The Exeter Trial 2008

Geoff Westcott and Michelle Maidment climb Fingle on their CCM oufit

I've just got back wet and muddy, cold and tired but very happy from Fingle Bridge, near Drewsteignton on the northern edge of Dartmoor. I was spectating on the Exeter Trial. This is real grass roots motorsport and a few tree roots came past my ears today not to mention mud and stones. Anecdotal evidence suggested that it was wetter this year but last year I got soaked watching at Simms, near Ilsington.

Bill Rosten was really unlucky with a flat tyre

As usual, I saw quite a few of my mates. I've either marshalled or competed for some years now and sometimes we often don't see each other for years but we just know that we're out there, somewhere.

It's a Troll

On a price per mile basis, classic trials are brilliant value. Sadly, the organising body, the Motor Cycling Club, has to put in a tremendous PR effort with each event to allow them to continue. The fun police are sniffing around.

Some of my friends who were competing didn't go through. I shall hear what befell them in due course. I saw Dave Turner and Rob Robinson-Collins clean the section in their BMW, though. They could be in the running for an award.

It was a great day out. And the best thing about getting cold and wet is getting warm and dry again afterwards.