Ted Riley Classics Visit - May 9th
Our first proper social event this year took place on Thursday May 9th when we had a visit to Ted Riley Classics who are based near Huntly.
35 members made their way through Aberdeenshire in reasonable sunshine for a 6 o’clock start, but the skies darkened ominously as the journeys progressed and most people were caught in a rain shower of biblical proportions – particularly troublesome for those brave enough to have their roofs down! The shower stopped as quickly as it had started but the damage had been done - a few of the individuals who arrived for the visit were a bit soggy!
A magnificent fish supper was provided for all on arrival and preceded the tour which comprised a visit to the main workshop, a visit to the fabrication shop where we were treated to a practical demonstration in the art of panel beating, use of many tools such as the English Wheel, sheet metal folder etc., as well as the art of cutting louvres. It is sad to think that these skills are dying out as we were told that very few people are training to do this type of work. The visit concluded with a tour of the small engine shop where the engine from a replica AC Cobra was being re-built.
All in all, it was a fascinating visit and many thanks to our new Social Secretary Anita who did a brilliant job of organising the visit, and a special thanks to Ted, Fiona and Edward (Junior) Riley and all the staff who gave us a fascinating insight into the work they do.
