2025 Weekly Blog
Welcome to our weekly blog. Here you can get an insight into what we get up to each week.
Click on the green links for related material and click here to read historic blogs from previous years.
Monday 24th March 2025
While it rained over the weekend and no one advertised any rideouts, Monday daytime was gorgeously sunny and mild. This seemed to encourage some members into an evening ride so after it was requested on the Whatsapp group, seven riders met up for the last “winter” ride of the season at 19:00 at Poplars Sainsburys.
Cider Bob led the group on an hour long ride via Hertford and Essenden to the Goat in Codicote. Three other riders had made their own way there while lots of others Club members had driven or walked.
The Goat in Codicote is a lovely little pub and Graham the Land Lord and his staff always looks after us. Cramming into every nook and cranny, it was a bit of a squeeze when the food came out but there were hot dogs, pizza and chips for all with plenty to go round – well worth the £2 contribution!
There’s not a lot to say about the evening other than that it was very sociable and enjoyable to be out with like minded riders.
Next week it’s all change for British Summer Time. The clocks spring forward on Saturday night so we move to our “summer rules” for the Monday group rides. During the period of BST, firstly, the standard start time reverts to 18:30 and we assume at least one of you will want a ride so there is no need to request a ride on the Whatsapp group.
We also aim to put on at least two separate groups. One is a “faster” group for the more experienced riders who like to get up to the speed limits as quickly as is safe and keep a decent speed through the bends where possible. The other “sedate” group is for the less experienced riders, learners, cruisers and those that generally just prefer a more sedate pace. The speed is generally dictated by the slowest rider but there is absolutely no pressure to “go fast” or “keep up” as the leaders will do their best to keep the group together. Click on this link for the general guidelines for the group rides
We try to keeps groups numbers to around six or eight so, as well as the “fast” and “sedate” groups, if lots of riders turn up, we will hope to have additional leaders for extra groups.
We also try to offer a 19:00 ride for those that can’t get there for 18:30. However, if you want a 19:00 ride, you’ll need to request it by 16:00 each week on the Whatsapp group. This start time is not particularly popular and we sometimes struggle to get a leader for it.
So, from this coming Monday, if you fancy a group ride on a Monday night, just turn up at Poplars Sainsburys at 18:30.
Monday 17th March 2025
This Monday was a change to the original Calendar so we were at the Cock in Baldock. This was swapped with the Goat in Codicote which we will now be visiting next week.
The temperature was still low so the gritters were out again but two riders requested a group ride so Paul Purple VFR turned up at Poplars Sainsburys where he was met by Andrew and Nathan. After an hour or so’s ride to the pub, they found Simon and Cider had also arrived on bikes (but hadn’t been able to get to Sainsburys in time for the group).
The Cock is always a popular venue and this week was no different, with the bar being full of Club members.
Even so, when the food came out, there was enough for everyone and there was even a chip left in the pan at the end of the night.
Only one more week before the clocks “spring forward” then we should have a bit of light as the group rides set off. But, before that, next week we will be at the the Goat in Codicote. Let us know on Monday if you’d like a group ride, from Poplars Sainsburys to the pub, by 16:00 using our main Whatsapp group.
Monday 10th March 2025
Again, over the weekend, Spring reared it’s head, giving the false impression that the better weather had arrived. There were numerous Club members out on their bikes with Darren leading groups on Saturday and Sunday while Cider Bob arranged a very short notice Sunday ride. It was gorgeous weather both days and everyone had fun in the sun.
Monday turned a little chillier and there was a threat of light rain. With the dark and loads of salt still coating the roads as well, no-one asked for a group ride so no leaders were arranged. Jason Holmes did say he was up for it but he messaged after 16:00, which was not seen in time to then arrange a leader. That said, there were a surprising number of riders who went straight to the pub.
The Plume Of Feathers in Ickleford hosted us this week, with about twenty five members coming along – most in cars or walking but with six on their bikes.
It was as sociable as ever, with a nice atmosphere and friendly staff who served up plenty of food.
The 2025 Committee are meeting on Wednesday so if you’;d like anything brought up, just let any of them know or email us.
Next week is a change to the original Calendar. We are now at the COCK in Baldock. Let us know on Monday if you’d like a group ride, from Poplars Sainsburys to the pub, by 16:00 using our main Whatsapp group.
Addendum
After the AGM a couple of weeks ago, the new Committee for 2025 had their first meeting this Wednesday. There were only two changes with Lynda and Dave being replaced by Darren and Steve.
The rest of the Committee remained the same with Carol Hutchins, Cider Bob, Kelvin Armstrong and Pete Blackburn making up the minions while Norbert (you may know more as Tony Brown) continuing as Chairman, Mick continuing as Secretary and Jackie continuing as Treasurer.
The agenda ran similarly to most meetings, staring with Mick reading out the minutes of the last meeting. We’d normally then have the Treasurer’s report but Jackie and Kelvin have been away in Japan watching their son Jamie (also a biker and former Club member) complete in the Tokyo marathon. Although they were back just in time for the meeting, Jackie hadn’t had time to update the accounts since the AGM (of course, she could have done it in the hotel room while she was away! 😊).
Next was a somewhat extended discussion on the Calendar. Not only did Cider come up with some ideas about reflecting Norbert’s recent survey on venue popularity in the new Calendar, but Darren and Steve also had some ideas. This discussion extended into other events that we will be looking to put on this year and also increasing the number of weekend rides (although most of them are somewhat ad-hoc and are planning on the Whatsapp group).
One item of note was a change to the title of the George Brown Memorial Run. With the sad death of our former President Pat Barrett, it was decided this will now be called the Presidents’ Memorial Classic Run so we can mark memories of George Brown and Pat and, as time goes by, future Presidents as they pass away after serving as figure heads to the Club.
There was also a discussion on the format of the “Members’ Memorial Run” which became an annual even each August after Covid.
There was then “any other business” where, amongst the discussions, was a plan to increase the variety of Regalia we sell. We will soon be including Beanie woolly hats and snoods emblazoned with the Club logo. So if you’d like anything, please contact Mick and if you think there is an item of clothing that we don’t currently offer, please feel free to suggest it.
Other discussion included awards, charity donations, purchases and more. If you’d like any more details, just contact the Secretary.
Our meeting’s normally last between about half an hour to an hour. But there were lots of ideas being suggested and lots of these were coming from Darren and Steve. Many of those ideas we have tried over the years but there were lots of new ones that we are looking in to. As a result, we were still going nearly two hours later. We finally got to leave the pub around 22:00.
It is our job as your Committee to run the Club but if you have any ideas or want to help, for example organising an event or becoming a regular ride leader, feel free.
Monday 3rd March 2025
With gorgeous daytime weather, several members were out on bikes over the weekend with one group ride being organised by Darren while Frank and Steve led the first “first Sunday of the month” group ride of 2025 and of the taken over Infinity Bikestop. It was an excellent turnout with about sixty riders so Frank led one group while Steve led the other. Each did an hour or so’s ride which was very much appreciated and enjoyed by those that attended. Thanks to them both for their efforts and also to Dave Fiske and Paul Purple VFR for being “Tail End Charlies” and Martin for his assistance in bringing some “lost sheep” back on track.
The great weather continued into Monday so, with the warm sun implying spring had arrived, one member enthusiastically asked for a group ride. Paul Purple VFR kindly offered to lead and was at Poplars Sainsburys for the 19:00 start. That member did turn up but, with the reality of winter not being over as they stood in the dark with temperatures hovering around zero degrees, he sheepishly asked if he could bail out (don’t worry, we aren’t going to name and shame him!). Fortunately, a couple of other riders had also turned up so Paul’s time hadn’t been wasted and they went for an hour or so’s chilly but fun ride.
Other riders were also out on their bikes but went straight to the pub which, this week, was the Stag in Stotfold.
It wasn’t a massively well attended night, with about twenty or so of us in total. But it was very sociable and it meant there was more than enough food for everyone. The staff at the Stag always put on great food and this week was no different, with a really nice variety including chicken nuggets, spiced chicken, corn dogs (? sausage coated in something like potato ?) pork pies, battered shrimps and lots lots more. Many thanks to the Stag staff.
Next week we will be at the Plume Of Feathers in Ickleford.
Let us know on Monday if you’d like a group ride, from Poplars Sainsburys to the pub, by 16:00 using our main Whatsapp group.
Monday 24th February 2025
Even though the weather was very nice for the time of year this week, no one requested a group ride. However, if they had, it would have been a short one as we needed to be at the Cromwell Hotel in Stevenage for 19:50 in time for the start of this year’s AGM.
It’s never a riveting night but once a year we need to check everything is tickatyboo with the membership and elect the year’s new Committee.
After some minor lighting issues with the extortionately priced room, the meeting got under way at just gone 20:00 with the usual sort of apologies for absence but this was followed by some trophy presentations. With the demise of the annual Dinner Dance it was decided the annual trophies would be presented at the AGM as we tend to get about a third of the Club’s membership turn out for the night.
Trophies were awarded as follows:
Wes Lord Trophy
For the club member who has done something silly over the past year
- For going out on a demo ride on a fairly new BMW1250RT, dropping the bike and returning it to the dealers (undamaged) without saying a word
- Darren Nelson
Frank Pepper Trophy
For the club member who has got lost over the past year.
- Not that anyone should get lost now a days with sat sav, but for being lost without being able to ride his bike for several months
- Frank Cook
Stabilisers Award
This is the most prestigious award in the club the one everyone is falling off for,
- For his small trip off into a ditch and writing his bike off and improving his looks
- Martin Patterson
Jan Hallett Memorial Trophy
For an outstanding achievement over the past year.
- For being one of most dedicated non committee members of the club, being a dedicated ride leader every week no matter what the weather and his swift rides proved very popular
- Paul Rousell
Geoff Humphries Trophy
For being an unsung Hero of the club
- Don’t know much about the hero bit, but for generally being a nice bloke, organising all the club’s Monday night and Bike Stop ride outs, an unofficial Bike safe night, for keeping our web site up and running and cleaning up all unwanted sandwiches at meetings
- Cider Bob
Next, the Secretary, Mick Taylor read out the minutes of last year’s AGM. This was followed by the Chairman’s report for 2024. You can read his full report by clicking on this link.
This was followed by Jackie Armstrong’s very in-depth Treasurer’s report. Even with all the detail she included, ex-bank manager Martin couldn’t resist but to ask for even more info (he’ll have to wait until she’s back from Japan!)!
Next up was some elections. With the sad death of our President, Pat Barrett, last October, the outgoing Committee had already considered the two Vice Presidents for the post and, with Les Ward selflessly declining the opportunity, Gordon Hallet was appointed. The voting of other Committee members followed with Norbert and Mick being voted back in as Chairman and Secretary for another three years. As Treasurer Jackie was only elected to Treasurer last year, that post wasn’t up for election. The new Committee “dogs bodies” were voted in and now consists of Carol Hutchins, Cider Bob, Darren Nielson, Kelvin Armstrong, Pete Blackburn and Steve Whyte. Thanks to out going Committee members, Lynda and Dave, for all their efforts.
It was nice to receive a formal thanks to the Committee from Les Ward for all its work over the past year.
Finally, it was time for the annual subscriptions to be taken and everyone queued up patiently while £10 was taken off them in either cash or by card (yes, we have moved into the 21st century with a card reader!). It was also helpful that numerous members who couldn’t be at the meeting paid by bank transfer.
The meeting ended at about 21:00 with many going straight off but quite a few retiring to the bar.
Next week we will be at the Stag in Stotfold. Let us know on Whatsapp by 16:00 on Monday if you’d like a group ride from Poplars Sainsburys to the pub.
Monday 17th February 2025
Before the predicted higher temperatures of next week, it was another chilly evening this week with temperatures hovering around zero. Although that put off anyone from requesting a group ride, it didn’t put off three riders from coming on their bikes. One of those was Frank – it was great to see him back after being off his bike for so long after a knee operation.
During the week, Norbert, the Chairman generated a poll of members’ favourite pubs. Conveniently, this week’s hosts, the Crown in Stotfold and it’s staff were voted the clear winner and Norbert presented them a certificate:
It was as good a nigh at always at the Crown and the food was even better than usual, if that’s possible. It was a very well attended evening but all too soon it was time to go and the pub had pretty much cleared out by 22:30.
Next week is our Club AGM, at the Cromwell Hotel in Stevenage. All Committee posts are up for election so if you want to be a general Committee member or even one of the “Officers” (Treasurer, Secretary or Chairman), or you want to propose someone, or you would like anything relevant brought up please come along and have your say. It’s also subs time, which remains at £10 for the year (in no small part to keep the website running) but, as our excellent Treasurer, Jackie, has introduced a card machine, so you can pay by cash or electronically. Please come along if you can.
Monday 10th February 2025
With another wintery night, there was no group ride and only one on their bike. Although it was a very well attended evening with most arriving in cars.
It was a good night with just enough food for everyone.
There’s not much else we can say but it’s what we tend to expect on a cold and wet February night.
Next week we are at the the Crown in Stotfold.
But, the week after, on 24th February, is our AGM at the Cromwell Hotel in Stevenage and we have the last Committee meeting of the outgoing team before that so if you’d like anything raised either at the Committee meeting or the AGM, please let us know. All Committee posts are up for election so if you want to be a general Committee member or even one of the “Officers” (Treasurer, Secretary or Chairman), or you want to propose someone, or you would like anything relevant brought up at the meeting, please let Mick Taylor in advance. Email StevenageAndDMCC@gmail.com
Monday 3rd February 2025
Few Club members were out and about this week on their bike, most notably Darren leading a daytime group. But it was yet another dank, drizzly, chilli and generally ‘naff for riding’ Monday evening this week so, understandably, once again, no one asked for a group ride. Although we were grateful to Kelvin for volunteering to lead one if anyone had asked, as Cider Bob had been away for a long weekend and wasn’t sure if he’d be back in time.
The Stag in Stotfold was the venue to this week’s gathering. It’s a little while since we’ve been there but it is a good destination and we are always looked after by the staff. We were greeted with a cheery smile (and there was no knitting Club to look at us in a disapproving manner this time) and the food was lovely – lots of very nice nibbles!
It was quite well attended by the Club too with about half the pub taken up by us. As always, there was lots of cheery and social chatter with everyone getting along nicely. It really is a nice social club as well as a motorcycle club so, as we’ve said before, just because you don’t fancy coming on a bike, don’t let that stop you turning up in a car or on foot for a social chat.
We’ve mentioned the AGM coming up a few times recently. But, for the first time in years, we seem to have several more people happy to be Committee members than there are places. Perhaps it’s time for a mix up or perhaps you prefer to keep it as it is. Either way, come along to the AGM on the 24th February and have your vote, and an input on anything else.
Before that, next week we will be at the Hen & Chickens in Baldock. Much as our regular rider leaders are prepared to get out and lead a group, like many of you, they are less keen in grotty weather and in the dark. Some of them prefer a car in the dark at this time of year and one is more than happy just having himself to look after on the bike rather than a group, but you can still request a group ride, on Whatsapp by 16:00 on Monday, and we will do our utmost to provide a leader.
Monday 27th January 2025
The weather was a tad grim over the weekend and it was still fairly wet on Monday night so no one had been offering up group rides, except Cider Bob who did say he’d do a Monday night ride if anyone was brave/daft enough to ask for one. Non one did so he arrived at the pub as the only one on a bike.
The Cock in Baldock is normally a popular pub with members but this time it was not as well attended as usual. That was convenient as the Landlord had forgotten we were coming so hadn’t sorted out any food. Fortunately, he was able to muster up some excellent nibbles (chicken nuggets and chips etc).
That said, there were still over twenty of us in the pub and there were more than enough nibbles to go round.
Next week we will be at the Stag in Stotfold. Let us know on Whatsapp by 16:00 on Monday if you’d like a group ride from Poplars Sainsburys to the pub or meet us there.
We’ll also take this opportunity to mention once again that our Club AGM is on 24th February at the Cromwell Hotel in Stevenage. All Committee posts are up for election so if you want to be a general Committee member or even one of the “Officers” (Treasurer, Secretary or Chairman), or you want to propose someone, or you would like anything relevant brought up at the meeting, please let Mick Taylor know at least two weeks in advance. Email StevenageAndDMCC@gmail.com
Monday 20 th January 2025
As you’d expect in winter, it was another cold Monday, following a cold and dank weekend so no members were out in groups over the weekend and only Andy showed a vague interest in a Monday group ride. With no-one but Andy and Cider Bob looking to get out on their bikes, Andy decided to call off so Cider went to the pub by himself. After about forty five minutes on the bike, he arrived at the pub to find Paul Thompson had also come on a bike – but they were the only two.
That said, another twenty members were at the pub, having come along for the social side in cars or on foot.
We try to mix up the pubs all year round but we’ve found members don’t like to stray much beyond the far reaches of Baldock in the depths of winter so we are a little limited. This means we do visit our HQ, the Hen & Chickens more often than others and that was our location for this week’s meeting. It can be a little loud but our twenty two members were all that were in the pub this week so it was a nice atmosphere.
Another advantage of Hen & Chickens is the huge amount of really nice food that Denitza serves up. This week we were treated to various sandwiches including egg, tuna mayo, ham, ham & cheese and cheese & pickle. We also had roast potatoes, chips, sausages, chicken nuggets and more. What a spread and, once again, there was loads left over so everyone who wanted to had the chance to take some home (Cider did, of course, take full advantage of this!).
It was another nice night with lots of friendly chat.
Hopefully we might get a spot of nice weather soon. If we do, let us know on Whatsapp by 16:00 on Monday if you’d like a group ride from Poplars Sainsburys to the pub
Monday 13th January 2025
Our destination was the Crown in Stotfold this week. Even though it was a chilli evening, the pub was as popular as ever with members at this time of year.
No one fancied a cold ride together so there was no group ride and Cider Bob was the only one on a bike. But, while no-one counted, there were probably about twenty five or so members crammed in the bar, most arriving by car but some walked.
As always, the Land lord and staff were very friendly and welcoming and there was plenty of food, including the famous Gala Pie.
There was lots of chit chat, which kept most people entertained until beyond 21:30 with some leaving well after 22:00.
A good night all round.
Next week we will be at the Hen & Chickens in Baldock.
Let us know on Whatsapp by 16:00 on Monday if you’d like a group ride from Poplars Sainsburys to the pub.
As already mentioned, our Club AGM is on 24th February at the Cromwell Hotel in Stevenage. All Committee posts are up for election so if you want to be a general Committee member or even one of the “Officers” (Treasurer, Secretary or Chairman), or you want to propose someone, or you would like anything relevant brought up at the meeting, please let Mick Taylor know at least two weeks in advance. Email StevenageAndDMCC@gmail.com
Monday 6th January 2025
The first Monday evening Club meeting of 2025 was at the Plume of Feathers in Little Wymondley.
Although the below zero temperatures put everyone off a group ride, one hardy rider did make his way to the pub via almost an hour’s ride.
At the pub, about twenty five members had braved the weather, in cars or on Shanksy’s pony at what is always a popular venue.
The new Land Lady looked after us just as well as any of our Calendar’s hosts and provided enough food for everyone to have their £2 worth of snacks (remember, the food we put on is only meant to be a snack, not your dinner!).
There’s not a lot to say about the evening other than that it was as sociable as ever and a nice night out.
Next week we will be at the Crown in Stotfold. Let us know on Whatsapp by 16:00 on Monday if you’d like a group ride from Poplars Sainsburys to the pub.
Monday 24th February is our Annual General Meeting. Please come along if you can so you can have your say on how the and who runs the Club and how it is run. Every post on the Committee is up for election so if you’d like to give it a go, put your name forward. If you’d like anything added to the agenda, please let the Club Secretary, Mick know at least two weeks before.