June 2024 Forthcoming Events

Drumbo Vintage evening 18″‘ July
Everyone is welcome at the Drumbo Vintage evening on Thursday 18th July from 5:30pm onwards. The event is supporting Diabetes UK NI Branch this year.
Club Run Sunday 11`” August
The summer Club Run will be held on Sunday I I” August starting at the Ballymac Hotel. Full details are on the enclosed entry form.
Donegal Classic Weekend 27″ to 29″ September.
\The weekend will be held on the 27th to 29th September. We will be based the it at the Mount Errigal Hotel as usual. Full details are on the enclosed entry form. Please let us know your intension to attend as soon as possible so numbers can be confirmed.

Reports
April Club Run

We had a good turnout for our first run of the year starting at Moira Demesne finishing at the Auld House in Moneyreagh. The weather was cool but dry and the drive covered some great scenery. The meal at the Auld House was excellent. Good to see some new people out with us. Many thanks to John and June for arranging.

Spring weekend
The Spring weekend was based in the Carrickdale Hotel in Co Louth. We met at the hotel on the Friday afternoon and got settled onto our rooms before meeting up for an excellent dinner in the restaurant. The chat was good as we caught up with everyone’s news. The IVVCC were also holding an event at the hotel. Their cars were mostly of an earlier generation or two, compared to ours. Some were having mechanical issues on the Saturday morning.
Two 1930’s Alfas on the IVVCC event
We all gathered for the off on the Saturday morning heading south to the Irish Military Museum Starinagh Co Meath. Founded by William Sullivan it houses a varied collection of military artefacts from around the world. Out tour was led by the owner who relayed many interesting and humorous stories about the exhibits.

On the Saturday evening we had another great meal with plenty of chat. On the Sunday we had a later start driving to Derrymore House near Bessbrook for a short stop and refreshments and onto Banbridge for a late lunch in the Downshire Arms Hotel. Another great Triumph Club weekend thanks again to John & June.

February 2024 Forthcoming Events

Club Run Sunday 7th April
The first Club Run of 2024 will be held on Sunday 7″ April starting at Moira Demesne and finishing at the Auld House I Moneyreagh. Full details are on the the
Spring Classic Weekend 26th to 28th April.
\The weekend will be held on the 26`h to 28″ April. We are basing the it at the Carrickdale Hotel in County Louth. Fit]] details are on the enclosed entry form. Please return as soon as possible so numbers can be confirmed.
Reports
Annual Club Diner
We had a good turnout at the Club Annual Dinner in January. It was good to see some new faces as well as our regulars. Good food and good chat was had by all.

LEAP YEAR
Grumpy Mechanic writes

As we look forward to another year with our old cars.
I think of the number of leap years I have been driving.
New cars at the time I started driving , are now the classics we all have and love.
It has come to my notice as I read the latest classic car magazines that a number of events on the main land have been abandoned or cancelled.

This is mostly because of the introduction of low emission zones. Or the extension of ones already there.
We are lucky that this has not applied to us yet.
So while the going is good, we should get out and about with our old classics.
Turn up with your car and thank your lucky stars, that you do not live in an area that does not want you to use it.
On top of this problem, new generation of enthusiasts have to cope with Rising Prices, slipping market values and the cost of fuel suitable lor their cars, all has to be considered.
Another thing that has come to my attention, is the cost of Insurance for older drivers and the rising cost of repairs to cars.
Given that while the going is good, we should make the most of using our cars.
As down the line a lot of things are against us enjoying our passion. It is much easier to sit in a leather or cloth seat and drive our hobby round the pot holes in the roads. Than trying to drive a small ball round the holes on a Golf Course.
Everyone is complaining about the cost of everything. But some pleasures can not have a price put on them.
Classic cars are an example. Grumpy Mechanic.

December 2023 Forthcoming Events

Annual Club Dinner
We have organised our Annual Club Dinner at the Ballymac Hotel on Saturday the 271h of January 2024 from 7.30 for 8.00pm serving at £25.00 per person, see the enclosed menu. Please get in touch soon and confirm you can attend, as we need to advise the hotel before the 27′ of January on numbers. Please contact Laurence Bell on 07999 424588 or 028 38 322 865
The Donegal Classic Weekend 2023 29″ September to Ist October.
There is only one place to be at the end of September and that’s at the Mount Errigal Hotel in Letterkenny with Triumph Club N1. This year we were really back to normal after the disruption of the Covid Years and so 19 vehicles set off on the Friday afternoon for the big weekend. Some of us gathered at the Ballymac, and after scones and tea or coffee were persuaded to save the chat for later and get on the road. For others it was convenient to meet up at The Ponderosa, and for a few to make their own way. The weather forecast was not great but against all expectations we had a great run, with sunshine for most of the Donegal stretch. We were lucky to be just in front of Alistair and Eilis and to enjoy the view of their beautiful 1935 Triumph Gloria as the sun showed it off to best advantage.

Arrangements at the Mount Errigal were as always top class, so there was nothing to do except catch up on friendships, have a lovely dinner, and do even more socialising.
By Saturday morning the expected mist and rain showers had arrived so views were somewhat restricted as we made our way for the 25 miles past Glenveagh , and on to the Dunlewey Centre and lake at the base of barren, windswept, cloud covered, Errigal. Manus Ferry was one of the greatest of the Donegal hand weavers and his cottage and loom are preserved here. Tourism has also developed and so we toured Dunlewey Lake on the Grainne Rose, heard of the Green Lady and were reminded of an early unsuccessful attempt by the landlord at re-settlement when sheep and their shepherds were imported from Scotland. There is also an outdoor play and adventure activity centre. Alas the swings were tied up for the coming winter, but disappointment soon faded when an ample sandwich lunch was provided.
Saturday Dinner was the usual Gala occasion, with the customary raffle and prizes for all.
Sunday morning and another sumptuous breakfast, before we headed off to visit and tour Glebe House, once the home of renowned painter and collector Derek Hill and now in State care. The weather had improved and we had the opportunity to bring the cars to the front of Glebe House for a photo-opportunity. All the while Laurence and his helpers plied us with tea and coffee, and biscuits and buns.

All too soon we were homeward bound, stopping as per usual, at the Belfray Country Inn for a late Carvery Lunch. Then it was time for farewells as we went our separate ways
Our thanks as usual to all who made this another memorable weekend, and in particular to the Scotts and Laurence Bell.

Summer 2023 Forthcoming Events

Drumbo Vintage Evening 20″‘ July from 5:30pm onwards.

Moynalty Steam Threshing Show 13″ August 2023.

Triumph Club Run ₂₀1hAugust

Our summer club run will be on Sunday 20^th August. Full details are on the enclosed form.

Donegal Classic Weekend 29 September to I’^t October.

We are looking forward to our end of season Donegal weekend at the end of September. Full details are in the enclosed form. Please note that we need to have your completed form returned to Laurence Bell by the 15th August to allow for confirmation with the hotel. I have enclosed two copies so you can pass on a form to some of your friends to join us.

Reports

While there have not been any club events since the last Laurel News I thought I would include some photos of cone vehicles that attended Kilbroney Show in June.

I had the Stag there on the Stag Owners Club stand. The journey to Rostrevor started a bit wet but once we got to the other side of Castlewellan the roads were dry and the sky brightened. We were fortunate to have a gazebo as there was a shower of rain around lunchtime. However the rain soon cleared.

Laurel News

Spring 2023 Forthcoming Events

TCNI Party Day 11^th June 2023 at Laurence Bell’s, 23 Springhill Road, Lurgan BT67 ORW Laurance is holding a party day at his house for all TCNI members & friends Come and go as you please between 1:00pm and 1:00am. All will be made welcome.

Drumbo Vintage Evening 20″ July from 5:00pm onwards

Moynalty Steam Threshing Show I3thAugust 2023. We are planning to attend the Moynalty Steam Threshing event in Co Meath. It will be an early start with breakfast on the way. Full details in the next Laurel News.

Reports

Triumph Club Run 2ndApril 2023

We had a good turnout for the run and although the weather wasn’t particularly good it was great to be out with friends on the first run of the 2023 season. Leaving Sprucefield we stuck with the main AI to Loughbrickland before heading off to explore the lesser known parts of South Down. Passing through Ballynaskeagh, bye-passing Rathfriland to Mayobridge and Burren before taking even lesser roads to our stop at Annettt’s garden centre, on the outskirts of Warrenpoint. Having given the green fingered members a chance to spend some money Laurence Bell opened his’canteen’, and we were all well refreshed for the return journey. We went via Rathfriland and Katesbridge, and were in process of skirting round Lisburn to get back for our meal at the Ballymac, when disaster struck. Artie O’Neill and his passenger Brian Kelly were in process of crossing the Glenavy road, when the little Rover was hit by a speeding Golf. Thankfully although both were well shaken and bruised there was no serious injury. Special thanks to John Junior who took care of the damaged car and to Clare Lewsley who, when the ambulance didn’t show up in time, ferried both to hospital.

The meal was obviously delayed; thanks to our friends in the Ballymac for their flexibility and ensuring everyone was fed.

Not the end of day we hoped for but as already said, nobody was seriously hurt.

The Mayo Classic Weekend 21-23 April 2023

Back in the dim and distant days when BC after a year meant Before Covid, John Jnr and June planned a weekend for us in Ballina, Co Mayo. Now that we are in the AC era we all headed off on Friday 21″ April. The man who wrote that Its a long ivay to Tipperary had obviously never been to Ballina. To shorten the journey by about 40 miles we began our trek at the Centra Services at the Dungannon end of the Ml. Due to a series of mishaps we weren’t all there for the off at 1.00pm so some of us were playing catch-up from the word go. A second rendezvous at Ballygawley came and went and we finally all came together, after a little confusion, in Maguiresbridge.for the next leg of 80 miles to Carrick on Shannon. Laurence and his mobile Canteen were greatly appreciated and we had time for a quick look at the Shannon and the town. A place to be revisited, but we still had the last leg of our journey ahead. This time it was 80 kilometres. (Not quite as far, roughly 50 miles!) and we were all ready to find our rooms and relax before the evening meal and later entertainments. Did I mention that the weather along the way was excellent?

Saturday morning saw us on our way to the Irish Museum of Country life, 20 miles away near Castlebar. Lots of opportunity to reminisce, Bikes like what we had as youngsters, blacksmiths tools, and look a schoolroom with a blackboard and slates and chalk like we learnt to write on. A lovely place where we could have spent hours, but we had to move on. Lunch beckoned.

How John and June found Crawleys of Rakestreet, on the banks of Lough Conn, we don’t need to know but it was a gem of an old country pub with a small general store attached. Wonderful. Then it was onwards to Ballina where the streets had been scrubbed clean, shopfronts painted and generally we couldn’t fault the effort that had put into preparing the place for us. So good a job that they parachuted Joe Biden in to see it the week before we got there.

Back in the Twin Trees we had our usual Gala Dinner, Bucks Fizz Reception and complimentary raffle. Then to the bar for an evening of chat and live music.

All too soon it was Sunday and time to head for home. The Wild Atlantic Way beckoned as we passed through beautiful Enniscrone on our way to a viewpoint at O’Dowd Rosslee Castle. Then it was onwards through Ballisadare and Sligo before turning off the main road for our stop, (with Canteen) at Glencar waterfall. That’s when the weather turned and cutting our visit short we picked up the main roads again. The Ballroom of Romance, at Glenfarne, crossing into Northern Ireland at Blacklion/Belcoo, troublefree run through Enniskillen and we were soon turning off between Augher and Clogher for our final meal, a late lunch at Corick House Hotel and the end of another wonderful weekend amongst friends old and new in Triumph Club NI.

Then, having travelled 110 miles since breakfast it was time for the short, (or not so short) run home.

Another big word of thanks to all involved, and especially to John Jnr. and June.

Laurel News

February/ March 2023

Forthcoming Events

Club Run ₂nd April 2023 Entry form enclosed

Mayo Weekend 21 to 23 April 2023 Entry form enclosed

Reports

Chairmans Report AGM 25th Jan 2023

2022 got off to a very bad start, as a new strain of Covid put everyone on alert and preferred not _to put themselves at risk, resulting in our annual dinner and our first event being cancelled due to lack of entries. Then on ^9th April we all got the devastating news that our dedicated club member Aileen Bell had passed away and with funeral restrictions still very much in vogue – it was difficult to express our condolences to Laurence and family at that time but on the 27″ we got to meet at a special gathering in the family home in Maralin, in her memory, although her memory will live on as she has been sadly missed at club events during the rest of 2022.

The first club run eventually took place on Sunday 24th April, leaving the Moria Demesne and driving through North Armagh, stopping at the Craigavon Lakes, then on to the Ballymac Hotel for our evening meal.

On Sunday 12″ June we left the Ballymac Hotel after tea and scones and drove to the Transport Museum at Cultra (this was to be the venue of our earlier cancelled event) and was fairly well supported and nice to be joined with members of the Stag Owners Club, then travelling to Carryduff for a meal at Eight South.

Moving on to 28th August We assembled at Moes Grill, Junction One, Antrim and proceeding onward to the Secret Gardens Garden Centre at Galgorm Castle for our usual tea and biscuits comfort stop before returning once again for our evening meal at the Ballymac Hotel and the customary complementary Raffle.

As usual the season came to an end with our Donegal Weekend at the Mount Errigal Hotel in Letterkenny from Friday 30th September to Sunday ^2″ October. Starting as usual with tea/coffee and cream scones at the Ballymac and picking up more guests including three cars of newcomers (6 people in total) from the Morris Minor Club, who I hope found us welcoming, at The Pondrosa on the Glenshane Road and proceeded to Donegal to join others who had made their own way there during the day. With our evening meal over most relaxed and socialised to the early hours. Then, after a hearty buffy breakfast we made a visit to the local car boot sale which was reduced in trader stands due to the adverse weather conditions which thankfully improved midmorning, in time for our journey up to the north of the county to The Downings and a scenic Wild Atlantic Way drive stopping at The Singing Pub for lunch of soup and sandwiches and a group photo in front of the tradition Irish looking premises. Back then to the Hotel to prepare for our Gala 4 course dinner with a drink’s reception, a small present for the ladies, a classic sports car video and after the meal, our customary raffle with everyone a winner taking home an award of some sort. Then on Sunday after breakfast back into our cars and a further drive to Clonmany and a walk up to the Waterfall for to dispose of some of the calories previously consumed, a quick photograph, then refreshments on the return and soon onward to The Belfry for a three course carvery lunch before saying our Goodbyes and making our own way home.

I seriously hope that everyone who attended any or all of our events enjoyed them, if so, please tell others that hopefully more will join us at our events in 2023, if you didn’t enjoy them tell us where we went wrong.

Lastly, I would like to thank all the workers in the Club who work tirelessly each year to make it all worthwhile. Here’s to another action packed 2023. Hope to see you all and your friends there.

JOHN F SCOTT SNR. Chairman.

Grumpy Mechanic writes

March already.

The time from the cars are put away for the winter until when they come out again is very short.

Perhaps if salt was not used on the road in winter, old cars may be out all the year long.

I see in Classic Car Weekly 22^nd February. That classic car MOT exemption is being re-assessed. By the Department for Transport. Why do so many so called experts that want the MOT. Not admit that they are only trying to drum up trade.Nothing to do with safety. How legal is it to drive a car that has failed an MOT, for weeks until it is repaired and re tested. Funny old thing there is many Countries in the world that get on quite well without MOT.

People are not made to have their House Electric System checked by an independent inspector, on a regular basis.It can be as big a health risk as a motor car. Anyway Cars should not be MOT checked in the way they are,without the wheels revolving. Shaker and vibrator plates used in the test only damage wheel bearings, hammering lubricant from the surfaces, not to mention bulb elements etc. When a car is in use, the only time the road moves is during earth quakes. We do not get many of them.

As for the E5/E10. Carry on. Well let us say we seem to be going backwards on fuel quality. Lets get out and about while we can.

It looks like many towns do not want cars with exhaust output being driven through them. Much better to have electric vehicles.Well let us say 800volts frighten me .

Diesel,petrol,TVO. Never had that effect.

By the way, I don’t want to start that walking thing.

That is only a very last resort.

Grumpy Mechanic.

Autumn 2022

Forthcoming Events

Club AGM Wednesday 25″ January 2023.

Our AGM will be held on the January meeting night in the Ballymac. It would be great to see a good attendance.

TCNI New Year’s Dinner Saturday 28t^h January 2023

We will be holding our New Year’s Dinner on Saturday 28′^h January 2023 in the Ballymac Hotel at 7:30pm. Please contact Laurence Bell on 028 38322865 or 07999 424588 to make your reservation. Everyone will be welcome and bring your friends.

Reports

TCNI Donegal Classic Weekend 30 Sept to 2″ ^d Oct. 2022

If its the end of September, and there are classic cars at the Mount Errigal Hotel in Letterkenny, its a sure sign that Triumph Club Northern Ireland are back in operation after ‘Covid’.

The journey for most began at the regular base of the Ballymac Hotel in Stoneyford. Tea, scones (with jam and cream), and above all, friends we had seen too little of in the last few years. Then it was time to set off. Dundrod, past the Airport and Antrim onto the M2 and then the A6, with the Ponderosa, atop the Glenshane Pass as our rendezvous point for another part of our group. The weather was reasonably kind to us with great views of the Sperrins as we negotiated the major roadworks around Dungiven before heading for The Foyle Bridge and onwards to Letterkenny.

22 cars parked up at the Mount Errigal, ready for the weekend ahead.

Dinner and the first evening were as usual informal, with lots of craic, catching up on who was there, who would like to have been there. Some made an early night of it, suffice to say, others didn’t.

After breakfast on Sunday morning most of the group set off to rediscover Letterkenny’s car parks on their way to a nearby car boot sale, before regrouping at the Mount Errigal for the afternoon run.

Kilmacrenan and then over the mountains to Creeslough, (fortunately a week before the disaster there!) and then onwards towards Downings. Brilliant weather, views of Sheephaven bay to the left; could it get better? Of course it could, this was Donegal, and beyond Downings, on the famed Atlantic Drive, we faced into the full force of the ocean. Massive breakers, and high flung spray in brilliant sunshine. A beautiful, spectacular, place to be. We could only imagine what it must be like in _winter storms. Perhaps then the locals find a good pub, so that’s what we did and went to The Singing Pub for a late lunch of soup and sandwiches. Then it was a matter of choosing between the various scenic routes to get back to Letterkenny.

Our Chairman, John Sen., led us in a moment of silent reflection for Absent Friends, before we settled into the normal four course Gala Dinner. John Jnr gave us a background of car related events on the big screens as we chattted and ate. Afterwards we had the normal free raffle, ‘Where everyone’s a winner’, before retiring to sleep the sleep of the just, or perhaps of the very tired.

Sunday’s run is normally a fairly direct run homewards, but this time we branched northwards at Burt to take us through Buncrana and almost to the north of Inisowen, to the spectacular Glenevin Waterfall near Clonmany. It was a reasonably easy I km walk to the waterfall, and a very easy return, to the welcoming tea/coffee, biscuits and buns Laurence provided for us. Then to Carndonagh, and Moville, along the Lough Foyle shore to the the Foyle Bridge and the short drive to the Belfray Country Inn, for a sumptuous carvery meal, last chats, and dispersal for the drive home. A little more complicated in the early stages as the diversion and road closure signs for the A6 roadworks had been blown about. Still evening views of Limavady were an added bonus.

Donegal is always great. This year we had fine weather all the way. But what made it really great as usual was the work that the two Johns and their families put into the preparation of the event. We had quite a few new faces. We hope they felt welcome and look forward to seeing them at future TCNI events.

Brian Linden

• Tales of a Grumpy Mechanic

Turkey

The Triumph Club wanted a turkey. The reason I am not quite sure. Possibly it will be a mascot, or in a photograph for a seasonal card.

One on the bonnet, may be requested, but Triumph to be different could put it on the boot or inside the car looking out.

The search started quite early, as it was wanted this year. A museum visit, did not do any good. It was on then to Antrim, a place well known for Turkeys.

Still nothing. Donegal was suggested and while great interest was expressed by many no turkey was found.But there was turkey on plates in various places, so they are in the area. Perhaps further enquiries will have better results, but Christmas and Flu may frighten them off.

Turkey and Triumph have only recently been associated with each other. Where this started is still a puzzle. It maybe a vacuum of events over the last few years that left Triumph people at a loss.Let us hope that this can be sorted.

It may be a good idea to appoint an Ambassador for the club to sort out this dilemma.Entrants for the post , could put their names forward on the Triumph Web.I have been told that the Triumph spiders are working hard to keep up.

Let us hope that next year we do not have the same problem with the

Ducks.

Season Greetings.

Grumpy Mechanic.

June/July 2022

My apologies that this edition is rather short of news but I wanted to get it out before I leave for a short break. Hope you are enjoying your cars if not the fuel prices!

Forthcoming Events

Drumbo Vintage Evening 14^th July 2022

Display and short run assembling in the church carpark from 5:00pm.

Moynalty Steam Threshing Event 14′ August

The Stag club is planning to attend if you would like to join in please contact Brian Linden (07979 954381).

TCNI Club Run 28^t‘ August

Full details are on the enclosed form

TCNI Autumn Weekend 30″ Sept to 2ⁿ‘ October

Hi Folks,

You will find included with this copy of Laurel News, entry forms for our next two events. The weekend in Donegal is now booked and my thanks to those who indicated to me their intention to attend. Its now time to get your room officially booked. Please send off your entry form and deposit to Laurence. You will have noticed we sent you two entry forms please pass the other to friends and we will all have a party in Donegal, we have provisionally booked extra rooms so spread it around everyone will be welcome. Let’s get this popular event back again and make it even better than the pre Covid ones.

We also would like to see new cars and people at our August event (entry form also enclosed) please return these and this will let us know numbers who can attend so we can make the arrangements for tea/coffee etc at our midway stop.

In the meantime, enjoy events around the country during the summer and hope we can at last experience some warm summer weather.

See you all soon,

John E. Scott snr

GRUMPY MECHANIC adds a SHORT NOTE

While watching TV news recently I noted that if you apply for a job and happen to be given it, you do not need to go and do it.

You can send someone else to do it for you.

Then if some of the people in the business, does not like something that has been agreed by the management,they can refuse to start doing anything..

I was thinking, could I nominate a different car to go to MOT. That now would be quite handy.

Maybe when we read the weather forecast and don’t like it. We could get a different one.

Maybe I am being politically influenced.

Possibly I have used the word Maybe too often but I can not think of a better one.

My Classic Car magazine has an advert, for little tablets that you can put in the fuel tank,they fix all the fuel and engine faults.

Small beads can be put in the tyres and the usual balancing is not needed. Magic rags, can re paint damaged bumpers.

The word Scam has jumped into me head.

Jobs,adverts, need to be added to the list of things that we now need to avoid.

How some person in a foreign country can get money out of a British bank is a stroke of genius.

My bank at times,won’t give me my money,never mind getting cash out of another persons account.

Going to cut my grass. Have nominated others to do it, but they seem to have been watching TV, as they have refused to start the job.

Grumpy Mechanic.

Laurel News May 2022

Laurel News

May 2022 Forthcoming Events

TCNI Transport Run 12″‘ June 2022

Full details are in the enclosed entry form. Please contact John as soon as possible so he can finalise arrangements for refreshments.

Kilbroney Show 18″‘ June 2022

Drumbo Vintage Evening 14″ July 2022

Display and short run assembling in the church carpark from 5:00pm.

AUTUMN WEEKEND NEWS BULLETIN

Yes, believe it or not, we are planning to resume normality and go off on our social weekend in early autumn after the two year absence due to Covid restrictions. We do hope you will be available to join us. The date chosen is Friday 30′ September to Sunday 2″” October. The venue, The Mount Errigal Hotel Letterkenny (our usual haunt)

I am in negotiations there the past few weeks with new staff handling group travel not familiar with our normal requirements etc. and room numbers of 20 total at least, variable, Double, Twin, Single, Family and Disabled are in discussion to achieve best rates. Room rate Bed and Breakfast and two evening dinners, Lunch on Saturday and final Dinner on Sunday will as usual be included in the total cost of the event which at the moment is looking to be around £195 per person sharing, there will be a single room supplement to be advised. This is coming in at under 20% increase of what it cost in 2019 and in current times I think that’s not too bad.

Please can I ask you to get in touch with me urgently to indicate your intention of hoping to attend, so 1 can finalise negotiations with the hotel. We must have approximately 40 people to hold prices and rooms. Tell your friends and perhaps we can get 50 +. All will be made welcome.

I can be contacted on 07818077801, by phone call, text or WhatsApp,or by email john.sen@jesseblinds.co.uk or any other member of the committee. I look forward to hearing from you.

Triumph Club NI Drive it Day, 24 April 2022

APPLE BLOSSOM outing

Firstly; what is Drive it Day?

When the first horseless carriages appeared they were a thing of wonder. Most were massive hissing, puffing steam contraptions, but gradually other smaller petrol or electric powered vehicles appeared, which either went with a bang or an unearthly whoosh ^on the roads, or tracks as they were then. As far back as 1865 the Red Flag acts regulated not only the speed but the behaviour of these new vehicles. They could travel as fast as the man, at least 60 yards in front, with his red flag, could clear the way. settle the horses and other road users. Otherwise the vehicle had to come to a complete stop. The limit was set at 2mph in town and 4mph in ‘the country’ with a fine of f 10.00, a massive amount in those days.

As motoring innovation progressed the act was finally repealed in 1896. The speed limit was raised to l4mph and it is that which is celebrated each year in the London to Brighton Run.

In 1900 a group of enthusiasts decided it was time to show what the new fangled motor car was capable of and organised a trial to show what was possible. The event covered the return journey from London to Edinburgh. In 2005 the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs organised the first of the now annual Drive it Days, oil the last Sunday of April to commemorate that event and to bring the Classic Car movement to the attention of Parliament and the general public.

What did Triumph Club Northern Ireland do?

Not having the time for a 1000 mile trip, though I am sure all our vehicles were well capable of it, we met initially at Moira Demesne. We had 11cars, of which four were Triumphs, for a 20 mile trip which would take us through the highways and bye-ways of Armagh , passing through the little villages of Soldierstown and Aghalee, to the Lough Neagh shore at the Gate Inn, and then onwards past Barons Bay and Gawleys Gate, along the quaintly named Gooseberry Lane, on our way through Aghagallon and Aghacommon to a picnic stop at Tannaghmore Gardens, near Lurgan.

Time to catch up on the happenings of the last two ‘Covid’ years. Much of it happy but like our vehicles we are feeling the effects of age and illness and sadly the loss of family members and friends.

Then it was time to resume our travels and to make our way back to the Ballymac. If you asked the sat-nav to take you there and then asked it to avoid all the towns it suggested en-route you would be close to the route we took. We did go through Waringstown, but from then on it was a case of avoiding everywhere else. Places avoided included Lurgan, Moira, Banbridge, Hillsborough, Lisburn and probably Coleraine, Ballymena and the Airport. I don’t know where we were, but it was a great route, and by some strange good luck we all arrived at the Ballymac for the usual evening meal and raffle.

As usual, a good time was had by all, but please, please, don’t ask about the apple blossom.

Laurel News April 2022

Forthcoming Events

Sunday 24^th April Drive It Day Full details of our club event included on the entry form. Please return the completed form as soon as possible,

Wednesday 27″‘ April Special Gathering at Springhill Road Maralin In Memory Of Aileen.

Sunday 12 ^1h June Triumph Club NI Event Details later

Thursday 14′^h July Annual Drumbo Church Classic Car and Tractor event

With more events between and beyond to be advised

Please contact the Club Secretary John Jnr on info@triumphclubni.co.uk Or John Snr by phone /text or WhatsApp on 07818077801

Or Laurence 028 38322865

with suggestions and expectations and visit our website Triumph Club NI for updates

Moving On with Grumpy Mechanic

Covid 19. or Coronavirus disease. Is a new thing that has come into our lives.

Where it came from ? How long we will have it? Questions that will go ON and ON. The thing is,the impact that it has had on our lives is unmeasurable.

The elected people that are looking after us, made rules that we were to follow. Different Rules applied to where you lived in the UK. We will not mention that the C19 can cross the non existent border, that we have.

Rules were Guidance, Compulsory, Advisory, Mandatory, or Ignored.

Test, Don’t Test. Not to mention who pays.? All unanswered questions.

As we head to a new election, will that make any difference, to how we live? Politicians did not agree with each other before the Covid Era, doubt if they will agree after.

When do we hope to get out and about with our old cars . Easter or before?

This led me to think about the Do Gooders, who consider the pollution of the world to be caused by cars.The first time I heard that a car had a cat on it, I looked to see if a furry thing with 4 paws was on the bonnet or roof. 0H no it is under the floor and it will clean up all the pollution. Now Great. Does our new electric cars have cat? I never hear of anyone mention the Tyres and Brake dust going down the waterways. The electric Cars do not solve that problem. Old cars with Drum Brakes kept the dust enclosed until the car was serviced. The speeds were much lower and so the tyre wear was less, all a good thing as far as I can see. The war in Ukraine, which is not a war according to Mr Putin, must be causing a bit of pollution. Wonder does Russian Tanks have a cat.? Maybe one inside to catch mice. Think some of the armoury is quite old a bit like me and my cars.The Protocol. Well we will leave that to another Day

Best Regards.

Grumpy Mechanic

June 2019

Sat 15th June Kilbroney Show, Rostrevor

A great day out and an array of cars to see. TCNI members are welcome to join with the Stag Owners Club on their stand. Contact Brian Linden 07979 954381for further details or look for the leaping stag flag on the day.

Sun 24th June AOVC Summer Run

See Entry form includes. Still time to enter – phone Janet on 07519 651736 immediately if you would like to attend.

Sat 6th July TCNI Summer Picnic Run

A new event for us this year. A picnic, a chance to watch a stage rally, a drive through orchard country and an optional meal to finish the day, what more could you wish for. Full details are on the enclosed entry form.

Sun 7th July Terenure Show, Dublin

This is a great show down in Dublin that a few club members attend.

Thurs 18th July Drumbo Vintage Show & Run

An evening Car & Tractor show and short run at Drumbo Presbyterian Church. All welcome

Thurs 25th July Temple Vintage Show & Run

A popular evening event at Temple Golf & Country Club.

Sun 11th August Moynalty Steam Threshing Festival.

A number of our members are planning to attend this great event. Cars, Tractors, Steam Engines and much more. If you would like to travel with us contact either Brian Linden 07979 954381 or Desmond Shortt 07974 022628.

Sun 18th Aug TCNI Summer Run.

Our Club Summer Run on the 18th August starting at the Ballymac Hotel at 1:30pm. Full details are on the enclosed entry form.

Reports

The 2019 Ballyclare May Fair and classic cavalcade was held on Saturday 25″ May at the Sixmile Leisure Centre. We had no rain during the event but there had been some earlier in the morning which seemed to put some people off attending. However, the more hearty car and bike owners turned up. Interestingly the most numerous Triumph model present was the TR7 where three examples were on display. A rare TR7 Sprint with the 16valve engine more commonly seen in the Triumph Dolomite Sprint, a TR7 V8 with the 3.5 litre Rover engine and a standard 8 valve car. Both the 16 valve and the V8 engine were used the power the TR7 rally cars back in the day. All three cars were hardtops. Great to see new members bringing their cars out. The charity this year was Barnardo’s

The four cylinder TR7s

       The TR7 V8  in good company.

The Banardo’s team picked the car they would like to go home in.  Leslie Duffin was delighted to have his freshly restored TR250 chosen and was presented with a memento by the Mayor of Antrim & Newtownabbey.

For Sale

Gearbox for a triumph TR2 and a set of wire wheels complete with tyres. The gear box has been completely rebuilt and the wire wheels are in pretty good condition too. Open to any sensible offers for either or both.

Contact Mervyn Mackey at mervynmackey@aol.com

Spring 2019

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Sat 25th May Ballyclare May Fair

The Ballyclare May Fair Classic Cavalcade is jointly held between the TCNI and Ballyclare Lions. The charity to benefit this year is Barnardos. Please return your completed entry forms as soon as possible to help us make arrangements for the event.

Sat 15th June Kilbroney Show, Rostrevor A great day out and an array of cars to see.

Sat 6th July TCNI Summer Picnic Run

A new event for us this year. A picnic, a chance to watch a stage rally, a drive through orchard country and an optional meal to finish the day, what more could you wish for. Full details are on the enclosed entry form.

Sun 7th July Terenure Show, Dublin

This is a great show down in Dublin that a few club members attend.

Reports

The Easter Classic Weekend

After being subjected to the demands of certain young ladies at a club dinner in late January, when it was requested that I should arrange perhaps “a one nighter” of a get together in a hotel somewhere, somewhen, I thought, “well why not?” But after some consideration, what’s better than one night in good company, two nights, twice the fun!

When? Well probably best while folk are in a holiday mood and the next holiday time was Easter. Now find an accommodating venue,

not too expensive, I for one can’t really relax if I have to spend too much of the money I’ve saved for my later years (I’m a pensioner you know).

Got it! The Irish Riveria! A hotel by a sandy beach! The aroma of fresh cooked fish in the air! A mountain range as a back drop where those who dare can slip away for a leisurely drive and breathe the fresh air clearing that fishy smell out of their system. I only could think of one place, The Bay View Hotel in Killybegs, swap the sandy beach for a harbour  and three out of four ain’t bad. On the phone, plead a poor mouth, a bit of arm twisting, find a lunch stop for the next day, find a restaurant for our final meal on the third day and without too much hassle, bingo we have an event.

Now all that is needed is people to attend. Adapt a previous entry form, get the rest of the team on board. Desmond on printing and Laurence and Aileen to receive returned entries and deposits and of course buy the raffle prizes. Eventually give the fine detail to John Jnr. to produce the information brochure after Elaine and I had pre reccied the entire three days in ten hours, two weeks prior to the event. Of course by that time the entries had come flooding in.

The twenty pre-booked rooms plus another two, sold out in less than two weeks . A total of 45 people in 21 cars made their way to the Donegal Coastal Town of Killybegs on Easter Sunday. Most via the planned rural mountain drive from Fivemiletown to Fintona and onward through Kesh, Pettigo and Laghey. Lovely to welcome James and Una out with us for the first time in their beautiful white Stag, On Sunday night after our evening meal in Luke’s Restaurant everyone relaxed and socialised together before retiring.
Monday after a hearty breakfast we all set out on our beautiful scenic drive through Kilcar, Carrick and Glencolmcille then over the mountains and down the Glengesh Pass to Ardara. Lunch was in the quaint old bar of Nancy’s and then, next door,  lifelong weaver Eddie Doherty gave  us a demonstration on a very old weaving loom still working to perfection as it did many many years ago.

After all this came the highlight of the entire weekend when the ladies and some gents paraded in their Easter Bonnets in the
ideal setting of the back garden of Nancy’s with great camaraderie and without risk to life or limb, and was judged by Charles McHugh our host and publican, declaring June the worthy winner,

with a special award for Cara our youngest entrant.  We later gave an award to Elish and Alistair our only husband and wife contenders. A fantastic effort was made by all that took part, male and female!
Our Gala Dinner in the ballroom on Monday evening was enjoyed by all with everyone receiving a prize from the raffle (my thanks to all who donated many beautiful items) and John Jnr provided some onscreen entertainment.
Tuesday morning gave time to look around the local area before heading homeward with our farewell meal at the Village Inn in Killyclogher.
Was it all worthwhile. I think so! I enjoyed it! Did you? If you did tell others! If you didn’t tell us! Either way tell everyone the next weekend at the end of September is well underway in planning so get your entry in early to avoid disappointment. See you there.
JOHN SNR.

Jan/Feb 2019

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Sun 7th April 2019 AOVC Spring Run Full details are in the enclosed entry form.

Sun 14th April 2019 TCNI Spring Run The club Spring Run will be held on Sunday afternoon 14th April. The assembly point will be Mc Donald’s Car Park Spruicefield at 1:30pm moving off at 2:00pm. Full details are in the enclosed form.

Sun 21″ to Tues 22nd April TCNI Easter Weekend.

There are still places available, if you would like to join us contact John ScottSnr (07818 077801) without delay. Full details are in the enclosed entry form.

Sat 25th May Ballyclare May Fair

The Ballyclare May Fair Classic Cavalcade is jointly held between the TCNI and Ballyclare Lions. The charity to benefit this year is Bamardos.

Reports

Chairman Report 25th AGM 30th January 2019

Another year over and another starting. With an aging committee, life does not get much easier to plan new events and find new venues; but as usual we will have the same small team of dedicated committee (I suppose at time of writing, at least) to carry out their chores as required. My thanks to all who stood up to the mark in 2018.

Our annual dinner, as usual was in the Ballymac on Saturday 26th January with a lesser number of participants, 27 in total. However, the food was excellent and was enjoyed by all present.

Our two Sunday runs were, as usual, organised by John Jnr and June, which on 15th April we left Sprucefield and went to Castlewellan Forest park for light refreshments and returned to Eight South at Carryduff for a meal and complimentary raffle. While on 12th August we left the Ballymac travelling through Broughshane to Glenarm for our tea and coffee stop, returning to the Ballymac for our meal.

The May Bank Holiday weekend was again organised by Brian and Desmond using the Enniskillen Hotel as our base and with great scenic drives to the caves for the adventurous; and visit to Florence Court for the more sublime travellers. Weather was fantastic in keeping with the food and accommodation all weekend, including our final farewell meal at Silver Birch Hotel, Omagh.

The usual Donegal weekend at the Mount Errigal Hotel in September was enjoyed by all 55 taking part and included a visit to Fanad Lighthouse with some outstanding scenery to and from. Having lunch at Fanad Lodge and an added pleasure of meeting with the legendary Irish country singing star of current and showband days, Brendan Quinn. A visit to the Foyle Railway Museum on the way to our farewell lunch at the Belfray Country Inn on Sunday brought another enjoyable weekend to a close.

The Ballyclare Classic Cavalcade had 65 vehicles taking part on another successful charity event (24th annual) with £1000 being handed over to the Hospice later in the year by our long-standing partners, The Ballyclare Lions.

Due to uncertainty and spiralling costs, we regretfully have decided to cancel the 2019 May Bank Holiday Weekend. But hope to possibly hold a shorter, one overnight event on a less costly Spring date.

Can I once again thank all the team and participants for their support throughout 2018 and hope for a successful 2019 calendar of events by all the usual, and hopefully new friends of the Triumph Club NI.

J.E. SCOTT SEN

Chairman

Desmond Shortt reports on a recent trip to New Zealand

New Zealand Classics ; we saw quite a few classics out and about. The weather was terrific and people were enjoying themselves.

Triumphs were widely sold in New Zealand in their day .This MkII 2000 was basking in the sun in Tuaranga on the North Island

A 2CV was out at our stop in The Bay of Islands. We only sae rain on one day and it didnt last too long.

 Our stop at Napier wwas terrific. This town is noted for its Art Deco Style.

There were a range of cars out giving rides to visitors.  This Packhard was very majestic.

 

 

December 2018

How quickly 2018 has come and gone. The great summer and autumn was terrific for enjoying our cars this year.

Have you any jobs to do on your car this winter. My TR7 is stuck in gear, I believe it is a problem with the gearbox remote, we’ll see.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Sat 26^th January TCNI Annual Club Dinner

Our Dinner this winter will be held on Saturday 26^th January at 8:00 pm in the Ballymac Hotel, Lisburn. Please come and join with us you will be made very welcome the cost will be £20 per person. Contact Laurence Bell 028 3832 2865 or John Scott Snr 07818 077801 to make your reservation.

Wed 30^th January 2019 TCNI AGM

The club Annual General Meeting will be held on 31st January 2018 in the Ballymac Hotel at 8:00pm. This is an important meeting where we elect club officials for the incoming year. We hope as many members as possible will attend. We are in need of more folk to help run the club and contribute to organising events. This is your opportunity to help your club.

Sat 2ndMar 2019 AOVC Annual Dinner.

The AOVC Annual Dinner will be held in the Beechlawn Hotel, Dunmurry on Sat 2nd March. Everyone is welcome. Please contact John Scott for tickets, price £25 per person.

Reports

On Sunday the 12^th of August we assembled at The Ballymac Hotel on the Rock Road. This was the starting point of our afternoon Club Run. It was organised by John Scott jnr and his wife June. They had put a lot of effort into the event.

We left on time with all the arrangements made for our Evening Meal; Menu’s given out and collected. As we travelled on pleasant roads we came to the village of Broughshane. It has been named Village of The Year 2018. With a population of 2500, it is known as the “Garden Village of Ulster”. We picked up an additional car. Brian in his Vauxhall Chevette, was waiting for us at this point.

Onwards we went to our stopping point Glenarm Castle.

The rain arrived as we were entering the castle Grounds and so Grumpy stopped under a big tree for shelter, to give out our tea coffee,cake, biscuits etc. This ancestral home of the Earls of Antrim did not stop the rain falling,so many umbrellas were produced from the cars. One of the Club Members produced a pavlova that was discarded from an event the previous day.

It did not last long and as it was being consumed, it was hoped that this may be done at all future Triumph Events as a Signature token, so that people would know they were at a Triumph outing. Rita I think 6 pavlovas would cover the year.

It was noted that the water was still falling but the umbrellas were down. Poor parking under the tree, water was now dripping from the branches.

The car was moved to another location and the use of the Cafe facilities was appreciated.

We moved off in convoy and went via the beautiful Antrim coast road, down through Larne and then made our way back to Templepatrick and on to The Ballymac.

A very good meal finished off a very enjoyable day.

Thanks again to John and June.

Grumpy.

The Donegal Classic Weekend 28th-30th September 2018

The weekend, for most people started early on the Friday afternoon when we gathered for tea, coffee and scones at the Ballymac Hotel and by 3:00pm we were on the familiar road to Letterkenny, picking up our friends from the Ballyronan Club at the Elk Inn. Roadworks and promised improvements to the A6 around Castledawson slowed us down considerably but by 6:00 we were all finding our rooms in the familiar surroundings of the Mount Errigal Hotel in Letterkenny and meeting up with those who had travelled there directly.

This was one of our biggest gatherings for some years. We filled our total complement of booked rooms and had 26 vehicles. We are a tolerant lot in Triumph Club NI and in addition to the five Triumphs, welcomed fifteen other marques, ranging in size from a Mini Cooper to a Rolls Royce.

Friday night, as usual,was for eating and talking, catching up on the summer and settling in. We were especially pleased that Laurence and Aileen Bell were able to join us again.

Saturday is Driving Day. John had previously said he was out of ideas for places to go in Donegal, but we soon Y discovered that he had kept one of the best drives till now. Fanad Head, at the westward entrance to Lough Swilley is on a wild windswept coast of cliffs and hidden beaches all topped off by the Fanad Lighthouse, which has been voted the second most scenic lighthouse in the world. Absolutely beautiful and the drive to it once, we passed Ramelton and Rathmullan was spectacular. Everyone was speaking of coming back to explore the route at leisure, enjoying the many viewpoints and the many small, beautiful beaches. There were others as well who wanted to drive the twisting demanding road in more sporting fashion, but we wouldn’t want to encourage that kind of behaviour.

Lunch at the Fanad Lodge Restaurant and then the short drive to the Lighthouse.

John doesn’t do things by half so by special permission we were parked on the helipad and after photographs had guided tours the lighthouse. Many climbed the 79 steep narrow steps to the top of the tower. Our guides were just great, and we learnt about colour codings for lighthouses, how the flashing of the light used to be regulated by clockwork, with weights like a grandfather clock which had to be wound to the top of the tower every two hours. Keepers were kept busy carrying drums of paraffin to the top of the steps to fuel the huge tilley lamp which before the coming of electricity, ensured the safety of seafarers in the area. And on top of all that they had to keep a record of passing vessels and watch for those in trouble.

Then it was time to explore further as we made our way back to Letterkenny for our Gala Dinner and traditional Raffle, where ‘everyone is a winner’. Special thanks again to John Jnr. for organising the music and videos.

After breakfast on Sunday morning we turned homewards, with our first stop at Bridgend, to visit a big permanent indoor boot sale, organised to raise funds for Foyle Search and Rescue. Some bought bargains, others contributed directly to this very worthy charity. Reality hit home as we heard that another person had been rescued after entering the Foyle in the early hours of that morning.

Our next stop was at the end of another Bridge, the Craigavon Bridge in Derry/Londonderry, where after crossing on the lower deck the GNR railway entered the City Station, which has been restored as The Foyle Valley Railway Museum.

It’s a wonderful little museum, but no ordinary museum. It’s run by ‘Destined’, a charity which has as its objective ‘Empowering People with Learning Disabilities in a Whole Life Experience’. Set up as a drop-in centre in 2002 it now provides for hundreds of young people. We heard how they had convinced the City Council to give them the property for a peppercorn rent, how they were running a car wash alongside, plans for riverside and boat tours, a taxi firm, and the railway museum.
The young people served us tea and scones and guided us round the exhibits on a memorable visit, whether we were remembering the penny chocolate dispensers, the carriages with no corridors, and so no toilets, or playing at being train drivers.

Then, mid afternoon, the last drive to The Belfray Country Inn for our four course carvery meal before dispersal for the homeward journey.

A last note to John: When you are organising the kind of good weather we had for the weekend, could you stretch it a bit till we get home?

Another great weekend, many people were involved, but in the end its all down to the effort John makes on our behalf.

Thanks again John

Brian

May – June 2018

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Thurs 19^th July Drumbo Vintage Evening

Drumbo Vintage evening will be held in the grounds of the Presbyterian Church on the evening of 19^th July. All will be made very welcome.

Thurs 26^th July Temple Vintage Show & Run

The Temple show & run will be held on the 26^th July at Temple Golf Club. Always a good night.

Saturday 28^th July Claragh Bridge Vintage Show 

This is an excellent country vintage show well worth a visit.

Sun 12^th Aug TCNI Summer Run

Our Club Summer run will be held on the 12^th August. Assembling at the Ballymac Hotel for a 1:00pm start and travelling through Co Antrim. Full details are on the enclosed entry form.

Fri 28^th to Sun 30^th Sept TCNI Autumn Donegal Weekend

We are holding our famous Donegal weekend at the end of September as usual. Full details are on the enclosed entry form.

Sat 1^st Sept AOVC Autumn Run

The AOVC Autumn run will be visiting the Battle of the Boyne site this year. Full details are on the enclosed entry form.

GRPD

New data protection regulations come into force this year. They require us to have your explicit consent to store your contact details (both e-mail and address) so we can contact you with details of events in the future. Some of the details of how the regulations apply to car clubs is unclear at this time. Our entry forms enclosed have a box for you to tick to give your consent for this.

Reports

Spring Weekend:  Enniskillen

We had a good attendance for our Spring Weekend in Enniskillen at the beginning of May. It was good to have some new faces along but we did miss some of our regulars who were unable to be with us due to ill health. We met in Quinn’s Corner for a Saturday afternoon fry-up to kick things off. We travelled on to Enniskillen via Ballygawley,Fintona and Irvinstown avoiding the main A4 route. The weather was good with bright sunshine. After settling into our rooms in the Enniskillen Hotel we had a very pleasant meal in the function room.

Saturday morning we set off on a scenic drive through the Cuilceagh Mountains of south Fermanagh and north Cavan before splitting into two groups,  at Florencecourt for the first and the second travelling on to Marble Arch Caves. The weather was warm and sunny. The new boardwalk close to the entrance to Marble Arch Caves seemed to be a big attraction to the general public with cars parked everywhere.

Lunch was provided at both the venues. After our tours we were  free to return to Enniskillen or have a further drive before our evening meal.

Monday morning saw us driving along the north shore of Lough Erne through the most westerly part of Northern Ireland to Castlederg. From there we turned south east and picked up the South Sperrins Scenic Route, through the spectacular Gortin Glen and on to Omagh where we had a late lunch in the Silver Birch Hotel.

Ballyclare May Fair

The Show and Cavalcade at Ballyclare May Fair is one of the highlights of our year. It’s a charity event jointly organised with Ballyclare Lions. Our charity this year is The Northern Ireland Hospice.

Coming in the middle of a spell of excellent weather, conditions for the event were as good as any of us can remember. Cars and motor-bikes assembled at the Six Mile Leisure Centre from early morning and by mid-day, as the Cavalcade set off there were 65 entries.

John Sen. in the familiar red and black 2500 PI Mk1headed the parade for the 20 mile run through the town and the East Antrim countryside, returning to the leisure centre for a snack lunch and the presentation of awards.

Whilst every entrant received a memento there were special presentations to Stanley Magee for the oldest car, a 1930 Austin 6/16 and to Trevor Kirk, the owner of the oldest motorcycle, a 1948 BSA.

   Mar -Apr 2018

FORTHCOMING EVENTS        Sun 15^th Apr TCNI Spring Run

We will assemble at McDonalds Car Park Sprucefield from 1:00pm moving off at 1:30pm for a scenic run to Castlewellan Forest Park and returning to Carryduff for an optional meal in Eight South. Full details are on the enclosed entry form.

Sat 5th to 7th May TCNI Spring Bank Holiday Weekend

Last chance to book please contact Laurence Bell 028 3832 2865 or Brian Linden 07979 954381immediately if you would like to join us

Sat 26 May TCNI Ballyclare May Festival and Cavalcade

Held in conjunction with Ballyclare Lions Club the event is supporting the NI Hospice this year.

GRPD

New data protection regulations come into force this year. They require us to have your explicit consent to store your contact details (both e-mail and address) so we can contact you with details of events in the future. Some of the details of how the regulations apply to car clubs is unclear at this time. Our entry forms enclosed have a box for you to tick to give your consent for this.

Reports

RIAC Classic Car Show, RDS, Dublin

The AOVC represented member clubs at this major show. The theme was Italian design and we displayed a wonderful Fiat 131 Super Mirafiori.

The AOVC Stand

This Aston Martin DB3S from 1956 was one of only 30 produced. It was quite spectacular in both looks and the sound it made on the Friday arriving into the RDS.

This unrestored TR2 on the TR Register Ireland stand has a racing history. I was told that the car runs but doesn’t drive.

This 1912 Sunbeam Model 16-20 was manufactured in Wolverhampton and is currently being restored by its owner. They were very robust and were used by the war office during WW1.It has a 4 cylinder engine with each cylinder having a capacity of 1 litre. It could cruise at 28 MPH with a fuel consumption of 12 MPG.

March 2017

Editor Desmond Shortt

SAD NEWS

It was with great sadness that we learned of the tragic death of Ryan Phillips last month. Ryan and his parents Rita & Adrian, were members of TCNI and regularly participated in our events. Our prayers and thoughts are with the family at this sad time.

The events for 2017 are rolling in. I hope your vehicles are all ready for the coming season. Looking forward to meeting many of our members on some of these days out.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Sun 9th March 2017 TCNI Spring Run.   Our first Club run for 2017 will be held on Sunday afternoon ^91h April. We will meet at the Ballymac Hotel at 01:30 pin for a 02:00 pm departure. Full details are given in the enclosed entry form.

Sun 23^rd April AOVC Spring Run.    The AOVC Spring Run will be held on Sunday 23^rd April in the Co Armagh area. Full details are given in the enclosed entry form.

Sat 29^th April to Sun 1^st May TCNI May Bank Holiday Classic Weekend.    We are visiting the North Antrim Coast this year. Our base will be the Magherabuoy Hotel just outside Portrush. Full details are on the entry form. Please return as soon as possible.

Sat 27^th May 2017 Annual May Fair Classic Cavalcade.    We are again joining with Ballyclare Lions Club to host the Annual May Fair Classic Cavalcade on Saturday 27^th May. Please return the enclosed entry form to Laurence Bell.

Sun 11^th June 2017 TCNI Run to Mosney Classic Car Show.   We are planning to attend the Classic Car Show at Mosney in June. Further details in the next edition of Laurel News.

Bleak Outlook

I notice every time I look at a Classic Car Magazine, that the movement is in crises.If is not the Insurance going up in cost, or VLA Email Scams, it is the theft of an old car from its winter slumbers.

Many owners just park their Treasures in a lockup premises and never look at them, until the next time they want to use the car for an event. Maybe the thieves will look at them more often.

I note now we have very few young people in the motor trade that can look after older cars. The Training in Education, looks like it is going back to what was done 50 years ago, with Technical Schools. Perhaps it is time for the Classic Car Movement, to get its act together and use the information that the older people have, to help young apprentices into the trade and keep them there.

Auction Houses look like they are the number one way of buying and selling Classic Cars. People are buying cars on line, that have not seen the car or the owner in person. This is quite a risky business. I would not do it.

If we believe in the Classic Car Movement having a future, then the Pollution Rules that London has started will do away with a lot of good cars. This will leave less going forward. When was the last time you saw a Renault 9 or I I at a club event? Tin wormhas got them, but nineties cars will not survive because of electrics and politicians. The scrappage schemes, that the government thinks up from time to time, do little to help.

With all the doom and gloom for the future. I cannot wait for each season to start, so that I can enjoy the old cars, while they are still here and able to be maintained.Meeting the people in the car movement is the most important part of the season and that
will keep me going, even if the cars don’t.

Grumpy Mechanic

International Classic Car Show NEC November 2016

I attended the International Classic Car Show in the NEC, Birmingham last November. I hadn’t been at this show for a few years. It was bigger than ever again and I met a number of enthusiasts from Northern Ireland while roaming the halls.

Triumphs were well represented with numerous cars and special displays.

The 50th anniversary of the launch of the Triumph GT6 was celebrated with a display of three cars spanning the three models produced during its production.

There was also a special feature on the Triumph Italia 2000 put on by the TR Register. A rare model even in its day with only 329 cars produced between 1959 and 1962. It was based on a TR3 chassis with a body designed by Giovanni Michelotti and built by
Vignale it had very good looks.

The record breaking TR2, MVC 575 which set a record of 124.889 MPH (a new top speed record for a two – litre production sports car) in 1953 during speed trials held on a highway near Jabbeke, in Belgium, was on display following a meticulous restoration.

There was a great variety of vehicle on display. The Meguiar’s concourse winners stand had vehicles that had won concourse competitions around the country in 2016, and not just classic cars.

This 1952 Ford Anglia Hot Rod had won top honours at the National Hot Rod & Custom Show at Peterborough.

Something much more modern was this Renault Sports Spider,

Winning Spirit of the Show at the Alpine & Renault Sport Track Day in 2016

More traditionally, this 1931 MG M Type Midget

had won the MG Car Club’s Triple M Car Of The Year. It is an example of the “Le Man” cars run in the 1930 race. This carwas discovered in 2010 having been off the road for 25+ years. It was fully restored and run in the 2012 Classic Le Man event.

This was a Land Rover with a difference.

Fitted with agriculture tyres this Land Rover had been heavily modified to accommodate the large diameter wheels.

Fancy something different as a classic?Now you can have the ultimate Jaguar the TWRR XJ13 replica. TWRR have started to make replica XJ13s on a build to order basis

This BMW i8 was well protected by this Star Wars Storm Trooper.

Thankfully, Darth Vader was nowhere to be seen!!

Finally, local Hillsborough man, David Seeds, had been invited to exhibit his rare Sunbeam Avenger GT.

Left-hand drive and originally from Finland, this is a rare car indeed. David has just completed a magnificent restoration on it.

Membership Renewal 2017

Many thanks to all who have renewed their membership for 2017. The cost remains at £15, which we believe offers good value. It would be most helpful if you have not renewed yet to forward a completed form as soon as possible

December 2016

Welcome to the December edition of Laurel News of 2016.

TCNI wishes all members and friends a Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Wed 25^th January 2017 TCNI Annual General Meeting
In the Ballymac Lisburn at 8:00pm

Sat 28^th January 2017 AOVC Annual Dinner

The AOVC annual dinner will be held in the White River Hotel in Toombridge at 7:30 pm.

The cost is £23 per person.

Please contact John Scott if you would like to attend. Everyone will be welcome.

Sat 4^th February 2017 TCNI Dinner

The Triumph club dinner will be held in the Ballymac outside Lisburn at 7:30.
Please contact Laurence Bell on 028 38322865 8322865 to book your place.

The cost will be £20 per person. Everyone will be welcome.

Sun 19^th February 2017 MG & Triumph Spares Day.

This will be held at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire.

Parts, autojumble and club displays will be present.  

REPORTS

LISBURN CLASSIC CAVALCADE

We had a fine sunny evening for our Lisburn Classic Cavalcade back in August.

It was good to see members and friends out enjoying the evening.

We had all makes attending, Triumph, Lotus, MG, BMW Morris Ford and a Maserati.

Donegal Classic Weekend 2016

Spirits were high as we gathered at the Ballymac for the journey to our annual Donegal weekend.

We began with a special treat when the Ballymac, instead of the usual tea and scones, provided much sweeter fare, as part of their ‘Big Breakfast’ in aid of McMillan Cancer, funds and additional contributions going to that worthwhile cause.

As usual we picked up a substantial grouping at the Elk Inn, and with others making their own way we had 22 Classic Cars by the time we reached the Mount Errigal Hotel in Letterkenny. Dinner was to the usual high standard and we had ample time afterwards to socialise and enjoy the amenities of the place.

Sunday morning and we were off. Climbing into the hills along the Finn River then through Glenties and Ardara to Killybegs. To the west of that lies the area that is known as ‘The Carraig’, or The Rocky Quarter, and a description like that in this county tells you something. Our journey took us to Glencolmcille, a little village in the remotest, most westerly part of Donegal.

Here we stepped back in time, and not much more than fifty years.. No farming community this. The still scattered bleached bones of whale and seal a reminder that these people lived by and from the sea, with emigration as the only way to escape the grinding poverty.

Now there is a museum, cottages and a little folk village, testament to Fr McDwyer who arrived in 1951 and motivated the community to raise and reinvigorate its-self through community projects, local industry and the developing tourist trade.

We took the mountain road back to Ardara. Twisting, turning narrow road. Stunningly beautiful.

Following the Gala Dinner John organised a very enjoyable quiz. John Jnr.  gave us pleasant background music during the meal and then came the highlight of the evening as couples competed in the Jiving Competition. The judges were suitably impressed. Everyone was a winner and the three competing couples were suitably rewarded.

All good things come to an end, but gradually, and so we made our way to Ashbrook House in the Faughan Valley. Home to the Ash family since 1530, it has seen that family play its part in the history of Derry/Londonderry; the Siege, the Breaking of the Boom, sacking by the retreating Jacobites, and in more modern times the arrival of the American Generals and their troops as USA entered the war in Europe. We toured the house with the daughter of the last Ashe to bear the name, saw its artefacts, and heard the story of its very own ghost.

A few short miles along the heavily wooded Ardmore Road, brought us to Burntollet and all too soon to our final meal at The Belfray Country Inn.

John, as usual, gave us a great weekend, so from all of us, A BIG THANK YOU.

How did he organise the beautiful weather?

Laurel News

June 2016

Welcome to the June edition of Laurel News of 2016. I hope you have been able to get out in your cars and enjoy the recent good weather.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Fri 17 to Sun 19 July

TR Register weekend incorporating Triumph Marque Day
Lincoln Showgrounds, Lincolnshire. This is sure to be a great gathering of Triumphs.

Fri 5 August Lisburn Classic Cavalcade

TCNI is again organising this event. Entry form is included

Sat 3 September AOVC Autumn Run
Further details soon.

Fri 30 Sept to Sun 2 Oct TCNI Autumn weekend

We will be returning to the Mount Errigal Hotel in Letterkenny for our Autumn weekend. Full details soon.

Reports

TCNI May weekend

We had a new venue for the May weekend this year at the Holyrood Hotel in Bundoran. We assembled at the Ballymac Hotel on the Saturday morning, 30^th April and after tea and scones made our way North of Lough Neagh for our lunch stop at An Cregan near Cookstown. As this was the same day as the Cookstown 100 motorbike road race we had to plan our route carefully to avoid road closures and spectators for the race. After a very enjoyable lunch we heads west once again stopping briefly in Kesh for a break and a photo opportunity

PHOTO Enjoying the sunshine alongside the Kesh River in Co Fermanagh

We then travelled on through Boa Island, Belleek, Ballyshannon to our destination of Bundoran. After settling into our rooms, we all had an enjoyable dinner together.

Saturday morning was a bit dull and misty. Our destination was the Arigna Mining Experience in Co Roscommon. Unfortunately the fantastic views that are available were somewhat restricted by the misty conditions. The party was split in two and while one group was taken into the mine the other had lunch.

The tour guide was a former miner and he was able to relate many stories about the mine and his experiences. If you are ever in the area it is well worth a visit. The coal seams are very narrow perhaps about 18 inches deep and this was all the room the miners had to work

PHOTO Some of the cars at the Arigna

PHOTO A typical coal seam in the mine

On the Monday we headed back east through Enniskillen where we had a guided tour of Castle Coole House. We were able to park at the front of the house which provided a great photo opportunity

The weekend concluded with a splendid late lunch at Corric House.

PHOTO

Ballyclare May Fair 28^th May

We were fortunate with good weather for the Ballyclare May Fair on the 28the May. While a bit cloudy at first the sun came out and we had a great drive round the area and a pleasant afternoon.

PHOTO Bikes galore

PHOTO An unusual three wheeler

PHOTO Cars

Laurel News    March 2016

Welcome to the March edition of Laurel News of 2016. With events getting going this month I hope you have all got your cars ready.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Please note there are a couple of date changes from those previously given.

Sun 10 Apr 2016 TCNI Afternoon Spring Run

Sun 17 Apr 2016 AOVC Spring Run.

Sat 30 Apr 2016 TCNI Classic May Weekend

Our Spring weekend this year will be to Bundoran.

Sat 28 May 2016 TCNI Ballyclare Classic Cavalcade
Entry form from events page

Sat 11 June 2016 TCNI Annual Barbeque

Everyone welcome. Please contact Laurence Bell 028 3832 2865 if you plan to
attend.

Dublin Show March 2016

We met lots of people at the Classic Car Show in the RDS at the beginning of the month. I hope you enjoyed it if you were there. The theme of the show was ‘French ‘and the AOVC entered into the spirit displaying a Citroen Traction Avant Light 15, kindly brought to Dublin by Philip McKinistry, from Co Down.

The Celtic Old Vehicle Club won Best Club Stand. The Centre-piece was the Arc De Triomphe with a 1933 Peugeot 301.

This 1928 Horche 315 Pullman was dazzling. You needed your sunglasses to look into the engine bay.

It was bought by Charles Seezer, a Dublin Pork Butcher who visited the 1928 Berlin Show and bought the car. It has a 9380 cc straight 8 engine and is thought to be the only surviving right hand drive model.

In 1932 Horch, Audi, DKW and Wanderer merged to form Auto Union, the predecessor of the modern Audi Company.

This 1934 Mercedes Benz 130 H was picked as car of the show. It had four wheel
independent suspension and hydraulic drum brakes. Its 1300cc four cylinder
liquid cooled engine mounted behind the rear axle and the gearbox mounter in
front of it for balance. Unfortunately this did not provide good handling which
was notoriously poor due to the mechanical arrangement.

The French theme continued with this 1943 Renault R 3046 tractor. It has a
30hp petrol engine, hydraulic lift and a four speed transmission. It is in original
un-restored condition and is still regularly used for competition ploughing.

While Renault is more associated with car production if produced agricultural
tractor from the early 1920’s. Their first designs were based on military tanks
from the First World War.

These were quickly improved and by 1932 produced a conventional diesel
powered machine. By the late 1930’s, Renault was the largest tractor
manufacturer in France. In 2003 however the agricultural division was sold to the
German Class company.

One of my all-time favourite rally cars the short wheelbase Audi Quattro Sport

A 107 inch Land Rover from 1954 in super condition

Desmond Shortt

April 2016

WELCOME TO THE FIRST EDITION OF LAUREL NEWS 2016

It’s time to get the cars ready for the coming Welcome to the January edition of Laurel News of 2016.season. This is a quick list of events TCNI will be involved with.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Dublin Classic Car Show 5^th & 6^th March

This will be held in the RDS in Dublin. The AOVC will have a stand and you will be made most welcome

Sun 10^th Apr 2016 TCNI Afternoon Spring Run
Sun 17^th Apr 2016 AOVC Spring Run

Sat 30th Apr 2016 TCNI Classic May Weekend

Our Spring weekend this year will be to Bundoran. Full details are in the entry form. Please book as soon as possible as we will have to hand rooms back at the end of March

Sat 28^th May 2016 TCNI Ballyclare Classic Cavalcade
Wed 1^st Jun 2016 TCNI Annual Barbecue

Sat 25^th Jun 2016 AOVC Picnic in the Park

Fri 5^th Aug 2016 TCNI Lisburn Evening Show and Cavalcade
Sun 14^th Aug 2016 TCNI Sunday Afternoon Run

Sat 3^rd Sept 2016 AOVC Autumn Run

Fri 23rd Sept 2016 TCNI End of Season Weekend

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT to 22^nd AGM held on 27^th JAN 2016 in the Ballymac Hotel.

The last year’s activities are similar to previous recent years. The same group of trusty workers continue to get on with all the day by day running of the club duties and for this I would like to thank them for all their efforts and hope that this continues in the coming year.

TCNI organized eight main and very successful events this year and additionally participated in events organized by AOVC and other clubs. I am not going to itemize these but am happy in the knowledge that each one was organized in great detail and in a way that all involved was treated equally and in the best interest of the club.

I believe we pleased most of the people most of the time, but it is not possible to please all of the people all of the time. Of course some people would do things differently but organizers usually have a good reason for arranging things the way they do and we should thank them and respect them for their efforts.

I have done my best over the past two decades to see that all members and friends who attend our events are treated well. Information, including the cost of each event is freely available. Menus are circulated and every effort is made to accommodate those who advise of particular requirements, whether of diet or access. The event organizer will always be happy to speak to the food outlet on anyone’s behalf if they have a request to replace an item on the prearranged menu.

We are fortunate to have a small group of members who have put in an excellent effort to organize a lot of successful events over many years. I wish to state that I am totally behind all those who have put so much effort to make these decisions in the way they see fit. These people give freely of their time to arrange excellent events down to the last detail. They are also clear in their view that when problems do arise, they as the organizers of a particular event are the ones who will deal with them.

New ideas are always welcome. If you know you could support, equal, or better these efforts then TCNI want you here on board and we will all benefit.

Once again may I offer my thanks to all who made 2015 an enjoyable and memorable one at Triumph Club N.I.

John E Scott Sen

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EVENT REPORT

Annual Newcastle Charity Show. 2016

This charity show is held on the last weekend of January in the Ballroom of the Slieve Donard Hotel. Space is limited and vehicles are shown by invitation so the standard is always high.

My time was limited. The red E Type and the superb deep blue Aston Martin at the entrance proclaimed the standard of things to come. At the other end was a huge Rolls Royce running chassis from the 20s. In between a trio of sporting Escorts, (Mk II) with an earlier Mexico and a Cosworth completing that part of the Ford line-up and with a beautiful 60s Sunbeam Rapier, and a Beetle, filled the centre floor, whilst Minis small Fiats and the A30s and 35s had the raised window area.

Side aisles are for rarer stuff. Richard Bingham had his ultra rare Anglia Convertible and elsewhere there were other gems. The 60s Renault Dauphine Gordini and the beautiful fluted bonnet line
of David Kincaid’s pre-war Vauxhall come to mind. The right side aisle has the ‘Real’ stuff. A sporting Alfa , an early Morris Oxford and a beautiful 30s Rolls.

But then I’m a Triumph man and there it was, a white four seater convertible. No, not my Stag but the beautiful 1933 Triumph Southern Cross.

Yes, its a show to get to if you can, and when you have seen everything else there are usually some nice MGs there too.

Brian Linden

EARLY EASTER 2016 by GrumpyMechanic

As we start to get the cars ready for the new season, I was thinking of all the things that people carry with them in their cars.

The very good cutter thing that was bought in some obscure web page, or late night shopping channel on TV. It has never been used and a Stanley Knife will be taken as well, as it is the object that is known to work.

The boot in some cars, are set out in neat tidy areas. Picnic basket and other catering essentials. Mechanical area which includes cleaning and polishing materials. Other cars have a boot, that looks like a getaway car from an autojumble robbery. It will include all sorts of parts, that do not even belong to the type of car they are in.

It will not belong before we have a new regime up on the hill after the election and I doubt that they will do much for the car fraternity. Not to mention the In or Out, that is coming from the other lot. They will be of no help either.

It is funny how we managed to have cars that had seating for three people in the front, four or five in the back, capable of over 100mp and no seat belts, before the EU, MOT, H&S, and all the other things that have been added over the years.

We seem to be going backwards. 20MPH now in our major city. Stop Start through our villages. Maybe I should get ready early and buy a Red Flag. Looks like it may be needed soon.

Delorean cars, to be made again this time by, Mr Wynne in Texas. No relation to John Wayne the famous actor. The cost, $100,000! Is that what we call inflation the original was $12,000. By the way,this is why they were called DMC-12. Can one of these new cars be called a classic, or do we have to wait twenty or thirty more years. Perhaps production will come back here.

I was saddened to hear that a vehicle, I learned to drive in and go for my test, is in longer available. The production of the Land Rover Defender has stopped after 68 years and two million vehicles. The JLR Company says,” the Land Rover can no longer keep on the right side of Emissions and Safety Laws”. This will be of great news for rioters. The only problem is the old ones last a long time.

Easter is early this year, so we will have a long season. Let us hope that the fuel costs keep falling, that the rain stops falling, and for weather, favourable for our outings.

So if we stay out of our over crowded villages and our main city, that has bus lanes, that are for collecting cash from us. We should have a great year.

Grumpy

February 2016

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Welcome to the last issue of Laurel News for 2015.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Triumph Club NI Annual Dinner Saturday 24^th January 2016

The TCNI Annual Dinner will be held on Saturday 24^th January at the Ballymac Hotel. Please contact Laurence Bell to book your place. All will be welcome.

AOVC ANNUAL DINNER Saturday 30^th January 2016

The AOVC Annual Dinner will be held in the Whiteriver Hotel at Toomebridge. Please contact John Scott for tickets. All will be welcome.

REPORTS

Photographs: You can view photographs from our events in the Gallery section of our website https://triumphclubni.co.uk

TCNI Club Run May 17 2015 Crawfordsburn and The Ards.

Back in 1968, when our cars were still young and oh so modern, Dionne Warwick asked ‘Do you know the way to San Jose’ and you probably remember she wanted to get back as well.

We all set off on Sunday 17^th, thinking we knew the way, but thanks to John and June we went by largely unfamiliar, but scenic, routes, to Crawfordsburn Country Park. No dash down the M2 or along the Sydenham Bypass. Instead we meandered through South Antrim, through Glenavy, Ballinderry and Lisburn, scouting south around Belfast and then over the Castlereagh Hills to Crawfordsburn Country Park. The weather till then was reasonable, but the rain arrived just as Laurence and Aileen set out the picnic and thoughts of a walkaround had to be left for another day.

The weather was mixed for the rest of our outing as we went off on an often forgotten part of our coastline and followed the signs for The Mourne Coastal Route. The seafront at Bangor, then Groomsport, Donaghadee, Millisle, Ballyw, alter and on to Ballyhalbert. Then it was time to head for the other side of the Ards and the coastline northwards, through Kircubbin, Greyabbey and on to Newtownards.

The final stage of the return again took us on unfamiliar roads, darting through Drumbo to the Lagan, and then finding our way uphill to the customary meal at The Ballymac. All in all about 100 miles of good driving and scenic roads.

We had a good turnout, John and June, John Sen., and Laurence and Aileen in the 2000s; Brian in his Stag; Joe and Roisin in their Civic; Wilson and Pearl in the TR6; Alan and Elizabeth in the BMW; Adrian and Rita in the big Volvo and last, but not least, Brian and Veronica in the Vauxhall.

Thanks again to John and June, and to Laurence and Aileen.

Ballyclare May Fair 23^rd May. Bob Cupples was one of the founding members behind the May Fair Classic event and it was fitting to run this years event in his memory. Ballyclare Lions were on board again and McMillan Nurses were the chosen charity. The weather was excellent. Over 70 vehicles turned out for the show and 52 of those went on the road run. The special prize and trophy, for Car of the Show went to Desmond Shortt and his beautiful green Stag.

June and July are Showtime, and members attended the shows at Mosney, Kilbroney and Terenure, as well as further afield.

Lisburn Classic Show and Cavalcade 5^th August A wet night and an even worse forecast limited the turnout for this year’s event. Never-the-less it was an enjoyable evening. The rain passed, so the run was pleasant, and there was plenty of time over tea and biscuits to catch up on conversation

Mournes Club Run 16^th August. 12 cars left Sprucefield in brilliant weather for this run, over the high southern side of Slieve Croob to Tollymore Forest Park. Following a picnic there we set off again on the High Mournes Loop, climbing past Kilcoo on the way to Spelga, then round the reservoir and the fast downhill run to the coast via Silent Valley and the Head Road. With Dundrum Bay at its best it was back to Newcastle and our evening meal in Hugh McCanns. Great weather, great scenery, great cars, great people. It really was a Triumph Club NI Day.

Donegal Classic Weekend.:11^th – 13^th September

Its almost written in stone that TCNI will be in the Mount Errigal Hotel in Letterkenny for the last weekend in September. And so many of our members and friennds laid their plans to enable them to attend. Unfortunately the Mount Errigal discovered a bit late in the day that the booking they had from a young lady for the ‘whole hotel’, meant just that, so our event had to be moved. It proved imposible to find a new date to suit everyone, so a smaller cavalcade than usual made its way to the North-West on Friday 11^th September, having picked up the usual suspects and a few others at the Elk. The format also changed and we had our main dinner on the Friday evening, with John Scott providing a table quiz to interrupt the conversations.

Saturday morning was showery and blustery as we set off for the thirty mile drive to a busy, congested Donegal Town. But this was TCNI and John had parking arranged for us. Not only that we were visiting the magnificent Castle. An O’Donnell Castle dating from 1474, it passed to the English Captain Basil Brooke (sounds familiar) with the Flight of the Earls, and after less than a century fell into ruin. Two hundred years later it passed to ownership of the Office of Public works. A hundred years later and thanks to the Celtic Tiger they found funds for the magnificent restoration we were able to visit.(Incidentally most of the oak for the restoration came from the Brookeborough estates in Fermanagh.)

Lunch was appropriately in the Old Castle Bar and the afternoon was free for shopping and a leisurely return to the Mount Errigal.

After dinner we had reserved seating at a very enjoyable Derek Ryan concert. Another good call John!

Noon on Sunday and time to head for the restored corn and flax mills at Newmill and a fascinating insight into how a small village industry served its community in the 19^th and 20^th centuries. We often don’t appreciate the importance of such sites and so were surprised to find three visitors from

Kazakhstan including Newmills in their tour of Ireland. From one of the worlds wealthiest countries, and the home of the Baikonur Cosmodrome they were quick to acknowledge the technical perfection of Joan and Edgar’s Herald, choosing it as the vehicle they would like to take home with them.

Then time to head homewards. A stop for a substantial meal at the Belfray Country Inn and suddenly our season was over. Time for goodbyes and the road home.

POSTSCRIPT

TCNI organised eight main events this year and additionally participated in events organised by AOVC and other clubs. Many people helped to make these a success, but it would be remiss of us if we did not draw attention to the time and effort our Chairman puts into every event.

Thank you, John Scott.

Photographs: You can view photographs from our events in the Gallery section of our website https://triumphclubni.co.uk

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Welcome to a rather late first Laurel News of 2015.

I hope you have your vehicle ready for the 2015 season, fast approaching.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Please note that entry forms for all our events can be downloaded from the Events Page.

Triumph Club NI Spring Run to Eglinton Classic Car Show 12^th April

We are planning to attend Eglinton Club’s Classic Car Show held in City of Derry Rugby Club grounds. You will need to forward the Eglinton Club entry form as well as our own TCNI form.

AOVC Spring Event 25th April.

The AOVC are planning an event in conjunction with Fleet Awards & Titanic Motor Show.

TCNI May Weekend 2^nd to 4th May

Our May weekend is being held in the four star Pillo Hotel  Ashbourne, Co Meath

TCNI Afternoon Run 17th May

TCNI Ballyclare May Fair with Ballyclare Lions Club 23^rd May

TCNI trip to Mosney Show 14^th June

Kilbroney Show 20th June

Membership Renewal

Many thanks to all who have returned their membership renewal form for 2015. Your 2015 membership card has been mailed to you.

Would those still to renew for 2015 please return their renewal form as soon as possible

REPORTS

TCNI AGM

Our AGM normally held on the January club night had to be postponed due to snow and high winds, a bad combination in the Stoneyford hills. We met the following Wednesday evening under more pleasant weather conditions.

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT 21^st AGM

Here we go again, it seems a short time since I prepared the 2014 Chairman’s report. The last year’s activities are similar to previous recent years. The same group of trusty workers continue to get on with all the day by day running of the club duties. I would like to thank them for all their efforts and hope that this continues in the coming year.

Our first run in 2014 was on 6th April and well organised by John Jnr and June starting at the Ballymac Hotel going up the Antrim Coast with a very good turnout of cars including a number of our friends from the Ballyronan Club etc, with lots of time to view the beauty of the area and the scenic drive back to the Ballymac for our customary optional meal. A very memorable day out.

The May Bank Holiday Weekend saw