Roadholder 370 - October 2018

6 at last - a branch ride out Anthony Curzon T he Surrey Branch had a ride out to Jack's Café in Bagshot, Surrey in May. This was organised by our very own 'Blade Runner', John Blades who was our ride leader, map reader and ride organiser. This was the Surrey Branch's first ride out for many a year: it is something that we have been discussing for a while, and we finally made it happen. This is mainly due to John's help, prompting and planning. John Blades had previously called in to Huber's Garage, in Shalford, who also now own the ex-Douglas main dealer 'G.D. Brown' of Godalming. They have a museum in their showroom and they are a main dealer for many different makes of scooters and motorcycles. Their website is www.gdbrownmotorcycles.co.uk . It is well worth a visit for Classic bike owners as there are some very rare and special bikes on display. There is a very special AMC 'tool- room special' from 1951 that AMC personnel had constructed from a 350 Single with an OHC conversion. This bike is now an example of one of those 'if only' situations as AMC, back then, were looking at many other engine options for their road bikes. When you look at Left to right: Ken Rawlinson, Matt Crighton, John Blades, Phil Hannam, Simon Smith, Bill Harrison, Geoff Cole, Peter Ashley, and Patrick Bullimore