The 2003 International Rally was held at Hooke Court in Dorset near Beaminster, organised by the Dorset group of WIMA GB, led by Lu Travers and Pat Thomson. Dorset is a rural county on the south coast of England, a popular tourist destination with a UNESCO World Heritage coastline. Generally, this area has an excellent climate, but as it was a WIMA Rally, there was rain for half of the week!
Pat Thomson, WIMA GB, reported: a school facility was taken over for the whole week, marquees erected, caterers brought in, a bar organised (essential), more toilets and showers. Accommodation was available for about half the rally participants with the remainder camping across the two fields. Eleven nationalities and over 300 participants took part. The husbands and boyfriends of the organising committee acted as security (and emergency mechanics) for the bike park and campsite, whilst we were involved in activities. We kept them supplied with their own mini marquee and a crate of beer. This arrangement seemed to work as they also collected the breakfast goods from the bakery in a nearby village as part of the deal.
The opening night entertainment was provided by a local ladies’ Morris dance team; they invited audience participation in a stick dance (crash helmets optional).
Other activities during the week included a treasure hunt, showcasing parts of the region, team games, visits to local attractions, a quiz along with suggested rides, test rides and a cream tea with scones, jam and tea, provided by the local village in aid of their lamp post fund. The tea was sponsored by Dorset company Clipper Teas and can now be found all over the world.
A Ceilidh (a traditional dance) was held midweek, to shake down the cream tea, which involved some vigorous group dancing to a live band and a ‘Caller’ instructing us what to do next. We all did our best in the ensuing musical organised chaos. The cultural evening involving displays and presentations from participating countries was unforgettable.
The final evening was party time. More food, more wine and beer, more dancing…… then farewell until next rally. The weather improved and several small groups stayed on in the southwest as part of their vacation.
