During
the last few months’ members of the Committee at Bedford M.E.S. have been
making plans to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the Society. It is a long held
belief that it was formed in 1968.
However,
as preparations were also in train to launch a new web site one member
volunteered to ask the oldest surviving members about their memories of the
early years. It transpired
that in fact the club was founded in 1948, started off with some enthusiasm,
then joined forces with Bedford Model Boat Club, until 1968.
There is
a belief, that there was in fact a pre-war club, founded in the mid 1930’s,
which was dissolved at the outbreak of war as members left to join the fighting
services.
Interesting,
but this revelation has set one member, Steve Lee something of a challenge.
Steve is the organising brain behind our annual Miniature Traction Engine Rally,
and following on from the damp squib of 2007, when we were washed out.
Steve had set himself the task of organising 40 engines to take part in
2008, as part of the celebrations.
Of
course he has risen to the challenge and would like to extend, on behalf of the
Society an invitation to miniature traction engine owners of all sizes to come
along over the weekend of the late Spring Bank Holiday, 24 –26 May to take
part. He welcomes all engines, from the humble Mamod or Wilesco types upward, we
may even have a couple of full-size engines in attendance.
We run
an informal day when drivers can explore the site and have a bit of a
free-for-all, with a formal Grand Parade on Sunday, followed for those who wish
to indulge in a series of games in the arena, with Monday being another
free-for-all and a Grand Parade if wished.
We have
caravan spaces, with hook-up if needed, plenty of car parking, excellent
refreshments, coal, etc. on site plus three railway tracks ranging from 2½
to 7¼in.
gauges, giving the ingredients for a good weekend.
If we get enough of the “toyshop steam” engines, we
may even be able to organise some special events for them to participate in.
If you would like more details, Steve can be reached on
07952 529460 most evenings.
| Click the photo for a gallery from a previous rally. | |