The way we were: May 1938

by

George Povey on his 348cc Ariel

On reaching the town (now city) the sun had disappeared so a dip in the sea no longer appealed. Instead, he rode steadily along Madeira Drive.

On the return trip home Perseus needed to pedal assist the machine along part of the 11:1 uphill gradient on Reigate Hill. Over the 90 mile ride he averaged 114mpg with petroil premix. Returning to the office the following day, he was able to report he’d “Cyc-Auto’d to the sea and back yesterday. Had a most comfortable and enjoyable ride and the cost was 1s 71⁄2d (8½p) – only 1½p in excess of my budget.”

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Held in near ideal conditions the year’s Scottish Six Days Trial attracted a strong entry including works teams and big crowds dressed for summer. Among the retirements was Alan Jeffries on day one after he stubbed his foot on a large rock and broke two toes – ouch. Other notable retirements included Charlie Rodgers (346cc Royal Enfield) and Harold Flook (490cc Norton outfit). With a loss of just four marks George Povey, 348cc Ariel, shown, was overall victor with Stuart Waycott, 495cc Velocette, taking the sidecar class. Marjorie Cottle, 249cc Triumph, secured a silver plaque.


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