JEC – XK8 Forum
Ribble Valley Run – Sunday 16 th September 2007
Eric and Barbara's Report:
This event was organised by JEC member John Brennand – and his ‘instructions' were that we meet at Burlington 's Restaurant at Broughton at 8.45 am! - this would mean that Barbara and Eric would have to depart Sabden at 8.00 am on a Sunday morning!! - GUESS WHAT – we were the FIRST to arrive!!
Several members had overnighted at the Tickled Trout and John had joined them for an evening meal there.
After coffee at Burlington 's the convoy set off – a little later than anticipated – towards Longridge.
The weather was cloudy but fine and warm. Paperwork prepared for us by John was impressive:-
The Route – Directions,
Maps of the Route and
Guidance Notes to points of interest.
Our convoy consisted of 7 x XK8's, 2 x XKR's and 1 x XK from: Lancashire (3), Yorkshire (3), Birmingham (3) and Derbyshire (1). Amongst our number were Nigel and Pauline and Tony and Jackie.
Our morning route took us through Goosnargh, Longridge, Hurst Green, Stonyhurst, Whitewell, Dunsop Bridge (toilet stop!), Trough of Bowland, Quernmore, Caton and on to lunch at Claughton – where we arrived spot on 12 noon - which was impressive – especially after a late start.
The morning journey had treated us to some lovely views, which would have been even lovelier had the sun been shining.
Lunch was excellent. We were greeted by the proprietor/chef, Brian, and were welcomed to our reserved parking area. Brian presented each member with a copy of Lancashire Magazine for September/October – featuring Brian/Fenwick Arms on the cover. What we had expected to be an average pub lunch turned out to be a gastronomic treat. The best roast beef and Yorkshire pudding and REAL gravy EVER! ( Sharon please note: Brian has got a CAMPAIGN FOR REAL GRAVY campaign in full swing) We must go back there soon.
We departed for our afternoon journey at 2.15 pm in a fine drizzle. This was a pity because on a clear day the views would have been spectacular – particularly the road from Lowgill to Slaidburn (Slaidburn - another important toilet stop!). Our ‘run in' took us back to refreshments at the Shireburn Arms at Hurst Green.
On behalf of all who took part, we would like to thank John for all the work he put into this event and for his meticulous attention to detail.
A splendid day was enjoyed by all.
Eric and Barbara