Central Area 2015 Drive it Day 26th April

The ASOC Central Area joined together with the Coventry TSSC Club for what was a great day out.

Eleven cars took place including a Typhoon, Whitley and a Long 20, together with Triumph Heralds, Spitfires, a Jaguar XJS and an Austin Cambridge. We all enjoyed a 40 mile run around central Warwickshire countryside in glorious sunshine, ending with a late lunch at the famous Tipperary Pub (the song 'A Long Way To Tipperary' was written here). The ladies were spoilt with a red rose and chocolates courtesy of Phil Smith, organiser of the event. A great day to remember as everybody made their way home.

Maurice Smith

Sidney Samples Stilton

Meanwhile, my Whitley (Christened Sidney by my family) represented the brand at the Stilton Cheese Run. The yearly event sees around 300 cars of all marques decend on Uppingham in Rutland to begin a 40-mile scenic tour of the local countryside, ending up in the village of Stilton where the cheese is said to have originated. About half-way there is a scheduled stop at a farm shop, which supplies much-anticipated hog roast baguettes, teas and coffees and amazing varieties of cheeses to sample whilst the cars are displayed in the adjoining field.

Sidney mingled with a diverse range of cars, including an MG Magnette, Rover 20, Jaguar XK140, Facel Vega HK500, numerous Minis of all ages, a good number of MG BGTs and Reliant Scimitars and a brand new BMW i8 electric/petrol hybrid. In spite of all its technology however, parked next to it at the farm shop I had no hesitation in choosing the Whitley over the BMW. Maybe I'm a little bit biased...

Numerous people asked me about the relatively 'low-profile' Armstrong Siddeley, as it has very little branding or marks to denote its manufacturer or model. As the run is in conjunction with the Historic Citroen Car Club, some visitors even thought it was a French car. I'm always happy to help boost the reputation of the Great British marque!

A gentle run back home through the countryside finished the day off very well and Sidney behaved flawlessly on his first propoer run out of the year. I fully intend to use him much more this season. Watch this space!

Andy West

Posted in Events on the 8th May 2015 at 1:38pm.