Not everyone had headed north to Scotland to a certain trial being held up there. 70 riders chose instead to contest another of the Manchester 17 MCC's latest Dead Easy Trials held on the outskirts of Peak Forest in the heart of the fabulous Peak District.
This is only the second time that this venue has been used and what a fabulous piece of ground it is for this type of trial. A series of old lead mine workings, the limestone outcrops, deep gullies, and bankings could have been created with motorcycle trials in mind. The weather for once was perfect with the sun shining nearly all day.
Ten sections to be covered four times was the plan, with section seven being avoided by the Easy route. Not difficult, this was a natural rocky gully that just cried out to be ridden by a trials bike. Few flags were needed as the sides of the gully formed a natural boundary. The little bikes and beginners may have struggled with the steep exit, hence their omission. Surprisingly, a bog was found amongst the rocks and this was used for section four and proved to take a few marks as the exit became more slippery.
Many riders had travelled a fair distance to take part, none more so than Rob Bowyer, winner of last years Pre 65 Scottish, who had dashed back from this years event to support his Dad Roger and son's George and Harry who were all riding.
On the Easy route eight riders went home without putting their feet down all day, ranging from Frodsham rider young Matthew Barber on his electric Beta to Dave Hedison who had come all the way from Kirton Lindsey in Lincolnshire to ride.
Six riders managed to stay clean on the Hard Route. No doubt a shower of rain on the limestone would have made things a little tricky but no one was complaining, more of the sunshine please!
Thanks to the Observers without whom trials are very difficult to run, and to all the riders and helpers for their support. Everyone seemed to enjoy the trial judging by the comments and smiles at the end, all helped by the weather and the butty van!
Report;- Roger Townsend