Festive Drive (29 December 2002)

South Central and West London groups got together for the joint 'Festive Drive 2002' on Sunday 29 December. Well when we say 'groups', actually only one car (us) from South Central and three from West London, braved the pouring rain and met up at Fleet Services on the M3. Before we even got that far we had to negotiate the closure of the M25 on our way to the rendezvous. We phoned ahead with news of our problems and very kindly the Londoners agreed to wait for us.

After a delayed start, the four intrepid vehicles set off for a pleasant meander around the lanes of Hampshire, the rain having virtually stopped by then. Even so, all hoods stayed firmly up.

Arriving at New Alresford on the B3046, this charming little town was awash with pubs, hotels and Christmas cheer. In The Bell Hotel, we all settled down in front of the log fire and enjoyed a long leisurely and companionable roast lunch. During the lunch, which took longer than the whole drive, it lashed with more rain but by the time we left, it had stopped again. Then it was all aboard for a gentle wander back home.

Thanks to Bob Pain for organising the trip and to Phil & Sue and Jason & Nicole for turning up and being such good company.

by Keith & Jo Visser