The Beamish Trophy Trial is based on the Travers Trophy Trial of the 1920's (which incidentally was taking part in the area on the same day) and a South Shields Trial of about 1925. It covers over 100 miles around the Northern Dales.

The scenery is spectacular, and this year there were 129 starters from 150 entrants. There were 109 finishers of which three of our heroes finished. Unfortunately Ben's Bantam expired (literally) 6 miles into the event.

Bearing in mind all machines have to be manufactured before 1980, and some of the machines dated back to the 1930's  it is hard on both men ( and ladies, of which there were a few) and machines.

Other notable locals who rode included Mike Ransom on his original 1962 Barnet works bike and Andrew Cooke on a nice DOT.

The weather was poor in the morning but brightened up in the afternoon.

Keeping an eye on our intrepid heroes was your's truly who carried fuel, spares, drinks plus the odd stricken rider ( Ben) in his role as Team manager.

The weekend was a three night affair, with the first night in the hostelries of Barnard Castle before proceeding the next day to the trial HQ in a place called Esh not far from Durham. Needless to say this was at a pub, called The New Board Inn, fantastic food, and once again a couple of great nights with like minded souls, Mike Kelly's quiz being another highlight of the weekend. (although Mike Griffiths and myself were the victims of dubious scoring allowing Pete Hallam/Ben Townsend to narrowly pip us)

Already plans are in place for a repeat next year!

Wing Co