Preview of 2007 Hereford Easter Meet Round the Sections Report on 2006 Wortley Hall
FINANCIAL REPORT
Accurate forecasting is not easy to achieve. So whilst it was anticipated that funds at bank would have sunk to the optimum liquid reserves of £4000 (committee policy) at the end of the 2006 year, we ended up with £5 700. There were anumber of reasons for this despite the spending of £2000 in excess of income during the year (increased membership, clothing sales, donations and low advance payments
compared with previous years). do have an idea on how to deal with the excess funds which would I think would be acceptable to most members. A £6.00 subscription rate though is vital to cover budgeted 2007 expenditure which relates to the basics.
Peter Roscoe. Treasurer
RACE ROUND UP
These days junior members are very much in the minority so it is pleasing to report on the 2007 achievements of Travers Wallett. Crewe Clarion Wheelers. His best 10 times of 21.58 and 22.15 mean that he has won our Junior Time Trial Championship with Simon Horner last year's juvenile championship winner in second place Travers has also recorded 56.13 and 56.21 in a club 25's and was placed 10th in the Clarion Points Competition. Atthe other end of the scale Derek 'there's always another year’ Hodgins won the senior time trial championship after conceding the title to Paul Dickinson, Bolton, in 2005. David Albutt, Crewe, made a determined attempt for this championship and was only .6mph slower in second place. Dave Langlands won the 50-mile championship performing remarkably well with an under two-hour ride in his first attempt at the distance. Dave has been a regular winner of Clarion track championships and this year won the individual pursuit and sprint championships. Julian Mortel was second to Dave in these championships but won the 5-mile championship. This and his other placings meant he won an omnium of the track events that clinched the Points Competition for him. Andy Horner the winner of the Points for the last two years had to be content with third place Ian Taylor taking the second place. For the second year in succession Ian won the Stockport organised road race championship.
Another, junior rider (now 18) worthy of mention is Peter Foster of Sunderland Clarion. His club mentors were so confident of his ability that they brought him down to the Wortley weekend with a positive aim of his lifting the hill climb championship. This he did in fine style taking 6 seconds out of Andy Horner who won this event in 2004 and 2005. Andy, current holder of the club veteran 10mile record, is expecting that a more settled routine in 2007 will give him the edge to satisfy his competitive spirit.
For the first time the Wortley 10 was an open event and this proved to be a successful innovation with Carl Saint out to win the £50.00 offered for beating his own course record. Although the conditions were not favourable he was only 8 seconds short. Hopefully he will be back for this year's event, which arguably has the potential to become a local classic -it's the only open event on the course and with the record-breaking incentive we may attract more riders of Carl's standard. An impressive twenty-two riders competed in the Wortley fun/ serious hill climb, which is probably the greatest number ever. Donald Lever, Bury, and Merlin Evans, Stockport, setting up records on a folder and a 1935 Hercules, roadster bicycle respectively.
The track championships were a delight despite only attracting nine riders at the Newcastle-under-Lyme Stadium the track centre housing the local football club in a pleasant area of the town. All those competing will probably recall with affection a good Clarion day out. The only lady rider, Jayne Clarke, rode well and her 47.50 seconds ride in the 500metre time trial begs the question is this a Clarion fastest for a lady? Jayne has also been impressive on the road with a 56-minute tandem 25 along with husband Ian in the bag in 2006. Stockport's Darren Reynolds was a come back rider after 10 years out of the game and Mike Cowland was a first time track rider. Mike won the 500 metres time trial in 41 seconds and was second in the points race. He is a roadman with deeply engrained habits so he endured the embarrassment of coming a cropper as he attempted to freewheel after a fearsome sprint. Anyway it meant the St John ambulance people had the opportunity to do their stuff. Julian Mortel must be thanked for running this championship and the Stockport Road Race, which included the Clarion Road Championship.
Peter Roscoe
2007 NATIONAL CLARION EVENTS
Sat 7th April Easter 10 Francis Grafton Nottingham Sun 19th August Road Champs Les Copeland Stockport Sun 8th April Easter Circuit Races (Cheshire)
Sat 21st April 10 mile Champs 2nd September Track Champs Julian Mortel Stockport Tony Bowles Bolton (L101) Sat 6th October Wortley 10
Sat 16th June 25 mile Champs Sun 7th October Wortley Hill Climb
Dave Langlands/Steve Clarke Fenland (N1/25C) October?? Cyclo-Cross Champs Heanor??
Sat 21st July 50 mile Champs In conjunction with the M&DTTA (J4/16)
CLARION C.C. WORTLEY TEN MILES 2006 CLARION POSITIONS
min sec Footer
1. Ian Cooke Calder 23 58 3rd Charles Jepson is to be 2. Andy Horner Bury 26 00 thanked for running this 3. Tan Clarke Fenland 26 54 7th inaugural open event to 4. AllanArmstrong Sunderland 29 38 8th replace the former club event 5. Chris Goode Manchester run by Peter Roscoe.
Stretford 29 59 9th 6. Edward Perfect London 32 15 13th William Sanderson will be 7. dayne Clarke Fenland 23 22 14th running this years open 8. Martin Perfect London 33 47 15th event. See CTT handbook for 9. Bob Duckworth Bury 34 32 16th details. 10. Natasha Perfect London 35 24 17th
Fenland’s Ian Clarke finished in third Natasha Perfect, London Section in her first TT 2 J
THE 2006 POINTS COMPETITION
This year for organisational purposes we had less qualifying events but we did have a good competition. Andy Horner's commitment for a third win did not materialise and he had to be content with third place. Julian Mortel was a worthy successor with his commitment to Clarion Events. His winning of the omnium in the track championship was the deciding factor in his win. Itwas good to see seventeen years old Travers Wallett getting in the top ten and Jayne Clarke taking the medal for the top lady again. Chris Goode has been very supportive of my attempts. When this happens always take the opportunity of passing the baton of organisation. Chris did agree so look out for some fresh thinking.
Section Points lan Waddilove Fenland 30
1. Stockport 310 23 LWard Heanor 30
2. Sunderland 257 28 lan Brown Stockport 29
3. Bury 237 28 Michael Cowland Fenland 29
4. Fenland 236 30 Steve Smith Oakhill 28
5. Crewe 200 31 Tony Peach Crewe 26
6. Heanor 166 32 Charles Jepson Oakhill 25 7. Central 151 33 Andrew Spittlehouse Calder 23
8. Calder 130 34 Allan Smith Sunderland 21
9. London 83 35 Derek Hodgins Stockport 20 10 M/C Stretford 78 35 lan Nutter Heanor 20 Oakhill 60 37 Steve Palmer Heanor 19 12 Bolton 45 38 Richard Hancock Calder 17 13. Brighton 7 38 Natasha Perfect London 17 40 Richard Fenn Calder 16
Name Section Points 41 James Halley Sunderland 14
1 Julian Mortel Stockport 175 42 Paul Morphet Stockport 13 2 Ian Taylor Sunderland 150 43 David Clarke Central 12 3 Andy Horner Bury 140 Stuart Walsh MIC Stretford nia 4 Damian Field Central 130 45 George Fenwick London 10 5 Ian Clarke Fenland 120 46 Mark Bain Central 9 6 Will Sanderson Stockport 105 46 Steve Hope Fenland 9 7 Gerald Barker Crewe 100 46 Clive Sutton Wells Sunderland 9 8 lan Cooke Calder 90 49 Steve Giles London 8 9 Rob Parkin Heanor 80 49 Terry Lynch MIC Stretford 8 10 DavidLanglands Fenland 70 49 Paula Wallet Crewe 8 10 Traversn Wallet Crewe 70 Dave Albutt Crewe 7 12 Rik Warrington Bury 63 52 Geoff Downes Oakhill 7 13 ChrisGoode MIC Stretford 59 52 Bob Harber Brighton 7 14 AllenArmstrong Sunderland 57 52 Donald Lever Bury 7 PeterFoster Sunderland 50 56 Dowel Heanor 6 16 Jayne Clarke Fenland 46 56 Merlin Evans Stockport 6 16 Paul Silverman Heanor 46 56 Simon Piddick Fenland 6 18 Bob Duckworth Bury 40 56 Ron Taylor Sunderland 6 18 Simon Lawman Bolton 40 60 Rik Warrington Bury 6 18 Chi Tang Heanor 40 60 Christine Duckworth Bury 5 21 Martin Perfect London 36 60 SGascoyne Heanor 5 22 John Royle Fenland 31 60 AHollins Crewe 5 23 Ken Hodgins Stockport 30 60 Darren Reynolds Stockport 5 23 Mark Namgauds Crewe 30 60 Fred Smith Bolton 5 23 Edward Perfect London 30 60 Steve Walters Fenland 5
NATIONAL CLARION HILL CLIMB CHAMPIONSHIP
Under CTT Regulations 1 October 2006 Finkle Street Lane, Wortley, Sheffield.
Event Secretary: Peter Roscoe, mins 6 Horncastle Close, Bury BL8 1XE 1 Peter Foster Sunderland 251.6 Tel: 0161 761 6856 email: proscoe@beeb.net 2 Andy Horner Bury 257.4 Timekeeper: Keith Lightfoot 3 Ian Clarke Fenland 303.3 4 Andrew Spittlehouse Calder 308.4 Andy Homer made a determined bid fora third Clarion Hill 5 Chris Goode Manchester Stretford 3 18.2 climb championship but his current form was no match for 6 Edward Perfect London 328.7 determined 17 year old Peter Foster who finished with a six 7 Jayne Clarke Fenland 341.0 second advantage. Jayne Clarke was again the fastest lady Martin Perfect London but on a day of a strong headwind she was 13 seconds adrift RobertDuckworth Bury i 4 10. Richard Hancock Calder 4115 the ladies record that she holds. Those at the bottom of the gs 11 Richard Fenn Calder 414.5 table always deserve recognition for without them where 5 12 Allan Smith Sunderland 416.9 would our sport be. Records were set up by Donald Lever on 13. Jamies Halle Sunretand 423.0 a folding bike and collector of veteran cycles Merlin Evans, 14 ‘alion Armée Same 4287 who rode his 1935 roadster with rod brakes and westwood 45 Natasha Perfect London 4278 rims. Grandmother Christine Duckworth rode gamely to 46 Charles Jepson Oakhill 5013 complete the nice mix of serious and fun riders that support 47 George Fenwick London 5018 this event. have now run this event for the last 8 yearsand 1g Stuart Walsh Manchester Stretford 5 17.8 this is the best entry during this time. Thanks to Keith 19 Terry Lynch Manchester Stretford 5 22.2 Lightfoot for timing, Merlin Evans for pushing off and Jean 20 Donald Lever Bury 557.6 Lever for posting times to the result board. 21° Merlin Evans Stockport 626.3 Peter 22 Christine Duckworth Bury 818.8
‘Merlin Evans pe jantly on this 1935 bike 7 National Clarion Time Trial Championship 2006 Latest information Name Section 25 50 100 mph 1 Derek Hodgins Stockport 56 27 2 01 26 41719 24.865 2 Dave Albutt Crewe 59 40 2 03 22 41759 24.238 3. Vince Eastwood Bury 1 04 50 2 14 50 4 46 28 22.110 4 Bob Harber Brighton 1 05 33 217 28 4 46 51 21.875 5 Kath Smith Nottingham 1 10 30 217 38 45850 21.051
5
NATIONAL CLARION RECORDS
New record setters will receive a certificate in recognition of their achievement and everlasting glory
Men (Bicycle)
10 Mile: D.Langlands (Fenland) 19.57 (1998)
ile: PHodgkinson (Crewe) 51.29 (1996) G.Wharton (Notts) 1.06.01 (1993)
50 Mile: A.Roberts (Crewe) 1.45.00 (1997)
100 Mile: A.Roberts (Crewe) 3.48.48 (1997)
1 Hour: D.Hodgins (Stockport) 42.409km (1995) 12 Hour: R.Hodgkinson (Crewe) 270.99 (1995) 24 Hour: M.Botteley (Fenland) 469.277 (2002) Juvenile (Bicycle)
10 Mile: David Lunds (Teeside) 22.35 (1980) Junior (Bicycle)
10 Mile: Paul Hodgkinson (Crewe) 21.23 (1989) 25 Mile: James Williamson (Crewe) 56.10 (1998) Women (Bicycle)
10 Mile: L.Clarke (Fenland) 22.11 (1994)
25 Mile: C.Spotswood (Crewe) 57.18 (1997)
30 Mile: K.Smith (Notts) 1.14.30 (2003)
50 Mile: C.Roberts (Crewe) 1.59.35 (1987)
100 Mile:C.Roberts (Crewe) 4.10.03 (1994)
12 Hour: C.Roberts (Crewe) 256.78 (1994)
24 Hour: C.Roberts (Crewe) 461.446 (1993) Veterans (Bicycle) Men
10 Mile: Homer (Bolton) 21.09 (2005)
25 Mile: R.Hodgkinson (Crewe) 54.16 (1994)
30 Mile: Derek Hodgins (Stockport) 1.08.11 (2000) 50 Mile: R.Hodgkinson (Crewe) 1.50.09 (1994) 100 Mile: R, Hodgkinson (Crewe) 3.52.48 (1994)
1 Hour: D.Hodgins (Stockport) 42.409 km
12 Ho lodgkinson (Crewe) 270.99 (1995) 24 Hour: K;Clarke (Fenland) 414.787 (1975) Veterans: (Bicycle) Women
30 Mile: K.Smith (Notts) 1.14.30 (2003)
Tricycle
10 Mile: Not claimed
25 Mile: W.Fisher (Sunderland) 1.03.58 (1986) equalled by V. Trigger (Crewe) 1.03.58 (1992)
30 Mile: Not claimed
50 Mile: V.Trigger (Crewe) 2.05.53 (1992)
100 Mile: V.Trigger (Crewe) 4.54.50 (1990)
12 Hour: V.Trigger (Crewe) 218.00 (1990)
24 Hour: Not claimed
Tandem (Men)
10 Mile: D.Hinde/ A.Roberts (Crewe) 18.59 (1982) 25 Mile: A.Barraclough/ A.Wray (Calder) 48.35 (1984) 30 Mile: J.Waddilove/B.Waddilove (Crewe) 1.03.40 (1986) 50 Mile: Not claimed
100 Mile:A. Wray/K. Hartley (Calder) 3.56.50 (1985) 12 Hour: Not claimed
24 Hour: Not claimed
Vet Tandem
10 Mile: A.Wray/K.Hartley (Calder) 21.20 (1982) Tandem (Mixed)
10 Mile: D.Hinde/J.Connell (Crewe) 20.03 (1985) 25 Mile: D.Hinde/J.Connell (Crewe) 50.02 (1985) 30 Mile: Not claimed
50 Mile:C. Roberts/A.Roberts (Crewe) 1.51.35 (1991) 100 Mile: Not claimed
12 Hour: Not claimed
24 Hour: Not claimed
Team Records
10 Mile Vet. Tandem:
A.Wray/K.Hartley (Calder) 21.20 R.Asquith/ A.Lumley (Calder) 21.17 (1982) D.Smithers/L.Smithers (Calder) 22.09
50 Mile Bicycle:
FTaylor (Notts/Derby) 1.46.01
D.Hoe (Notts/Derby) 1.51.05 (1976) FGrafton (Notts/Derby) 1.53.50
12 Hour Bicycle:
Roberts (Crewe) 262.81 R.Hodgkinson (Crewe) 257.51 (1994) C.Roberts (Crewe) 253.88
24 Hour Bicycle K.Clarke (Fenland) W.Airey (Fenland) R.Glover (Fenland) Track Team Pursuit
1.Clarke (Fenland)
D.Langlands (Fenland)
J.Mortel (Stockport)
WSanderson (Stockport) 4.45.274
Super Veterans
10 Mile TT:
60 69 Derek Hodgins (Stockport) 22.03 (2002)
25 Mile TT
60 69 Derek Hodgins (Stockport) 55.14 (1997)
30 Mile TT
60 69 Derek Hodgins (Stockport) 1.08.11 (2000)
50 Mile TT
60 69 Derek Hodgins (Stockport) 22.03 (2002)
100 Mile TT
60 69 Derek Hodgins (Stockport) 3.56.02 (1997)
1 Hour
60 69 Derek Hodgins (Stockport) 42.409km (1995) National Record
12 Hours
60 69 Derek Hodgins (Stockport) 253.150 (1996)
24 Hour
50 59 Ken.Clarke (Fenland) 414.787 67 481.787 (1975)
60 69 Ken Hartley (Calder) 400.79 69.65 470.44 (1987)
Indoor Track Records
5km Derek Hodgins (Stockport) 6m.54.506s (1995) 10km Derek Hodgins (Stockport) 13m.55.202s (1995) 20km ~Derek Hodgins (Stockport) 27m.57.085s (1995)
5 Mile Derek Hodgins (Stockport) 11m.10.226s (1995) 10 Mile Derek Hodgins (Stockport) 22m.27.402s (1995) 25 Mile Derek Hodgins (Stockport) 56m.00.506s (1995) 1 Hour Derek Hodgins (Stockport) 26.351 miles (1995) Veteran Standard Records (25, 50, 100)
40 49 Arthur Hutchinson (Teeside)
23.66 4.39 28.05 (1972)
50 59 Roy Hodgkinson (Crewe)
26.85 7.03 33.88 (1995)
60 69 Derek Hodgins (Stockport)
26.251 7.99 34.241 (1997)
392.047 376.111 total 1138.631 miles (1975) 370.473
Claims for records can be sent by Section Secretaries or by individuals to the Records Secretary,
Mrs. Audrey Waddilove, 36 Brookland Drive, Sandbach,Cheshire CW11 2LX.
She needs to know: DATE, EVENT, COURSE NUMBER and YOUR RESULT.
To be a Record Holder at any level of sportis a really meaningful thing as it gives others the incentive to improve, so our National Record Holders really do deserve a BIG VOTE OF THANKS.
They have done their bit for The National Clarion, will you do yours?
NATIONAL CLARION TRACK CHAMPIONSHIPS
03-Sep-06 Newcastle-under-Lyme
The Omnium
Julian Mortel Stockport Tan Clarke Fenland William Sanderson Stockport Dave Langlands Fenland Mike Cowland Fenland Steve Smith Oakhill Paul Morphet Crewe dayne Clarke Fenland Darren Reynolds Stockport
Event 1 Unknown Distance
Julian Mortel William Sanderson Mike Cowland
lan Clarke
dayne Clarke
Paul Morphet Darren Reynolds
Event 2 200 metre time trial
Event 3 Devil Take the Hindmost
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Dave Langlands 12.93 Tan Clarke 13.53 William Sanderson 13.70 Julian Mortel 13.80 Steve Smith 13.85 Darren Reynolds 14.40 Mike Cowland 14.47 Paul Morphet 14.60 dayne Clarke 15.46
William Sanderson lan Clarke
Julian Mortel Dave Langlands Steve Smith
Paul Morphet dayne Clarke Darren Reynolds
Event 5 500 metre time trial
Mike Cowland 41.00 Tan Clarke 41.12 Steve Smith 42.40 Dave Langlands 42.40 William Sanderson 42.70 Darren Reynolds 46.80 dayne Clarke 47.50
Paul Morphet 51.50
220 190 190 160 103 52 39 33 18
Event 6 Indvidual Pursuit event 6 Dave Langlands
Julian Mortel
Jan Clarke
William Sanderson
Mike Cowland
Jayne Clarke
Event 7 Points Race 1 William Sanderson
2 Mike Cowland
3 Ian Clarke
4 Julian Mortel
Sprint Event 8 Heat 1
Dave Langlands dulian Mortel
Heat 2 lan Clarke William Sanderson
Final Dave Langlands lan Clarke
Third Place Julian Mortel William Sanderson
Ride over
Event 9 (Modified_; Scratch Race 1 Steve Smith
2 Paul Morphet
3. dayne Clarke
Team Pursuit 3000mtrs Fenland
1 Ian Clarke, Mike Cowland, Dave Langlands Stockport 2 Julian Mortel, Darren Reynolds, William Sanderson.
5 Mile
Julian Mortel David Langlands Jan Clarke
Mike Cowland William Sanderson Steve Smith
to quote this Acc number N2102
book and many great things for the outdoors.
www.cotswoldoutdoor.com
Clarion members now have a new benefit, that can save them many pounds.
We have a group discount set up under the name of the National Clarion Cycling Club at any of their 23 stores around the UK. You will need to carry your Clarion membership card as proof, plus you may need
return you will save 10% on all purchases, for items such as outdoors clothing, camping equipment, maps
dust think, buying a new waterproof jacket for £60 could pay for your Clarion membership.
Several years ago through some
reading
old Clarion literature I was
made aware that during the 1950's there had existed in the nearby Lancashire town of Padiham, the Clarion Cycle Works. I decide that I would try to obtain a ‘Clarion’ frame but alas the works, an historical monument to our Movement, had long since disappeared to be replace by a car-park. When I have a bit of time to spare might start a campaign to get a Blue Plaque erected. It was now that Robin Hatherell of the Ribble Valley C &AC came to my rescue, firstly by telling me that the Clarion Cycle Works had been owned by the renown Lancashire frame builder and Clarion member Adam Hill and secondly that the frames produced at the Padiham works were not ‘Clarion frames’ but ‘Hill Specials’, the Rolls Royce of frames.
Robin in fact has written a most informative leaflet ‘The story of Hill Special cycle frames’ and is currently busy compiling a register of all existing ‘Hill’ frames. Better still Robin is able to supple the original ‘Padiham’ transfers.
Having read Robin's leaflet now was a great deal wiser but still didn’t have a frame, a problem which was resolved sooner than I expected. Passing the time of day with Ken Hartley, President of Blackburn CTC up at the Nelson ILP Clarion Tearoom at Roughlee I mentioned I would dearly like to own a Hill Special to which Ken replied he had a couple of frames and could have one for a nominal donation to a
8
My new ‘old’ bike, a Rolls Royce of frames.
cycling charity he supports. The following day I collected my ‘Hill Special Road Pathe’ track frame, just what I wanted as had been promising Tony Bowles of Bolton Clarion for some time that I would follow his example and take up riding ‘fixed’ on the road. The frame was re-sprayed at Ellis Briggs in its original colours, the head and seat post transfers are particularly elaborate being the Coat of Arms of Padiham and town motto of ‘Virtutis Fortuna Comes’ ‘Fortune, the companion of Valour’. Hill Special transfers (and in fact most cycle transfers) are readily available from Nick Tithecott, at H Lloyd Cycles in Penrith.
The first outing of my new ‘old'frame was the Clarion Hill Climb Championship at the Autumn Wortley Meet, my slow time sadly had little to do with me showing off my new frame!
If any members own a Hill Special please let Robin have the fame number and some details of the bike’s history if known. If any members would like one of Robin’s leaflets just drop me a line and will send them one through the post. Finally if you see a Hill Special for sale buy it, because riding a piece of Clarion history, even slowly, is a really meaningful thing to do.
Footnote: Ribble Valley C AC recently donated a splendid cup to the Club which is now being used as one of our National Championship Track trophies. The Cup was originally
donated to the Clarion by Adam Hill. Charles Jepson
April 6" te 9° 2667
PROGRAMME OF EVENTS
Friday 6" April
6pm onwards Meet at Headquarters The Green Dragon, for drinks and gathering. Registration and collect meet ribbon.
7pm-8pm Civic Reception with the Mayor Councillor Robert Preece The Mayoress. For welcome drinks and nibbles.
Saturday 7" April
10am-12pm Annual conference at the Green Dragon in the Devereux room.
2pm 2-Up 10 Time-trial (C1016 Allensmore circuit) an interclub event between the Clarion and Hereford Wheelers with entries (£4 per rider) 2 weeks before. To Francis Grafton, 29 Cyril Road, West Bridgeford, Notts. NG2 5JW HQ at Allensmore. 2pm also Cycle Jumble at the TT HQ at Allensmore. For details, contact: Alvin Smith 01568 770327
8pm-11.30pm_ Evening entertainment: LOS SQUIDEROS wholesome Latin beats with ska and tex-mex www.squidstage.co.uk Plus some special Clarion section ‘team games’
Sunday 8" April
10am CYCLO-SPORTIVE (leisure or reliability ride) From Green Dragon. Ride to Hay on Wye, along the Golden Valley to cross the Welsh border and back (100km). Another shorter ride (50km)
Or Tour the historic Cathedral City of Hereford details to be advised. Afternoon Relax in a bar/café with Clarion chums
7pm-11.30pm ANNUAL DINNER AND PRIZE PRESENTATION Attended by the Mayor Mayoress of Hereford Councillor Robert Preece. All annual racing and non-racing awards to be presented. other awards to include: Mileage award for riding to Hereford, attendance award, photographic competition. Dinner menus and deposit forms will be sent out soon.
Monday 18" April
gam 25 mile time-trial (open event see CTT Handbook) Hereford Wheelers course R25/8C Weobley.
Easter Meet Levy £32.00 (£27.00 for U16s)
Includes all evening entertainment for Friday through to Sunday and the annual dinner on Sunday. Contact Jayne lan Clarke on 01767 314207, email: clarioncc@ntlworld.com Headquarters at the Green Dragon Hotel, special rate agreed £60 per room per night. Tel: 01432 272506 or www.greendragon-hereford.co.uk www. visitherefordshire.co.uk
I wonder how many Clarion members actively engage in promoting road safety seeing their MP writing letters to the press and donating to organisations that campaign for road safety measures. As a token first step Bury Section have a proposal for Easter conference that the Clarion makes an affiliation donation of £25.00 to
ROAD SAFETY
cycling clubs paid an affiliation fee to this organisation maybe your section did. The more of us that actively campaign for improved road safety the better chance we have of ensuring the future of our wonderful pastime which must I opine be an ‘hope for the world’ when we consider the environmental issue.
Peter Roscoe
RoadPeace. After last year's Rhyl tragedy many
Following some very satisfying rides on our ‘wedding’ tandem, Jayne and I have been considering getting some fast kit to shave a few seconds off our times. We leven considered buying some fast wheels for each lother last Christmas. Where better to get advice than from the fastest tandem duo in the country: Sean Yates land Michael Hutchinson. We emailed Sean's website land Sean himself came back to us with this reply:
Hi, me and the Hutch, and also when i ride with my brother used a Zipp 909 on the back and a Hed tri
Tandem advice by Yatesey and The Hutch’
spoke on the front. I had the best Bontrager tubs on at! 15 atmospheres. Plus Ceramic bearings, very fast. It| will be an expensive Christmas, sorry. All the best. Sean"
Time and money didn't allow us to get the wheels o: our dreams, so Jayne had to settle for a new winter| bike and for me a workshop stand to keep the bikes| serviced....Maybe it should be an anniversary present, which year is carbon? or ceramic?
lan Jayne Clarke
Bryan Lander
This year it will be ten years since the
night when he sat in our dinning
National Clarion lost one of its quietest but most dedicated members "Bryn Lander" (1958/97), a Clarion member of extraodinary determination and courage who overcame life threatening surgery and still came backand rode his bike.
The lasting memory I have of Bryn, is of him glued to my back wheel in the Bolton Clarion Centenary Audex (100Km) and the big beaming smile "ear to ear" as we arrived back at the finish, his award of the "Ward Gosling Trophy" when after he said "This is the first thing that I have ever won", and every Tuesday
room quizzing me about the Clarion of the late 1940's and the 1950's or in the garage fiddling with bike's, these are things I will never forget.
He was a member of Bolton Section, later Bury and the National Committee. One of his main interests in life was for people to "Get on there bike's" and the continuing success of the National Clarion Cycling Club.
The Bryan Lander Tree, PINUS RIGIDA, “Northern Pitch Pine< Habitat, North East America, Planted, 6-11-97
A true cyclist and a lover of Rivington, where his partner "Lois" planted a tree in his memory.
10
Ray Cox remembered 70 years on.
‘Ray Cox is dead but democracy lives’ so read the banner headline of the January 1937 edition of ‘Boots’, the journal of the Southern Counties Union of National Clarion Cycling Clubs.
The article went on to report that Ray, one of the founders of Southampton Clarion Cycling Club and Secretary of the London and Southern Counties Union of Clarion Cycling Clubs had been killed in action during the Spanish Civil War. The editor wrote of Ray: he died as he lived, a gallant fighter for freedom. To his relatives we tender our deepest sympathy, whilst to the Southampton Section we tender our admiration of their fellow member, who has set the Section such a high standard of moral and physical courage for them to maintain. To the members of the London Union this heroic final act of self sacrifice should have an important lesson. The Union must with single heart and purpose resolve that everything humanly possible shall be done so that we shall play our small part in the mighty effort at present being waged by the forces of democracy, to ensure that the ideals for which Ray Cox gave his most precious possession, shall triumph.
On Saturday October 28th members of Oakhill Clarion and Bolton Wood Street Clarion joined former members of Southampton Clarion, members of the International Brigade Memorial Trust and Trade Unionist at Southampton Cenotaph for the unveiling of a commemorative plaque to Ray Cox and three other volunteers from Southampton who paid the ultimate sacrifice defending the ideals the held so dear. In his final letter home Ray wrote ‘I believe that by fighting for the Spanish government against the forces of fascism I shall be helping to preserve peace throughout Europe because if the Spanish Government win the war it will mean that a European conflict will be further off’. Ray Cox, Clarion cyclist, fell at Boadilla del Monte 15 miles west of Madrid and over 700 miles from the lanes
of Hampshire on 20th December 1936, age 22.
Footnote: In October 1937 the Southampton Section presented the Ray Cox Memorial Trophy to the Southampton and District Time Trial Association. Does any member know anything about this trophy?
Mr Albert Johnson
This letter was received from Australia and is a reminder of the powerful tie a love of cycling can be.
I wish to inform you of the passing of your esteemed member, Mr Albert Johnson.
His life passion was his Raleigh bicycle which he named ‘Matilda’ and still being aware of everything around himself he was in a nursing home and unable to have Matilda with him, but two days prior to his death thought it prudent to take Matilda for him to see that I was taking care of her. It was a pleasure to see his face light up and he was lost to everything around him, such was his love for his bike.
Cycling was his love and life as he had no family
to care for him; except my family which he
adopted as his own for sixteen years. So it is with sadness we bade farewell to The Old Pom as he called himself. Hoping there’s a Raleigh waiting somewhere up there which he can adopt. We thank you for the letters to him which kept him in touch with his past. Yours Faithfully
Clive Marvelley (for The Old Pom)
Round the Sections
Every issue of “Boots” will have a round up of local news or items of interest from the various Clarion Sections providing can put sufficient pressure on someone from each section to send the info to me. Please send me photos and text of your sections
activities and it will all go in.
B OLTON extract from their newsletter
Hereford or Bust. Easter Meet.
I know, I know Easter seems a long way off but as at this moment in time intend to ride, by bike of course to Hereford for the Clarion Meet. If anyone is interested in this epic journey please let me know. The distance as near as I can make out will be in the region of a hundred and twenty miles, not a lot when you consider that a tWo hundred kilometer audax is around 126 miles. Carrying a bit of luggage may be additional drag but as they say once you get it moving it’s not bad.
CRASH BANG WALLOP
Wellit had to happen sooner or later, yes I was a victim of some pretty bad riding in the bunch and went down with a fair bang. I did not know too much about it, these things happen in quick time, I lay winded on the trackside and like a true bikie wondered how the bike
Email: richard@hallane.com
was. Once could stand I made my way to the first aid station and I was OK I was relieved to find my bike undamaged. I race left and I decided that I should ride it to settle any crash nerves. Perhaps it was the adrenal rush, but I was better in that last race than I had been all night. However I don’t recommend crashing to boost performance. The next day I found shoulder grazed, bruised thigh and a bit out of my leg behind my knee. Asthe crash was no fault of mine my ego was intact so a few days recovery and I will be ready to go again.
‘My name is ‘Tigand I know nothing about saddlebags, mudguards or tools, filleted
lugs or fish. I don't listen to anyone and
I'm fast, I like to weave about then noone can pass me. I only race ladies and anyone who has the 'bonk’. Z I’m looking for a good club.
This character is entirely ficticious and any likeness to any cyclist
living or dead is purely accidental
BOLTON WOOD STREET
A YEAR TO REMEMBER
The formation of Bolton Wood Street Section has marked the Clarion's return to Bolton Socialist Club. It was Clarion readers and supporters who in the 1890s founded Bolton Socialist Party and set up a cooperative society to buy the Georgian building in the centre of the town. For more than eighty years of the last century the Clarion's headquarters were here. With over twenty members, Sunday outings have begun again, to be enjoyed by young and old of both sexes, cyclists and non-cyclists. The destinations have been chosen to appeal to the same kind of interests as those of the Clarion Field Clubs in former times. They have included the following:-
Clarion House, the tea-room in a beautiful Pendle
moorland setting, started by the Independent Labour Party pioneers of old.
Sunnyhurst Woods and Darwen Tower, beloved by Autumn Tints veteran riders, and by Clarion Ramblers over the years.
Heptonstall, Halifax, and Hebden Bridge over in West Yorkshire, where Clarion cyclists and choirs from both sides of the Pennines used to gather in their hundreds at Hardcastle Crags on Clarion Sunday (the second in July).
Saltaire, near Bradford, to admire the impressive architecture of the mills and streets in the model industrial community built by Titus Salt for his workers (and in his own interests as an employer!) Rivington, another area much loved by Clarion
cyclists, ramblers and socialist activists (and more recently the venue for Commonwealth Games cycling events). This will be an annual May Day ride, and will include a visit to the grave of Sarah Reddish, honouring the memory of one of Bolton Socialist Party's founders, who was a speaker with the very first Clarion Women's Van.
The Banner:
Saturdays at Wood Street over the first half of 2006 saw the painting of a marching banner, designed by Charles Jepson. More than thirty people of all ages, some from other Clarion Sections, contributed to this very enjoyable co-operative enterprise. One side of the banner pays homage to the courage of two Clarion cyclists who gave their lives in defence of democracy and freedom fighting against Franco's fascists in the Spanish Civil War. The reverse, for Bolton Socialist Party, carries the image of Sarah Reddish and the words ‘Labour Is The Source Of All Wealth’.
In July the banner was paraded for the first time at the annual Tolpuddle Martyrs Rally in Dorset. On one of the hottest days of the year, nine Clarion members from five sections walked proudly through the village under the banner, one amongst hundreds from trade unions and socialist groups from all over the country. It has since been displayed at the Peoples History Museum in Manchester, and in 2008 will be taken by Clarion cyclists from Glasgow to Barcelona to mark the 70th anniversary of a ride to raise money for the Spanish people in the Civil War.
It only remains to mention the Clarion Vocal Union or Choir, another revival of the old days at Wood Street. Monthly rehearsals under the skilful and enthusiastic guidance of Moira Hill (who also leads the Burnley Clarion Choir) have attracted up to a dozen members with varying degrees of singing ability. The first public performance will be in December and will include Billy Bragg's version of the 'The International’.
Denis Pye
BURY
Our section continues to maintain its steady progress with new members joining and pleasingly former member Philip Ball has chosen Bury Clarion despite moving to South Manchester. We have also welcomed fifteen years old Joshua Hunt, nephew of professional rider Jeremy Hunt. Although we have 42 paid up members our club runs are not very well supported. Still that seems to be the trend these days cyclists preferring to ride in small groups, which actually makes sense. Steven Hepworth has led some excellent evening training runs duly assisted by Vince Eastwood and John Yates. He is looking forward to doing this again next season. Also along with Vince Eastwood he will be organising regular mountain bike rides. It might be a good thing for more sections to think about widening their range of activities. There has been a suggestion that the Clarion should run a mountain bike championship. We have enjoyed witnessing some keen competition in the club this year. Fourteen years old Simon Yates was only eleven seconds behind Andy Horner in the hill climb championship. Simon's brother Adam was in third
place. We run this event in conjunction with a local Co-op group, which means we are able to offer excellent prizes for this enter on the line event. The tens competition was a triumph for Andy Horner who had to pull the stops out at the end of the season to beat season long leader Vince Eastwood. Vince though had the satisfaction of regaining the 50 miles championship and the time trial championship. He also won the 100 championships, which was last competed for in 1972. Finally it was pleasing to see new member, Rik Warrington, winning the end of season 25 championship with Andy Horner trailing in second place. Andy's son Simon was a runaway winner of the handicap championship, which is run in conjunction with this event. For many years now Bury Clarion has enjoyed a good representation at the Velodrome. Come back man Philip Ball and new member Nick Hall have both made their mark. Simon Horner has made excellent progress this year and mixes his track riding with cycle speedway at the Bury Track.
MANCHESTER STRETFORD
On 25 November the section met and enjoyed a tour of the People's History Museum. If you have not been it is on Bridge Street, close to Granada Studios. They have a section on the Clarion but the main focus is on trade union banners and popular protest. Denis Pye's Fellowship is life and Clarion postcards are on sale in the shop.
After the meeting we lunched at the Mark Addy and then had our AGM. It was good for the newer members to meet Arthur Wroe who joined the Clarion before the Second World War. Bert Allen is now our President, much better than Bush, and Andy Fisher is our Racing Secretary so we await our instructions for the coming season
The following day we met up with three comrades from Oakhill Clarion and enjoyed a ride to Knutsford and baek. Just a couple of punctures were experienced. The highlight was the largely traffic-free Tatton Park.
We will lead the Heritage ride from 10am at the People's History Museum (also known as the Pump House) to Rough Lee Clarion Café, Nelson, on Sunday 29 April. It will be good to see people from other sections.
Andy Fisher and Stuart Walsh of Manchester and Stretford Clarion competing in the Manchester and District TTA Christmas 10.
FENLAND
Fenland’s racing season began on Sunday 25th February with our “Place to Place” This is the first of our Club Championship series which runs through the summer and includes 10, 25, 50, a hillclimb (usually best average over three different hills all on the same Sunday morning and followed by a handsome dinner in the local pub.) This first event was well attended and 31 riders entered. The conditions were better than usual for this
event
early ride and no snow or ice was in evidence. Unlike most years.
This intrepid crew lost their way on a forty mile ride through
Lincolnshire and completed a 60 mile epic journey. Obviously no
one had brought the Sat Nav with them.
GET YOUR NEWS AND VIEWS ALL AROUND THE CLUB
EMAIL OR POST YOUR INFO TO:
Richard Newcombe, 67 Hall Lane,
Werrington, Peterborough PE4 6RA
or email: richard@hallane.com good sharp photos welcome, or high resolution jpeg if sent by email
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‘IT'LL BE REIGHT’ said Whik
Courtesy Sporting Cyclist, April 1968 and contributed by Harry Snape, one of the last two surviving members of the pre 1939 N.L.C& AC.
This humerous description of a Bath Road 100 ridden by members of North Lancs Clarion in 1946 might bring back memories of harder times when following our chosen sport. Not experienced so much these days with our advanced technology.
THESE days, of course, we wouldn't have got past Bolton.
The early-warning system would have swung into operation: the Civil Defence would have been alerted: policemen would have pounced, and six inoffensive citizens would soon have been “helping the police with their enquiries.” But in the year 1946, with the rigours of a lately concluded war still upon us, the sight of an old 10 h,p. Morris with six bodies and towing a four-bike trailer, lurching erratically towards Theale and the Bath Road passed almost unnoticed. Personnel of this dauntless expedition consisted of four “racers,” Messrs. Addison, Beard, Greenhalgh and self, and two “mechanics,” Len Rowbottom and Eddie Whittaker, all members of the North Lanes. Clarion intent on discovering what was so wonderful about the Bath Road 100.
The undoubted hero of the aforementioned Whittaker, “Whik” to his associates. A quite capable 25- and 50-miler in his day, he was a
trip was the
completely unflappable Lancastrian whose coat-ofarms would surely have been two crossed hammers on a background of oily rags with the motto “It’'l be reight” translated “Everything will be all right.” That, at least, was Whik’s view. After an incidentpacked voyage, in which Whik displayed remarkable engineering virtuosity, doing unheard of things with contact-breaker points and lighting “electrics,” after at least four rear-wheel punctures, through which we improved our team time-trial performance for wheelchanging to 61 minutes, we were beginning to wonder!
I know that to at least one dear old lady, our unsteady progress southwards was far from, “reight.” We were descending a hill some where on the outskirts of Rowley Regis (yes, off course!) and she was approaching us quite sedately on a high, loop-framed
1S
bicycle. Suddenly the front wheels of the Morris began to shimmy, only slightly at first, but building up into more and more violent tremors that threatened to turn the whole contraption into a shower of nuts and bolts.
The old lady goggled for a moment
and then, with a leap that would have done credit to a mountain goat she was off the road, over the footpath and into the hedge complete with bicycle. “King-pins are a bit worn,” said Whik briefly as the shimmying died down. There was more than a hint of nervous relief in our laughter; and I certainly agreed with his diagnosis, for while we were loading at Blackburn I had casually tried the steering wheel. It could be moved through at least 45 degrees of arc without affecting the front wheels in the slightest!
We were most relieved when we finally reached A4, for qualifying for the revered Bath Road “100” had been a ticklish matter.
“Entry forms are sent only to club officials,” replied the secretary at my first time of asking. So a subsequent request carried my full style and title. Now the four of us were in the field of 100 with “accommodation reserved at Mac’s cafe.” What an experience those few words held!
If it had not been for the neon tubing, the smell of chips and the absence of sentries, Mac’s in 1946 could very well have been an outpost of the Foreign Legion. But to wanderers from the northern wastlands it was a welcome sight, in the warmth of a lovely summer evening we parked the gallant Morris traightened the kinks in limbs and spines, set the bicycles to rights and made the acquaintance of bods who till then had been just famous names.
In the case of Shake Earnshaw however, it was a renewal of acquaintance. He, Alf Martin and Edd Larkin had -been frequent visitors to Brock in the days before Shake turned pro for Hercules and set about modernising the record books.
The Monckton trio used to spend much more time in the “Green Man” than ever they did on the “25” course.
Now here was Shake again, that famous centre-
parting and all, on an old “Claud Butler” that the Savernake turn and took 1-28 for the final 27 someone had probably given to him. He was either miles. But apart from all this we enjoyed the change unable or unwilling to buy a bed, and spent the night of scene, the presence of the exalted ones, the smooth on the floor of our dormitory wrapped couple of black tarmac along the A4, and the splendid blankets which we loaned him. And with hisheadon organisation.
the hearth of the stove he had a better night's sleep Young Greenhalgh did best with 4-42-55 for 21st than any of us. Such were the ways of the fast-man place. was down to 55th, just below Backshee then. Wheeler and Eric Mustill “Meals at any hour” had with 4-53-23; Harry Beard meant that we dined at 9.30 dida “personal” of 4-55-56 p.m. onsteak-pie and chips. and poor Addy was 7min The night was stiflingly hot outside evens.
and the thick rough blankets Well, where are they now, were soon pushed aside. those 75 finishers in that Despite a little worry about “Bath Road 100° open scratch on the road” as the card has it, of more than 21 years-ago?
awakening in time to be off at 5.2 a.m. must
Some of them are still batting on. Arch Harding certainly is, and to some
The 1946 “expedition” outside Mac’s. Aspden is third from right, standing; centre of bottom row is “Shake,” far right, crouching, {4,01 1-1-28, 2-4-55, 4-27the unflappable chauffeur, Whik 3 and 240.4 miks at 54 last
Siberiain express passed right down the middle of the hut! Loaded with empty milk-churns it was too.
Our “bedroom” was a converted railway carriage, season has made him Vets’ national B.A.R. for the and just as an ex- cavalry horse can never forget the eighth time, Ron Brown, Alf Plant, Cliff Baxter, Eric bugle, so this veteran wagon-lit responded to the call Madgett, Sid Hayward, Charlie Alexander and Eric of her kind. She quivered with eagerness to be riding Mustill are others we hear
again the tracks which, unnoticed by us, were atthe about, to say nothing of veteran; time-keepers bottom of the garden. Only when the rumble re- Beauchamp, J. C., and Austin, R. J.
ceded was she still again. But the process was Ourlittle gang is scattered to three of the four corners. repeated several times on that hot and sticky night, Addison must be a West Australian tycoon by now, and so far from over-sleeping, it was a relief to be up but we never hear from him:
and about at 4.a.m. Greenhalgh has been instilling learning into British The race itself was something of an anti-climax. Columbians for several years and now a prized Personally, that is, for a certain Mr. Harding won for possession is a 40ft ketch which he built himself and the third time in four years, setting a new competition christened “The Vas-y’ which used to be our cri-derecord of 4-17-46. guerre.
dust 2min slower in 2nd place was Albert Derbyshire Whik and Rowbottom are both around but not who three months earlier had done 4-20-23 in the cycling any more or driving old Morrises and only Calleva 100, beating Shake’s 1938 record figures of Beard and [are left to keep the flag aloft, if not exactly 4-20-48. flying.
We found the warm morning and heavy mist along But on the rare occasions when we do meet and the the Thames Valley enervating after the bracing air of reminiscing begins, it is not lon’g before a mention of our northern climes: I was wasting my time on “83” the Bath Road “100” brings on the giggles and much fixed: a rear-wheel puncture (h.p. front and tubular repetition of a phrase that has passed into legend rear) cost me 5min and much morale: Tom Addison “IT'LL BE REIGHT.”
had one of his celebrated and monumental bonks at
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Re Future Direction of the Clarion Since joining Stockport Clarion in 1991, (a drinking
club with a cycling habit) I have enjoyed the fellowship and comradery of my fellow club members and to an ever growing extent those of other sections through discourse at such National events as the Easter Meet and Wortley Hall. It was at these events that I realised it was not just Stockport that could put the beer away, if not at the same rate aptitude other sections also liked a drink.
Through my years in the Clarion I have now calmed down, however such levels of tolerance would only be shown bya group of cyclists such as the Clarion. Only social cyclists can appreciate the need for relief rehydration following such great efforts in the saddle. My real point is, through my years as a Clarion member have come to learn of the clubs fantastic history and how the love of riding a bike and the sense of achievement gained has not really changed over the many, many years, whatever your background or beliefs. At no point have felt overwhelmed by the fact that the Clarion has ‘political’ roots, as basically 1 am a member of a cycling club, not a political party.
In summary there are Great Cycling Clubs and Social Cycling Clubs and we are the best of both. Lets keep it there.
Julian Stockport
I joined Notts Derby Clarion C&AC in 1965. I was 15, still at school, and had become interested in cycling when my dad bought me a second hand bike to help me cope with what must have been the hardest paper round in Nottingham. Not coming from a cycling family, I started riding out with one or two mates, and got to read ‘Cycling Weekly’ before delivering it on the paper round. One week I noticed there was to be a road race just outside Nottingham, so thought I would ride out have a look. As I got to the outskirts of Nottingham I saw racing cyclists coming the other way, passing a bloke with a clipboard and watch, and then collapsing at the side of the road. This must be it I thought (yes I know, I was so green I didn't know the difference between a Time Trial and a Road Race). So stopped to talk to the
17
bloke with the clipboard, who was Henry Lloyd (Mr Nottingham Clarion). He explained that he was timing a Notts Derby Clarion club time trial, the Nottingham to Lincoln and back, and that if waited a while they were all going to watch the road race afterwards. So that I did, and later saw my first road race which ended with a huge bunch sprint won by Terry Coging of Notts Derby Clarion! So I was hooked. The following Monday I was at the clubroom asking what I needed to do to joit and be able to race.'Well you have to join the National Club, and then you can join the C&AC, then you can race.’ Seemed a bit complicated but whatever it took, wanted in.
There followed years of clubruns, pubs, racing, pubs, touring, pubs, youth hostels, and the occasional pub. Wonderful years with great memories, but the point I really want to make is that in all that time, felt that I was part of a cycling organisation. never felt that I had joined up to a political party. Over the years 1 came to learn the history of the Clarion, how it helped introduce to the working class not only cycling, but many forms of recreation, and through attending Easter Meets and Wortley Hall I became aware of its part in political history, and that these events were a celebration of that history. I always felt that this was history, and that the Clarion Cycling Club had evolved into an association of cycling clubs that promoted competition and socialising between its sections, and was open to all.
I have been disappointed over recent years to see the National Clarion Cycling Club being used as a vehicle for some sort of Socialist revival, and I am not happy that the possible effect of my being a Clarion member would give anyone a misconception of my politics. It is not what I signed up to all those years ago. I don't think it is what most of my clubmates at the time signed up to, and certainly not what most of our current members want. There's a popular saying at the moment taken from an advert' it does what it says on the tin’. Well the tin I bought in 1965 said 'Cycling Club’. There was no small print saying 'may contain
politics’. Paul Harwood Nottingham Clarion CC
Charles Jepson (Oakhill Clarion) candidate for the
post of National Secretary
Dear Comrades,
When the National Committee appointed me to the post of National Secretary at the Morecambe Easter Meetin 2003. I stated quite publicly that in order to take the Clarion forward I believe we had to return to the Socialist principles of the founders in 1894.1 did not say we had to live in the past, simply that if the Clarion
was to survive and the dramatic decline in membership be arrested (the Minutes of the Whitby Conference 2002 recorded membership as 336) we had to look to those things that, for over 112 years had made the Clarion different from every other ‘good bike club’ in the land. The past three years have seen a growth in both membership and in the number of Clarion Sections, but more importantly there has been a great awakening throughout the land that the Clarion of old is alive and kicking. Three years ago Tony Bowles (a self confessed non-Socialist) from Botton Clarion suggested the Club booked a Stall at the CTC York Rally, a difficult proposition for some of us, but we went. Tony and some of the Bolton comrades came along to assist. All weekend we were faced with gasps of surprise ‘It’s my old Club, thought it died out years ago’, ‘The Clarion! I didn’t know it still existed’. They do now and our membership now stands at over 700).
I served the Clarion as National Secretary for three years and I stand for election once again. My position remains unchanged, am proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with those comrades of old who stuck by the Club and its Socialist principles when it was unfashionable to do so. In the 1960's Jim Straker, wrote in Boots and Spurs:
“For some years now the fortunes of the Clarion have been in decline... If we desire to keep the Clarion alive then there must, in my opinion, be a purpose for survival. Most of us know, or should know, why we exist at all. Our origin was based on a new way of life and not merely on the pleasure of cycling. It is my belief that if ever the Clarion ceases to have any association with its Socialist ideals then it ceases to
have a reason for existence.
I joined the Clarion BECAUSE it was a Socialist organization. didn’t expect to talk politics on club runs or to hear economies theories expounded at club meetings. What did expect, and I was not disappointed, was to join a company of cyclists who were interested in human beings and whose behaviour, was based on the principles they held, would provide a comradeship far deeper than a mere love of cycling.
In recent years the cry has grown to drop our political tags and then we would prosper. Well, we watered down the constitution, cut the political slogan from our notepaper, stopped addressing our letters “Dear Comrade” and it hasn't worked.
The Clarion helped to make history. In the days when the working classes were overworked, underpaid and underprivileged, the Clarion men and women were in the forefront of those who expounded the theories for anew way of life and who helped to bring about the materials benefits we enjoy today. I am proud to be part of the Clarion ideals.
Whatever else we decide, I think we should reiterate and stand fast to our origins of Socialism Hope of the
World. If we lose this then the would-be cyclist might just as well toss a coin to decide the club he joins, there won't any difference” The fight to keep the Clarion different from every other cycling club will not be lost and for some at least Socialism and cycling will remain The Hope of the World.
1 would urge all members to participate in the democratic process. If your Section holds regular Club night, go along and make your voice heard. If your Section has a ‘democratic centralist’ structure make your views know to your Secretary or a member of your committee. Finally please do seriously consider attending the Easter Meet in Hereford this annual gathering of comrade old and new is one of those very special occasions that has for the past 112 made the Clarion so much more than just a ‘good bike club’.
Note: The figure 300 would have been paid up members as of conference and not at year end.
lan Clarke (Fenland Clarion) candidate for the post of
National Secretary
Dear Member
As a member of the Clarion since 1975, a committee member since 1981 and National secretary from 1991 to 98, the National Clarion Cycling Club has been a big part of my life and is held dear to me. Not just the club, but the friends in it, the events and also its unique history. The Clarion is still unique today, as it is the only ‘national’ cycling club (bike club), rather than being an association.
I want to be open and honest in this letter, so that you can understand why am prepared to stand again as National Secretary and why I am in favour of recent committee approved motions to our conference in 2007 (that I proposed). These motions to conference are intended to make the Clarion a non-political cycling club. Just as we have been (by action) up until the last few years.
These proposals are summarised as follows: (detail will be sent to secretaries)
a. ‘Fellowship is Life' will be the only slogan or motto used by the Clarion.
b. To change the wording of the objects of our club, to: "Promote leisure or competitive cycling as a lifestyle choice that is environmentally sustainable and beneficial to the physical and mental health of society. To encourage good fellowship and a sociable spirit. To recognise the historical impact and the connection between socialism and the
Clarion movement."
Despite my respect for the Clarion's origins, have been increasingly uncomfortable over the last few years with the way that our previous Secretary, Charles Jepson, has steered us back towards being a socialist movement that supports political activity. Whilst thank Charles for his hard work as Secretary, I personally do not think that this should be the future of this cycling club of ours. Why do feel like this? Well, certainly as long as I've been in the Clarion, it has remained strong and important, as first and foremost, a cycling club. It has concerned me lately, by the number of discussions have had, that existing cycling members seem alienated by Charles' socialist revival activities and have begun to be frightened away, if not from their own sections, but from taking
19
part in our National activities. This is a trend that 1 want to stop and want people to know that as Secretary would be non-political in any activities that lam asked to do.
But please do not assume that in wanting a nonpolitical club, this makes me somehow anti-socialist, or anti-anything. No, am only FOR-cycling!
some of you, this will be a passionate topic and you may feel that these actions (and my nomination) will detract away from your own beliefs and your own hard-working efforts for the Clarion. I genuinely appreciate all the efforts made by officials of the Clarion and its sections, but I also know that for most people this is for the love of the Clarion Cycling Club and our sport or pastime. also do not feel that these changes (if carried by conference) will damage the club, in fact I hope it will allow the club to grow as an open cycling club where anyone, from any background, feels welcome and included.
For others, you may by now be feeling that this is a political issue, for me it is not. It is a campaign for the Clarion to be A-political. ask everyone to make sure that their subs are paid early this year and that they instruct their section delegates on how to vote at conference. If you don't pay your subs, your vote does not count. If you don't speak to your delegates who are going to conference, they may vote how they personally feel. If your section does not send delegates to conference, then the votes will go in the direction of those that do. Please take part in this process, I know many will, so it matters that you do too!
Finally, as a secretary, would always consider this to be an administrative role that should be directed by conference and committee. The secretary should also follow the views and feelings of the majority of the membership. Democracy should be paramount and I will accept the decision carried by conference.
If anyone wishes to discuss these matters with me, they can call or email me.
Yours in sport
Ian Clarke Fenland Section clarioncc@ntlworld.com
THE WORTLEY WEEKEND OCTOBER 2007
Thirty members were attracted to this weekend of conviviality and fellowship which is arguably AN ‘Hope of the World for all its citizens of this now global village. We kicked off on Friday night with a session in the Bar, most of us making use of the bar meal facility. Then an innovation the fall guy organiser (myself) brought along some games for knock out competitions. Donald Lever, membership Secretary, beat of all opponents to take the Clarion Snooker ‘Championship’. Draughts Christine Duckworth and Jean Lever gave up their final match and settled for a draw. Edward of the Perfect family won the game of Downfall. It was a pleasure to meet up with Natasha who has now joined the Perfect clan by marrying Edward. Comments on the following days 10 miles time trial and Sunday's Hill climb trial are printed elsewhere but we also had the usual walk led by Steve Heath and the clubrun led by George Fenwick on the Saturday afternoon. In the evening it was the annual Wortley dinner. This is a very cosy affair after which I proposed a toast to the Clarion
Spirit or should I say that was the plan but it got mixed
finalists
up with a play on the word pianist and his 12inch stature (think about it). We then retired to the Henry Collins room for entertainment by Bury's best the inimitable Bob Duckworth giving us his rendition of the folk songs that this now sextuagenarian can remember. This put everybody in such a good mood that they joined in an irreverent Clarion Chorus led by the North of England's worst singer (me) you all know who the South of England's worst singer is. Maybe next year we should have a 'W' factor competition. After Sunday's hill climb we had the prize presentation at the hall for all winners. brought along a veritable cornucopia of prizes (nonsense in this context but it adds a bit of colour) of the highest blankety blank standard. Peter Shepherdley completed the morning's fun with the annual quiz, which he has been doing for more years than anyone can remember. We have booked again for the first weekend in October so why not think about joining in the fun.
Peter Roscoe of the Clarion Spirit
If you want to be kept informed about goings-on in the Clarion, please forward your email address to: clarioncc@ntlworld.com most years we
Clarion email newsletter
send out 4 or 5 messages of news to members but sadly people change their email addresses and we sometimes lose touch.
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SECTION SECRETARIES
Birmingham
Bolton Clarion
Bolton Wood Street Clarion
Brighton Hove Clarion
Bury Clarion
Calder Clarion
Central Section
Clitheroe Clarion
Crewe Clarion Wheelers
Dorset Clarion
Fenland Clarion
Gwynedd
Heanor Clarion
Hereford Clarion
Lancaster Clarion
London Clarion
Lowestoft Clarion
Manchester Stretford
Roger Shayes Tel: 0121 603 7536 19 Princethorpe Close, Shirley, Solihull, Warwickshire B90 2LP
Dave Bissett Tel: 01204 853127 10 Vale Street, Turton, Bolton BL7 OEB
david.bisset @rbh.nhs.uk
Dennis Pye Tel: 01204842869 denis.pye@ntlworld.com
34 Temple Road, Halliwell, Bolton BL1 3LT
Tan Bullock Tel: 01273 682133 104 Bonchurch Road, Brighton BN2 1XE
i.bullock@ntlworld.com
Peter Roscoe Tel: 0161 7616856 6 Horncastle Close, Bury, Lancashire BL8 1XE
proscoe@beeb.net
Andrew Spittlehouse Tel: 01226 709436 12 Hardwick Close, Ryhill, Wakefield, West Yorkshire WF4 2PR
Ann Burchell Tel: 01404 891740 The Engine Shed, 2 Wulphere Close, Dunkeswell, Honiston, Devon EX14 0UU
Martin Catlow Tel: 01200 425852 martinhilcat@aol.com
41 Henthorne Road, Clitheroe BB7 2LD Andy Grace Tel: 01270 841836 ruthhydes @btopenworld.com 7 Artlebrook Cottages, Audlem Road, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 7QT
William Edgington Tel: 07840 403200 Flat 6, 3 Charmouth Grove, Parkstone, Poole, Dorset BH14 OLP
Ken Clarke Tel: 01733 562217 16 Bew Close, Stanground, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE2 8TF
Robin Hartley Tel: 01248 605424 5 Tandderwen, Rachub, Bangor, Gwynedd LLS7 3HD
the.navigator@ntlworld.com
Cliff Cutts, Tel: 01159329304 _cliff-cutts@supanet.com 15 Honingham Road, Shipley View, Ilkeston, Derbyshire DE7 9JZ
Alvin Smith Tel: 01568770327 _alvin.smith@btinternet.com Castle Cottage, Castle Street, Wigmore, Herefordshire HR6 9UA
Donald Taylor Tel: 01524 382673 _lancasterclarion@mac.com
9 Buoymasters, St Georges Quay, Lancaster LAI
Peter Shepherdly Tel: 0208 5729672 74 Albion Road, Hounslow, Middlesex TW3 3RT
Sian Charlton. Tel: 01502 563262 btopa@blueyonder.co.uk 5 Avocet Close, South Oulton Broad, Lowestoft, Suffolk
Christopher Goode Tel: 01723 341050 twentytwowheels@hotmail.com 56 Raleigh Street, Scarborough, North Yorkshire YO11 7LQ
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Nottingham Clarion Paul Harwood Tel: 0115 9126436
Tel: 01254 51302
Oakhill Clarion CC Charles Jepson
Stockport Clarion Julian Mortel Tel:
Sunderland Clarion Allan Smith Tel
Teeside Clarion Colin Armstrong Tel: 01947 880488
West of Scotland Clarion John Harris Tel: 01236 730157
information please ask them to contact the National Secretary
01625 575959
14 Ingersley Road, Bollington, Cheshire SK10 SRF O19L 584 8948, 5 St Aidan’s Terrace, New Harrington, Houghton-le-Spring DH4 4LZ,
Pump Station House, Daleside Road, Nottingham NG2 4DH.
clarioncc@yahoo.co.uk
Aysgaard, Beardwood Brow, Blackburn, Lancashire BB2 7AT
jules stockport-clarion.org.uk
allan.smith @tiscali.co.uk
2 Eden Lea, Mount Pleasant North, Robin Hoods Bay, Whitby, N. Yorks YO22 4RE
20 Lomond View, Condorrat. Cumbernauld, Scotland G67 4JR
If you know of people who are not near a local Clarion Section then please encourage them to start anew Section. A Section of just one member is better than no Section at all. For further
A Clarion Call.
A ‘Clarion Call' to all members living in the north west of England. On Sunday April 29th members of Oakhill Clarion will present the volunteers at the Clarion Tearoom, Roughlee with a traditional marching banner in recognition of Nelson ILP's service to cyclists and to Socialism over the past 95 years
The large double sided banner is currently being produced by pupils at Oakhill College who are members of Clarion Cycling Club. On the morning of the 29th Chris Goode and members of the Manchester and Stretford Section plan to ride to Roughlee from the People's History Museum in Manchester, and invite comrades from other Sections to join them. If you or your Section can get to Roughlee for 2 o'clock please help to swell the ranks the tea is excellent and the company even better.
Further details from Charles Jepson
Ride with Pride in a National Clarion Jersey
Clarion Short Sleeved (as Illustrated) £37.00 Clarion long sleeved Cycle Jacket £47.00 Clarion Trumpet Badge £5.00 ‘Fellowship is Life’ the story of the National Clarion Cycling Club £4.95
Cash with order please to: Peter Roscoe,
6 Horncastle Close,
Bury BL8 1XE
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Archive material wanted
Any members, or members families who own any material, documents or memorabilia which is relevant to the Clarion are respectfully asked to donate such material to the National Clarion Committee if it is no longer wanted.
A serious lack of archive information has been noticed by the Committee who are currently investigating having a permanent display at the Pump House People’s History Museum.
CURRENT CLARION OFFICIALS
President John Lees 38 Nook End Road, Heanor, Derbys, DE75 7QQ
Vice President JaniGlarke eran clarioncc @ntlworld.com 31 Poppy Field, Biggleswade, Beds. SG18 8TU .................e eee! 01767 314207 Secretary Vacant, acting Secretary Ian Clarke Standing Orders Sec. DeniS/Py yecrs caret eee ae denispye@ntlwworld.com g4efempleRoadaHallewell) Belton BELSIN gees 01204 842869 Racing Secretary ies‘ Copelandta pene Jes.copeland @talk21.com 116 Broadhill Road, Stalybridge, Cheshire SK15 IHW 01613 039998 meagan pers Reeints Mobile: 07770 347133 14 Mosley Avenue, Ramsbottom, Bury BLO9UH ....................---454 01204 883584 Minute Secretary Ruth Goatest, «800 ener epencan 01254 823546 Social Secretary Vacant Easter Meet Organisers Tan Clarke Jayne Bevitt 31 Poppy Field, Biggleswade, Beds.SG18 8TU .....................+-.--4 01767 314207 COMMITTEE MEMBERS Merlin Evans, 3 Green Lane, Heaton Moor, Stockport SK43LE .............4 01614 428441 Ken Hemsley, 117 Southcliffe Road, Carlton, Nottingham NG4 1ES 01159 873118 BOOTS SPURS EDITOR Richard Newcombe, 67 Hall Lane, Werrington, Peterborough PE46RA 01733 706498
Clarion Easter Meet 2007 HEREFORD CITY
April 6" to 9th
Join us to visit the ancient Cathedral City of Hereford on the River Wye, close to the Black Mountains and the Welsh Borders.
For more information: www.visitherefordshire.co.uk
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Fantastic cycling social activities include:
Friday night Civic Reception by the Mayor
10 mile time trial on the Saturday
Cycle Jumble
Saturday Evening: Los Squideros Latin beats with Ska Tex-Mex 100km or 50km reliability ‘challenge’ ride, Golden Valley Wales 25 mile time trial organised by Herefordshire Wheelers
Annual dinner and prize presentation
Plus awards for largest attendance from one section and highest mileage total from one section cycled to Hereford.
Contact Jayne lan Clarke on 01767 314207, email: clarioncc@ntlworld.com
Headquarters at the Green Dragon Hotel
Where you can stay if you wish at a special rate...
Tel: 01432 272506 or www.greendragon-hereford.co.uk special rate agreed £60 prpn