My motorcycling life began through my father. He did not own a bike (to start with anyway), but took me and my brothers to race meetings at Oulton Park (our local circuit) and Silverstone (for the F750 races). Once, he nearly had to enter a Hy-mac digger for a race (but that’s another story!). Thanks Pete.

At 16, I was equipped with a Honda SS50 moped, moving to a Honda CB250 G5 (via a short-lived CZ 250) at 17.Me and my mates did more race circuits when we could, to road and moto-cross events plus a few trials. Until about 2000, my ‘stable’ only ever consisted of one bike at a time. And they were mostly Japanese, apart from the aforementioned CZ plus a 1975 Norton Commando 850 mk II (what a hoot but high maintenance). There was also a gap in ownership, being brought back into the fold by some friends in 1997.

A serious crash in 1999 led to being ‘encouraged’ to do the IAM advanced riding course and test in 2000. My brother-in-law got me into BMWs in 2002 and I’ve not been without (at least) one ever since. So, currently an R1200GS LC plus an F650GS Dakar. I’ve additionally had track day bikes too but now complete my stable with a WR250 Yamerrah trail bike.I also volunteer for the local Blood Bike group, typically riding one weekend per month plus a week of overnight cover.

Joined the PEMC in 2005 with stints as mid-week turnup organiser following the esteemed Peter Prime, and as joint membership secretary with Hilary. I still help organise an event or two, whether turnup or holiday. I worked in IT all my working life (apart from a stint as a tractor driver fer me dad), but I’m not sure that’s going to be enough to replace Colin as our events secretary and treasurer. I hope the handover is thorough! I expect I’ll have chance to speak to most of our active members over time, so I’ll speak to you soon!