Barbecue - 2005 ........ Annual Club BBQ Aspen Farm 7th August 2005
What weather?! What a venue?! What a good day?! Through the kindness of Phil and Maurice Hatley the Club once again was able to hold it's annual Barbecue at Aspen Farm. This must be one of the finest private nature reserves in Hampshire, and is a quite idyllic setting. We are so grateful to the Hatleys for allowing - nay positively encouraging - us to return each year. Seventeen Austin Sevens assembled for the festivities, together with an absolutely splendid Morgan, and a very rapid Monkey Bike. During the day both these last two vehicles were given carriage exercise by assorted members. Your scribe hopes that he may also get a chance to drive the Morgan at some future event - it looked exhilarating! The BBQ burned well and everyone was able to bake their scones or burn their meat to their liking. And it must have been to their liking since all that could be heard were happy voices and much laughter! It should be mentioned that there was a full grown 'frig out in the middle of the grounds (do the Hatleys have plugs in every bush? I hear you ask) and it was full to overflowing with all sorts of drink. The sun shone, people ate and drank, and then the company just sat about enjoying the surroundings. That was until some energetic so-and-sos decided that a few driving tests would be a good idea. Phil had left his workshop open for viewing - a brave thing to do with Solent Members in the vicinity - and we were able to examine, at close quarters, his enviable facilities. Spanner just wishes he would get on and finish the Cup Model. Those who wished were provided with a tour of the estate accompanied by Phil's German Shepherd who gave the commentary. Ultimately it was time to leave, and one hopes that there was not too much tidying up to do the following day. One other thing worries me - who filled the 'frig. with drink? If it was you Phil and Maurice then very many sincere thanks. Spanner August'05
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