time soon. OAnd before you ask, I’m a long way off my 70th birthday (the date which triggers a

compulsory renewal for all drivers).

It turns out that the new style plastic licence cards expire after just ten years, unlike the previous paper-only versions. This has come to light as the first batch of new style licences – issued in July 1998 – have expired. DVLA figures reveal that while 16,136 expired this summer, so far only 11,566 drivers have renewed, leaving 4,570 outstanding. Another 300,000 photocard licences are due to expire over the coming year, which means the number of invalid licences could soar. A total of 25million have been issued.

Many drivers will be completely unaware and risk being fined £1,000 for unwittingly driving without a valid licence. Better still, drivers have to pay £17.50 to renew their card, which will earn the Treasury an estimated £437million over 25 years.

I suspect this is a taste of things to come with ID cards… Do they really expect us to believe that it costs £17.50? How to check your photocard expiry date? Here’s how: Just below the driver's name is a numbered series of dates and details. Number '4b' features a date in tiny writing but the significance is explained only if the driver turns over the card and reads the key on the back which states that '4b' means 'licence valid to'.

A spokesman said: 'It is important that photocards are updated every ten years to ensure the police and other enforcement agencies can identify whether a driving licence is being used fraudulently.' You may be sent a reminder by DVLA, but in case you don’t get one, make a note of the date.

Fortunately, the Association of British Insurers and the Department for Transport have said that insurance cover will not affected if drivers failed to update their photocard.

hat a truly fantastic event. Andrew, the children and myself packed the car with club drinks, our chairs, coats and ball and set off to meet Alan, Alison, and Ian for Wthree thirty in order to put up the club gazebos and set out the food in time for the

arrival of the club members.

Upon approaching the gates to Stanford Hall it was apparent by the queuing traffic that the gates although open were not open to the ticket holders. Not being one to wait patiently; Andrew felt capable of blagging his way past the gate officials, which was no mean feat but achieved! Being involved with our own show does have its advantages at times! Proceeding up the drive to the gates of the fenced front lawn where we had been allocated our plot we met Alan, Alison and Ian and were greeted by Nick, the nephew and new owner of Stanford Hall's previous owners Lady Gray and the Colonel. Nick was as usual most hospitable and assured us that we would have a fantastic view of the fireworks, adding that we would not be disappointed.

We set about erecting the two gazebos; tables, drinks and laying out the food spread provided by Alison, the children enjoying the freedom of the huge garden for an uninterrupted game of football. Before we knew it without so much time as to sit down for a quick brew fellow club members were starting to arrive. As was the case the previous year, there was a good turnout of club members of whom I also enjoyed welcoming new members Danae Chinnery and Amy Bettison with their families, hope to see you again soon!

As the evening drew in, I could hardly believe how many people had arrived and continued to arrive into the dark of the night. It was muted that the visitors should take care of the grass as Rob would be none too pleased should his concours field become damaged ahead of next years Stanford Hall show! Before the fireworks started, the buffet was opened by our wonderful hostess; Alison! As usual the wonderful spread of food, fit for a king was laid out for all to enjoy and everyone certainly

did. Thanks Alison - much appreciated by all!

hanks for a great afternoon, Daniel and I really enjoyed it and it was also good to catch up with everyone. The pub and food were great and the skittles great fun. We'll Tprobably see you next at the 'Hall'. Just joking, we'll try and catch up at some of the

weekend get-togethers or club nights.

Again thanks for making the most of the opportunity and well done on finding such a great venue at short notice.

See you all again soon.

Regards

Graham & Pauline Edgecombe and boys

Has your driving licence expired?Has your driving licence expired? Fireworks, Stanford HallFireworks, Stanford Hall

Reader’s writesReader’s writes

Andrew Dytham brings this pearl of wisdom Sarah Dytham brings a report on this years fireworks extravaganza

wning a car means an annual slew of admin for insurance, tax, MOT and servicing. But I never realised that my driving licence might be up for renewal any time soon. OAnd before you ask, I’m a long way off my 70th birthday (the date which triggers a

compulsory renewal for all drivers).

It turns out that the new style plastic licence cards expire after just ten years, unlike the previous paper-only versions. This has come to light as the first batch of new style licences – issued in July 1998 – have expired. DVLA figures reveal that while 16,136 expired this summer, so far only 11,566 drivers have renewed, leaving 4,570 outstanding. Another 300,000 photocard licences are due to expire over the coming year, which means the number of invalid licences could soar. A total of 25million have been issued.

Many drivers will be completely unaware and risk being fined £1,000 for unwittingly driving without a valid licence. Better still, drivers have to pay £17.50 to renew their card, which will earn the Treasury an estimated £437million over 25 years.

I suspect this is a taste of things to come with ID cards… Do they really expect us to believe that it costs £17.50? How to check your photocard expiry date? Here’s how: Just below the driver's name is a numbered series of dates and details. Number '4b' features a date in tiny writing but the significance is explained only if the driver turns over the card and reads the key on the back which states that '4b' means 'licence valid to'.

A spokesman said: 'It is important that photocards are updated every ten years to ensure the police and other enforcement agencies can identify whether a driving licence is being used fraudulently.' You may be sent a reminder by DVLA, but in case you don’t get one, make a note of the date.

Fortunately, the Association of British Insurers and the Department for Transport have said that insurance cover will not affected if drivers failed to update their photocard.

hat a truly fantastic event. Andrew, the children and myself packed the car with club drinks, our chairs, coats and ball and set off to meet Alan, Alison, and Ian for Wthree thirty in order to put up the club gazebos and set out the food in time for the

arrival of the club members.

Upon approaching the gates to Stanford Hall it was apparent by the queuing traffic that the gates although open were not open to the ticket holders. Not being one to wait patiently; Andrew felt capable of blagging his way past the gate officials, which was no mean feat but achieved! Being involved with our own show does have its advantages at times! Proceeding up the drive to the gates of the fenced front lawn where we had been allocated our plot we met Alan, Alison and Ian and were greeted by Nick, the nephew and new owner of Stanford Hall's previous owners Lady Gray and the Colonel. Nick was as usual most hospitable and assured us that we would have a fantastic view of the fireworks, adding that we would not be disappointed.

We set about erecting the two gazebos; tables, drinks and laying out the food spread provided by Alison, the children enjoying the freedom of the huge garden for an uninterrupted game of football. Before we knew it without so much time as to sit down for a quick brew fellow club members were starting to arrive. As was the case the previous year, there was a good turnout of club members of whom I also enjoyed welcoming new members Danae Chinnery and Amy Bettison with their families, hope to see you again soon!

As the evening drew in, I could hardly believe how many people had arrived and continued to arrive into the dark of the night. It was muted that the visitors should take care of the grass as Rob would be none too pleased should his concours field become damaged ahead of next years Stanford Hall show! Before the fireworks started, the buffet was opened by our wonderful hostess; Alison! As usual the wonderful spread of food, fit for a king was laid out for all to enjoy and everyone certainly

did. Thanks Alison - much appreciated by all!

hanks for a great afternoon, Daniel and I really enjoyed it and it was also good to catch up with everyone. The pub and food were great and the skittles great fun. We'll Tprobably see you next at the 'Hall'. Just joking, we'll try and catch up at some of the

weekend get-togethers or club nights.

Again thanks for making the most of the opportunity and well done on finding such a great venue at short notice.

See you all again soon.

Regards

Graham & Pauline Edgecombe and boys

As we sat around chatting and soaking up the atmosphere, I particularly enjoyed watching the large paper lanterns being set off, or not in some cases as the lantern itself ignited before enough heat had been generated to lift it into the summer air! The lanterns were being offered to the public to buy for £10, and with the sky filled with these when the majority were launched following a countdown it was a tranquil spectacle to behold.

With little delay and after a demonstration by the event co-ordinators it began. Music began to play, and information was delivered across the public address system regarding do's, don'ts and how we were to vote on the three pyrotechnic businesses competing in the championship. Following the introduction, everywhere seemed to go silent, then the music started followed by the loudest boom from

the first of many spectacular fireworks.

Standing, watching in amazement and speechless it was fantastic. I did not know where to look; I found my eyes at times dancing following the display fill the sky. The fireworks continued like this through all three performances. Following a short break at the end of the evening as a group we seemed to agree that the second display was best. Voting instructions were briefed out and administered by texting via mobile phones. The responsibility of the clubs vote was bestowed on Carla.

Waiting for the outcome of the text voting, last years winners took to the sky as they launched their fireworks with incredible timing to a variety of music. It was clear to see how they won the previous year, as their performance was outstanding. Following what was the finale of the evening the winners were announced and the club had voted for the winning team!

Now fast approaching midnight it was time for the clean up operation. Rubbish bagged, cars, trailers packed and a trip round to the sheds to drop off stakes, rope and the generator we were all getting weary! A drive home, the children asleep in the car, taking with us more memories of a great day out with good friends. If you missed it this year do make a point of looking out for details of next years event; which I guess will become a regular family activity attended by the club.

Scottish Tour 2008Scottish Tour 2008Rob Loughrey on the club’s visit to Scotland earlier in the year

e left Hinckley at lunch time and had a pretty good run up the M6, only having a few miles of occasional slow traffic. We had decided that even though it would Whave been more economical to use the Lupo, we would go in the New Beetle V5

Sport Edition for our nine day tour. We headed north, having also picked up my Mother, who was to stay with the Scottish contingent of the family for the week on the banks of the River Clyde. Only having made it to Staffordshire we had a text from the Dythams saying they were already in Gretna Green for their lunch and were basking in warm sunshine. At this time our weather was dull and grey and if anything was looking like rain. By mid afternoon we were ready for a stop ourselves and after crossing the Solway Firth and the border we pulled in to the services just north of Gretna. As you might have guessed the further north we got the warmer and better the weather. Bear in mind we have made the journey north many times and quite often stop at this service area. Historically the usual weather is cold and miserable, but this year it was a case of tea and cakes outside and 23 degrees centigrade! Could this be the year that the weather gods would be smiling at us? We had made good steady progress considering that and I had decided to keep my speed to around the 70 mph mark, this given the current ridiculous price of Shell-V Power or similar, which the V5 has a liking for. After dropping my Mother off in Port Glasgow, I found a Tesco store in Greenock (the town adjoining) with reasonably priced 99 octanes super unleaded. When I worked the economy out I couldn't believe the figures. This was accurate brim filling, not just looking at the gauge I might add. We had achieved just short of 44 mpg which are the best figures I have ever managed with this car. I normally struggle to get mid thirties. It just shows how much an effect speed does have on the cars economy. I did use the cruise control where possible and had it set about 73 mph.

Val and I spent the Friday night with my cousin in Largs (north east Ayrshire, Clyde coast) and after a lazy start on Saturday it was off along the M8 across to Edinburgh. We followed the instructions carefully and drove straight to the Express by Holiday Inn in the Leith Docks area. The Hotel was across the road from the Royal Yacht Britannia and the Ocean Terminal shopping complex. Parking was FOC. We had three interesting days in Edinburgh and on the first night we were lucky to find Edinburgh was hosting the Scottish round of the UK Firework Championships. This was excellent, as you can imagine, with the fireworks being set off from the opposite side of the docks. Even despite a delay the sky was still not dark when the first team started their display. The next day saw numerous members making the trip south west to the Scottish VW rally at Biggar. This event has been running some years now, I think since 1980. By the mid eighties the show was almost as big as Stanford Hall at that time, but due to a couple of venue changes and lot of indifferent weather, the show has become quite small these days, the opposite of Stanford Hall. In fact there was mention that this may have been the last year for the event which is a shame as the Biggar venue is a picturesque spot.

Monday, our last day in Edinburgh saw members all doing there own thing. Val and I

As we sat around chatting and soaking up the atmosphere, I particularly enjoyed watching the large paper lanterns being set off, or not in some cases as the lantern itself ignited before enough heat had been generated to lift it into the summer air! The lanterns were being offered to the public to buy for £10, and with the sky filled with these when the majority were launched following a countdown it was a tranquil spectacle to behold.

With little delay and after a demonstration by the event co-ordinators it began. Music began to play, and information was delivered across the public address system regarding do's, don'ts and how we were to vote on the three pyrotechnic businesses competing in the championship. Following the introduction, everywhere seemed to go silent, then the music started followed by the loudest boom from

the first of many spectacular fireworks.

Standing, watching in amazement and speechless it was fantastic. I did not know where to look; I found my eyes at times dancing following the display fill the sky. The fireworks continued like this through all three performances. Following a short break at the end of the evening as a group we seemed to agree that the second display was best. Voting instructions were briefed out and administered by texting via mobile phones. The responsibility of the clubs vote was bestowed on Carla.

Waiting for the outcome of the text voting, last years winners took to the sky as they launched their fireworks with incredible timing to a variety of music. It was clear to see how they won the previous year, as their performance was outstanding. Following what was the finale of the evening the winners were announced and the club had voted for the winning team!

Now fast approaching midnight it was time for the clean up operation. Rubbish bagged, cars, trailers packed and a trip round to the sheds to drop off stakes, rope and the generator we were all getting weary! A drive home, the children asleep in the car, taking with us more memories of a great day out with good friends. If you missed it this year do make a point of looking out for details of next years event; which I guess will become a regular family activity attended by the club.

Scottish Tour 2008Scottish Tour 2008Rob Loughrey on the club’s visit to Scotland earlier in the year

e left Hinckley at lunch time and had a pretty good run up the M6, only having a few miles of occasional slow traffic. We had decided that even though it would Whave been more economical to use the Lupo, we would go in the New Beetle V5

Sport Edition for our nine day tour. We headed north, having also picked up my Mother, who was to stay with the Scottish contingent of the family for the week on the banks of the River Clyde. Only having made it to Staffordshire we had a text from the Dythams saying they were already in Gretna Green for their lunch and were basking in warm sunshine. At this time our weather was dull and grey and if anything was looking like rain. By mid afternoon we were ready for a stop ourselves and after crossing the Solway Firth and the border we pulled in to the services just north of Gretna. As you might have guessed the further north we got the warmer and better the weather. Bear in mind we have made the journey north many times and quite often stop at this service area. Historically the usual weather is cold and miserable, but this year it was a case of tea and cakes outside and 23 degrees centigrade! Could this be the year that the weather gods would be smiling at us? We had made good steady progress considering that and I had decided to keep my speed to around the 70 mph mark, this given the current ridiculous price of Shell-V Power or similar, which the V5 has a liking for. After dropping my Mother off in Port Glasgow, I found a Tesco store in Greenock (the town adjoining) with reasonably priced 99 octanes super unleaded. When I worked the economy out I couldn't believe the figures. This was accurate brim filling, not just looking at the gauge I might add. We had achieved just short of 44 mpg which are the best figures I have ever managed with this car. I normally struggle to get mid thirties. It just shows how much an effect speed does have on the cars economy. I did use the cruise control where possible and had it set about 73 mph.

Val and I spent the Friday night with my cousin in Largs (north east Ayrshire, Clyde coast) and after a lazy start on Saturday it was off along the M8 across to Edinburgh. We followed the instructions carefully and drove straight to the Express by Holiday Inn in the Leith Docks area. The Hotel was across the road from the Royal Yacht Britannia and the Ocean Terminal shopping complex. Parking was FOC. We had three interesting days in Edinburgh and on the first night we were lucky to find Edinburgh was hosting the Scottish round of the UK Firework Championships. This was excellent, as you can imagine, with the fireworks being set off from the opposite side of the docks. Even despite a delay the sky was still not dark when the first team started their display. The next day saw numerous members making the trip south west to the Scottish VW rally at Biggar. This event has been running some years now, I think since 1980. By the mid eighties the show was almost as big as Stanford Hall at that time, but due to a couple of venue changes and lot of indifferent weather, the show has become quite small these days, the opposite of Stanford Hall. In fact there was mention that this may have been the last year for the event which is a shame as the Biggar venue is a picturesque spot.

Monday, our last day in Edinburgh saw members all doing there own thing. Val and I

decided to visit the city centre with its wide range of tourist attractions, not to mention, of course, the well known Princess Street shopping thoroughfare. We caught the bus from outside the hotel and got off in Princess Street. The bus services in Edinburgh incidentally are brilliant and run very frequently. They are also in the throws of supplementing this with a tram network which is causing some disruption at present to the city centre traffic. We wandered along Princess Street, which, for those who don't know, has only shops on one side and parks and gardens on the other. From here there are good views across to the

Castle, Scottish National Gallery, Waverly Station etc. It gives the street an almost unique feel. We did our small bit to keep the economy ticking over, and as time passed we decided it was warm e n o u g h t o g e t a sandwich and sit in the gardens for lunch. We were not alone; it seems it is quite the done thing for people who work in the city to do similar.

We sat there taking in the views and sunshine when the peace was

shattered by the firing of the one o'clock gun. The origins of this go back to when accurate time pieces were a rarity and at precisely one o'clock each day a cannon was fired so the citizens of Edinburgh could set their clocks. It could also be heard in the nearby Firth of Forth which allowed mariners to accurately set their time pieces on board ship. From here we walked from the end of Princess Street to the bottom of the Royal Mile and the Palace of Hollyrood House, the Queen's official residence in Scotland. On route there are some great views of the city from the top of the hill by St Andrews House, the former government building before the recently completed Scottish Parliament was built. Our legs were starting to ache a bit by now so afternoon tea was taken at Hollyrood before walking back up the Royal Mile to the castle. It is a fair old climb especially after all the walking we had already done. (Maybe we're just getting old - no …. that can't be right!!). The Scottish Parliament sits at the bottom of the Royal Mile and whether or not you like it, or indeed approve of it, is subjective, but it is most definitely unique. The Royal Mile, as the name suggests, joins Hollyrood with the castle and is about a mile long. There are some old interesting buildings along its length, but it has to be said that some of the shops which line its pavements that are a bit tacky! There are only so many tartan novelty shops that are necessary, but even given this, it's still well worth the walk. Views of the castle ramparts are stunning despite the fact that while we were there the concourse in front of the castle had all the seating in place, as used at the Edinburgh Tattoo - there must have been a recent

concert. We simply didn't have the time to do the full castle tour as, by now, it was nearing tea time and you really need most of a day to do it justice. More walking back down the Royal Mile, past the front of the impressive National Gallery building and a bus ride back to our hotel in Leith.

Tuesday was the day I'd been particularly looking forward to as it was the day that we made our way north west to Fort William and the real Scottish highland scenery. For four members, however, it was time to head back south as they were not able to join us for the rest of the tour. Four cars decided to make the trip over to Fort William in a convoy and had all agreed that we would enjoy the trip over and take in some of the best scenery in the UK on route rather than just dashing across. We decided to go over the Forth Bridge on route which is slightly out of the way but it does make the first part of the journey a little more interesting. After crossing we hugged the banks of the River Forth only to cross back in the relatively narrow part of the river at Kincardine. From here we picked up the M9 towards Stirling. Just one junction before the motorway turns into the A9 we took a left hander towards Doune and the Trossachs. Things do start to change here and the scenery really does become more dramatic. It wasn't too long after a quick comfort break at Callander that

the first snow covered peak was spotted. It was also obvious the further north west we travelled that the weather was getting better. After passing Loch Lubnaiag , Loch Voil and Lochearnhead we decided to visit the famous Falls of Dochart and stop here for Lunch. The River Dochart

was not at its usual fast flowing state but this, of course, meant that there hadn't been too much rain. Yippee!

After a very leisurely lunch it was back onto the A85 to Crainlarich and Tyndrum and on to Bridge of Orchy. The landscape changes again to the wild and desolate plateau of Rannoch Moor. That day, however, with the sunny weather prevailing, it all looked very beautiful. The next stop on the journey was an unscheduled one at the top of Glen Coe. The views of the famous Monroes (mountains well known to climbers) are exceptional from here. We stopped and Vic was complaining about his suspension bottoming out on his New Beetle which hasn't covered more than a few thousand miles. After a quick visual appraisal

decided to visit the city centre with its wide range of tourist attractions, not to mention, of course, the well known Princess Street shopping thoroughfare. We caught the bus from outside the hotel and got off in Princess Street. The bus services in Edinburgh incidentally are brilliant and run very frequently. They are also in the throws of supplementing this with a tram network which is causing some disruption at present to the city centre traffic. We wandered along Princess Street, which, for those who don't know, has only shops on one side and parks and gardens on the other. From here there are good views across to the

Castle, Scottish National Gallery, Waverly Station etc. It gives the street an almost unique feel. We did our small bit to keep the economy ticking over, and as time passed we decided it was warm e n o u g h t o g e t a sandwich and sit in the gardens for lunch. We were not alone; it seems it is quite the done thing for people who work in the city to do similar.

We sat there taking in the views and sunshine when the peace was

shattered by the firing of the one o'clock gun. The origins of this go back to when accurate time pieces were a rarity and at precisely one o'clock each day a cannon was fired so the citizens of Edinburgh could set their clocks. It could also be heard in the nearby Firth of Forth which allowed mariners to accurately set their time pieces on board ship. From here we walked from the end of Princess Street to the bottom of the Royal Mile and the Palace of Hollyrood House, the Queen's official residence in Scotland. On route there are some great views of the city from the top of the hill by St Andrews House, the former government building before the recently completed Scottish Parliament was built. Our legs were starting to ache a bit by now so afternoon tea was taken at Hollyrood before walking back up the Royal Mile to the castle. It is a fair old climb especially after all the walking we had already done. (Maybe we're just getting old - no …. that can't be right!!). The Scottish Parliament sits at the bottom of the Royal Mile and whether or not you like it, or indeed approve of it, is subjective, but it is most definitely unique. The Royal Mile, as the name suggests, joins Hollyrood with the castle and is about a mile long. There are some old interesting buildings along its length, but it has to be said that some of the shops which line its pavements that are a bit tacky! There are only so many tartan novelty shops that are necessary, but even given this, it's still well worth the walk. Views of the castle ramparts are stunning despite the fact that while we were there the concourse in front of the castle had all the seating in place, as used at the Edinburgh Tattoo - there must have been a recent

concert. We simply didn't have the time to do the full castle tour as, by now, it was nearing tea time and you really need most of a day to do it justice. More walking back down the Royal Mile, past the front of the impressive National Gallery building and a bus ride back to our hotel in Leith.

Tuesday was the day I'd been particularly looking forward to as it was the day that we made our way north west to Fort William and the real Scottish highland scenery. For four members, however, it was time to head back south as they were not able to join us for the rest of the tour. Four cars decided to make the trip over to Fort William in a convoy and had all agreed that we would enjoy the trip over and take in some of the best scenery in the UK on route rather than just dashing across. We decided to go over the Forth Bridge on route which is slightly out of the way but it does make the first part of the journey a little more interesting. After crossing we hugged the banks of the River Forth only to cross back in the relatively narrow part of the river at Kincardine. From here we picked up the M9 towards Stirling. Just one junction before the motorway turns into the A9 we took a left hander towards Doune and the Trossachs. Things do start to change here and the scenery really does become more dramatic. It wasn't too long after a quick comfort break at Callander that

the first snow covered peak was spotted. It was also obvious the further north west we travelled that the weather was getting better. After passing Loch Lubnaiag , Loch Voil and Lochearnhead we decided to visit the famous Falls of Dochart and stop here for Lunch. The River Dochart

was not at its usual fast flowing state but this, of course, meant that there hadn't been too much rain. Yippee!

After a very leisurely lunch it was back onto the A85 to Crainlarich and Tyndrum and on to Bridge of Orchy. The landscape changes again to the wild and desolate plateau of Rannoch Moor. That day, however, with the sunny weather prevailing, it all looked very beautiful. The next stop on the journey was an unscheduled one at the top of Glen Coe. The views of the famous Monroes (mountains well known to climbers) are exceptional from here. We stopped and Vic was complaining about his suspension bottoming out on his New Beetle which hasn't covered more than a few thousand miles. After a quick visual appraisal

it was decided that his supplying dealer had left the transit blocks inside the front springs which stop the suspension from moving too much whilst the cars are being delivered. After Nigel, Vic and myself bounced the car Andrew managed to pull out the offending nylon packers. A result for sure and further down the Glen, Vic reported a massive improvement in the cars suspension. Dealers hey, what are some of them like!

At the bottom of Glen Coe it was time for an afternoon tea break in Glen Coe village, meeting up by chance with others from our Club, the Iwasiuks, Suzie Elford, Karl and William. After large pieces of cake it was off on the last part of the drive, over the bridge at Ballacahulish crossing the mouth of the very pretty Loch Leven and on to the shores of Loch Linnhe. It wasn't too long from here before we arrived in Fort William at Loch Iall (Premier Inn ). The top of Ben Nevis was clear and we had a terrific view of it from our room. You might think 'so what', but anyone who knows this part of Scotland will tell you that this is not a common sight! The journey was over 140 miles but I would challenge anyone to find a more scenic run on main A roads in the UK.

Wednesday turned out to be the only day we actually saw rain but really this was only from about 11 .00am unt i l 4.00pm. We had decided it was the day we would follow the route of the West Highland Railway

The Loughrey and Kaye Beetles at the top of Glen Coe

taking the road west to Malliag. Vic and Angie Kaye were also planning to make the same journey so we decided to share a beetle for the day. The route follows Loch Eil west from Fort William and passes the top of Loch Shiel at Glenfinnan. Glenfinnan has a large monument on the head of the loch to mark the spot where Prince Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie) came ashore. The monument is a tower which you can climb up and there is also a Visitors Centre on the nearby roadside. The Visitors Centre has a great viewing spot a short climb up the hillside to the rear. From this spot you also get great views of the Glenfinnan Viaduct which has become world famous with its association with the Harry Potter Films. The Visitors Centre gives a brief history of the Jacobite uprising of 1745 which started from a gathering of the highland clans at this point. When you look at the history his father James did have a fair claim to the throne. The views down Loch Shiel from this point are quite stunning and you would be hard pressed to buy a calendar of Scottish views which didn't show this scene.

From Glen Finnan the road rises and dips following the railway along the side of Loch Eilt and onto the Sound of Arisaig. Given good weather, there would be terrific coastal views over to the islands of Rum, Eigg and Muck, but for once the weather let us down.

It was a further short distance from here until we reached Mallaig. With the rain on, it didn't seem too appealing and I think it would be fair to say that the town/village is a functional one rather than quaint. We tried hard to find a suitable café but as it was lunch time and the steam train was in it was a tall order. We eventually found a suitable eatery to shelter and top up the tank before making the journey back to Fort William and by the time we arrived back there the rain had stopped and the sun was making an appearance again.

Thursday saw the weather back up to speed, warmer and sunny. Val and I decided to make a day covering a route we first took over 30 years ago out of Fort William and back out towards Malliag again, but this time taking a left turn along a mainly single track road out towards the most westerly point on the British mainland, the Point of Ardnamurchan. We previously had done this section of the Scottish coast in a motor caravan. I had, at the time, an atlas where I marked particularly interesting roads and this one was in it. After coming to the end of Loch Eil you take the small single track road which follows the south shore of the loch and in turn the west side of Loch Linnhe. Once opposite the Corran Ferry the road widens to two lanes and heads back west to Strontain. It was here, in the seventies, I had had my petrol delivered by a hand pump. Strontain is a village which grew up on the back of lead mining and was very important to the British War effort in the Napoleonic Wars. It

The Glenfinnan Monument and Lock Shiel - Stunning!

The Jacobite Steam Railway crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct

it was decided that his supplying dealer had left the transit blocks inside the front springs which stop the suspension from moving too much whilst the cars are being delivered. After Nigel, Vic and myself bounced the car Andrew managed to pull out the offending nylon packers. A result for sure and further down the Glen, Vic reported a massive improvement in the cars suspension. Dealers hey, what are some of them like!

At the bottom of Glen Coe it was time for an afternoon tea break in Glen Coe village, meeting up by chance with others from our Club, the Iwasiuks, Suzie Elford, Karl and William. After large pieces of cake it was off on the last part of the drive, over the bridge at Ballacahulish crossing the mouth of the very pretty Loch Leven and on to the shores of Loch Linnhe. It wasn't too long from here before we arrived in Fort William at Loch Iall (Premier Inn ). The top of Ben Nevis was clear and we had a terrific view of it from our room. You might think 'so what', but anyone who knows this part of Scotland will tell you that this is not a common sight! The journey was over 140 miles but I would challenge anyone to find a more scenic run on main A roads in the UK.

Wednesday turned out to be the only day we actually saw rain but really this was only from about 11 .00am unt i l 4.00pm. We had decided it was the day we would follow the route of the West Highland Railway

The Loughrey and Kaye Beetles at the top of Glen Coe

taking the road west to Malliag. Vic and Angie Kaye were also planning to make the same journey so we decided to share a beetle for the day. The route follows Loch Eil west from Fort William and passes the top of Loch Shiel at Glenfinnan. Glenfinnan has a large monument on the head of the loch to mark the spot where Prince Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie) came ashore. The monument is a tower which you can climb up and there is also a Visitors Centre on the nearby roadside. The Visitors Centre has a great viewing spot a short climb up the hillside to the rear. From this spot you also get great views of the Glenfinnan Viaduct which has become world famous with its association with the Harry Potter Films. The Visitors Centre gives a brief history of the Jacobite uprising of 1745 which started from a gathering of the highland clans at this point. When you look at the history his father James did have a fair claim to the throne. The views down Loch Shiel from this point are quite stunning and you would be hard pressed to buy a calendar of Scottish views which didn't show this scene.

From Glen Finnan the road rises and dips following the railway along the side of Loch Eilt and onto the Sound of Arisaig. Given good weather, there would be terrific coastal views over to the islands of Rum, Eigg and Muck, but for once the weather let us down.

It was a further short distance from here until we reached Mallaig. With the rain on, it didn't seem too appealing and I think it would be fair to say that the town/village is a functional one rather than quaint. We tried hard to find a suitable café but as it was lunch time and the steam train was in it was a tall order. We eventually found a suitable eatery to shelter and top up the tank before making the journey back to Fort William and by the time we arrived back there the rain had stopped and the sun was making an appearance again.

Thursday saw the weather back up to speed, warmer and sunny. Val and I decided to make a day covering a route we first took over 30 years ago out of Fort William and back out towards Malliag again, but this time taking a left turn along a mainly single track road out towards the most westerly point on the British mainland, the Point of Ardnamurchan. We previously had done this section of the Scottish coast in a motor caravan. I had, at the time, an atlas where I marked particularly interesting roads and this one was in it. After coming to the end of Loch Eil you take the small single track road which follows the south shore of the loch and in turn the west side of Loch Linnhe. Once opposite the Corran Ferry the road widens to two lanes and heads back west to Strontain. It was here, in the seventies, I had had my petrol delivered by a hand pump. Strontain is a village which grew up on the back of lead mining and was very important to the British War effort in the Napoleonic Wars. It

The Glenfinnan Monument and Lock Shiel - Stunning!

The Jacobite Steam Railway crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct

was during that lead mining that a new element was discovered by accident and that is known as Strontium, the name being after this small Scottish village where it was discovered. Strontium is used in fireworks, sugar refining and also, to a small extent, in nuclear weapons. The village sits on the beautiful sea loch, Loch Sunart . Strontain had become larger since the seventies and the roads to it have substantially improved.

The scenery is very green here and slightly softer than over in Fort William. Nonetheless, as soon as you moved further in from the coast the mountains are just as dramatic. After a slight deviation at Strontain to view the local scenery it was back along the Loch Sunart coast until we arrived at the village of Resipole, which shares its name with the highest mountain in the area Ben Resipole. We stayed here over thirty years ago at a camp site which has a great view of the loch with only the road between it and the shoreline. It's still there and has been developed further. I can certainly recommend it if you like peace and tranquillity!

After taking a few photos here we pressed on further west towards the village of Salen. The road meanders back and forth through some ancient real Scottish woodland, not the man made conifer forest but oaks, rowan, beech, Scots pine etc. The loch is constantly coming in and out of view, and running up and down like a roller coaster following the contours of the land. We found a pull in to stop for lunch with a small bench looking over the Loch. We unfortunately had to abandon the whole thing, as within seconds of settling down and getting the sandwiches out we were surrounded by clouds of midges. Having driven all the way down to Ardnamurchan before, we knew that after Salen the road is basically going nowhere other than Ardnamurchan and, as you can imagine, there isn't much traffic going there to the lighthouse! With this in mind we decided to head back in land and take the short cut back on the Malliag to Fort William road. You don't hit this before visiting some brilliant coastal scenery around the Sound of Arisaig, Loch Moidart and Loch Ailort.

Friday was to be our last full day and night at Fort William so I arranged for a group meal together that evening for us all at breakfast time. Val and I had decided that we would keep the driving down to a minimum and after a morning stroll around the town and purchase of a few pressies to take home we headed just up the road to the nearby Glen Nevis. With the sun out and blue skies the drive down the Glen was spectacular. As with the drive the day before, the road simply follows the contours of the land and basically the course of the river . The Glen is about 8 miles long and at the end there is a small car park where you can leave the car

Resipole on Loch Sunart - A place of natural beauty and

tranquility.

and travel further on by foot. It is OK if you have the right footwear but, according to the warning sign, there is a danger of death along this path. We walked for about 15 to 20 minutes before the going got too tough for our modest shoes. On the return leg down the Glen we stopped for lunch at a riverside pull in at yet another fabulous spot. From here we had decided to visit The Nevis Range Mountain Experience. This consists of a gondola ride up the side of Scotland's sixth highest mountain, Aonach Mor, to a height of 2,150 feet.

The views, needless to say, from the top are quite stunning and the north face of Ben Nevis looks only a stone's throw away. It still has snow on the top and in the gullies. Where the gondola ride comes to an end there is The Snow Goose restaurant. After a couple of hours we made our way down and just had enough time to go further up the Great Glen to Spean Bridge and the Commando Monument. Here we bumped

A view of the Great Glen from the Snow Goose Restaurant

was during that lead mining that a new element was discovered by accident and that is known as Strontium, the name being after this small Scottish village where it was discovered. Strontium is used in fireworks, sugar refining and also, to a small extent, in nuclear weapons. The village sits on the beautiful sea loch, Loch Sunart . Strontain had become larger since the seventies and the roads to it have substantially improved.

The scenery is very green here and slightly softer than over in Fort William. Nonetheless, as soon as you moved further in from the coast the mountains are just as dramatic. After a slight deviation at Strontain to view the local scenery it was back along the Loch Sunart coast until we arrived at the village of Resipole, which shares its name with the highest mountain in the area Ben Resipole. We stayed here over thirty years ago at a camp site which has a great view of the loch with only the road between it and the shoreline. It's still there and has been developed further. I can certainly recommend it if you like peace and tranquillity!

After taking a few photos here we pressed on further west towards the village of Salen. The road meanders back and forth through some ancient real Scottish woodland, not the man made conifer forest but oaks, rowan, beech, Scots pine etc. The loch is constantly coming in and out of view, and running up and down like a roller coaster following the contours of the land. We found a pull in to stop for lunch with a small bench looking over the Loch. We unfortunately had to abandon the whole thing, as within seconds of settling down and getting the sandwiches out we were surrounded by clouds of midges. Having driven all the way down to Ardnamurchan before, we knew that after Salen the road is basically going nowhere other than Ardnamurchan and, as you can imagine, there isn't much traffic going there to the lighthouse! With this in mind we decided to head back in land and take the short cut back on the Malliag to Fort William road. You don't hit this before visiting some brilliant coastal scenery around the Sound of Arisaig, Loch Moidart and Loch Ailort.

Friday was to be our last full day and night at Fort William so I arranged for a group meal together that evening for us all at breakfast time. Val and I had decided that we would keep the driving down to a minimum and after a morning stroll around the town and purchase of a few pressies to take home we headed just up the road to the nearby Glen Nevis. With the sun out and blue skies the drive down the Glen was spectacular. As with the drive the day before, the road simply follows the contours of the land and basically the course of the river . The Glen is about 8 miles long and at the end there is a small car park where you can leave the car

Resipole on Loch Sunart - A place of natural beauty and

tranquility.

and travel further on by foot. It is OK if you have the right footwear but, according to the warning sign, there is a danger of death along this path. We walked for about 15 to 20 minutes before the going got too tough for our modest shoes. On the return leg down the Glen we stopped for lunch at a riverside pull in at yet another fabulous spot. From here we had decided to visit The Nevis Range Mountain Experience. This consists of a gondola ride up the side of Scotland's sixth highest mountain, Aonach Mor, to a height of 2,150 feet.

The views, needless to say, from the top are quite stunning and the north face of Ben Nevis looks only a stone's throw away. It still has snow on the top and in the gullies. Where the gondola ride comes to an end there is The Snow Goose restaurant. After a couple of hours we made our way down and just had enough time to go further up the Great Glen to Spean Bridge and the Commando Monument. Here we bumped

A view of the Great Glen from the Snow Goose Restaurant

into the Dytham family who were stopping off on their way back from Loch Ness. From having a relaxing walk along the front and watching the Mull ferry leave. It was such a this Monument the entire Nevis range can be viewed at its best. As we had arranged to nice day that I suggested driving down to the nearby Ganavan Sands which we did, meet in the hotel restaurant at 6.15 pm we decided that we better head back to what has enjoying a picnic on the beach. All too soon it was time to head further south but not become known as "the last supper" which we have on the final evening of most of our without a detour onto Loch Fine and the picturesque town of Inveraray. Here there was trips. Most of the group were reasonably early to bed as many of them had an early start the customary afternoon tea and scones before the two Beetle convoy split. We headed the next morning, but due to the lovely weather and a very light evening, Ian and I decided down the Cowal peninsula passing the lovely Loch Eck before meeting the Holy Loch. to go for a fairly brisk walk along the waterfront and back through the town, stopping off From Hunters Key we caught the ferry across the Firth of Clyde and back to Largs for a for a dram at a nearby hotel before calling it a night. final night before the journey home on the next day.

With most people heading south first thing Saturday Vic & Angie Kaye and Val and I What a great time we had, the weather, short of the four hours on Wednesday, had been decided to take an alternative route south along the Argyll coast road to Oban. As the great and seeing Scotland with good weather can't be beaten. I have yet to find a better name suggests the road hugs the west Argyll coast having crossed the bridge at place in the world to tour if you are lucky with the weather like we were. Nine day's in all Ballachahulish, first along the banks of Loch Linnhe and then on to the Lynn of Lorne and over 1300 miles and an average of 40.22 mpg. I can't wait to go again!Loch Creran before crossing the Connel Bridge over the Falls of Lorne at the mouth of the Text by Rob Loughrey, photos by Rob Loughrey, Nigel Middleton and Jeremy R. BromleyLoch Etive. From here it's only a few miles into Oban where we spent a couple of hours

The Firth of Clyde and Holy Loch from the Hunter’s Quay to McInroy’s Point ferry

into the Dytham family who were stopping off on their way back from Loch Ness. From having a relaxing walk along the front and watching the Mull ferry leave. It was such a this Monument the entire Nevis range can be viewed at its best. As we had arranged to nice day that I suggested driving down to the nearby Ganavan Sands which we did, meet in the hotel restaurant at 6.15 pm we decided that we better head back to what has enjoying a picnic on the beach. All too soon it was time to head further south but not become known as "the last supper" which we have on the final evening of most of our without a detour onto Loch Fine and the picturesque town of Inveraray. Here there was trips. Most of the group were reasonably early to bed as many of them had an early start the customary afternoon tea and scones before the two Beetle convoy split. We headed the next morning, but due to the lovely weather and a very light evening, Ian and I decided down the Cowal peninsula passing the lovely Loch Eck before meeting the Holy Loch. to go for a fairly brisk walk along the waterfront and back through the town, stopping off From Hunters Key we caught the ferry across the Firth of Clyde and back to Largs for a for a dram at a nearby hotel before calling it a night. final night before the journey home on the next day.

With most people heading south first thing Saturday Vic & Angie Kaye and Val and I What a great time we had, the weather, short of the four hours on Wednesday, had been decided to take an alternative route south along the Argyll coast road to Oban. As the great and seeing Scotland with good weather can't be beaten. I have yet to find a better name suggests the road hugs the west Argyll coast having crossed the bridge at place in the world to tour if you are lucky with the weather like we were. Nine day's in all Ballachahulish, first along the banks of Loch Linnhe and then on to the Lynn of Lorne and over 1300 miles and an average of 40.22 mpg. I can't wait to go again!Loch Creran before crossing the Connel Bridge over the Falls of Lorne at the mouth of the Text by Rob Loughrey, photos by Rob Loughrey, Nigel Middleton and Jeremy R. BromleyLoch Etive. From here it's only a few miles into Oban where we spent a couple of hours

The Firth of Clyde and Holy Loch from the Hunter’s Quay to McInroy’s Point ferry

Here is a list of the major VW and Club events over the coming months, as we currently understand them. The club cannot be held responsible for last minute changes to the events calender, so please CHECK for any changes to the events before travelling a long distance to an event. Highlighted events denote an event where the club will have an official presence.

If you have any ideas for a club or social event you’d like us to put on, the please drop him an email to events@lwvwoc.co.uk. Events that we are attending as a club are italicised.

Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th October 2008

Club Weekend Away in Brighton

A pre-booked weekend away in Brighton to coincide with the Brighton Breeze VW event on Saturday 18th.

Monday 27th October 2008

Skittles Evening.

Following on from the success of the skittles evening held earlier in the year we're doing it again! We shall return to the Wheatsheaf Inn, Leicester Road, Thurcaston, Leicester. LE7 7JN.

Do come and join us for what should be another light hearted and fun evening with food. To book, call Alan Fletcher on 07808 784602 or email me at events@lwvwoc.co.uk by 22nd October, 2008.

Sunday 9th November 2008

Club Visit to Sudbury Hall, Derbyshire.

Forget the onset of winter and join us for a visit to the National Trust property of Sudbury Hall, Sudbury, Ashbourne, Derbyshire DE6 5HT.

Sudbury Hall is a late 17th-century house with sumptuous interiors and is also home to the Museum of Childhood, which opened earlier this year after a £2.2 million

Diary DatesDiary DatesFuture Club Events listing

The Club Website

Have you visited the club website? – here you can find out more about the club, check the events diary, and view photos from past events.

In the members area you can access our technical document and newsletter archive, along with other club related information, the discount list and much more.

Articles are also welcome for publication on the site.

If you have registered on the website, but don't have access to the members area please email me –

with your current membership number and we will get you connected.

The Club Forum

is becoming quite active, again, please register on the forum itself and email me your username and membership number so you can be given the correct access level – club members have more privileges – including posting of images so you can keep fellow club members up to date on that latest restoration!

Lastly, if there is a feature you would like to see on the website – please let us know, and if it is possible we will try to implement it.

WWW.LWVWOC.CO.UK

webmaster@lwvwoc.co.uk

www.lwvwoc.co.uk/forum

Cam Belt changed at 80,000 milesFOR SALECLimate ControlAudi A4 SE for SaleCruise Control1.8 PetrolElectric Windows & Mirrors2000 X RegistrationAlloy WheelsMetallic Brilliant BlueNo known faults, genuine car.2 Owners from NewOnly selling as the owner is downsizing his MOT & Taxfamily fleet (7 cars, 2 motorbikes!)

122,000 milesBargain at £2,950

Full service history (Listers and Lion Telephone: Robert Cross on 0116 247 8286Garage)

Club WebsiteClub Website

ClassifiedsClassifieds

Nigel Middleton gives a short guided tour

For Sale and Wanted for members

Here is a list of the major VW and Club events over the coming months, as we currently understand them. The club cannot be held responsible for last minute changes to the events calender, so please CHECK for any changes to the events before travelling a long distance to an event. Highlighted events denote an event where the club will have an official presence.

If you have any ideas for a club or social event you’d like us to put on, the please drop him an email to events@lwvwoc.co.uk. Events that we are attending as a club are italicised.

Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th October 2008

Club Weekend Away in Brighton

A pre-booked weekend away in Brighton to coincide with the Brighton Breeze VW event on Saturday 18th.

Monday 27th October 2008

Skittles Evening.

Following on from the success of the skittles evening held earlier in the year we're doing it again! We shall return to the Wheatsheaf Inn, Leicester Road, Thurcaston, Leicester. LE7 7JN.

Do come and join us for what should be another light hearted and fun evening with food. To book, call Alan Fletcher on 07808 784602 or email me at events@lwvwoc.co.uk by 22nd October, 2008.

Sunday 9th November 2008

Club Visit to Sudbury Hall, Derbyshire.

Forget the onset of winter and join us for a visit to the National Trust property of Sudbury Hall, Sudbury, Ashbourne, Derbyshire DE6 5HT.

Sudbury Hall is a late 17th-century house with sumptuous interiors and is also home to the Museum of Childhood, which opened earlier this year after a £2.2 million

Diary DatesDiary DatesFuture Club Events listing

The Club Website

Have you visited the club website? – here you can find out more about the club, check the events diary, and view photos from past events.

In the members area you can access our technical document and newsletter archive, along with other club related information, the discount list and much more.

Articles are also welcome for publication on the site.

If you have registered on the website, but don't have access to the members area please email me –

with your current membership number and we will get you connected.

The Club Forum

is becoming quite active, again, please register on the forum itself and email me your username and membership number so you can be given the correct access level – club members have more privileges – including posting of images so you can keep fellow club members up to date on that latest restoration!

Lastly, if there is a feature you would like to see on the website – please let us know, and if it is possible we will try to implement it.

WWW.LWVWOC.CO.UK

webmaster@lwvwoc.co.uk

www.lwvwoc.co.uk/forum

Cam Belt changed at 80,000 milesFOR SALECLimate ControlAudi A4 SE for SaleCruise Control1.8 PetrolElectric Windows & Mirrors2000 X RegistrationAlloy WheelsMetallic Brilliant BlueNo known faults, genuine car.2 Owners from NewOnly selling as the owner is downsizing his MOT & Taxfamily fleet (7 cars, 2 motorbikes!)

122,000 milesBargain at £2,950

Full service history (Listers and Lion Telephone: Robert Cross on 0116 247 8286Garage)

Club WebsiteClub Website

ClassifiedsClassifieds

Nigel Middleton gives a short guided tour

For Sale and Wanted for members

Position Contact Address email TelephonePresident Brian Screaton 25 Cambridge Road,

Cosby, Leicestershire.LE9 1SH

Vice President Elizabeth Grimsley

24 Paul Drive, Leicester. LE4 9FY

Chairman Rob Loughrey 17 Lovetts Close, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 0YH

chairman@lwvwoc.co.uk 01455 239723

Vice Chairman Ian Bower 0116 269 2147

Treasurer Andrew Dytham 7 Blake Court, Wilshorpe Grange, Long Eaton, Notts. NG10 3PZ

treasurer@lwvwoc.co.uk

Membership Secretary

Sarah Dytham 7 Blake Court, Wilshorpe Grange,

Long Eaton, Notts. NG10 3PZ

membership@lwvwoc.co.uk

Newsletter Editor

Jeremy R. Bromley 15 Haddon Close, Syston, Leicestershire. LE7 1HZ

editor@lwvwoc.co.uk 0116 260 7221

Minutes Secretary

Andy Iwasiuk 17 Teasel Way, Shilton Park, Carterton, Oxon. OX18 1JB

01993 846749

Events Organiser Alan Fletcher 4 Foxglove Drive, The Orchard, Groby,

Groby,

Leicestershire. LE6 0DL

events@lwvwoc.co.uk 0116 287 8497

Other Members Alison Fletcher 4 Foxglove Drive, The Orchard,

Leicestershire. LE6 0DL

Teresa Iwasiuk 17 Teasel Way, Shilton Park, Carterton, Oxon. OX18 1JB

trade@lwvwoc.co.uk

david.hbham@tiscali.co.uk

01993 846749

0121 373 9184David Hammond

Committee ContactsCommittee Contactsredevelopment project.

Opening hours at this time of year are 10.30am to 3.30pm, but we plan to travel there as a convoy, so meet up at Donnington Park Services ready for a 10.30am departure. These are located just off Junction 23A of the M1, which is also the junction for East Midlands Airport. Postcode is DE74 2TN for you Sat Navers.

See also for more details of the Hall.

Friday 14th to Sunday 16th November 2008

Classic Motor Show 2008.

NEC, Birmingham, West Midlands

Tuesday 25th November 2008

Natter & Nogin

This month we meet up for a get together at The Blue Pig pub situated in village of Wolvey, near Hinckley. Tuesday night is also quiz night! Meet up at 8pm.

The full address is Hall Road, Wolvey, Hinckley LE10 3LG. They even have a web site

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-sudburyhal

www.necclassicmotorshow.com

www.thebluepigpub.co.uk

Position Contact Address email TelephonePresident Brian Screaton 25 Cambridge Road,

Cosby, Leicestershire.LE9 1SH

Vice President Elizabeth Grimsley

24 Paul Drive, Leicester. LE4 9FY

Chairman Rob Loughrey 17 Lovetts Close, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 0YH

chairman@lwvwoc.co.uk 01455 239723

Vice Chairman Ian Bower 0116 269 2147

Treasurer Andrew Dytham 7 Blake Court, Wilshorpe Grange, Long Eaton, Notts. NG10 3PZ

treasurer@lwvwoc.co.uk

Membership Secretary

Sarah Dytham 7 Blake Court, Wilshorpe Grange,

Long Eaton, Notts. NG10 3PZ

membership@lwvwoc.co.uk

Newsletter Editor

Jeremy R. Bromley 15 Haddon Close, Syston, Leicestershire. LE7 1HZ

editor@lwvwoc.co.uk 0116 260 7221

Minutes Secretary

Andy Iwasiuk 17 Teasel Way, Shilton Park, Carterton, Oxon. OX18 1JB

01993 846749

Events Organiser Alan Fletcher 4 Foxglove Drive, The Orchard, Groby,

Groby,

Leicestershire. LE6 0DL

events@lwvwoc.co.uk 0116 287 8497

Other Members Alison Fletcher 4 Foxglove Drive, The Orchard,

Leicestershire. LE6 0DL

Teresa Iwasiuk 17 Teasel Way, Shilton Park, Carterton, Oxon. OX18 1JB

trade@lwvwoc.co.uk

david.hbham@tiscali.co.uk

01993 846749

0121 373 9184David Hammond

Committee ContactsCommittee Contactsredevelopment project.

Opening hours at this time of year are 10.30am to 3.30pm, but we plan to travel there as a convoy, so meet up at Donnington Park Services ready for a 10.30am departure. These are located just off Junction 23A of the M1, which is also the junction for East Midlands Airport. Postcode is DE74 2TN for you Sat Navers.

See also for more details of the Hall.

Friday 14th to Sunday 16th November 2008

Classic Motor Show 2008.

NEC, Birmingham, West Midlands

Tuesday 25th November 2008

Natter & Nogin

This month we meet up for a get together at The Blue Pig pub situated in village of Wolvey, near Hinckley. Tuesday night is also quiz night! Meet up at 8pm.

The full address is Hall Road, Wolvey, Hinckley LE10 3LG. They even have a web site

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-sudburyhal

www.necclassicmotorshow.com

www.thebluepigpub.co.uk

Ph

oto

by

Ro

b T

elf

ord

© 2

00

8,

cou

rte

sy

of

ww

w.c

yb

ert

ect

s.c

o.u

k

“...th

e ne

w c

ar is

like

an

old

gi

rlfr

iend

you

mee

t af

ter

hook

ing

up

on

Fri

ends

R

euni

ted.

To

ever

yone

els

e sh

e’s

just

an

ord

inar

y

mid

dle-

aged

wom

an, b

ut

to y

ou s

he’s

a b

it m

ore

than

that

..”.C

lark

son

, J -

Ox

ford

.