16 Jun 2011 - LISTER TYNDALE RALLY - BERKELEY CASTLE, GLOUCESTERSHIRE

We would like to tell you about our fabulous first rally with SMOC at the above venue. It was truly delightful; the event was, in our opinion, a complete success. Although the weather was abysmal, everyone had such fun, as there was so much going on.

The rally marshal, Ray Rolfe and his lovely wife Beryl, made us so welcome, and looked after us so well, we didn’t feel like newcomers at all, and we met some lovely people there, and some new friends.

The steam fair was fascinating, there were all sorts of engines, small, large, and humungous, where the love and care put into each engine was evident, they were gleaming, and there were many children driving the smaller engines, they had such fun, it was a pleasure to watch.

Friday night took us to the Berkeley Arms Hotel, on the recommendation of Ray and Beryl, and the food was excellent. The town was quite charming.

Saturday, more rain, but not to be put off, we all trudged around the field quite happily in our welly boots, meeting up in the beer tent in hope that the rain would subside, so if it didn’t, it didn’t matter too much. The sun came back out around 5pm so back around the craft stalls having a rummage into all the interesting crafts, meeting all the people, and having a chat.

Saturday night, we all enjoyed coffee and biscuits round at Ray and Beryl’s, where we all passed a few envious glances at the ‘posh’ Autotrail rallies marquee (next door), which even had mock windows and curtains!! (Didn’t see a wigwam though!!). It didn’t deter us from having a good chat and a laugh at the days’ events.

Sunday was a nicer day, weather wise, and the sun was out for most of the day. After walking around the exhibits of the many classic cars that had arrived that morning, and vintage tractors and trucks, which were a sight to be seen, we visited Berkeley Castle, which is just about the right size to walk around in a couple of hours, a very unusual place, with a most interesting kitchen full of the most unusual artefacts.

The Castle started to be built in 1117, and the fortress was finally completed in 1153, and is still the home of the Berkeley family.

Out of the Castle, and into the Butterfly house, which was absolutely beautiful, with some of the most stunning species just flying around the tropical plants, quite freely flitting amongst us as we followed the trail through the wonderful foliage.

There were some enormous butterflies that actually wouldn’t leave Ian alone, and kept landing on his face, and hair; must have liked his aftershave, so I think they must have been females! I have some awesome pictures.

Sunday evening, unfortunately, we had to return home, as one of our family was unwell, but we can honestly say that this was a rally which was very memorable, and should be repeated. We’re sure that a lot of people who were there would agree with us. Everyone had such a good time, despite the awful weather. Please bring it back very soon, or a similar steam fair.

All thanks to Ray and Beryl, who worked so hard to make sure everyone had a good time, and made us all so welcome. Thank you both.

We look forward to the next rally with SMOC.

Ian and Sharon Matthews