Groovy Glastonbury Report
Sunday 7th December 2003

As I sit here writing, and mulling over an excellent day’s biking, 
I also reflect on how lucky I have been this year in meeting so many 
like-minded people who enjoy biking to the full. To add to the biking 
we have had some really good laughs along the way too. Today was no exception.

After the rain of recent weeks, my request for good weather was granted, 
albeit a little chilly, and 11 bikes (12 people) departed the Little Chef at West Meon. 
The ride to Glastonbury was to prove quite eventful in a number of ways. 
All went well for the first 40 miles, which took us out towards the New Forest. 
Turning towards Bramshaw and approximately half a mile into the forest 
we came across a tree that had fallen across the road. It appeared to be 
quite rotten and was being held up by the telephone cables on one side of the road. 
By careful manoeuvring it was possible to just about “limbo” underneath 
at a central point in the road where there were not too many branches. 
Quite a simple task for the BMWs, a little more tricky for John from London on his Goldwing!!

Continuing on a herd of pigs did there best to offer them selves as free Sunday or Xmas joints 
to those in the convoy bring up the rear. On through Fordingbridge and Zig Zag Hill. 
Zig Zag hill is definitely not the place to get a puncture, but, having picked up a nail, 
which also managed to tear the tyre our friend on the Pan European could go no further. 
His pal riding the 1150RT went back to assist, we hope you got it sorted quickly 
and the day was not ruined for you both.

Just past Gillingham on the road towards Shepton Mallet I noticed we had increased in numbers 
and that we now had a 600 GSX Suzuki with us. On slowing to regroup he introduced himself 
to me and he then joined us for much of the day. He was great company over lunch, hopefully 
we will see him again. (You will have realised by now that I am not that good remembering names
 – apologies for that).

Talking of Lunch, if you go to Glastonbury in search of sustenance you will not get fed at the 
Becketts public house. However, a short walk down the road is the The KingWilliam Inn 
which serves excellent food.

Tim (red 1100S) and his pillion joined us for the return ride. It is good to see he is feeling better.

Driving south west towards Yeovil the sun was directly into our eyes. Later, on the A30, I realised 
I would have preferred the sun in my eyes to the cold that came on when the sun had set. 
I thought at one stage my trusted BMW heated grips had given up the ghost, 
but as we slowed to come back through Salisbury I realised this was no the case.
Passing through Stockbridge, and our usual finishing destination, 
I was really pleased not to have to sit out side the café/bakery for cream tea and cakes. 
Instead thanks to Chris (Dave) and Sue it was back to Winchester for festive mince pies 
with cream and copious quantities of piping hot tea or coffee. A special thanks to Sue's 
Mum and Dad for laying this on with such a warm reception when we arrived.

I would like to add my thanks to Andy(1150RT) for taking the tail for the day and for his help 
and some times guidance in preventing anyone getting lost. Special thanks from us all to SPC 
and our absent Fat controller, for all the rides this year, long may they continue.

It only remains for me to wish everyone a Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year, 
Lets make 2004 as good as 2003 – see you all on the 4th Jan.

John (Dave) Barnes