January 2008
There was no run at the end of November as Taffmoggers from far and wide girded their loins for the annual “Winter Weekend” at the Cliff Hotel, Gwbert-on-Sea on the first weekend in December. The noggin at the Barn on 8th November was well attended, as was the noggin at Usk on 21st, when we welcomed Nick and Elizabeth Syred for the first time. They collect their new +4 from Newtown Motors on 1st December and we hope to see more of them in the New Year. Long-time member Phil Bacon, together with Brenda made what is probably their last noggin attendance prior to moving to Norfolk. They marked the event by donating a bottle of wine for the raffle, which was promptly won by Nick & Elizabeth. We thank them for that and wish them well in their new home.

Dave & Linda have been very coy in not letting us know when they were actually collecting their new +4, also from Newtown, but we’re expecting them to turn up in it, all nice and shiny (the car as well!) for the Winter weekend. It seems such a pity that Ivor and Graham have selected so many muddy lanes and farm-yards for the scenic runs!

A big thank you to all members who have given of their time and effort in organising events throughout the year, and those who attended them, of course.

Now get your thinking caps on for 2008. There’s a calendar to be filled.

Time is running out for nominations for secretary and treasurer and also for items for the agenda for the AGM.

Happy New Year, one and all.



February 2008
Once again, the event of the year was just that. Keith & Brenda were the first to arrive at our house, closely followed by George, Rob & Kay and Dave & Kay as well as 2 Red Kites. After coffee we headed off in a small convoy for lunch at the Trout Inn, Beulah (That’s the Beulah just North of Llanwrtyd Wells, NOT the Beulah near Newcastle Emlyn where Brian & Mollie, Denis & Liz and Gary & Cath turned up). Didn’t they realise that there’s no pub called the Trout there – in fact, there’s no pub there at all so why should we want to go there?? Are these genuine Taffmoggers or what?

Those of us who arrived at the correct venue met up with Paul & Lesley, Stuart & Jackie, Mark & Isobel (tin-toppers!) and Graham & Joan who were the original organisers of this episode. It had been hoods down until lunch but we were shrewd enough to raise them for the afternoon’s run to Gwbert via the Devil’s Staircase. Surprisingly, in horrendous weather, we only encountered one vehicle, probably a rustler with a lorry load of sheep, coming in the opposite direction. Luck was with us and he managed to pull off the single track road in deference to Morgan superiority.

The Friday evening saw 26 Morgans in the car park together with 3 tin tops ( Mal & Yvonne and Mair had genuine reasons, Mark& Isobel were afraid the cling-film would wash off!).

Yours truly had palpitations on the Friday evening on discovering that NONE of the special room allocations were correct - this after several phone calls to the manager, a personal meeting with him and the usual confirmation by email. Not a propitious start, one would think. However, within an hour, all was sorted and thereafter it ran like clockwork. Most people strolled up to the Flat Rock Bistro (owned by Wyn Jones, also a Morgan owner – so why wasn’t he on our weekend?) while the rest remained in the comfort of the hotel for their evening meal.
 
Ivor & Alison had organised a scenic run to the lunch venue on the Saturday, although some people did their own thing, e.g. Keith took advantage of the hotel spa and had things massaged that he’d forgotten he had! It certainly brought a smile to his face though, which lasted the whole weekend. It must have been good.  Others went shopping – boring!! After lunch where we were joined by the remainder of the group, making 31 Morgans and 5 tin-tops in total, it was the “Place of Interest”, a woollen mill museum at Drefach before returning to the hotel and the obligatory mince pie reception.

The dinner was excellent, the service first class and thoroughly enjoyed by all. This was followed by the traditional slide show, once again ably organised and presented by Chris. Now that he’s retired he’ll have even more time on his hands, so get snapping and send him more pics than ever before. Thanks Chris, much appreciated. Dancing continued into the early hours with more energy and vitality than I would have thought possible, knowing this lot. Unfortunately one couple were kept awake until about 3.45a.m by the shenanigans in the room next door. If Mark & Isobel turn up in the Morgan next year, I promise that they won’t be next door to Keith & Ronie.

Sunday morning’s run had been planned by Graham & Joan and the route forwarded to both the MSA and the police. You’d think someone would have realised that it was right in the middle of the Wales GB Rally! Were we informed? NO! Last minute changes led a large convoy to lunch at the Halfway Hotel owned by yet another MSCC member, Simon Griffiths. He wasn’t on our weekend either! Can one seriously be both a restaurateur and a Morgan owner? However, he cooks a decent joint and the carvery was enjoyed by everyone. From here everyone made their own way home, with only one mishap. Rob & Kay broke down!! Unbelievably, they were passed by another Morgan which didn’t stop. We know who you are!

Once again this year the raffle was a great success. The ‘Holiday Voucher’ first prize was won by Rob & Kay, the second prize Christmas hamper went to Dave & Jackie and the two thirds of a free Sunday lunch were won by Denis & Liz and John & Val. The raffle raised just over £550 and we’ve had a number of charities proposed to benefit. The allocation of money will be decided at the AGM.

All the comments I have received regarding the weekend have been very positive and some have even suggested that we return there some time in the future (not necessarily for Christmas), despite the location being as far west as we could possibly go. I’d like to thank everyone who attended the weekend and particularly Dianne, Ivor & Alison and Graham & Joan for their help with the organisation.

On Wednesday, 5th Dec Newtown Motors hosted a “Sports Evening” which was attended by a small number of Taffmoggers.

Thanks to Kevin & Helen for hosting the December noggin and providing plenty of food and drink. Helen made one of her famous Christmas cakes as the raffle prize. This was promptly won by Denis & Liz.

The Christmas dinner at the Con Club, Usk was attended by 34 members and enjoyed by all. Thanks to Jackie for her hard work in organising the event.

Hopefully, by the time you read this a full programme of events will have been organised for 2008. If you haven’t yet received your copy, please let me know.
 


March 2008
The AGM in January was lively and well attended. New member, Julian Scott-Williams came along and appeared quite amused by the evening. Let’s hope he wasn’t put off and that we see him and his family and their new Roadster in the near future. Yours truly and our treasurer, Ronie were returned to office, unopposed. Another year goes by without anyone wishing to take on either of these rewarding roles. The charity selected to benefit from the Christmas ’07 raffle is the Wales Air Ambulance and they will receive an amount of £560, augmented by a further 20% by the Tesco Charity Fund, through Jackie as a past employee, giving them £662 in total. This is a significant amount to us but it may be worth knowing that the average cost of a call out for them is £5000.

The program for the year ahead was finalised and includes no fewer than 7 weekend events, together with the usual array of Sunday runs. These will be complemented by a number of camping expeditions throughout the year so there should be something for everyone to join in and enjoy. The April, May and July noggins (Barn and Usk) will be peripatetic and details will be made available as soon as they are decided upon by the organisers.

The first event of the year was Lyn & Elaine’s “ABBA” tribute weekend. This was held in mid January, at least a month earlier than usual. The timing was probably the reason for its poor take-up, although the participants enjoyed themselves.

February sees Denis & Liz organising a run around the Vale of Glamorgan, finishing with lunch at their house and a chance to play with Denis’ pride and joy. Not his Aero, although that would qualify as well, but rather, his train set.

The Usk noggin was well attended with Chris & Helen coming along in their new car – not a Morgan, but rather a Mini Cooper “S”. They seem more than ready to enjoy his retirement.
 

April 2008
We were all very saddened to hear that Martin Page had passed away. Our thoughts are with his family, at this time. Martin’s enthusiasm and commitment to MSCC for many years have been much appreciated.

What an interesting journey to the Abbey Hotel for the AGM and dinner/dance. Dianne & I left in plenty of time to meet Stuart & Jackie at Ross. However on the way we realised that we (or to be more precise, DIANNE) had left my suit and her dress at home. We carried on, regardless, met up with the aforementioned and proceeded to our lunch-stop. After lunch, Stuart & Jackie carried on to the Abbey, while we went home to start our journey all over again – it’s the love of driving the car! Well, it would have been if we had the Morgan but we were in the tin-top. (Snow forecast – honestly!)

Paul & Lesley and Mollie & Brian also made it a long weekend arriving on the Friday, while Neil & Helen and honorary Taffmoggers Mike & Enid arrived on Saturday. The AGM was completed in plenty of time for us to settle in the lounge to watch the England/Wales rugby match, and to be pleasantly surprised by another famous Welsh victory. As usual, everyone enjoyed the dinner and dance on Saturday evening. The Taffmoggers enjoyed the weekend and wish to express our thanks to Mary and Dixon for their organisation of another successful event.

Attendance at the Barn on Valentine’s Day was excellent with 27 Taffmoggers in attendance. In contrast, there were fewer members than usual at Usk the following week, although we did welcome Lewis Williams to his first noggin and look forward to seeing him at future Taffmog events.

The run at the end of February, jointly organised by Denis & Liz and Gary & Kath, was a great success. 16 Morgans and 3 tin tops made it the largest turnout on a Sunday run for some time. Was it the need to get the cars out on a fine winter’s day or the lure of Denis’ train set? The West Wales members were well represented and it was also good to see Dave & Linda in their new +4 and Julian & Tricia Scott-Williams and Kathryn Syred on their first run. They’re sure to repeat the experience. The run to Porthcawl and along the coast to Cosmeston Lakes was most enjoyable. After coffee, it was just a short jaunt along the seafront at Penarth before heading for Denis & Liz’s home at Dinas Powys, where Liz and Kath provided everyone with a tasty lunch - the desserts were especially delicious. Parking of all the vehicles was well organised and Denis’ instructions were easily followed by everyone; well, nearly everyone, since someone missed the turn off for Cosmeston and the lemmings followed! Denis’ route map (thanks to the lessons from his dad) has set a fine example for the rest of us to follow in the future. After lunch everyone climbed the wooden ladder to Denis Powys, where they couldn’t fail to be impressed by Denis’ superb model railway layout and he even let us all have a go! A big thank you to Denis, Liz, Gary and Kath for an excellent day.






May 2008
A very busy month for Taffmog started with a weekend at Sir Bernard Ashley’s Llangoed Hall. A full report of this should appear elsewhere if it wasn’t printed last month. We were pleased to welcome Peter & Ann Johnson, who joined us for the weekend. Many thanks to Chris & Helen for organising the event. They are already negotiating with Llangoed Hall for another good deal next year.

We had another very good turnout at The Barn noggin, while attendance at the Conservative Club at Usk was down because quite a few regulars were away on holiday.

The Taffmog Puckers went camping over the Eater weekend. Our special correspondent sends the following report:

“Good Friday dawned bright and sunny and, with Spring in sight, the Taffmog caravan contingent, hereafter referred to as “the silly Puckers”, set off for The New Forest for Easter.
Kevin and Helen were towing their new acquired Eriba with the Plus 8, while Jackie and Stuart towed theirs with the tin top (black marks there!). The plan was for them to join Lyn and Elaine on the site. Keith and Ronnie unfortunately had to drop out and Haydn and Dianne had opted for the easy option of hotelling in Scotland.
Kevin’s group arrived at the site to be greeted with the spectacle of Lyn putting up his awning. Lyn’s mood did not improve when Stu reversed his tin top into it and filled the van with diesel fumes (more black marks - literally).
The next day was spent driving round the area. That evening they got together for a meal in the gazebo. It would have been very pleasant had the temperature risen above freezing and the wind dropped below gale force. Stu was seen to leave muttering something about “going for a walk” and “being some time”.
That night Lyn’s awning self destructed in the high winds.
Sunday morning saw them all up at 6.15 in order to catch the early ferry to the Isle of Wight. Lyn had never emerged from his bed in the past before 10.30 and the sight of him walking back from the showers in his shorts with the temperature at -4 is not one that will easily be forgotten - unfortunately. They had a pleasant day on the island, finished off nicely with a cream tea, having driven its length and breadth several times.
On Monday they went their own ways around Portsmouth. Lyn and Elaine went to The Historic Dockyard, Jackie and Stu went to the submarine museum in Gosport and Kevin took Helen to the cemetery where he played as a child. He really knows how to show a girl a good time!
On Tuesday morning K, H, S and J were hitched up and ready to go before Lyn emerged from his beauty sleep (sorry Lyn, it’s not working). After saying goodbye to Lyn and Elaine they set off for home, looking forward to sitting by a nice warm fire and planning their next trip with the Taffmog Puckers.”

Others of the Taffmog fraternity enjoyed a long weekend in Scotland. Dianne & I spent two nights at Crooklands on the way up, where we were joined on day 2 by Paul & Lesley and Humphrey & Caroline. We met up with John & Margaret, Neil & Helen and Ivor & Alison at the Lodge on the Loch at Luss for lunch on Good Friday, before driving on to our hotel at Onich. John & Margaret had organised a variety of runs in the area which were a great success – apart from one missed ferry (we won’t go into details - that’s Neil’s business!) and one missed lunch, due to Ivor’s obsession with sandy beaches. The weather was good to us and the scenery was fantastic, with the snow staying on the hills rather than the roads. Many thanks to John & Margaret for organising the event.

Dianne’s BST run at the end of the month enjoyed good weather – much to everyone’s surprise after the torrential rain the day before. Twelve cars met at Abergavenny – 10 Mogs, Tony, Pam & Adrian in their tin top (it’s a paint problem) and it was good to see Sally in her Mercedes convertible. A pleasant run through country lanes took us to our lunch stop at Oakchurch, where we were joined by Keith & Brenda with Keith enjoying driving the Mog again after his recent op. It was a short drive after lunch to The Weir (a National Trust garden along the banks of the Wye), where we enjoyed a pleasant walk. Neil would have preferred a drive, but we needed to walk off the lunch in preparation for the cream tea at Winforton. Thanks to Dianne for organising this run (short though it was) to fill the only gap in our 2008 programme.

Ferndale may not be on your map, so if you need directions for Neil & Helen’s May noggin, contact them on 01443 755354.

For Dave & Kay’s noggin on the 21st you need to be at the Usk Conservative Club by 7.00 pm, for a 7.15 pm start. A scenic run of an hour or so will take us to a hostelry, where evening meals will be available.

Please do your best to attend the Pencoed Show – we can’t let the Jaguar Club beat us this year.

Please note my new Email address – haydn.croll@btinternet.com




June 2008
Neil & Helen had arranged the noggin on 10th April. We welcomed Allan & Yvonne Humphreys from Llanelli and tractor trader Philip Tong, ex New Forest member, to their first Taffmog noggin. Let’s hope we see them on runs in the near future. The noggin was very well attended although Nick & Elizabeth couldn’t make it due to Elizabeth having just broken her wrist and Tony, Pam & Adrian had a late mark. Can you believe that someone in a tintop couldn’t find their way to Pontneathvaughan? I bet it would have been interesting being a fly in that car.

The East Wales noggin on the 16th was well organised by Paul & Lesley. As usual it was well attended.

Jackie and Sally stepped over the edge on the 13th when they did their abseil from the top of the Royal Gwent Hospital (appropriate venue!) in support of the Gwent “Sparkle Appeal”. They were wary at first, but afterwards, Jackie said that she’d liked to have descended much faster. Was that the adventurous, devil-may-care attitude, so long concealed, or did she just want to get it over with as quickly as possible?
The event was a great success for this new charity.

On the 20th – FBHVC ‘Drive It Day’ - 14 cars rendezvoused at Sainsbury’s car park, Swansea for a short run to the airport where we presented the Wales Air Ambulance with £692. This was the profit from our Christmas raffle, augmented by 20% by the Tesco Charity Trust, thanks to Jackie. We were hoping for a photo-shoot with the helicopter in the background but, unfortunately, it was out on a call. We sought refreshments while awaiting its return but, no sooner than it did so, it refuelled and was immediately called out again. This worthy, registered charity relies solely on donations for its operations.

A short scenic run took us to the King Arthur in Reynoldston where we enjoyed lunch. Afterwards, 3 couples headed off for Ogmore while the rest meandered around Gower before ending up at Humphrey & Caroline’s home at Rhossili for tea. Thank you both for your hospitality. It was a perfect Spring day for enjoying the cars.

Tony & Pam had taken the bull by the horns in organising their maiden run by making a weekend of it. They met us, together with Rob & Kay and Nick & Elizabeth (on their first event) at the Barn at Brynich on the outskirts of Brecon. A scenic run took us to Abbey Cwm-hir where we had a tour of this privately-owned house of 52 rooms accompanied by the owner, Paul Humpherston, who bought the Hall in late ’97. He is justly proud of his and his wife, Victoria’s work over the last 10 years or so in refurbishing this amazing property of “Gothic Victorian splendour”,  www. Abbeycwmhir.com  This is well worth a visit if you’re in the area.

The run continued afterwards, via a coffee stop, when we were overtaken by Neil & Helen, to our hotel in Beddgelert.  Here we met up with the remainder of the group, Humphrey & Caroline and Des & Nona. Dinner was excellent, as was the company.
The following day, Tony & Pam had planned a route to the Llechwedd Slate Caverns that took us along single track roads that even Neil hadn’t been on before, a major feat! Mind you, with Pam navigating, there’s a good chance that she and Tony were seeing many of them for the first time also!

Des & Nona departed after breakfast on Sunday, in order to visit their daughter while the rest of us continued to blissfully, rather than confidently, follow Tony & Pam along some more wonderful roads to arrive at the Brynafon Country Hotel, Rhayader for lunch, after which it was a short walk (but too far for Neil & Humphrey) to see the Red Kites being fed. The weather improved so it was hoods down (for those of us who know how to) and more exciting tracks leading to the Honey Café at Bronllys. From here we went our merry ways, much appreciative of all the hard work that Tony & Pam had put into organising their maiden event and certainly looking forward to their next. Thank you both.

Don’t forget the West Wales noggin on 6th June. It will be held at the Halfway House, Nantgaredig, Carmarthen, SA32 7ML. This is an ideal opportunity for those residing in the far West, especially new members for whom the regular noggins are just too far away, to meet with the rest of us. Please let me know if you intend going along.

There is still the possibility of joining us on Dianne’s “Longest Day” weekend at the Longmynd Hotel, Church Stretton, June 27/29th. Contact Dianne on 01874 625620.

Chris & Helen’s noggin on 10th July will be at their home in Treoes. Please let them know, in plenty of time, if you intend going along (01656 650524).

With any luck, Stuart & Jacky will be back from their jaunts in France to organise the East Wales noggin on the 16th July. Contact them for details on 01633 213756

Details of George’s Hereford Steam event at the end of July will be available soon.

Invitations to the Christmas Weekend have been sent out by email or snail mail. If you’ve not received yours please contact me asap.





July 2008
The noggin at “Chateau Griffiths” organised by Neil and Helen was well attended. Dianne & I couldn’t manage it, so we’d like a repeat please. Thank you both for your hospitality.

The Pencoed show was a great success and enjoyed superb weather. Most of the members who attended made their way to Kevin & Helen’s afterwards for the traditional BBQ. Thank you both for all your efforts.

I also have to thank Dave & Kay for organising the Usk event of the month. Although they were the last to turn up, they weren’t exactly late and were soon leading a convoy of seven Morgans (and Tom & Jackie in their tintop) on a super run through the Monmouthshire countryside. Timing was spot-on and we arrived back at the Con Club in time to join Brian & Mollie, Nick & Elizabeth and Rod & Vicky for a meal.

And then there were two! Puckers that is, braving howling winds and torrential rain on a camping trip to North Devon over the bank holiday weekend. Dianne & I arrived on the Friday and enjoyed a pleasant evening in the late Devon sunshine. Kevin & Helen joined us on Saturday morning. Kevin was eager to try out his new awning, but despite all efforts he couldn’t get it up – the wind was too strong and the ground was too hard. The rain held off and on Saturday evening we were able to BBQ. On Sunday we braved the bad weather and drove over Exmoor to Dunster, up Porlock Hill and down into Lynton and Lynmouth. Kevin & Helen returned home on Monday (poor old Kev had to go to work on Tuesday) while Dianne & I stayed another day. Despite the weather it was a good weekend and Exmoor is well worth visiting again in the future. (Although we need to remember that Tiverton is closed on a Bank Holiday Monday).

Colin & Vicky’s picnic run at the end of May was delayed by a week and took place at the beginning of June – report to follow next month. We are all now looking forward to the Mog event in Cornwall.




August 2008
Thanks to Colin & Vicky for organising their picnic run at the beginning of the month. I’ve had no formal report of the event but am assured that a dozen couples participated and all thoroughly enjoyed the day.

The noggin, organised by Ivor & Alison and held in The Halfway Inn at Nantgaredig was a great success with 27 members in attendance, although 3 couples arrived on a beautiful evening in tin tops, Chris & Helen, John & Avril and Emyr & Janet. Is Emyr trying to hide the fact that he’s just upgraded from an Aero to a new +4 four seater? Still, he can carry more wine in the rear of the 4 seater than in his famous boot! Simon, the owner had reserved parking out front for us with his Aero marking the spot. The room, with veranda suited our purpose perfectly and the food was excellent. We also have to thank Simon for the bottle of wine he donated and which was won by Ray & Diane. This noggin was designed to entice members from the far West to come along and mix it with the rest of us. In that it was moderately successful with Peter Harries and Peter Hepworth coming along to their first noggin. They, and the rest from the West will have another opportunity when we meet at the halfway again on July 25th. A big thank you to Ivor & Alison for these arrangements.

The noggin that almost wasn’t was held at the Barn the night before our contingent of Taffmoggers set off for Cornwall. As such it was expected that not many would attend and in this we weren’t disappointed with just 3 couples turning up. No complaints here as we had 30 cars from our Centre in Cornwall.

We were most impressed with the organisation and hard work that had gone into the preparation and running of MOG 2008. It was a great success, enjoyed by all and our congratulations are extended to Peter Henderson and his team. It is this very selfless commitment that makes MSCC what it is.

Chris, Paul and myself had a meeting with our web-site developers on 25th and the new Taffmog web-site is now not far away. Watch this space.

Dianne’s “Longest Day Weekend” based at the Longmynd Hotel, Church Stretton was attended by 11 couples. Some of us – those not encumbered with work – met at the tea rooms in Winforton before heading along some lovely B-roads to Stokesay Castle. Strangely, none of us had visited this wonderful place before. Torrential rain then determined that hoods were up for the rest of the journey to the Longmynd Hotel where we awaited the arrival of the workers. All present and correct, we enjoyed our evening meal despite the lack of mints with the coffee. This was not to be repeated the following evening and the Spar in Much Wenlock sold more boxes of After Eights in one afternoon than in the previous six months!
Saturday dawned dry and reasonably bright for our scenic run to the Blists Hill Museum for our well-needed dose of culture and education and, of course, reminiscences for the Victorians amongst us.
Tea was taken at Much Wenlock before the run back to the hotel. We were pleased to welcome Geoff and Jenny for the evening meal. Unfortunately they couldn’t remain with us for the Sunday as Geoff was intent on proving that a +4 (his new +4) would be the outright Madresfield champion. As I write this, I haven’t heard anything. Ominous or what?
Sunday required stamina as we ate our ways home via Hawkstone Park and Follies, one of several Bradford Arms and finally, one of our little favourites, the Honey Café at Bronllys.
Dianne was extremely pleased at the number of members who came along for the weekend and the fact that they all had such a good time. On behalf of them all, including myself, I wish to say a big thank you to her for all the time and effort spent in organising the weekend.




September 2008
July was a busy month for Taffmog.

Rob & Kay set off a week early for the Le Mans Classic to be joined later, in Vaiges, by Dianne & myself. Also at the meeting were Stuart & Jackie, Keith & Ronnie in the Puck, Mel accompanied by Dave (who took a job as a night porter in their hotel, unlocking the front doors to let in the reprobates who had stayed out longer than they should have) and John who’d obtained a lift with a friend from Oggiemog. What a pity they broke down within striking distance of our hotel, not knowing that Rob had all the parts necessary to affect a quick repair. Why didn’t we pre-order a picnic hamper? The one we had last time was elegant and dainty. This year they were fit for a banquet – well, they were big enough to accommodate a banquet, or a week’s dirty linen, which is what some people intended using them for. Maybe next time they’ll be Ali Baba size! The racing was super, as expected, with TOK coming first in class. Again, the cheese reception was a great success. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the event and we all appreciate the selfless hard work done by Quentin & Anne to ensure that everything went without a hitch.

While we were away in France others were also enjoying some entente cordialle, thanks to Chris & Helen who hosted the July noggin. Everyone who attended enjoyed the evening and much appreciated Helen’s buffet. Thank you both.

A crowd of us, including Roger Hawes who joined us for the first time, met Stuart & Jackie in the car park at Abergavenny on the 16th for nothing less than an exciting run. Scenic, it was not, with the lanes completely enclosed by Triffid-like hedges. The rumour is that Stuart once rode a motorcycle along those lanes. By the look of it, we were the first people to use them since! Somehow we all arrived back at the Con Club, exhilarated and in one piece, able to enjoy a meal after calming down with the aid of a stiff drink. Thank you both – we’re looking forward to the next one.

Another good crowd turned up at The Halfway, Nantgaredig for the West Wales noggin. Everyone is enjoying this venue, with good food, friendly staff and Simon’s hospitality. Again, he provided a bottle of wine for a car selected by a member of his staff. This time, Dianne & I were the lucky recipients, thanks to our clear indicator lenses. This noggin is likely to be a regular event, due to its popularity and it would be good to see some more of our West Wales members, who have not yet come along to any of our events, joining us. They can be assured of a warm welcome.

The night before George & Thelma’s Hereford Steam Museum trip, Dave & Kay, John & Margaret, Neil & Helen, Stuart & Jackie, Paul & Lesley and Dianne & myself went along to Sally’s leaving party. We had an excellent evening and shouldn’t have been surprised by the curry buffet. After all, Sally’s off to India to do voluntary work for 3 months, in aid of the charity, “Children Walking Tall”. We all wish her the best and look forward to her safe return.

The following day, 11 Mogs met at George’s house for the first cream tea any of us have had before 11.00a.m! Taffmog starts a new tradition perhaps. We should have been 12, but unfortunately, Dave & Jackie’s Series 1 became unwell soon after leaving home and they were unable to join us. It was a short run through the courting lanes of George’s youth to the Waterworks Museum where we were given a dedicated parking spot. The other classic cars on display were stunning, including a 4-wheeled 3-wheeler. What a conversion! We all enjoyed the exhibits in full steam and rides on the model railway – don’t deny it, I have the photos! It was such a hot day that only two Morgans went on the mayor’s Cavalcade – Nick & Sue and Tony, Pam, Adrian & his friend, Chris who brought up the rear in their 4-seater. Red lights, apparently, were unable to detach them from the cavalcade. I doubt that the reason for this was a fear of getting lost – after all Pam was navigating!

Towards the end of the afternoon we made our way to Thruxton Farm for a late Sunday lunch. Keith & Brenda made it as far as the entrance before breaking down. The full complement of experts on hand could not solve the problem so it was rather a late arrival home for them in a breakdown truck. Hopefully, the fuel pump has now been replaced and the car is up and running once again. Thank you, George & Thelma, for another great day out.



October 2008
Keith & Brenda’s “Flat-cappers” had a good day out on Friday, 8th August. Five Morgans and a tin-top met on the green at Raglan castle. The little boys’ room beckoned and two of us went forth (well, first and second really) only to be chased by the full contingent of staff who informed us that we had to pay the entrance fee to the castle in order to use the wc. £6 to spend a penny, they must be joking! Our coffee stop was in the graveyard of Penallt Church (sounds morbid but both the graveyard and the church itself were worth a visit) and then it was on to The Gamekeeper near Symonds Yat for one of Keith’s famous seniors’ lunches – two courses for £4.50 – very good food and excellent value. After lunch it was on to another church (is Keith trying to tell us something?), this time St. Michael’s Church in Garway, a truly fascinating 12th century Knights Templars’ church, well worth a visit if you are in the area. We spent so long here that we were too late for the planned afternoon tea stop. However, a worthy second venue was soon organised and we ended the afternoon looking out on the Black Mountains and enjoying the late afternoon sunshine. Thanks Keith & Brenda for an interesting and informative run.

We again had 3 noggins in August and, considering it was the middle of the holiday season, they were all well attended. As you read this at the beginning of October, be aware that there will be 3 noggins this month also.

Bank holiday weekend saw a group of 7 Morgans making their way to Beddgelert for Neil & Helen’s North Wales weekend. It had been a late decision for Humphrey & Caroline and there was no room at the inn. They had the first night (and almost the first day) in Criccieth and the next two nights in the B+B just down a steep and slippery, unlit path from the hotel where the rest of us were staying. They said they enjoyed it but I bet they’re first booking next year. On arrival in Criccieth their +8 refused to start - fuel not getting through - and when the rest heard of this we all dived for our spare relays. They were of no use this time as the problem was a poor connection at the fuel pump. This was eventually sorted and they finally joined the rest of us towards the end of the first of Neil’s runs. The weather, for the most part, was very kind to us and we all thoroughly enjoyed the highways and byways that Neil & Helen took us along (together of course with the obligatory coffee, lunch and afternoon tea stops). They work hard to find new and exciting roads where we can enjoy our cars to the full. Thank you both for all your hard work in arranging the weekend.

Keith & Ronnie’s run on the 31st was eventful. New members, Margaret Shaw & John Barber came along to their first event, took one look at the motley bunch and promptly went home. JOKE!! They came along to introduce themselves and had a legitimate reason for not joining the party. We look forward to seeing them again in the not too distant future. It was also good to see Ian and his daughter, Alexandra, in his new 4/4 on its first time out in the rain. Rather surprising since we’re in Wales.  Keith, on hearing about Humphrey’s problems in North Wales, was heard remarking that in the 11years he’d owned his car it had never let him down. Well, the little green Mog must have overheard him because the starter motor immediately gave up the ghost. A push start allowed them to return home for a swift change to the tin-top.

Finally the group (10 Mogs plus Keith & Ronnie’s and Paul & Lesley’s tin tops) was on its way but, by now, many needed a comfort stop. No problem here as such a break was routinely planned into this well-organised event. It’s just a pity that no-one had checked to see if the toilets were open. They weren’t! Eventually, the group arrived at the lunch venue, the Abercrave Inn, where Dianne & I were waiting for them in anticipation of an excellent lunch. We were not disappointed. After lunch we headed off to the day’s place of interest, Aberdulais Falls. This is now a National Trust property and it was surprising how many of us had not been there before, considering that we live not too far away. Time was running short however and so we’ll have to return in the future. It was an enjoyable day, despite the rain, with the company more than compensating for the weather. Thanks to Keith & Ronnie for their meticulous planning and cheerful leadership.

The Taffmog website is just about ready to go and we hope to have an official launch party at one of our sponsors, Newtown Motors. Details will be despatched as soon as possible.







November 2008
September was the busiest month of the year for TaffMog.  The first weekend of the month, sixteen members braved some of the worst weather and flooding for years to travel to The Beggar’s Reach for the Pembrokeshire County Run. Paul & Lesley, Stuart & Jackie and Rob & Kay together with ourselves set off from Libanus, only to manage a few hundred yards before being turned back because the A470 was closed, due to its being under 6 inches of water. Well Paul & Lesley weren’t turned back because they hadn’t started – the car that is. Water, water everywhere and gallons of it in Paul’s distributor. Several hours, an RAC man and a makeshift lunch later we were on our way yet again. This time we had a trouble free run to Pembrokeshire, where Humphrey & Caroline, who had arrived earlier, had managed to postpone our evening meal. Neil & Helen also arrived in time for dinner.

Saturday morning saw the arrival of a lonesome Chris (Helen being busy with her quilting) and Tony, Pam and Adrian. Tony deserved the prize for travelling the furthest to the event, having flown in from his new job in Bratislava to join us for the weekend and to celebrate Adrian’s 21st birthday. Locals Emyr & Janet arrived mid-morning to lead us on a super scenic run around the Pembrokeshire coast before retuning to their house for tea and cakes – a delicious feast and much enjoyed by all. Thank you both for your hospitality. They also joined us for dinner that evening when we celebrated Adrian’s birthday in style with champagne and cake.

Sunday dawned bright and clear for the County Run attended by over 500 classic cars, starting from the quayside at Haverfordwest and ending in Tenby. This is a really enjoyable run with crowds lining the roads and greeting all the cars as they pass by.

The following weekend 12 TaffMog couples made the long journey to The Crooklands Hotel for yet another wonderful Windermere weekend. Dave & Kay travelled to Crooklands via Scotland – they enjoy a long run in the car! The weather was kind, ensuring hoods were down for the weekend. Thanks to Andrew & Sara and Bob & Sam for a successful and very enjoyable event. We’ll be back again next year.

The third weekend of the month was supposed to be the annual Tredegar House Rally and Show in aid of Leukaemia Research. However, torrential rain over the previous weeks had rendered the ground unfit for vehicles and the show had to be cancelled. Stuart & Jackie stepped into the breach and organised a treasure hunt instead, prior to their traditional BBQ. First prize was easily won by the only all-female team of Lesley & Dianne. The tie-breakers provided some interesting reading. Ronie says that the bodywork and ‘big ends’ are in good shape and it responds immediately when she puts her foot down – but is she talking about the car or Keith?

A raffle at the BBQ, organised by Kay, Jackie and Lesley raised £89 for the Gwent Sparkle Appeal and Stuart & Jackie also donated £45 (in lieu of payment for the refreshments). This will be matched pound for pound by Barclays Bank, thanks to Kay. We are all grateful to Stuart & Jackie for their hard work in organising the day.

The last weekend of the month was the traditional monthly run, this time arranged by Chris & Helen. Nine couples met at Magor services and we were pleased to welcome Ken & Enid (aka Dave & Kay) to their first TaffMog event – don’t ask, particularly about National Trust membership. After a brief charge along the M4 to get us into Wiltshire, we enjoyed a pleasant drive through the leafy lanes to The Cross Hands Hotel, where tea and coffee were waiting for us. Fully refreshed we continued to Lacock, where we enjoyed a leisurely picnic in glorious sunshine – probably the best Sunday weather of the whole summer. After lunch, we were joined by Denis & Liz and Mike & Enid. Some couples continued to bask in the sunshine for the rest of the afternoon, while the more energetic and culturally inclined visited the Abbey and grounds.

It was difficult to move from such a delightful spot. However, a cream tea beckoned and TaffMog could not resist, so we said our goodbyes to Mike & Enid and headed off to The Hinton Hotel. After scones, jam and a mountain of cream – Sherpa Bailey easily scaling the heights - we all went our separate ways home, some along the motorway and others via Gloucester to avoid the dastardly toll on the Severn Bridge. Thank you Chris & Helen for a brilliant day out.

If you wish to attend the Christmas Dinner being held at The Conservative Club in Usk on December 17th, then you MUST inform Jackie by November 12th at the very latest.



December 2008
TaffMoggers are a hardy bunch and don’t let the shortening days and colder nights hamper their use of or enjoyment in their Morgans. The first event of October was the official launch of our website, hosted by Newtown Motors, one of the sponsors of the site. Our other sponsors (and website designers) VSI thinking were also there to demonstrate the site. It was well attended with members old and new not only enjoying the refreshments provided by the club but also the array of cars in the showroom, including the new Morgan 4/4 Sport which was brought down from the factory for the evening by Matthew Parkin. Taffmog is grateful to both our sponsors for their support and to Chris for his dedication and hard work in seeing through his original idea. Why not pay us a visit if you haven’t already done so? www.taffmog.co.uk

Friday October 10th, fifteen Morgans made their way to Fishguard for the afternoon ferry to Rosslare. Although the day started off dry and bright, by the time we got to the ferry port the weather had changed for the worse. However, the crossing wasn’t too rough and perhaps there had been no need for all the seasickness tablets that had been consumed. On the ferry, the group split into two (or three if you count John and Margaret hiding themselves away in a cabin for the duration of the crossing due to John’s wobbly sea legs). The TaffMoggers were in steerage (below stairs) while the newly named ToffMoggers lorded it upstairs in the Stenna Plus lounge. We won’t mention the stowaway who found his way into the lounge and acquired a ticket for the return crossing! On our arrival in Rosslare, we set off in convoy for the hour’s drive to Waterford and our first hotel, where we met up with Keith & Brenda, who had already been in Ireland for a few days.

The Athaenium House Hotel provided the gathering with their first taste of the black stuff, then the second and then the third… After an enjoyable meal, the more hardy continued with the tasting late into the evening. Despite this, everyone was up bright and early the following morning with hoods down for the drive south, first to Kinsale for lunch and then on to Baltimore for afternoon refreshments before reaching our overnight stop at Glengarriff at the Eccles Hotel on Bantry Bay. The views from the hotel were magnificent, especially as the sun set over the water.

The following day we headed for Killarney, via the Ring of Kerry. Unfortunately, we had to say goodbye to Neil and to Tony & Pam, who were heading back home on the late night ferry – the poor things had work the following day. The rest of us carried on to the Gleann Fia Country House, our base for the next two nights. We took taxis into town that evening to seek out some good bars with traditional Irish music. Dave & Linda’s boogying was anything but traditional, but was much appreciated by the locals.

The weather was not so kind to us on Monday, but didn’t deter us from our drive around the Dingle peninsula and the Connor Pass. Another taxi ride took us into Killarney for our last evening all together before going our separate ways. Some travelled home on Tuesday (the weather was so bad for them I believe they are still drying out the cars), some headed west for Connemara while others headed north for Belfast, the Giant’s Causeway and the Bushmills Distillery.

We are all extremely grateful to Graham & Joan for their hard work and dedication in organising the holiday and finding us such excellent accommodation (pity we can’t say the same about the roads). We look forward to our next visit in two year’s time to Galway Bay.

The final event of the month was the West Wales noggin at The Halfway in Nantgaredig. Dianne was both surprised and thrilled to discover that a 60th birthday celebration had been organised for her. It was a really enjoyable evening and she would like to thank everyone for the cake, cards and flowers that she received.

Don’t forget that the December noggin will be held at our house in Libanus. Please let us know if you are coming along.

The AGM and planning meeting will be held on January 8th at the Conservative Club in Usk. A buffet will be provided, but please let Jackie know before the end of December if you will be attending so that there’s enough food for all. So get your thinking caps on and come along with plenty of offers for organising runs and noggins to ensure another successful year in 2009.

It only remains for me to wish everyone the compliments of the season. Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda.