Engine Punk

An adventure in which the Arkley-MG makes a new friend. (Photo : Graham Beddoe) For several weeks I had been telling people I had entered the 2024 Edinburgh Trial. When I announced that it took place in the Peak District, this confirmed their opinions on my powers of geography. This lovely and tough Ford Model A belongs to consistent Gold award winner and Triple contender Stephen Hill Only six people were in contention for a Triple on this event, one solo motorcyclist and five car drivers and I was one of them. Besides Graham Beddoe and me in the Team Inappropriate Class 7 Arkley-MG ( VT No.151 ), there were Mark Wills on his class B Beta Alp (on line for his third triple), Stephen Hill and his well-dressed gentlemen bouncers in their Ford Model A, previous Triple-winner Karren Warren in her class 6 VW Beetle, Annabel Harry in her red class 7 Hillman Imp ( VT No.78 ) and ACTC regular Paul Merson in his very successful Shopland MK 1 class 8. The Class O equivalent of a Triple is a Tri...

On the ramp again With the Edinburgh Trial next week, the Arkley-MG (Vintage Thing No. 151) is almost ready. Having won two golds in a row, I felt compelled to enter this year.  Although called the Edinburgh Trial, it doesn't go there any more. It takes place in the Peak District but keeps the name for historical reasons and is much more difficult than (merely) driving to the Scottish capital from the English one these days. A Triple – three golds in a row – is theoretically within my grasp and possibly a once in a lifetime opportunity. Realistically, however, I have to manage my expectations (which was what we used to say when we had to disappoint someone at work).  Mr Graham Beddoe and I will adopt our usual approach and enjoy ourselves with our mud brothers and sisters. The lovely Sally has found us accommodation in Crowdicote and I’ve hired a truck to haul the three of us, the car and Sal’s electric bike up to the Peak District. Usually, we drive to the start from my secr...