It was definitely a relaxed day for all, starting with an 'unofficial' breakfast at the Gateway Cafe in Orford. This was a last minute decision by a few members to go early and have a leisurely breakfast before departing for the Winery. However, we finished up with 20 people, so just as well I had booked. We have had club runs to the Gateway Cafe in the past, so all enjoyed a very sumptuous 'brekkie' to start the day's proceedings. It was great to see so many northern members attending this very worthwhile Southern event. Many had stayed over night at Orford.
During the morning more Jaguars and members turned up, and at 10.45 am we all departed for a 5 minute drive up the road to the Darlington Winery where we were treated to the sampling some of their great wines with platters of cheese, biscuits and fruit. Very professional done and I think Darlington did reasonably well with purchases from members on the day Our BBQ host (Dale Pearce) was given strict instructions by his wife Gail that we were not to leave there till 12 noon, at which time we convoyed out from Darlington for the drive to Dale and Gail's home.
There were a total of 44 persons attending, which roughly related to 20 plus Jaguars to park. For which Dale had cleared a space in the paddock. A wee bit on the sandy side for those who had to park in there, but no one got into any strife.
Dale and Gail have a beautiful home at Orford, which they built themselves out of natural timbers, and is quite stunning and roomy. Behind the house is where we all congregated for the BBQ, already set out with many large tables and chairs. The BBQ was cranked into action by their 'little elves' David Scott and Rob Buchanan (Thank you gentlemen for your efforts in ensuring this day was so great), then the seafood began to flow, starting with Oysters (gave them a miss as not a fan) followed by beautiful succulent mussels and scallop skewers: and that was just the entree?? Then came to Trevalley, served with oven baked potatoes and salad. Makes my mouth water just writing this.
Dale's workshop was opened up for members to view the restoration progress of his XK 140 FHC Jaguar. Much work is still to be done on the body, but the chassis was looking exceptional and very near completion. The engine was virtually fully assembled sitting in an engine stand, as this had been totally rebuilt. His workshop is a Jaguars owners dream shop, and Dale has obviously taken the time, and has the patience to do this restoration with no details being over looked. We are all looking forward to seeing her finished and on the road, in hopefully the not too distant future.
The conversation was relaxed and interesting (naturally much car talk) over very fresh and 'Moorish' food, and just when you think it could not get any better, along came some lovely sweet treats in the form of chocolate, coconut or shortbread biscuits with tea and coffee available for those who so desired. It was at least 3.30 pm before the first of the members started to drift off, as some had a bit of a hike to get home, while others stayed on for another hour or two.
At this stage, and on behalf of the club and committee, I would like to thank, Dale and Gail Pearce for being such wonderful hosts and opening up their lovely home for this highly successful club event. Everything was so well organised and shudder to think just how much time and effort they had put into this BBQ prior to the actual day. All went off without a hitch (well none that I know of) and even on the day, both Dale and Gail were hovering around making sure that every table had plenty of food available. As I say, what splendid hosts they were, and thank them once again for ensuring this day was such a success, your efforts were definitely noticed and greatly appreciated. Take a bow Dale and Gail, then step back for a well-earned rest. Well done!
You can find more pictures from this event in the Galleries.