After much badgering the TIMBER AGM 2012 at Santon Downham was well attended. There was the usual problem with access and lack of keys, but once that was sorted it was down to business, and a change of chairman.

Graham (accompanied by his better half, presumably to make sure he didn't volunteer for any more jobs), reminded us of the aims and objectives of his tenure and what had been achieved. He then gifted the club a trophy in the shape of a spade to be awarded annually to a worthy volunteer for their efforts.

There was then a unanimous vote for Moe to take over the post, closely followed by votes for a largely unchanged committee. Moe explained that his aims were to continue Graham's good work and to seek to "dual" the trail network which will make trail maintenance easier.

Chairman Moe then awarded Graham an engraved ("Ex-TIMBER chairmen still take it up the Berm") silver pewter flask to thank him for all his hard work over 2 years. Graham departed in a hurry some time later, we're guessing to get to B&Q before closing time, in preparation for his next role as a DIY slave.

Discussions then started into the level of subs (up to £10 - sorry) and other controversial subjects, such as the shape of the car stickers and what to do about babies riding the red route?!

Overall a successful AGM with a well organised hand-over to the new regime. Keep an eye on the forum for the meeting minutes.

Note, that we've been asked to make a correction to this article. Due to dealing with an unknown quantity of riders, Mildenhall CC have decided to make their Round 3 on 25th March 2012 the inter-club event on a trial basis. We're not actually invited to the other dates in their Off-Road Championship. More details here

As promised last year, we have arranged to collaborate with Mildenhall CC. At present, it is on a suck it and see basis so nothing formal, just a chance to race for your club, against another club.

We believe there are no entry fees and the standard will not be 'elite' though there may well be one or two quicker riders. The more the merrier and there are ladies and kids races too.

10am start.
25th March FR7.

You need to be there 15 minutes before kick off. The more the merrier. Maybe treat it as part of your Sunday ride.
Oh yes, there is tea/coffee/cake and biscuits at the end too.

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Today at High Lodge the first batch of TIMBER volunteers were trained to use the Kanga Loader. This should allow us to accelerate our efforts to improve and fix the trails. We learnt how to maneuver the machine over uneven ground and attach the different attachments including trencher, rotavator and post hole borer. Most of all we were taught to take safety VERY seriously.

Thanks to Mark (also a TIMBER volunteer) from Hirebase for the creating and giving us the training. As usual thanks go to the Forestry Commission for their continued support.

Today we also said good bye to FC trail ranger Adam Godwin, who's supported us a lot over the years and will be sorely missed. He's moving to Glentress to sort out the Scots.

TIMBER Members Martin Monaghan and Anita Buxton made the podium of the Mud Sweat & Gears Summer Enduro, coming third in the 10 hour mixed pairs. Well done to them!

Photo by Mark Chapman