October, is not traditionally seen as a month for motorcycle tours, but on Friday the 12th, about 25 intrepid bikers, met at the Premier Inn, Pickering for an end of season exploration to see the best of what God’s own county has to offer.
The normal group format of making our own way to the venue, saw people arriving at different times. Some had to book in to other accommodation as the Premier Inn was full, which, in itself was a good indication of how popular the area is at all times of the year.
The group first came together at Figaro’s of Pickering. A lovely little family run Italian bistro in the town. Pre booking was the way to go as many were turned away on the night. Cliff and Charlie almost didn’t make it after discovering their B&B was owned by Norman Bate’s Yorkshire cousin, leading to a late change of digs and Julian who’s ride over was delayed. He turned up on his bike late but in good spirits.
The following morning commenced with ‘parade’ at 0900 and SIG vice Chair John, outlining his plan for an option of two routes that he’d planned for us. First group heading out to find the Aidensfield arms and onward to the delights of the moors, the second heading via Helmsley and Stokesley. A few also chose to head out on their own but we all met for a fish and chips lunch in Whitby, well it’s Whitby, so fish and chips is a requirement.
We were met in the Quayside chippie by Chris Charlton, of IPA Scarborough branch, who had arranged our lunch and presented us with a lovely memento of our visit. Lovely to see Chris and other local members.
Both groups again set off after lunch in different directions to further explore the area. One group heading to Scarborough, when one member discovered he’d left a jacket in the Whitby chippie. It’s an age thing apparently. So our forgetful Chairman (yes ok, me!), accompanied by Secretary Stuart, (no one rides alone), set off back to Whitby to recover said jacket, whilst everyone else continued on. Many thanks to Stuart for accompanying me back, sorry for ‘ruining’ the post lunch ride Stuart!
The evening was another great one in Pickering. As we hadn’t pre booked for the Saturday, we had to split up. The curry in Namaste was exceptional.
Day two was another mix of rides, led by John and local members, with some of us re visiting childhood haunts. High traffic volume and road closures took the edge off day two for some of us, but still a great day with the weather holding out.
The final night saw us all eating in the Premier Inn and discussing next year’s options. Our AGM in Northern Ireland, in particular, is one we are all looking forward to and a trip to Ypres and Bastogne in September. We even discussed hosting another international Rally, amazing what a couple of beers can do!
Monday saw dispersal after breakfast and yet more memories, new friends and big smiles. Winter will see fewer rides, but we intend to keep our mid week gatherings going, even if it does mean four wheels.
Next event will be the post Christmas bash which in 2022 will be a change from the Melton Mowbray format and likely to be a weekend city break, watch this space.
In friendship.
Paul Firth, Motorcycle Special Interest Group Chairman.
