Big End
Perfect weather for the 240 rallyists attending the 2025 Big End Rally organised by Nigel Woodthorpe and the Leicester Phoenix MCC.
Brian Reynolds posted early photos on Facebook, snaffled for this page.
Just a few of the people, bikes and paraphenalia that caught my eye.
It was good to meet our German correspondent, Hans Mondorf, on a tour of England and Wales between the Pilgrim's Rally and the Big End.
Brian and Nigel forming a disorderly queue at the burger wagon.
Hans Mondorf and Walter Trappe visited the Pilgrims 48th rally and then came to the Big End, with a tour of Wales and the north-west in between. Hans rounds off his story here.
Friday afternoon we set up our tent, which had been packed soaking wet on Monday, on the Big End camping field. Within a quarter of an hour, it was dry again thanks to the sunshine and light breeze.
Saturday morning, we visited the Triumph Factory Museum. Thanks to a tip from Nigel Woodthorpe, we then paid a visit to Mallory Park. Late in the afternoon, I had the pleasure of meeting Ben Crossley from the LPMCC in person. Up until then, we only had contact via email.
I must say, I wish I had paid more attention in English lessons at school. It could have been a longer conversation. ✱
On Sunday morning, after breakfast, Walter and I continued on to the Ace Café in London. During a short break and refreshments, we admired the many motorcycles, from café racers to modern sports bikes.
Our final way then continued from London to Dover to our hotel. We rounded off the evening with dinner and a few pints.
Monday morning, after the obligatory last full English breakfast, we headed to the ferry and home.
- Hans Mondorf
✱
Hans is very diplomatic. His English is perfect, as you can read for yourself.
On the other hand, my English is only any good if I use it !
I apologise to Hans for being taciturn to the point of rudeness. ~ Ben
The raffle raised £273.57 the cakes raised £159.91 and we also had a donation from Adam (the Brekkies food van man) of £50 so in total we raised £483.48 for Loros.
An amazing effort from all involved so a big thank you to everyone who baked cakes, sold tickets and supported the charity side this weekend.
I also had quite a few people say how much they enjoyed the weekend and that they thought it was one of the best rallies they had done. It’s great to hear so much positive feedback, so thank you all again for your help and support over the weekend.
The raffle raised £273.57 the cakes raised £159.91 and we also had a donation from Adam (the Brekkies food van man) of £50 so in total we raised £483.48 for Loros.
- Karl Biddle
Club Chairman