January 2006    
The main noggin for November was held at the Three Horseshoes in Peterstone-Super-Ely. Despite the very poor weather conditions and the narrow, unlit country lanes, it was the best-attended noggin since the AGM back in January. The food was good as was the service and I’m sure we’ll be back in the New Year when the weather improves. The East Wales noggin at Usk was also well attended, with some members arriving in their Morgans, despite the bitterly cold weather. Perhaps it was an excuse to try out some newly acquired cold weather clothing, as Thelma was sporting a very fetching flying jacket.

While on the subject of weather, John & Avril’s run on 27th November had to be changed at the last minute due to lingering snow and ice along the planned route.
However, 6 Mogs turned up, together with 3 tin-tops. Stuart & Jacky’s excuse was a lapsed MOT, John & Avril maintained that they needed the boot space to carry the rescue equipment (feasible – just!) and Chris & Helen were honest in stating that their +4 was clean and they wanted it to stay that way for the Christmas weekend. The revised run took us from Junction 36 on the M4 to the Plymouth Arms at St. Fagans for lunch, via Ogmore Vale and the Bwlch. After an excellent lunch, we followed the coast to St. Donat’s Castle - now an international sixth form college, where a Crafts for Christmas event was being held, allowing some of us the opportunity of doing some Christmas shopping. The grounds and the buildings were fascinating. On leaving the castle, we were all invited back to John and Avril’s house for tea and cakes. Thanks to them both for organising a super day and providing us with some very tasty refreshments.

By the time you read this, Taffmog will have held its annual Christmas weekend and all the Christmas festivities will be over. Dianne and I would like to thank all Taffmoggers for their support this year. It has been a busy but very enjoyable and eventful year and we hope that lots of members will turn up in January with plenty of suggestions for the 2006 season.

A happy New Year and joyful Morganeering to one and all. Blwyddyn newydd dda!



February 2006
The first weekend in December saw yet another successful Taffmog Christmas Celebration – the largest to date, with 37 couples attending, and Avril & John joining us on the Sunday morning. Nine of those couples couldn’t wait for the official start of the proceedings so arrived at the Castle Hotel, Brecon on the Friday evening. Saturday morning saw 32 Morgans and 3 tin-tops converge on the Brynafon Country House Hotel at Rhayader for a buffet lunch at mid-day. Of course, some arrived earlier to get the best parking positions and immediately got stuck into the grub – a Taffmog tradition! They will not be named here, but will have to wait to see if they’re invited this year. The staff at the Brynafon were excellent, as was the food and it certainly got our weekend off to a good start. Everyone would be happy to use this venue again!

After lunch, it was a gentle drive to Llandrindod Wells and a visit to the Cycle Museum. I searched high and low but couldn’t find a Wavex Wizard, the tricycle I had as a youngster. Still, it was interesting and occupied us all until it was time for the drive back to Brecon. Coffee and mince pies were served from 4.30pm but, unfortunately, the Baileys were a little late arriving and almost had to go without!

The dinner-dance in the evening was enjoyed by everyone and a big thank you goes to Chris for another professional power point presentation of Taffmoggers’ antics throughout the year, and Lyn’s sleep apnia in particular. (Of course, this is only possible if members submit the necessary photos, so keep snapping!). Thanks also to Vicky and Colin Clement for producing the Taffmog Christmas cards.

The raffle was very well supported – as usual – making a clear profit of £300, which will be donated to charity. Brian and Molly won the first prize of a voucher for a weekend break and Dianne & I won the hamper!!

Most couples managed to get up in time for breakfast and the usual exchange of Christmas cards, with the more intrepid making an early start on Kevin’s run to the Devil’s Staircase en route to the lunch venue. This was thoroughly enjoyed by all, especially Adrian & Jane who were on their first ever Taffmog event. The rest of us either had a leisurely drive over the Eppynt Ranges or spent some time in Hay on Wye before joining the others for lunch at The Baskerville Arms Hotel, Clyro. The landlord, who’d only been in the business for a few weeks, was totally bemused (and confused) even though he’d had plenty of notice of all our requirements and was quite rude. Dianne immediately assumed her Head-teacher role and put him in his place. (The food, it must be said, was good.) He apologised as we left but I don’t think we’ll rush back. Fond farewells were said as everyone dispersed to make their way home. Katherine & Paul Bergin and the boys will soon be off to a new home in the Isle of Man and we wish them the very best for the future.

We are all extremely grateful to Kevin for his hard work in organising the place of interest on the Saturday and the scenic runs on the Sunday.

The December noggin was held at Helen & Kevin’s and we thank them for their hospitality and the time and effort taken to prepare the buffet. A decision was made here to hold the 2006 Christmas weekend at the Royal Hotel, Ross on Wye. Watch this space for details.

The final get-together of the year was at the Conservative Club, Usk where we all enjoyed an evening of good food and even better company. Thank you Jackie for organising this yet again.

By the time you read this we should have a full and varied program of events for 2006.



        


March 2006
It hardly seemed worth going to bed on returning home from a New Year’s Eve party because Dianne and I were soon up and on our way to the VSCC New Year’s Day meeting at the Royal Oak Inn, Much Marcle. A magnificent assortment of vehicles on display, including “Babs”, in which John Parry-Thomas set the World Land Speed record of 171mph in 1927. To everyone’s joy, the 27litre aero engine was started up a few times and filled the surrounding area with a magnificent sound.

George & Thelma invited the Taffmoggers present back to their house for tea and so set off in the 3-wheeler before the rest of us, in order to get things ready. On their way home, they broke down – you need petrol George! Luckily, Keith & Brenda had chosen the same route and rescued them with a tow behind the +8. Meanwhile, the rest of us waited in vain for Brian & Mollie who’d followed directions correctly and got there before us.

The AGM in January was very well attended, as usual, and the incumbent secretary and treasurer were returned to office, there being no other nominations. What a surprise! The planning meeting that followed allowed us to virtually fill the calendar for the year with a variety of Sunday runs and weekends. A big thank you to all those who volunteered to arrange these events.

The East Wales noggin at Usk was a quiet affair until Dave & Kay Rymer and Rob & Kay West merrily rolled in after a joint birthday celebration. Rob then, single-handedly kept the conversation going for another hour or so.

The first event of the year, courtesy of Lyn & Elaine, was held on Saturday/Sunday 28th & 29th Jan. with a “Sounds of the 70s” evening at The Ty Newydd Hotel, Hirwaun. 4 Mogs, occupied by Lyn & Elaine, Keith & Brenda, Keith & Ronnie, Dave & Linda and 3 tin-tops (excuses were Dianne & Haydn - puncture, Helen & Kevin - no tax and Avril & John felt the need for heated seats) met at Sarn Services on a cold but beautiful morning to follow Lyn & Elaine’s route to a super lunch at the Abercrave Inn on the way to the hotel. No broom cupboards occupied this year!! Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the evening and the weekend concluded with another scenic run through the Brecon Beacons to Pontsticill, Talybont and a final coffee stop at the Honey Café at Bronllys before making our way home. This was the second year running that Lyn & Elaine have managed to organise an event that didn’t require snowploughs.

The Baileys have now joined the rest of us in the 21st Century and have an e-mail address, although I’m reliably informed that Dennis doesn’t know how to use it!

If you’re joining us for the main noggin at The Barn and you fancy something to eat, please ring (01443 222333) and let the landlord know beforehand because otherwise, he’ll be happy to refuse.
Take note of Chris’s latest e-mail because it looks as if those who are not going to Normandy may be able to invade the Tiplers instead!

        



April 2006
The main noggin in February saw only10 Taffmogers turn up at Llanharan, four of the gentlemen not bothering to bring their other halves. However, it was a pleasant evening. Some of us had meals and it must be reported that the standard was a distinct improvement on the previous month, although the rice with my curry was still associated with a lot of water from its paddy field. Chris had the good fortune, or should I say the cheek, to draw his own number out of the raffle. Just as well the prize wasn’t the bottle of vodka that Caroline and Humphrey so generously contributed. They are obviously enjoying our company.

The East Wales noggin was very well attended and if numbers are anything to go by, was the main noggin of the month. Dai and Pat honoured us with their presence after their exertions in the mountains! It looks as though it’s done them a power of good.
Ivor tells me that the West Wales noggin has become a non-event recently. This is a shame since there are quite a few Mog owners and MSCC members in the area. Come on folks please join in.

Lyn and Elaine organised another not-to-be-missed weekend in Rhayader with 8 Mogs (Lyn and Elaine, Keith and Ronnie, Ivor and Alison, Dai and Pat, Jennie and Bob, Caroline and Humphrey, Dianne and Haydn and John and Margaret Bullen travelling up from Woking), Kevin and Helen’s trusty TR4 and an oil-burning tin top (Stuart and Jackie) making up the party. The Elan Hotel could not cope with us all so the late-bookers had to make do with B&Bs close by.

Wales had escaped the worst of the snow in the previous few days, although Lyn and Elaine did succeed in finding us some - not enough to get their Mog stuck in a drift overnight like last year but very pretty it was. It seems that there is some special relationship between the numbers 6 and 9! How is it that Pat, in urgent need of access to her small room (6) after the Saturday run, turned up in the car park with the key to Lyn’s room (9)? Answers on a post card.

The Saturday run was super, following minor roads to Llanidloes ( for the ladies to get some retail therapy at Laura Ashley) and Llyn Clywedog before a coffee stop at Machinations in Llanbrynmair,. Then, it was on to Machynlleth for lunch at the best fish and chip shop in Wales. Unfortunately, it was closed, so we had to make do with a scenic run of the Co-op car park and lunch at various venues in the town. The afternoon run took us past Nant y Moch reservoir and through Devil’s Bridge and the Elan Valley back to the hotel. At our evening meal it did not go unnoticed that Ivor now has a serious contender in the healthy appetite stakes (steaks?). Humphrey not only followed his starter and main course with two desserts but then rounded things off with a couple of hefty slices of mine host’s birthday cake. It’s enough to make you sick – not seeing him eat, but the fact that there isn’t an ounce of fat on him. Life just isn’t fair.
Lyn is to be congratulated on his arrangement for recording the France – Wales international for us to enjoy after the meal. The result was a perfect finish to a perfect day.

On the Sunday morning, a +8 and a +4 needed a little persuasion to stir them into life while all the 4/4s behaved impeccably, as usual.

Sunday saw Dianne having the Mog to herself and afterwards stating that it was the best drive she’d had, with no critical husband present to spoil things. She, like everyone else, enjoyed the exhilarating drive up the Devil’s Staircase but Kevin was a little critical, saying that it had lost much of its character due to the felling of several trees. A brief stop at Tregaron (which was also closed) was followed by a visit to Llanddewi Brefi. We didn’t spot the only gay in the village, but we did spot a certain person making off with the village sign (all will be revealed at Christmas). The weekend was rounded off with a late lunch in the Abercrave Arms where we enjoyed watching the Ireland – England game. It is true to say that there was some ambivalence of feeling about the result because, either way Wales benefits. Thank you, Lyn and Elaine, for another excellent week-end.

Don’t forget the Swansea Historical Vehicles Show at Singleton Park on Monday 2ndMay. You must be there by 9.45am. Colin, Vicky and Richard Clements are hoping for a good turnout of Morgans.



May 2006
There was a good turnout for both noggins in March.

Kevin is keen for us to try our utmost to win the best club stand award at the Pencoed Show that we so narrowly lost to Jaguar last year. With this in mind, the bunting and flag have been ordered and should be with us in plenty of time. Kev has also offered to organise a register of members’ cars in order to produce fact sheets for displaying on each Morgan at any show we attend. Please let him have all relevant details as soon as poss. Your attendance would be appreciated so that we can have a wide range of Mogs on display.

Despite the heavy rain of the previous few days, March 26th was dry for the start of Keith & Ronnie’s Mothers’ Day Run. After the usual negative response from the Gwent Police Routes Liaison Officer, it was considerate of one of their traffic officers to come to the starting point of our run in time to inform us of an accident and possible delay along our planned route. Twelve cars (9 Morgans, 2 tin tops and an Audi convertible driven by Keith & Brenda’s friends Richard & Georgine Cook) set out from Taylor’s Café along country lanes with all hoods down on a surprisingly mild morning. Our first stop was for coffee at the Mill at Tintern. We then continued through the Forest of Dean to Newent and an excellent lunch at the Hazelfield Garden Centre. Unfortunately, due to the large numbers out for lunch on Mothers’ Day, the seating arrangements were a problem and poor old Jackie had to be content with sitting at a small table with only Stuart for company while the rest of us enjoyed the usual banter around a large table. The heavens opened after lunch so some folk made their way home.  Hoods were up as we continued on our way to the Beaufort Arms Coaching Inn at Raglan where Keith & Ronnie had arranged coffee and biscuits to end the run. The landlady was pleased to show us around and this could be a future venue for our Christmas weekend.
Thank you Keith & Ronnie for all your hard work and detailed planning of a route that ensured all our lovely clean Morgans ended up looking like yours!!

May provides a varied programme with one group of Taffmoggers off to Jersey, courtesy of arrangements by Keith Glover, a second group heading to Normandy for a week thanks to George & Thelma and a few hardy souls wending their way to Cambridgeshire to spend a whole weekend with the Tiplers.
Let’s hope the sun shines on everyone.



June 2006
The main noggin in April was poorly attended, possibly due to holiday commitments. Of course, Humphrey & Caroline turned up early, as usual, but when there was no sight of anyone else by 8.15p.m. they went home, missing the rest of us by seconds. Have faith!

The East Wales noggin at Usk was very well attended and it was good to see Tom & Jackie Kiraly joining us for the first time in quite a while.

Once again it was evident that Ivor & Alison had put in a tremendous effort in organising their weekend in West Wales at the end of April. It started on the Friday evening, with 7 couples (Ivor & Alison, Neil & Helen, George & Thelma, Keith & Brenda, Humphrey & Caroline, John & Margaret and Dianne & myself) staying at the Golden Lion Country Inn at Newport, Pembs and 3 others (Keith & Ronnie, Dave & Kay and John & Avril) renting a cottage nearby. The evening meal set the tone for the weekend with good company, food and wine.

Saturday morning found us driving a scenic route over the Preseli Mountains to St. David’s and St. Justinian’s where most of us boarded a rib for a tour around Ramsey Island. At this point we were joined by Dai & Pat, who were staying at their caravan nearby. We thoroughly enjoyed the exhilarating trip across Ramsey Sound to view the wildlife on and around the island. We were particularly fortunate to observe porpoises feeding in the sound, seals basking on the island and myriads of sea birds. Once back on dry land, we were joined by Denis & Liz, who had driven down that morning. A short drive took us to Fishguard for our lunch stop at The Old Coach House. It’s just as well that our appetites had been whetted by our sea trip, as the portions at the pub were more than generous. Our afternoon drive took us through the magnificent Pembrokeshire countryside, along winding roads just made for a Morgan, to Rosebush and a visit to one of the most fascinating pubs in the area – Y Tafarn Sinc. If you’re ever in the area, it’s well worth a visit. Twenty-two of us ate at the Golden Lion on the Saturday evening and the service, as well as the food, was excellent. Apparently, John has a new nickname – Twiggy- owing to his excellent skills in foraging for wood to feed the open fire at the cottage. Those who were staying there enjoyed the fruits of his labours well into Sunday morning and this could have had some bearing on their absence on Sunday’s run - or was it the copious amounts of liquid refreshment consumed in front of this roaring fire?

There was no opportunity for a lie-in on Sunday morning (well, not for the majority of the group, although some did not join us due to either genuine or self-inflicted illnesses!) as Ivor and Alison had planned a long run up to Harlech Castle. We were joined on this run by Lyn & Elaine, who were also staying in their caravan over the holiday and Graham and Joan, who are fortunate to live in that part of the world. We were lucky that the weather stayed fine for the day as the views from the castle, over the sea to Snowdonia, were magnificent. After such a long run – over two hundred miles round trip, we were all looking forward again to our evening meal and this time, twenty four of us enjoyed each other’s company at the Golden Lion.

We were not allowed any respite either on Monday, when Ivor and Alison had planned another full and interesting day. An early start took us up the coast to Aberaeron for a coffee stop and a wander along the blustery sea front to blow away all those cobwebs from the previous night’s revelries. Then it was on through the Plynlimon Mountains, via Devil’s Bridge, for our lunch stop at Capel Bangor. After lunch it was just a short drive up the Rheidol valley for a tour of the Rheidol Power Station. Our last stop of the weekend was at the Power Station Information Centre, where, after a much-deserved pot of tea, everyone said their farewells and took their various routes home.

As you can see, Taffmog weekends are not for the feint-hearted as stamina and keen appetites are an absolute necessity. We are all extremely grateful to Ivor and Alison for all their hard work in arranging such an interesting and successful weekend and for keeping all the Taffmog miscreants in order and on time for all the planned activities. We only have one complaint, Ivor – what happened to your now famous cream teas? There’s only one answer to that – you’ll have to organise another jaunt in the not too distant future.

Information and booking forms for the Christmas weekend, the first weekend in December, at the Royal Hotel in Ross on Wye should now have been received, and deposits returned! If you have not yet received information and you are interested in attending, please contact me ASAP, as places are limited and are filling up quickly.




July 2006
The first weekend of May was a great success for Taffmog with an excellent display of 15 cars on our stand at the Pencoed Classic Car Show. As usual, Kevin had arrived early to set everything up, this time accompanied by son Gareth who could hardly refuse the opportunity of driving Kev’s recently acquired 4/4. The stand was adorned with the new bunting and the flag stood out from all areas of the ground. Suffice it to say that we wiped the floor with all other clubs this year to take the coveted “Best Club Stand” award. The now customary BBQ at Kev & Helen’s afterwards was also a resounding success with the weather just about holding off for us. Thanks to both Kev & Helen for the time and effort put into this weekend and to everyone else who went along to support them.

The main noggin at the Barn was quite well attended, but we were unable to solve the mystery of who owned the red Mog in the car park. Were we really so intimidating that they couldn’t make themselves known?

Some of the stalwarts from the Usk noggin were missing because they were on their way to Jersey. For Keith & Brenda and Dave & Linda, the Jersey trip started by joining SpotMog for lunch at the Plough Inn at Kelmscott (thanks to Chris Morgan for the organisation), before travelling to Weymouth to meet up with Dennis & Liz, and  Dave & Kay. The fast catamaran the following morning made a brave job of reaching Jersey in a force 5 gale, not so every traveller (no names) with time spent with their head in a paper bag. Jersey was explored clockwise, anticlockwise, and every which way often passing the same junction 5 times whilst having the normal domestic on which way the car should be pointing. Each day was packed with visits to many places of diverse interest and the evenings with dining together at some excellent restaurants with breathtaking panoramas and an entente cordiale between Taff and Spot Moggers was established from day one. Due to cancelled sailings, only Martin & Norma left the island on the planned day by swapping to the slow boat to Portsmouth. The remaining 7 couples had to enjoy a further one and a half days on holiday when Keith organised a sunny top-down trip to Samares Exotic Gardens with a guided tour of the Manor. The only weather window of the week with seas down to force 3 resulted in a blast to catch the afternoon fast cat to Weymouth. A proposal from Chris & Sheila to plan a future Taff & Spot Mog event summed up the good time everybody experienced.

We were all saddened to hear of the passing away of Mervyn Evans, an early member of Taffmog and a gentleman. Our sincere condolences to Mair.



August 2006
June was extremely busy for Taffmog. The main noggin at the Barn had to be held on the patio because of the superb weather and saw the best attendance since the AGM with most members arriving in their Mogs. At the East Wales noggin we welcomed back Vince Morgan and new member, Roger Cowburn, put in his first appearance (of many, we hope).

George & Thelma’s Chateaux and Gateaux week was thoroughly enjoyed. George & Thelma met Dianne and myself at Newbury on the Friday evening to drive on down to Portsmouth. After the horrendous weather of the previous week, the crossing was as smooth as the proverbial. Rob & Kay joined us on the Sunday and we were very well looked after by Fabrice and his wife at the Auberge de l’Abbaye, at Le Bec-Hellouin. Stuart & Jacky had considered meeting up with us but a text message said they were still in the Ardeche, having lost all track of time. Retirement does that to you. The weather was kind to us for the whole week and the only hiccup was a loose connection to Rob’s fan, causing overheating while in the queue for the return ferry.
Thanks to George & Thelma for all their hard work.

Our special correspondent in Cambridgeshire reports that it was Chris Morgan’s idea to visit the ‘Exiles in Cambridgeshire’ as he could not afford the time off for Thelma & Georges Trip to France and Jen & Geoff couldn’t think of an excuse to prevent the visit.  So over the late May bank holiday Helen & Chris, Sally & Martin, Helen & Neil, Enid & Mike and Margaret & John ventured forth in the rain to Balsham.   After enjoying Jen’s buffet lunch, the convoy sped off in the rain to Audley End House.  Unfortunately the house was closed, due a wedding so the next stop was the quant streets of Saffron Walden. After a scenic run over Cambridgeshire’s highest point (237m) they ended up back in Balsham for dinner in the Black Bull.   Mikie had adjusted the heating in their room, so hours later it was unbearably hot.  Later that night to cool off, Enid was seen displaying her charms to all and sundry in the door way wearing her special Anne Summer’s baby doll nightie, (the one Mikie likes/wears)!

On Sunday morning a mystery scenic run in the sun ended up in Bury St Edmund’s Green King Brewery for a guided tour and tasting. Toy Boy disrupted the tour as he wouldn’t (couldn’t) climb the open stairway to the Brewery’s roof. Enid said he didn’t like heights, others reckon he couldn’t carry his wallet up all the stairs.  Some hours later, the scenic tour resumed meandering into Essex and back into Cambridgeshire ending up at a farm house.  This was a total and nice surprise for Sally & Martin as they are related to the house owners and had never visited the farm before. All too soon the convoy was off again through the lanes to Balsham for a wash and brush up before assembling at Jen & Geoff’s for dinner.  It was a testament to Jen’s gastronomic and organisational abilities that 12 folk sat down that evening to a four course dinner and many bottles of wine.  The washing up went on for hours and so did the talking and drinking.   The neighbours still enquire about the drunken old folk staggering up the High Street back to their lodgings.   Monday dawned dark and foreboding as folk departed via various routes homeward.  It was a very enjoyable but hectic weekend for Jen & Geoff and great to see lots of old Taffmog friends; a re-run next year – who knows?

An invitation from Keith & Brenda Glover resulted in a group of like-minded gastronomes including new members Mark & Isobel Wardley from Llandrindod Wells in their 70th Anniversary 4/4 (1947) meeting at Mortimer’s Cross Inn for a short run to the Shobdon Food Fayre on Saturday 24th. The entrance fee of £3 per person was waived and we were directed to a select parking area where we became their advertised “Classic Car Exhibition”. A most pleasant afternoon of tasting and shopping was enjoyed by all.

Bright and early, Sunday morning, Keith & Brenda, George & Thelma, and Dianne and I met at Dave & Kay Rymer’s for breakfast en-route to Kevin & Helen’s Shortest Longest Day run.  This was the largest turnout of the year with 16 Morgans and 2 tin tops meeting at Taylor’s Café. Des Watkins, awaiting delivery of his new Aero came along to see us off and Mark & Isobel were there for their second run in as many days. Closure of the old Severn Bridge meant Kevin had to make some last minute adjustments to the route. However we soon arrived at The Severn Bridge visitors’ centre for a coffee stop with magnificent views of both bridges. A delightful run through the Avon & Somerset countryside ended at Batheaston, where some enjoyed lunch at The Mill, while others enjoyed a picnic on the canalised. At this point, Dianne & I had to return home in order to get to The Eagles final gig of their farewell tour at the Millenium Stadium that evening. The afternoon concluded with either a visit to the American Museum or a gentle stroll along the canal. Thank you both for organising the day.






        
September 2006
June having been very busy for Taffmog, July, by comparison has been sedate.
A small group went to Madresfield -  Chris & Helen, John & Avril, Kevin with friendly Oggiemoggers and the honourable Geoff Tipler, resplendent in amazing green shorts. Dianne & I managed to put in a late appearance – in time for lunch and to witness John taking over an hour to cook 4 sausages on the BBQ. Of the Taffmog entries, only Kev achieved any success, coming second in the 4/4 class. Rumours abounded of his arousal by the previous night’s sleeping arrangements. Geoff was unable to repeat his performance of 2 years ago and it appears that John is more adept at preparing his car than driving it.

This year John has decided to concentrate on the concours scene with his 1971 4/4 4seater, in particular the Auto Glym series which, without any doubt, is seen to be the top concours in the UK. His thoughts were to test the water, so to speak,
so he entered one of the first regional rounds which was held in May at the
JDC 50th Anniversary meeting at Eynsham Hall, Oxfordshire. The class entered was “Open Cars 1956 – 1972” which as you can imagine would attract some very nice cars for those years. Well the day of the competition started dry but then rained solid for about 7 hours.  Anyway, the judging went on and at four o'clock the results announced that John’s car was awarded 1st in class against some very serious metal!! This automatically puts John through to the Grand final later this year.  The venue has still to be decided.  Other years it has been at the NEC but to date this is unsure. The polishing goes on (aided by Avril?). Congratulations John and best of luck in the finals.

The main noggin at the Barn was preceded by a picnic at Southerndown, attended by Keith & Ronie, Lyn & Elaine, Chris & Helen, John & Avril and Dianne & myself. John opened his heart, telling us of his disappointment at Madresfield  the previous week when he had intended dedicating any success to his recently deceased, 11 year old goldfish (who he hadn’t found time to name!). Tears in our eyes, we dragged ourselves away to the noggin, which was very well attended, although Sugar Plum Bailey (aka Denis) was otherwise engaged as he & Liz were at the ballet that evening. New members Mal & Yvonne, as yet Mogless, made a first appearance, Martin & Sally made a first appearance in a long time and it was good to see Geoff & Jenny who were down from Cambridgeshire for Jen’s graduation. Congrats from us all to Jen on achieving her Master’s degree.

Making the most of the weather, the East Wales noggin was preceded by a scenic run led by Dave & Kay Rymer. They were closely followed on a round trip from Usk to Monmouth and back by George (minus Thelma), Stuart & Jacky, Rob & Kay, Tom & Jacky, Mark & Isobel and Dianne & myself. Brian & Molly felt that it was more important to eat than drive, so remained behind.

Lyn & Elaine have kindly offered to organise the camping for the Ludlow Food Festival and need to know who wishes to come along asap.

We have received a letter of appreciation and thanks from Ty Hafan for our contribution of £300, generously augmented by 20% by the Tesco Charity Foundation.

We are now looking forward to meeting everyone at Mallory Park from whence some of us are heading to Scandinavia for 3 weeks where we will be meeting up with the Swedish Owners for their 40th Jubilee.



October 2006
Morgans at Mallory was enjoyed by all Taffmoggers in attendance. The campers typically shared resources – rumour has it that two even shared a shower (no names will be mentioned here but all will be revealed at Christmas, if it wasn’t already). John Beskeen was victorious in the Concours competition and as happy as a dog with 2 tails. Congratulations from all at Taffmog and best wishes for the forthcoming Autoglym finals. Tom & Jacky Kiraly were initially apprehensive about joining the 70th Anniversary parade in their +8 but soon got into the spirit of things and loved every second of it. We appreciate all the hard work put in by the organisers.

After the Sunday’s events, Stuart & Jackie, Kevin & Helen and Dianne & I made our ways towards Newcastle where we met George & Thelma for the start of our 3 week tour of Scandinavia, taking in the Morgan Owners’ Group of Sweden’s 40th Jubilee Event. On the outward ferry, we dined with Ian & Maria Parkinson, Frank Wingate, Graham Beardsmore, Robert & Janet Taylor, Alan & Jennifer Morgan and John & Janet Spencer. They were following a similar itinerary and we were to bump into them in several locations.

The weather in Norway was superb and the scenery stunning. Stavanger, Bergen, Flam, Nesbyen and Oslo were all memorable but the highlight of our visit to Norway had to be the spectacular Aurlandsvegen road between Aurland and Laerdal which climbed to over 4,000 feet above sea level, with its panoramic viewing platform built out over the Aurlandsfyord. Magnificent!
 
The 40th Jubilee event in Varberg was most enjoyable and the weather, that was so reminiscent of home, didn’t worry us at all. The event was exceptionally well organised, with a noggin on Thursday evening, a variety of scenic runs and the BBQ in the castle on Friday and finishing with the Anniversary dinner on Saturday. Congratulations to MOG Sweden and much appreciation to the organisers. With any luck, we’ll be back for your Golden Jubilee in 2016.

Denmark was different again. Copenhagen had much to offer with the Royal Palace, canal trip and the Tivoli gardens. We also travelled north to Helsingor to Hamlet’s castle and the fascinating Museum of Engineering. The Hans Christian Anderson Museum in Odense was also well worth the trip. Dianne & I took the opportunity of visiting the memorial to the crew of her uncle’s Lancaster that was shot down in 1944. A very moving experience, made even more so when the locals told us that they visited the site, with their families on each anniversary.

Our trip was made even more enjoyable by the friendliness and generosity of all the people we met. We will certainly be returning in the future.

Since many people were away on holidays, attendance at the Barn was poor, in fact only Keith & Ronnie turned up. Needless to say, they won the raffle. New members Mal & Yvonne also turned up, but a week too late. Attendance at Usk was better, unfortunately for George, whose mobile we used to talk to almost all of them from Denmark.
 
8 Morgans made their way to Beddgelert on Friday 25th August for Neil & Helen’s North Wales weekend. We were well looked after in the Sygun Fawr Country House and the weather was, for the most part, kind to us. The Saturday run took us in a large figure of eight through the Snowdonia National park, with a lunch stop at the Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall near Llanrhaeadr ym Mochnant. Sunday’s run took us north through the Llanberis Pass to Anglesey, the Great Orme at Llandudno and the Conwy Valley. Thanks to Helen and Neil for all their hard work in organising the weekend.



November 2006
The first weekend of September saw a number of us making our way to the Castle Green Hotel, Kendal for the last “Windermere Weekend” to be organised by Mary and Peter Pattinson. Their efforts and enthusiasm over the years has been thoroughly appreciated. Andrew Hirst, aided and abetted by Bob Winch, have a difficult act to follow next year. The nomadic Dave & Kay Rymer hadn’t been home since the North Wales weekend, but had made their way to Kendal via Liverpool. The Friday night noggin was the usual affair of eating, drinking and meeting friends, old and new.
The weather on the Saturday was grim, to say the least. It appeared that only the Taffmoggers, led by Andrew Hirst and Bob Winch, partook of a scenic run – the Ten Passes. If the cars had been fitted with outriggers, they wouldn’t have looked out of place. The visibility was so bad on occasions that I didn’t see the dramatic pirouette of Andrew’s car and the demolishing of a section of dry stone wall, so I can’t report on it. The important thing is that no-one was hurt. The weather on the Sunday was a big improvement and the location for the gymkhana, Holker Hall, near Grange-over-Sands was superb. Thanks from Taffmog to Mary & Peter for all their hard work in organising these weekends.

The noggin at the Barn was well attended and we welcomed, for the first time, (hopefully not the last) Howard Davies from Caerphilly who called in with his +8. The only other Mog in the car park was the newly acquired 4/4 of Yvonne Hill who was only too pleased to show it around to everyone. John was still beaming from ear to ear after sweeping the board in the Concours at Mallory and is quite happy to autograph any copies of the front cover of last month’s Miscellany which carried a photograph of his car.

On Saturday, 16th, Dianne & I were the only Taffmoggers who took part in the Classic Car Run from Tredegar House in aid of Leukaemia Research. It was a beautiful day but we only managed 45 of the planned 125 miles. It was Chris & Helen Morgan’s fault. We stopped for coffee in Cowbridge and just happened to meet them while they were shopping. They persuaded us over to their house for lunch. Mike & Enid Smith called in on their way to Penarth and so the classic run was replaced by a classic lunch. The Vintage and Specialist Rally on the Sunday was excellent again this year and the high turn-out of Mogs posed a slight logistical problem for Kevin to arrange them all on our allotted space. Jackie did a wonderful job again this year with the BBQ on the Sunday evening. Thank you Jackie.

As usual, a number of us turned up early at the Con Club for a meal before the East Wales noggin, only to find that the Steward was on holiday and there was no catering. It was a short walk to the nearest hostelry where we were fed and watered and remained for the rest of the evening.

Unfortunately, Dianne & I were unable to attend Colin & Vicky’s run on the last Sunday of the month. There was kind to a good turnout of 11 Mogs. Yvonne Hill was on her first real Taffmog run, driving her 4/4 accompanied by navigator Mal. Sue Lewis was also on her first Taffmog adventure and was accompanied by friend Sally as husband Nick was otherwise engaged. Let’s hope the appetites are well whetted after this taster and that we see more of them in future. The run began with a visit to the National Maritime Museum, followed by a scenic tour of Gower, culminating in lunch at Gower Golf Club. After lunch, several bays were visited as was Woebly Castle which overlooks a salt-marsh. A pic-nic of brown bread and cockles followed and some of the gastronomes bought salt-marsh lamb. Finally, Colin led the group along a tidal marsh road on the way to the M4 services from where they dispersed. Thanks to Colin & Vicky for organising the day.



December 2006
The Morgan Day at Brooklands was much enjoyed by the Taffmoggers who attended. Dianne and I met up with Keith and Brenda at their house at Bailey Lane End before driving up to The Inn at West End to thoroughly enjoy an al fresco lunch with John & Margaret, Chris & Helen, Martin & Sally, Humphrey & Caroline and Bob & Sam. Geoff & Jenny had planned to join us, but unfortunately (or fortunately for Geoff) had to cancel due to the imminent arrival of his new trusses (he’s never satisfied with one of anything)!  Dave & Kay arrived as the rest of us were leaving for an afternoon visit to Polesden Lacey, en route to our hotel, The Manor House near Guildford. We all met up together with John & Avril for pre-dinner drinks at the hotel where yours truly was presented with a magnificent birthday cake in the shape of the Morgan wings logo, produced by Helen’s fair hand. Thank you all for the cards, original poem by our resident poetess laureate Caroline, kind thoughts and concerns about the imminent bus pass. I assure you that it has now arrived and is being put to good use. The Sunday at Brooklands was superb, with most of us taking the opportunity of driving up the test hill and along the (all too short!) section of the original circuit. The museum alone was well worth the visit. Thanks to John & Margaret, together with Chris for making the arrangements and, of course, Helen for the cake.

The noggin at The Barn was well attended and it was good to see John & Glenda back to normal after their less than enjoyable adventure in France. To emphasise their return, they won the raffle. Let’s hope the factory can put the car back together again.
The usual crowd at the East Wales noggin at Usk were joined by Peter Guinan who came along in his ivory roadster. He’s been a member for a while now but, as is often the case has been too preoccupied to attend noggins or runs. Maybe we’ll see more of him when he returns from India.

We had a beautiful Autumn day for Dave & Kay’s run on the 29th. There was an excellent turnout of Morgans in the pay and display car park at Abergavenny, almost rivalling the bikers. It is a totally unfounded rumour that the start of the run was rushed due to the appearance of a traffic warden. The run took us through the Black Mountains, with a coffee stop at Llanthony Priory and a brief visit to Hay-on-Wye before our lunch stop at Peterstone Court, near Brecon. Tom & Jackie had a hair raising (if only Tom could be so lucky) drive down from the Gospel Pass due to a loss of brake fluid. At least he knows his hand brake is working. After an enjoyable lunch, the Swansea / Gower contingent left for their long drive home, while the rest of us continued on the run, via Llangynidr and Beaufort on our way back to Abergavenny. Most of us then took up the invitation to return to Dave & Kay’s for liquid refreshments and a selection of Kay’s home-made cakes. Thank you both for such a pleasant day.

Please try to get to the AGM on 11th January. Nominations are invited for the positions of Secretary and Treasurer and it would certainly make the second part of the evening easier if you could come along with definite ideas for events for next year. However, it would aid planning if you could inform me beforehand of your ideas.

By the time you read this, the Taffmog Christmas weekend will be but a pleasant memory. It just remains to sincerely wish everyone a very happy Christmas and another New Year filled with many memorable Morgan moments.

Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda.