Vic Blake passed away on the 1st April 2019, he was 76. Vic had been feeling poorly for only a few days following his installation as our Chairman for 2019-2021 at our AGM on the 16th March 2019 when he was full of ideas and enthusiasm for the future. He had one daughter and three granddaughters scattered all over the world – hence his exotic holidays! The younger elements of the Family thought that he should spend his time with pipe and slippers by the fire, but as we know this was not his style. Anyone who knew Vic will be aware of his love for all aspects of of the motorcycling world. Over the years he had collected and restored numerous machines, his favourite was his Matchless Model X Sidecar outfit on which he and Laura had covered thousands of happy, memorable miles. Vic’s passion was to find some of the more obscure and rare bikes and restoring them to full working order including the ingenious addition of electric starters to ensure they were usable. Vic had the engineering skills and fully kitted workshop to undertake this work. He also possessed the knowledge of people who could supply items or carryout the more obscure tasks.
Vic and Laura thoroughly enjoyed their continental trips making friends and returning with copious supplies of cigarettes and home made Plum Brandy! He and Laura also supported the Saundersfoot event in which they had taken part for 25 consecutive years.
Our Association has lost a great talent and enthusiastic supporter and we are the poorer for his passing.