Report on the IVAN ANDERSON MEMORIAL RUN Sat. 8th. May 2010

John Anderson did it again, a beautiful day with wall to wall sunshine and not a sign of rain. How does he manage it? 

Eighteen cars assembled at the Tyrone Crystal Factory car park outside Dungannon in good time for the 2.00 p.m. start. This is a perfect venue with lots of space but how sad it is to see that once proud building standing derelict with the  beautiful lawns now unkempt. Let’s hope that new life will be brought back soon in some shape or form.

John led off in his car with the usual banner on the bonnet announcing to all that a group of old cars was behind. What a good idea this is! He led the troupe of eager automobilists through some beautiful scenery in County Armagh (sorry Omagh Men) but this truly is  a stunning time to visit this area as the Apple Blossom was in full bloom. After a truly memorable run John led us to Cranagill Methodist Church where a Flower Festival was taking place.

What a spectacular sight this was as we filed through the church admiring the beautiful displays which all had a theme. What talent someone has to be able to do such wonderful work. On remerging into the sunlight to the delight of some of the ladies there were a few stalls selling such delights as home made jewellery and plants.

We were then entertained to tea/coffee, scones and cakes all served by the ladies of the congregation. Well done Cranagill! Now what a surprise it was to learn that this Church was the one in which our Secretary, Ella was married in. What a lovely location. All too soon the vintage horn sounded to let us know it was time to leave for the next leg of the run. Again we followed John in convoy through more of this lovely County to finally re-enter Co. Tyrone for a meal in The Hanover House Hotel in the charming village of Coagh which once again was up to the usual standard of this fine establishment.

After the meal Godfrey Crawford, In the absence of the chairman, thanked John and Ella for all the planning and organising of this very successful event before giving out the cups as follows:

Oldest Hard Top-- Des Ballantine.

Most Original Car-- Roberta Hall.

Oldest Soft Top -- Raymond Fulton.

Furtherest Travelled -- Alan Bridgham.

Favourite car as picked by Cranagill Church Members -- Ed. Winters.