Bletchley Park Run: Sunday 5th October 2008

Three hardened members, (Steve, Keith & myself), plus Alan's friend Colin on a BMW, set off to meet up with Alan Burns at the Thurrock Services for a 10.00am start. Not the best weather to ride the 90 miles up to Bletchley. Drizzle and a little winding in places, made us glad we had all togged up in our waterproofs.

Alan's route kept us off the motorway. Nice roads, but due to the weather conditions, progress hampered our pace. At one point, Steve's bike needed a push to get it going again, after cutting out a set of traffic lights. Keith was on hand to supply the muscle power. (If Keith had just let go of the bike, just a fraction before the engine roared back into action, he wouldn't of aqua planed down the road on his chest!) Wet, but ok, we were all on our way again.

Though a little later than planned, we arrived safely at Bletchley Park.They were very kind in giving us a room to store our gear. (Don't know if it was out of kindness, or they just didn't want puddles of water dripped all around the place!) We were a little soaked!

For anyone who has never been to Bletchley Park, I can thoroughly recommend a visit. As you may well know, during the 2nd world war, Bletchley Park was Britain's best-kept secret. Up to 8,500 people, worked, in total secrecy, to crack Germany's coded communications sent by the Germans enigma & Lorenz machines. Odds of breaking their coded messages were 158 million to one! With the help of Colossus and the Bombe machines they built, Bletchley did just that!

Entrance fee is £10.00, but this ticket lasts for a year. You do need a full day to walk around all the exhibitions & attractions. I recommend you join in one of their guided tours, (which are free) to appreciate what went on there.

At 5.00pm we headed back for home. The rain had ceased, though wet gloves and soggy gear made the ride back down the motorway a little unpleasant. After passing through the Toll barriers, everyone made their dash for home and a greatly needed hot drink.

Thanks to Alan for organising a very interesting run. Maybe we could add it to next years calendar if other members are interested in visiting Bletchley.

ChrissyBx
Maidstone Laguna Rat member.