South Derbyshire BSA Owners Club - Branch History

In 1983 a student from Nottingham joined the Branch. Ian Wallis traveled the 26 miles each way on various bikes including a Bantam, C15 and Jap iron. Unfortunately regular attendance was only 3 members – Ian, Bill Hall and Terry Wood with occasional visits from Eddie and evenings were social occasions rather than riding events.

Bill persuaded Ian to attend Delegates meetings at Newbold and the two rode down together to represent the Branch. Ian became interested in Club affairs and in 1985 became National Secretary of the Club while Alistair Fitzgerald, a Long Eaton based member, was Chairman. The friendship which arose coupled with Ian’s enthusiasm for all things BSA resulted in Ian suggesting to Bill that the Branch be moved nearer to either Nottingham or Derby in an attempt to boost membership.

Following many difficult evenings visiting numerous hostelries to check facilities, beer, biker-friendliness etc the relocated Branch held its first meeting at the Dog and Duck at Shardlow in the autumn of 1985. There were 53 in attendance although not all BSAOC members, and a good showing of bikes in the car park. Landlords Ian and Mary were excellent hosts and knew how to keep the Pedigree and the Branch flourished with regular attendances over 20. Initially, Ian was responsible for all aspects of Branch life but the free (and very smart) function room was put to good use in February 1986 and a small Committee was formed. That first committee included Colin Toll and , of course, Ian both still attending Branch nights and events.

Over the next few years membership remained at a good level and various events were put on including evening runs out, Sunday morning runs and group visits to local industries. Participation was so good that Ian put on several coach trips for family days out to places like Cadbury World and Ironbridge museum. Unfortunately in 1988 the brewery decided that the old Dog and Duck needed a makeover and should become a restaurant. Ian and Mary were turfed out as were we, and a new home was found just up the road at the White Hart in Aston-on-Trent where we still remain despite several changes of landlord and potential crises which have always come to nothing.

Here are some recent images taken from the recent BSA Owners Club Annual dinner & dance (April 2007) where again we won the Branch Attendance Shield as well as the cup for the most new members to any branch / section.