Lottie falls into a Sportsman's Arms
It was a bleak and wet Saturday morning less than a week since Tan Hill but the urge was to Raid so we set out for Stone to meet a gang of dedicated raiders aiming for the highest pub in Wales. The surprise was that so many were there! Just how many might be at Bala?
Like any novice we pulled onto the car park blindly unaware that everyone was facing nose out from the curb and took our place in line showing our booty. A few shouts soon ensured we turned round so the group photo showed all our smiley faces. Then we set off at a good pace following Tiger, heading for Whitchurch, Llangollen and Bala for high noon.
No breakdowns or delays – just the odd traffic island taken at a full 360 degrees by seriously drunken toppling Snails – some claimed it was only to ensure the convoy was intact, others reckon madness struck. We arrived in Bala early, so our leader took us on a trip round the lake during which we collected 2 extra in the convoy – or maybe he was lost? We ran down the south side along the route of the light railway – well worth a visit on a summer day and then back towards town and into a part flooded car park which allowed the juveniles a chance to splash about and admire the waves and a handful of brave windsurfers. As more cars arrived people headed for the toilets only to find a queue of men outside the gents. Ours was the only facility open so the ladies went first, prompting one lady to comment – “I was a student when I last used the gents!” That just proves we do NOT stereotype students ever!
Back at the cars we got our strips of raffle tickets and then about 35 of us set off in convoy to find the pub this time following the Tiger!
We had been at the back of the convoy from Stone and were 3 from the back this time. Now we know why everyone races away at the start and ignores all the rules of motoring when departing the car park! When you arrive at your destination there is a huge queue at the bar. Nice to stand and meet folks but it does nothing to quench your thirst! So, any new raiders take note – always aim for the front.
The trip from Bala to the Sportsman’s Arms was around 20 miles, mainly uphill and Lottie fell into the Sportman’s Arms to find a warm place between her cousins and yes – she parked nose out just in case anyone was daft enough to venture outside to take photos. Some did but ours were all spoiled by rain on the lens so you have to use your imagination. All those 2CVs flocking together like sheep trying to avoid the howling wind and rain while their crews were enjoying the hospitality in the pub, wolfing a meal and benefiting from a great raffle and attendance certificates. A great event organised by the Pembrokeshire Puffing Snails and well supported by members with about 40 cars attending. So ended the second official raid.
Lottie was rescued from the Arms of her admirer and we left in convoy to the Red Lion pub near Wrexham, owned by the mother of a member, where 34 of us sat down to a mighty meal. Four of us left together heading for Derbyshire separating into pairs at Stoke which left Lottie with Aidan & Nikki to push on to Ashbourne where with a flash and a wave we spilt again to arrive home at 9:30pm with another 300 miles on the clock.
I now ponder the wisdom of a limited 5000 mile insurance policy. Perhaps Lottie will have to put the clock back as we all have to later in 2007.
Last updated: 03 May 2008