The day started with beautiful sunshine and 9 cars joining Simon and I my MG Metro Turbo at the Severn View Services; 2 RV8, 2 MGB GT (1 was a jubilee model), 2 MG TF (modern) and 3 MGA including a coupe. We set off at 10:15 and travelled across the Severn Bridge into Chepstow and drove along the A466 passing Tintern Abbey and Llandogo. Then we crossed the River Wye and headed for Redbrook where we took a right turn up a very steep hill (someone did mention it would make a great hill climb course!). Then on past Symonds Yat and Yat Rock (where we visited on the Wye Valley Social Run in 2021), and then onto Goodrich Castle. The scenery on the drive to the Castle is spectacular and always a pleasure to drive along the Wye Valley.
When we arrived at the Castle, we were greeted by Sarah Hawkins, Goodrich Castle Site Manager, who had reserved a section of the car park especially for us. Several local MGs, were already parked and there was ample room for the remaining cars to park. Once everyone had arrived we had 20 MGs all parked together. After a chat and reacquainting ourselves with old friends we headed off to the Castle, some to picnic in the grounds, others to eat in the small cafe on site. Simon and I ate in the cafe and I can thoroughly recommend the Bacon Bap 😉
After lunch I went around the members who were parked and asked if they would like to donate to Behcets.UK which was Terry’s chosen charity for donations at his funeral. I am very happy to report that due to the generosity of the the MG Car Club members I collected £150.00 which I will bank in the Centre account and instruct the treasurer to pay this amount to Behcets UK. I have since heard that one of the members has donated £10.00 directly to the charity as he did not have any money with him at the time. Thank you to all who donated.
With the collection complete, Simon and I toured the Castle with electronic tour guides stopping and listening to the commentary at the relevant sections of the Castle.
Once the tour of Castle was complete, we made our way back to the car, and after a quick snack and a drink, made our way home without any problems.
My thanks go to the members who attended the event, which makes organising such a pleasure when it is well attended, and the staff at Goodrich Castle who made us feel very welcome. Roll on next year.
