Ed

Proposal to hold AR11 at Wem, Shropshire


This is the short version. A much longer version, with more research and pics, will appear as a separate thread, once I do the photobucket links. 'K?


1. Haven’t we been to Shropshire? Do we want to go again?

• Yes, we have, AR2006 was at Montford Bridge, Shrewsbury. It was 5 years ago, and the membership on the board has changed dramatically, in numbers and in make-up
• This proposal is to hold the AR at Wem, in a different part of Shropshire, in fact almost in Cheshire. Completely different route.
• So not a re-run, it’s something completely different
• North Shropshire is flat, and very ‘English’ – rural, hedges, oak trees, large fields, huge skies. And twisty, exciting roads. But once into Wales, it’s a different story! Hills, hills, hills….

2. OK, so where the hell is Wem, and how do you get there?

• Small town in north Shropshire, 15 miles north of Shrewsbury. The population is about 8,000. It’s what you’d call ‘quaint’ Despite its small size and apparent timewarp, it’s the centre of a thriving rural community
• It also has a station (trains go to Shrewsbury or Chester), a Co-Op with very good offie section, and several smaller specialist shops
• Easy to get to, the A49 is the nearest major road, and then a short ride along a country road (B5065). From London it’s 170 miles, M1 or M40/M42, then M6, M54, A5, A49, B5065. From Manchester it’s 60 miles, A49. From Leeds it’s 100 miles, M62/M60 and A49. From Bristol, 135 miles. In other words, not far.
  

3. So what are you offering?

• Camping at Lower Lacon Caravan Park http://www.llcp.co.uk
• Friendly site, flat, pro-actively welcomes large bike groups
• Lots of facilities - swim pool, crazy golf, two bars, café sells good and reasonably priced hot food, will put on a hog roast if want
• Welcomes well-behaved dogs with responsible owners
• Toilets and showers are spotlessly clean - and work
• £7 per night camping, huge flat field at end of site next to the bar
• Appropriate B&B nearby, or mobile homes to rent
• Commercial vehicles not allowed on site

4. What about the ride-out?

• Shropshire and mid - north Wales have some of the finest bike roads in the UK Route not finalised yet, nor will it be until I have a better idea of numbers. Likely to go through north Shropshire, and into mid and north Wales. Mike (Luckypants) has offered to help plan. There'll be plenty stops, a mix of roads and scenery, planned to avoid fixed cameras, traffic lights, and accident spots.
• Start and end from the camp site.
• I would be TEC

5. What if it rains?

• Sorry I can’t control this, rain is a fact of life! However there’s hard stand for the bikes, and the bar is inside. There are also several pubs in Wem. We could have a large marquee or gazebos, leccie provided.
• The ride would go ahead, whatever the weather unless it was completely unsafe (unlikely).

6. Can I bring my mates? Can I come for the day? What if I want to come to the AR but don’t want to do the ride?

• Yes but must follow the rules. ‘Knob-faced knobsters’ are not welcome
• Would be nice if they registered as members so we know who we’re talking to. Yes you can come for the day - likely 9.30am start. The site has a heated pool, two bars, a pool table, games machines, etc. Several pubs in Wem. Or ride the local roads into Shrewsbury.

7. Sounds good to me, what are the not so goods?

• Some noise from the nearby train line – but not much
• Site will not allow outside caterers – but no need - on-site facilities are good
• Limited leccie hook up for tents and site not keen on gennies – but most wouldn’t want it anyway
• Still a long way for Scottish, Irish and Manx members – can’t do anything about this I’m afraid.

8. What else can you offer?

• I liked the Yeovil welcome, a free tinnie on arrival was great I’d repeat.
• I intend to bring some home brew with
• Clothing – if Paul will repeat (hint!!)
• Laminated name tags
• Ride might even stop off at my gaff for tea