The weather for this season’s BMCA visit to Leighton could not have been more different to last year’s event which was cancelled twice due to adverse weather conditions. So twenty five regular and not so regular riders enjoyed some glorious sunshine, albeit with a stiff breeze, at this excellent venue which boasts some impressive streams and banks.

Unusually, the expert class had the most riders with the win being taken by Chris Chell, with an exemplary peformance – dropping only 4 marks on section 9 which became devoid of grip in the mud. Ben Millichap managed to clean this section on every lap but dropped his marks on the tricky rock steps of section 1 and 5. Kev Taylor missed better honours with a five on section 8.

Pete Reed was joined by Graham Greaves in the over 350cc class – both riding triumph twins – no mean feat on this terrain, with Greaves taking the top spot.

Seven Intermediates contested this class with Dave Beddoes coming out on top on 38 marks with Joe Owen only 2 marks adrift. Indeed, Owen may have taken the win if his chain had not jumped the sprockets and jammed in the casings!! Ian Brittain hauled the big Royal Enfield round the course to a creditable third place. Kevin Walker suffered a puncture after only one lap so was relegated to observing duties.

Five Clubman turned out to ride with course plotter Martin Mackenzie taking top spot by a good margin from Mike Hughes on sweet sounding Cub. Andy Hunt took third spot. Another retiree was Steve Leyshon with engine issues with his Bantam – another early relegation to observing too.

Overall, an excellent BMCA classic trial put on by Martin Mackenzie making full use of the venue, with the perfect weather and glorious views added bonuses.