Portlaoise September 2016
Sean McEvoy was our host for the Autumn Run of 2016. Our base the Maldron Hotel. Weather was good. High level of expectation all round to see what new places of interest Sean had planned. We were not disappointed as this story will unfold.
After a meet and greet, coffee and scones, we assembled for the traditional drivers’ briefing orated by Sean. Maps and itinerary sheets circulated to all navigators.
For the record and the benefit of our viewers who like to admire Model T Ford cars in action, here is a pictorial account of these beautiful vehicles:
Following the briefing, members went about cranking up and chatting, as always. The social dimension for us is all important. We headed off at 11.30am with our first stop after 20 miles or so to the Gandon Inn where a delicious carvery Sunday lunch was laid on. More opportunities to chat all about Ts and exchange news and information.
Our post lunch drive of another 20 miles took us as far as Crawford House, Vicarstown, Stradbally, Co. Laois where we were received by Philip Green and family and invited to inspect one of the largest collection of David Brown tractors, machinery and implements in these isles.
As can be seen from the photos all items are presented in showroom condition. Our hosts invited us for afternoon tea which was served up by the Lady of the house with assistance from Greene family and friends. Thank you very much.
As a token of our appreciation our President Michael Loughran presented Sean McEvoy and our afternoon host with an Irish beech turned bowl as a memento of the occasion.
After this David Brown exhibition we bid farewell to the Greenes, it was off again for another 20 miles back to base, enjoying the rolling hillside and autumnal landscape colours of County Laois. Happily, we got home safe and sound. By 5:30 pm most of us had loaded up ready for the homeward leg of our run.
Expressions of thanks were conveyed to Sean for organising yet another terrific an enjoyable occasion for us all for which we are most thankful. Yes, we will return again next year. Yes, we hope you enjoyed your visit to our website to view this story. And yes, you will agree it was a wonderful day.
