Normandy Rally 2011

 After months of excited anticipation, all of us who should have, met on time at Portsmouth harbour for the crossing to Caen. The sea was calm with a few patches of swell and choppiness which made one or two feel a little queazy. However, we all landed safely in the evening with an added hour which made our journey to the campsite a rather dark one. We all pitched up eventually, no names no pack drill, with the help of those already there; yes it even happens abroad.

 The camp site at St Aubin-sur-mer was central to the D-day landing areas so all the sites and museums were easy to get to. With the sea only about 10 minutes walk away it was a delight to wander along the beach and drift into a cafe for local refreshment. We enjoyed an evening bar-b-cue (more smoke than cooking, some thought) and also a meal in a local restaurant.
 Caen was about half an hour away with its castle and a few interesting old buildings which had survived the bombs and shells. Also within easy reach was Swiss Normandy with its rocky cliffs and deep river valleys, quite a contrast to the flat coastal areas. Almost central, is the small town of Clécy where the locals are very hospitable and have a very large model railway layout on the site of ancient lime kilns, which are conserved as a museum.

 From St Aubin some Dandyers moved on to continue their holiday elsewhere, whilst the rest of us made the two hour journey to Pontorson just five miles away from Le Mont-St-Michel. The town is named after General Orson who built the first river bridge there for William the Conqueror.
 Most of us who dared, took a bicycle ride alongside the river for the five miles to the Mount. We started out in the mist, but as we reached the causeway the sun broke through and the island was dramatically displayed in front of us. The temperature rose rapidly so it was hot work walking up to the Abbey. I had been there before and so, having the tide in my favour, I took the opportunity to walk all round the island.

 
 Our next site was at Ouistreham, just ten minutes away from the port of Caen. It was also just a five minute walk along the canal to Pegasus Bridge, the famous café, and the memorial museum; even some of the Airborne Division were camped with us. That evening there was a military ceremony to mark the first landings, ending with fireworks after midnight. With a very early start for the ferry there were some bleary eyes to be seen the next day.
 As there were seven members of the committee at this rally I am declaring it an official meeting and will be sending my claim for travelling expenses to the treasurer!???
 This was an extremely enjoyable rally, very well arranged by Tim and Sandy to whom we owe a great deal of thanks for their help and care throughout.
 Where next, I wonder?

Harry Saunderson