WarBike Project: Motorcycles of WW1
Just started to source some pictures and there is a trip
needed to the British Library to source some information which was missing from
a document in the National Archives. The aim of this project is to provide a
lasting resource for those interested in motorcycles and their riders. It
follows that the project will never really be finished. This is not just an
excuse for getting behind, but recognition that the research will be added to
over time. The main work will initially be the published material, but the
Facebook page will act as a repository for anyone wishing to add or even
correct any material. This month we will also be finalising the Cover design
and the title. Believe it or not we have gone with Warbike as a working title,
but now realise that the final title needs to be a bit more contextual!
20 June saw the Centenary of the Red Cross Field day held at
Brooklands Racetrack in 1914. This was an event organised by Ethel Locke-King
local Red Cross Vice President, and Wife of Hugh Locke-King, the owner of
Brooklands. The Field Day brought together Members of the Red Cross Voluntary
Aid Detachment together with members of the local Regiments and Aircraft spotters
to test the Red Cross’s readiness in the case of conflict.
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| VAD Nurses (c) Red Cross Archives |
A mock battle was fought with members of the local Territorial
Regiment defending part of the Banked track from attack by “Enemy” Forces.
These solders were firing wax bullets at each other which although not lethal did
not reach today’s health and safety standards and could have rendered some very
real injuries. A biplane armed with a Vickers machine gun then fired on the
enemy positions. Later the same plane acted as a spotter for wounded members of
the armed forces in the shape of straw dummies in uniform that had been placed
around the battlefield. After landing the crew informed the Red Cross field
Ambulance crews who recovered the wounded to a safe area. We know from
contemporary reports that at least one motorcycle was involved reported as a
Triumph with Gloria Sidecar converted to an ambulance for carrying wounded.
From our research we know that the Red Cross used these combinations for
transport and the picture kindly supplied by the Red Cross Archive shows a
similar bike in action. However this one complete with stretcher conceived by
Lady Rowley was reported to be the first of its kind
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| Red Cross Field day at Brooklands June 1914 |
The successful event was watched over by Red Cross President
HM Queen Alexandria and Sister Maria Feodorovna the Dowger Empress of Russia.
Goodwood Festival of Speed
As ever a wonderful event. It gets better by the year and is
alas getting just a little busy. The organisers have done their best to
increase numbers on the site by spreading the attractions over a larger area,
but when the stars are on the Hill you just know you have to be there. Lots for
bike fans including in no particular order John McGuinness, Steve Parrish,Ivan
Rhodes,Sammy Miller, Alan Cathcart, George Cohen,Scott Redding, Freddie
Spencer, Wayne Gardiner, Michael Dunlop, Donald Cameron, Charley Boorman and
many more.
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| BSA Empie Star |
Brooklands Museum had two entries including The Napier Railton and
the Recreation of the BSA Empire Star ridden by its owner and creator George
Wander. It remains about the only event where members of the public can mingle
with the riders and drivers in the padock. Well Done Goodwood and can’t wait
until next year.
Brooklands VMCC
Ace Ton-up Day @Brooklands
Whilst of the subject of the Hill; it will be in action again on 6 July
2014 for The Ace Cafe Ton-Up Day. Entries are closed for the hill, but you can
still ride in on the day. It promises to be a great day with a few surprises
thrown in.
All Our Yesterdays
On 28th June we launched our Diary of the first World War
viewed from the perspective of the pioneer motorcyclists of the day. We will be
reporting on some of the main events in the August Blog.
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