Rally - Craufurdland Castle Festival

A weekend of mixed emotions … It started with Jock’s funeral on Friday. What a turn-out. Certainly 5 or 6 hundred folk in attendance although some reckoned nearer 7 or 8 hundred and few could disagree with that. A very moving service and a very fitting tribute to a very decent bloke.

Sunday was spent at the Craufurdland Castle Rally Festival, the first of its kind in Scotland. And yes, there were a few shortcomings, but it would appear that those with rally cars fair enjoyed themselves even if the road did cut up a bit on the Sunday. However, the biggest drawback was the single road entry and exit point, a short part of which was also used as the rally stage, so that caused a few delays. And it would have helped if the grass in the field had benefited from a wee run over with a mower beforehand. However, the organisers are well aware of what’s needed and say they’ll be back next year. As a way of introducing the sport to new folk, this type of event provides an entertaining and accessible platform.

Just one wee observation, if you’re going to hire Barry Lee (Hot Rod World Champ, speedway rider, racer, rallycrosser and rally driver) as a commentator, better have a bleep machine (and maybe subtitles) handy, otherwise any attending weans will be adding some new expressions to their more colourful vocabulary. He may be 80 but he’s still an irascible rogue 

The event also provided a chance to catch up with friends old and new and there were many familiar faces around, and of course a few more books were sold. Great stuff.

Yesterday was spent at a secret location in the Borders with the proof readers, Susan and Rodger. Surprisingly there were fewer red marks than I was expecting, although there was a bit of haggling over some of the terminology. The most painful bit of the visit was paying for the lunch at the nearby Allanton Inn, but it was the least I could do. On the other hand it was worth every penny, it was scrumptious. However, that now means the Scottish Championship 1990s book will be ready for the printer next week!

To cap it all off, my best pal is now home, hirplin’ aroon the hoose on twa sticks after his successful hip operation on Friday. He’ll be taking up tennis next, eh?