Bertie the Biker

When this picture from the Birmingham Mail was posted on the Motorcycle Funerals Limited Facebook page in January it attracted a lot of attention. It shows our founder Paul Sinclair riding on the funeral of WW2 dispatch rider Arthur Craythorne in Solihull. The story was even picked up and run by the German press.

Here in Scotland we also served at a funeral for a WWII veteran recently.  

In November 2011 we met a man from Helensburgh at an exhibition. He explained how he had seen our Triumph hearse the previous day and had called his dad, who was in his 90’s, and told him about us. He explained that his dad had ridden his bikes until he was well into his 80’s and that he was really interested in our service. The following day he emailed me to say he was worried about his father who he said was “sitting revving up his armchair”. As I was visiting the town a few weeks later I was invited round to the elderly gentleman’s home, together with the hearse, for my lunch so he could see one.  A surreal experience I can assure you.

I spent a wonderful couple of hours with Bertie Weir, known locally as Bertie the Biker, and despite the stormy weather he carried out a detailed inspection and liked what he saw.

Unfortunately in September 2012 I took a call from James Auld Funeral Directors and Jim explained that Bertie had passed away and that my services were required.  

When I arrived at the funeral home on the day of the funeral I found that Bertie’s coffin was something special.  

His son told me that when war became imminent he joined the TA and, as so many did, he and his wife to be advanced their wedding plans, marrying on 14 September 1939. By a strange quirk of fate the day of his funeral would have been their seventy-third wedding anniversary.

During the war he served in various regiments including the Highland Light Infantry (H.L.I) and Enniskillens and at the age of only twenty-two he was a Major in charge of a company of men.  

However Bertie spent the majority of the war in Africa where he served with the Somaliland Camel Corps. To celebrate his military service when he passed away the family arranged to have Bertie’s coffin adorned with pictures of camels set against a desert background provided by Colourful Coffins.  Bertie’s Kullah (Camel Corps head dress) travelled on top of his coffin. Instead of being a sad day it was a celebration of all Bertie enjoyed in his life and it was wonderful to see so many smiling faces.

Rest in Peace Bertie the Biker, it was an honour to meet and serve you.

– Alistair Tait, Motorcycle Funerals Limited

An Important Statement from WTTR

We are aware that one or two individuals are not happy that WTTR changed its status earlier this year and became a motorcycle club. Instead of approaching us directly to ask us for our reasons, these people have taken it upon themselves to disparage WTTR and spread misinformation about us to other bikers.

WTTR would like to take this opportunity to set the record straight so that everyone is clear about what we have done and why we've done it.

From the beginning the intentions of WTTR have always been simple. These are:

1. To remember servicemen and women who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on our behalf in conflicts both past and present.
2. To raise money for charity – primarily those who support UK armed forces veterans, military personnel who have been injured, and the families of those killed in conflicts both at home and abroad.
3. To ride with respect for our fellow bikers.

Due to the nature of the events that WTTR participates in – bike shows, Gala days, military parades, 'one-off' ride-outs and our own WTTR event in October – there is often interaction between the general public and our motorcycles. Earlier this year WTTR had to examine every aspect of these events in detail. We had to consider what would happen if something went wrong, for example, a child falling off of a stationary motorcycle while sitting on it to have their photograph taken. Unfortunately we live in a culture where people do not think twice about suing someone else. So it made sense to us that WTTR has Liability Insurance that covers the events we organise or participate in. 

As a not-for-profit organisation WTTR wants the maximum amount of money it raises to go to good causes – specifically poppyscotland – rather than it being spent on administration. As anyone who runs their own business will know, Liability Insurance is expensive. We talked to the British Motorcycle Federation (BMF) who informed us that if WTTR became a motorcycle club then we would be eligible to be covered by their Liability Insurance for a very reasonable annual fee. For us, it was a no-brainer! 

Not wishing to make too much of a fuss about this change of status Jim Thomson, Karen Holmes and myself formed a small committee. We asked Faye Gray to join us because we knew she would keep us right with the club finances. For clarification WTTR does not have a president nor a vice-president, and none of us get paid for any of the work or time that we put into WTTR. The committee is purely administrative and its function is to:

• Liaise with the British Motorcycle Federation (BMF) and, if necessary, its insurance company.

• Promote WTTR to others and obtain invitations to events where we can raise money for charity.

• Carry out pre-event risk assessments, including notifying Police Scotland, arranging marshalling and organising bike parking etc. Completing written forms for the BMF should they be required.

• Actively participate in WTTR events, man WTTR stands and help raise money for charity.

• Co-ordinate with key personnel from poppyscotland and other organisations on WTTR activities and money raised etc.

• Source, order and distribute WTTR merchandise. Keep WTTR social media channels and website up-to-date so that individuals and supporters know what is happening and are able to make informed decisions as to whether they participate in an event or not.

In summary all WTTR events are open events. You do not have to pay an annual membership fee nor be a member of WTTR to attend one of our events. All we ask is that you support us in any way you can in order to help us to help others.

Thanks for attention and your amazing support.

– Derek Green; WTTR Media and Communications

Bathgate Gala Day

We really couldn't have asked for a better day. About twenty WTTR supporters with motorbikes, clear blue skies and the streets packed with townsfolk waving and cheering. This was the first time I'd personally participated in the Bathgate Procession and John Newland Festival and it was the first time that WTTR MCC had be invited to lead the procession - a real honour for us. 

The day had begun with Jeanie Reid giving me £175.00 that she and friends had raised for WTTR and poppyscotland on behalf of her dad - and fellow WTTR supporter - Jockie Reid. Jeanie told me that the cash had been raised through a variety of activities, all of which sounded great fun. I certainly look forward to receiving an invite to one of her future fund-raisers!

In Bathgate, WTTR MCC members and supporters made sure that we were most definitely heard and seen as we were guided around the the town by two police bikers to our destination - the Bathgate Showground. It was great to see some bikes flying the new WTTR flags that have produced with the support of Zephyr Flags. 

At the showground we parked up our bikes in and around the WTTR stand and then spent the rest of the afternoon chatting to folk about who we were and what we do. We asked those who wanted to have their photos taken sitting astride the bikes to make a small donation to poppyscotland and I believe we've raised a tidy sum of money. Thanks to everyone who visited our stand and made a donation. It was good to meet you and your generosity is much appreciated. 

This weekend WTTR MCC members will be participating in the Newtongrange Gala Day parade, so if you didn't see us in Bathgate then come along and say hello on Saturday.

– Derek Green, WTTR Media & Communications

Yikes! Where did April go?

So much has happened over the past six weeks that we thought we should bring you up-to-speed with our activities.

In March War-Torn Troops Remembered became an affiliated motorcycle club of the British Motorcycling Federation. Thanks to Rachael at the BMF for her support during our application process. 

Also in March a number of WTTR members and supporters met up at the Bikers Bar which took place at the Jocks Lodge. We must give a big shout out to Duncan for bringing this event forward so that it didn't effect Sunday's Forth Gear Easter Egg Run. There was good chat and two cracking live bands! I understand there's another Bikers Bar night planned soon, so keep an eye out for details on the WTTR Facebook page.

The day after some WTTR folk joined members of RBLS Riders at a supermarket 'bag-pack' in Hunters Tryst. The aim was to raise much needed funds for SAFFA. A sterling effort was made by all, particularly those who were out partying on Friday night.

Despite the wintery weather at the end of March it was amazing to see about 50 bikers and other supporters turn out for the Forth Gear's Muffin Morning and Easter Egg Run. Again amazing efforts were made by individuals to attend. If you didn't manage to make it along then you'll find a short video giving a flavour of what happened on our website and on our YouTube Channel.

Most recently around 20 WTTR bikers and supporters made it down to the Home Coming Parade in Haddington. It was perfect biking weather with the sun splitting the sky. Those of us stuck inside and at work were most jealous!!! Photos from this event plus others mentioned will be put up on the website soon.

A big thanks to everyone who has bought WTTR merchandise - hoodies, patches and flags. We need  to single out Zephyr Flags here as they generously supported WTTR by subsidising the production costs of the motorbike flags. Please remember that once merchandise production costs have been covered any profit made goes directly to charity. 

It should come as no surprise to learn that WTTR has struck up a very good working relationship with poppyscotland this year. The majority of the money we raise will go directly to them. WTTR co-founder CSgt. Jim Thomson is having his motorbike resprayed and customised so that it is becomes a WTTR/poppyscotland bike. It's going to look amazing! Hopefully photos and info will appear on a future blogpost.

We still have some Raffle Tickets left to win a big twin Harley Davidson for the weekend. If you want to buy a ticket simply email riders@wttr.org.uk and Kaz will do the rest. Tickets cost £5.00 each and the draw will be made on 11 May 2013 at the Carole Nash Great Scottish Bike Show. 

Finally, today our thoughts are very much with the three soldiers from 2SCOTS who were killed by a road side device in Afghanistan, those who were injured, their families and their friends. Once again we remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice on our behalf.

– Derek Green, WTTR Media & Communications

Caber Feidh

I recently wrote about Robert Tait McKenzie, the sculptor of the Scots American War Memorial.  While researching for that blog I read that the inscription below the figure of the Infantryman reads.  

“If it be life that waits, I shall live forever unconquered, if death, I shall die, at last, strong in my pride and free.” 

These are words from a poem called 'A Creed' written at Vimy Ridge in 1916 by Lieutenant E. Alan Mackintosh M.C. (1893-1917) of the 5th Seaforth Highlanders, 51st Highland Division. That meant something to me as I was born and brought up in Sutherland in the Highlands, home to the 1/5th (Sutherland & Caithness) Battalion Seaforth Highlanders, and relatives and many people I knew served and fought with the Seaforths.

  

In 1961 the Seaforth Highlanders merged with the Queens Own Cameron Highlanders and they became the Queens Own Highlanders.  Further amalgamation followed when the Queens Own Highlanders merged with the Gordon Highlanders in 1994 and The Highlanders (Seaforth, Gordons and Camerons) were formed, and since 2006 they have been known as The Highlanders, 4th Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland (4 SCOTS).

As a teenager in the mid 70’s I was a Queens Own Highlanders Army Cadet and a member of their pipe band. We proudly wore MacKenzie tartan kilts as worn by the Seaforth Highlanders and their cap badge with a Crown between the stag’s antlers.

Why do I specifically mention the stag’s head?  Cabar Feidh, the Regimental March of the Seaforth Highlanders, which we played every time we performed translates from Gaelic to “the antler of the deer”. Cabar Feigh Gu Brath was the Regimental Toast of the Queens Own Highlanders and hopefully you will enjoy reading it and the recording I have found of the Queens Own Highlanders Association playing the tune at the Cameron Barracks, Inverness in 2010. As cadets we practiced it many times there under the expert tuition of Pipe Major Andrew Venters, Queens Own Highlanders, whose unmistakable proud figure I see marching past closest to the camera in the front rank at 01.00. Maybe we might even hear it played at WTTR 2013 as we read the words of Lieutenant E. Alan Mackintosh M.C. while remembering and thinking about our troops past and present.

The land of hills, glens and heroes;

Where the Ptarmigan thrives

And where the red deer find shelter.

As long as the mist hangs o’er the mountains

And water runs in the glens,

The deeds of the brave will be remembered.

Health and success for ever

To the lads of “Cabar Feidh”

Cabar Feidh Gu Brath

- Alistair Tait, Motorcycle Funerals Limited

Go Forth!

2013 is a special year for Forth Gear as we celebrate our 10th birthday. Our store - which specialises in motorcycle clothing and accessories - is located in the heart of South Queensferry. If you're in the area why not pop-in and see us? Our friendly staff are here to help and advise you on the products that we stock. Our policy is to sell motorcycling clothing with integrity - if we wouldn't wear it we won't sell it! 

For those who live a little further away, then why not visit our online store as it provides an alternative and convenient way for you to buy the bits and pieces you need for you and your bike.

However there is much more to Forth Gear than just our stores. We actively promote motorcycling and the biking community and we also support local charities. Throughout this year we are planning quite a few events to help us celebrate our special birthday, so why not come along, meet new friends and have a laugh while helping good causes and let's get the 2013 season off to a fantastic start!

On Sunday 24 March we will be hosting our annual Muffin Morning which takes place from 9.30 to 5pm. Remember to bring along an Easter Egg with you for entry into our prize draw. We'll be providing free coffee and muffins, and of course there's the short rideout through the town which WTTR are helping us to organise. 

In contrast, on Thursday 20 June Forth Gear will be hosting our Track Evening which is suitable for novices and riders of all abilities – including me!!! This is a great opportunity to get out and meet new bikers and to try another aspect of biking. The cost of this evening is £65 per person but please be aware that spaces are limited so book soon. Call us on 0131 331 4442 for more information and to reserve your place.

I look forward to welcoming you to Forth Gear very soon. Ride safe!

- Jackie, Forth Gear

Making A Difference

Motorcycle Law Scotland is a specialist niche legal practice that represents and looks after motorcyclists who have been injured in non-fault road traffic accidents in Scotland. The practice was set up and is spearheaded by Brenda Mitchell who has been handling personal injury cases for over 25 years.

Brenda obtained her full motorcycle licence in 1983 and her passion and focus on Motorcycle Accident Law arises from a desire to make a difference to motorcyclists, many of whom suffer serious injury through no fault of their own. There can be a perceived prejudice against motorcyclists, which must be overcome. Motorcyclists do concern themselves about all aspects of road safety and recognise their vulnerable status on the roads. If they are unfortunate enough to be involved in an accident they should at the very least get access to a legal service where the lawyer understands motorcycle dynamics and control and the service provided is a personal one. Motorcyclists don't want a claims pack and an anonymous call, they want to meet their lawyer and feel reassured that the lawyer knows what they are talking about. In essence, motorcycle accident victims should have personal specialist representation.

For a number of years now, insurance companies have been promoting legal expense insurance cover for their policyholders as part of their insurance. There is often a cost associated with Legal Expense Insurance although more recently many insurers are giving it away free. Insurance companies do make large sums of money from “nominated panel solicitors” who effectively buy the injury claim details. At source, your case is referred to a solicitor you haven’t instructed and who may or may not know anything about motorcycling. You might get a qualified lawyer, you might not. You might get a specialist who understands motorcycle law, you might not. It’s a lottery and one thing’s for sure, you don’t get choice. 

The starting point is you don’t need Legal Expense Cover. Good Lawyers in the field of Personal Injury speculate their fee on the success of a claim which means you don’t pay legal fees upfront and if your case is lost you walk away. Your Lawyer will fund your case and if successful can recover fees from the party at fault or their insurer. This is access to Justice with no financial risk. You don’t pay anything and you receive compensation for your injuries. If you lose, you walk away and have nothing to pay. The advantage is you have choice in the matter and can instruct someone you feel is best placed to act for you. 

Last year Motorcycle Law Scotland introduced a new product for motorcyclists called Legal Expense Protection. 

We have been encouraging motorcyclists to register for LEP and this seems to have been very well received by the motorcycle community across Scotland. It is free to register, gives you peace of mind and, most importantly, if you are ever involved in a non fault accident you will get access to:

• Specialist legal representation
• Replacement motorcycle helmet
• Replacement protective motorcycle clothing
• Medical expenses

You can pick up a Legal Expense Protection leaflet at most of the motorcycle dealers across Scotland or simply register online and we will send you out your LEP card.

– Rod Mitchell, Marketing Director, Motorcycle Law Scotland

Our New Colours

Hello folks! I'd like to start this post by wishing all our friends and followers a belated Happy New Year. As 2013 takes shape we're already looking to build on the momentum and the amazing support that we received from you at the Scots American War Memorial in Princes Street Gardens last October.

Please remember that you don't have to pay to join or become a member of WTTR. All we ask is that you show your support and ride with respect at events we organise or participate in. If you would like to purchase WTTR merchandise that we produce, then we will ensure that all profits raised will go to appropriate charities, organisations and individuals who have served or who provide support to British Forces veterans and their families – especially those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

We want to be completely transparent about the money WTTR raises so we have decided to create a running-total on the Donate page of the WTTR website. As the year progresses this will show you how much we've raised through direct and indirect donations. When the function is live we'll let you know.

For those of you who don't know me, now also seems an appropriate time to introduce myself. My name is Derek Green and I am the WTTR Media & Communications Officer. I was thrilled when co-founders Jim Thomson and Karen Holmes asked if I would like to take on this role, especially as my design consultancy - [gawr-juhs] - worked so closely with them on the WTTR branding and website.

Last Sunday I joined a few WTTR riders for an impromptu rideout. Over lunch I was asked about the logo I'd created. I explained that when I was given the brief the one word that jumped out at me was "inclusive." How do you represent a club with a strong connection to the armed forces without it looking too military? I recalled an article I'd seen about the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America's new look. Suddenly this became my inspiration, especially as both organisations seemed to share similar ideals.

Taking Jim's originally logo I broke it down into separate elements - the Scottish Saltire, the Royal Standard of Scotland, the Union Jack, armed forces, biking etc. These, and several others images, were then placed inside the typographic logo I'd developed to provide variety and inclusivity. Certainly from the feedback that we've already received it appears that we have an icon that is distinct and appeals to the majority. I couldn't have asked for anything more.

I'm certainly looking forward to meeting as many of you over next few months as possible. Karen and Jim have been busy at work behind the scenes and from the Events pages on the website you'll see that we now have a full itinerary of events in the lead-up to WTTR II in October. In addition we'll continue to update you via Facebook, Twitter and this blog on the things we think may appeal to you or have importance and relevance for WTTR members.

Once again may I wish you a prosporous 2013. Bike safely and see you at a WTTR event very soon.

- Derek Green, WTTR Media & Communications