An overcast but warm Sunday morning on 16th August saw 8 Wilts HOC members meet at the Ram Inn, Tidworth, for our monthly ride out. Some members decided to tuck into breakfast at the café opposite before we set off, which is always a good way to fuel up before a day on the bikes!

Our chosen destination this time was The Tank Museum in Bovington. Once everyone had eaten their fill, the ride out briefing was given and we were off, with Andrew Y leading the way, followed by Sean E, Allan W, Claire J, Don G,  Glyn D and Chris, with Rob G kindly volunteering to be our tail-end Charlie.

We headed along the A338 before joining the A354 for a nice, steady ride, taking in a good mix of roads on the way to the museum.

Once we arrived and made our way inside, a coffee and tea break was obviously required before we started exploring the tanks of yesteryear.

It wasn’t long before Claire J found herself in a heated battle with the ketchup dispenser — unfortunately, the ketchup won! 😂 She ended up covered in sauce and, in a remarkable act of customer service, was rewarded with a brand-new free T-shirt (see pics). We’re still not entirely sure whether this was a genuine accident or just an elaborate way of getting some free merchandise! 🤣

We then carried on around the museum, taking in all the exhibits and soaking up the incredible history surrounding us. There was also a bit of friendly competition as we took turns on one of the virtual shooting ranges. Things got surprisingly competitive as everyone tried to claim the highest score in the group!

After we’d seen everything (and established who was apparently the best shot), we headed off to a couple of bike-and-brew spots before starting our journey home. Members gradually peeled off along the way to head back to their respective homes.

Overall, it was another fantastic day out with great company, plenty of laughs, some impressive machinery and, of course, a little ketchup-related drama! 😂

A big thank you to everyone who joined us. We look forward to seeing you all at the next event! 🏍️👍

By Andrew Young