Re Model T Drive - WE DID IT - thank you to all who have made this possible.  More donations will be very gratefully received.  We will be keeping this page open until the end of the year so there is still time to donate.  Every little helps.  A VERY BIG THANK YOU to all who have already donated and those who helped in other ways to make this possible.

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30th May – Day 10.  Coming toward the end of our trip.  After a good night’s sleep and a bit of a down day yesterday I, for one, am feeling a lot more refreshed.  Tomorrow we go into Lincoln and the official end of the long drive.  Today was largely spent preparing for the garden party on Sunday.  If you have ever erected a frame tent you have some idea of the difficulty of erecting a ‘frame’ gazebo, or more correctly small marquee.  Five old guys took several attempts to get it right – fortunately it wasn’t raining.  Through perseverance alone we eventually succeeded.  Just as well no film cameras were around as it went up and down.

As our journey nears its end maybe now is an appropriate moment for a bit of a summary. 

First of all thanks to all who have supported us by making donations, we are a little way from our target so a few more would be very much appreciated.

Also great thanks to all who played their part in bringing this project to fruition.   First we must acknowledge the huge amount of work, planning and energy put in by Larry Riches, not only as the owner of the car but also as the driving force.  Larry has driven the 1914 Ford Model T every inch of the 2000 KM from Lisbon to Lincoln.  Not too shabby an accomplishment for a pensioner.   There were other drivers available but Larry was there every day getting us up and out on the road.  It is difficult to overestimate Larry’s input.  I am certain I don’t know everything Larry did but here are a few I know:

·         Went to the USA to buy spares for the car in order that we could deal with any breakdowns that might occur.

·         Planned the route identifying suitable roads across Portugal, Spain and England.

·         Researched and booked the hotel rooms and ferry along the way – calculating the traveling times and distances we could achieve for each leg of the way.

·         Shipped over to Portugal a backup vehicle, trailer, spares and two mechanics.

·         Liaising with numerous people including the DPGM of Lincolnshire over a special Lodge meeting on our arrival (tomorrow), UGLE  in London etc etc etc

Some of our days were 10 hours, where does Larry get his energy? Whatever he is on I want some.

Others that have played a significant role include:

Gary – an ex New York cop who flew over to take the photographs.  Just to give you an idea he took over 2000 on the first day alone. Unfortunately JustGiving limit the number of photographs that can be placed on this website.   He is to produce a book to commemorate the trip.  Garry was the butt of many jokes but kept his cool and took it all in his stride.  Thank you Gary, great getting to know you.

We must also mention Pete Smith, one of the two mechanics who, at 78, drove the support vehicle every inch of the way.  On a number of occasions Pete managing to turn the 40ft trailer in dead end roads and reverse it into places I wouldn’t have thought possible.  What a guy.

Ralph, the other mechanic, who travelled with Pete over from the UK in the support vehicle.  Ralph also took a lot of ribbing.  As a vegetarian it was difficult for him to find suitable meals, particularly in Portugal and Spain.  So, as a pragmatist, Ralph ate lamb beef and pork, arguing that, as those animals had probably had an entirely vegetarian diet, eating beef, lamb and pork was therefore OK!!!  We all decided to become vegetarians and vowed we would stick strictly to Ralph’s diet (of lamb, pork and beef).

Unfortunately Dimas Pestana had to return home on a couple of occasions, at short notice, due to personal and business reasons.  He flew back to meet us in Portsmouth and will be joining us in Lincoln tomorrow.  Dimas therefore missed out on a lot of fun and an experience of a lifetime.  We missed you Dimas.

Looking back the whole adventure it could have been an episode or two of last of the summer wine.  A bunch of old guys having a great time and in our case for a great cause.  Prostate Cancer UK.  This is the stuff memories are made of. 

29^th May – Day 9.  This was a spare day and as the car has performed faultlessly over the past week we, more than the car, need a rest and recuperation. 

28th May – Day 8.  On the home straight now.   After leaving some flowers and wine for the hosts of our dinner last evening we left Letchworth at about 08:30, continued to head north toward Sleaford in Lincolnshire on another rainy day.    A couple of small diversions, stops for food, petrol and tea at Quaintways in Folfingham.  The other patrons at the tea rooms contributed over £100 toward Prostate Cancer UK – thank you all.  Then on to Sleaford where the car was parked up and we had a lift to Larry’s home in West Ashby to spend the night.  Only about one hours driving now to Lincoln.

27^th May – Day 7 – This must s to be one of the highlights of the trip.   The day started with a press call outside the hotel with a photographer from a local paper.  Then back on the road.  Timing was crucial as we had an appointment at the United Grand Lodge of England, on Great Queens Street, central London at 1pm.  Parking is limited in central London and it was therefore essential that we arrived at a time when we could park for the period we needed.  Having paid the congestion charge the evening before we set off in good time on another wet morning.  On the drive in we met the inevitable traffic and took the opportunity to pass out leaflets to other motorists in the traffic.  Whilst we were parked on Great Queens street  the parking warden was very accommodating.

On our arrival at Grand Lodge it was pleasing to be met by a couple of supporters of out fundraising namely the Very Worshipful Brother William John Hockin, Deputy Provincial Grand Master of Lincolnshire, who had assisted us greatly in raising the profile of our trip.  Also WBro Bob Summers from Pendle Lodge, East Lancashire.  Bob had waved us off in Portugal a week previously.

We were welcomed by the Deputy Grand Master, Johnathan Spence who kindly agreed to pose for pictures in the car (pictures to follow).  the presidents of teh four Masonic Charities and various other senior officials from UGLE also joined us outside Grand lodge and were photographed with the car.   A big thank you to all at UGLE for your much appreciated support.

After all the excitement we made our way north where we were treated to a magnificent meal by Gio and Fern Silverio in their home in Letchworth.  I think its fair to say that we were completely overwhelmed by the mountains of food provided by Gio – the table groaned under its weight.  Thank you Gio  a beautiful meal and very much appreciated.   Looking around the table the effects of our schedule were showing on all the faces.  Maybe its the relief of being so close to completion but we are none of us in the first flush of youth and its showing.    I, for one, are looking forward  to a few days ‘down time’ when we return to Portugal next week.

26^th May – Day 6.  On the ferry most of the day – a great opportunity for Larry, and the rest of us, to catch up on some much needed rest.  The hectic pace over the previous 5 days was beginning show.  We docked in Portsmouth at 15:15, more or less on time, only to be greeted by another rainy day.  Made good progress to Guildford where we will be overnight.  Let’s hope we have better weather tomorrow.  The car again performed faultlessly; let’s just hope it will do so again tomorrow when we drive into Great Queens Street, central London. 

This trip looks more like a script from Last of the Summer Wine each day.   

25^th May - Day 5 – The dash for the ferry.  A 06:45 start to ensure arrival in time.  Our bleary eyed crew being Sunday morning with empty roads and we made good time.  We futt, futt, futted along through the mist and light rain of the early Sunday morning.   Again, the 100 year old car didn’t let us down and made the ferry with time to spare.  Whilst we waited to board, returning Brits were generous making donations with their left over Euros.  Looking forward to twenty-four hours off the road with time to catch up on sleep and rest particularly for the drivers.

24^th May – Day 4.  A great day – no rain and sunshine most of the day, perfect.  The car developed a small water leak from the radiator but was OK provided we topped it up every now and then.  Later we noticed a rattling from the rear right wheel which, on investigation, turned out to be a missing nut from one of the mudguards supports.  A temporary repair was carried out by jamming a twig in – later the missing nut was replaced with one from the collection of spare parts we are carrying.  Other than those two minor issues the car is running well.  Everyone continues to be in good spirits and we are looking good to make the ferry from Santander tomorrow afternoon.   Missing the ferry would place the whole project in jeopardy.

In the morning we had made good progress on relatively flat roads along the coast.  The Bay of Biscay looked calm – let’s hope for similar conditions on our crossing tomorrow.  In the afternoon we got back into the mountains.  I have always considered northern Spain a beautiful area and this has been reinforced today.   Stunning mountains, beautiful little villages and views over wooded valleys, a beautiful area of this varied country.  I promised myself that I must return when I have more time to explore.

This part of Spain is a haven for outdoor sports enthusiasts; we passed many places advertising ‘Adventure’.    We saw canoeing on the rivers, rock climbing and people hiking etc.  Although obviously popular with the Spanish this seems to be an area undiscovered by many northern Europeans. 

The car attracts much attention as we tootle along, many hooting horns, waves and big smiles.  This afternoon we even found time for some recreation.  We passed a go-karting track and decided to swing in for a coffee.  We considered having a go ourselves, to give a lesson to the young bloods who were taking no prisoners as they screeched around the outdoor track.  However, we convinced ourselves that we could not afford the waiting time and would spare the young guys the embarrassment of being beaten but us oldies – fat chance!

We also took a diversion to Covadonga where there is a small chapel set into a cliff and a monastery.  This is very popular with tourists and Larry, who had visited this place on previously, stayed by the car, answering questions from the crowd who gathered around, whilst we others went off to explore – well worth the diversion.  We received some small donations toward our cause from other visitors. 

Finding the hotel for the night turned out to be a challenge as the print-out from the internet had an incomplete address.  We squeezed through very narrow village streets only to find the Hotel on the main road.  A great meal in a local fish restaurant where locals were watching the Champions League Final to much cheering.

 23 May Day 3 – After a good night’s sleep had breakfast at 06:30 as today was a long drive, just over 260KM (at about 35KM/H).  We drove over the bridge in Moncao into Spain.  Driving north through the hills and rain.  

Later we dropped down and  along he beautiful  estuary of the Rio de Vigo.  Passing many properties with gardens  leading down to the estuary, stunning views.  A couple of small islands, linked by an old bridge with a beautiful house – must be a private estate – wonderful.    

Then, continuing to drive north to Santiago de Compostela an old town with beautiful monastery and many interesting buildings and statues.    

We stumbled upon a garage with a collection of old cars – we had to stop.  The owner was very helpful and we were shown round to see some quite rare cars.  A great opportunity to stretch our legs.  However, we couldn't stop too long as we had kilometres to cover. 

Back into the car and continuing to drive north toward La Coruna.  The rain stopped at last we saw some very welcome sunshine.  Turning east to complete an uneventful drive on to Vilalba and a welcome overnight stop.  The hotel restaurant doesn't open until  9pm – too late for tired travellers.   

 It’s amazing how well the car is running – no real problems - so far!  

22^nd May – Day 2 - We left the hotel about 40 KM north of Coimbra at 8:30 and continued the drive north toward Porto arriving in time for lunch.  The Model T was parked  beside the harbour.  Arriving in time for lunch without any incidents.  Lunch in a harbour side restaurant in the sunshine, for once  – what a beautiful location.  The car attracted much interest from passers by many pausing to have a photograph taken. 

After lunch we then drove access the bridge that spans the harbour,

visited the monastery in Porto where King Joao 1^st and Philippa were married.  Apparently, Philippa remained in the area for some time after the wedding as Joao went off to fight a battle against the Castilians.  Some marriages are blighted if the groom goes off to watch a football match but this was on a whole different level.  Not an ideal start to a wedded bliss .  They eventually had 5 children (I think) so obviously Philippa got over it!

 Later we drove across Porto for a meeting with other old car enthusiasts and were presented with a badge for the car and other gifts by the local old car club.  Eventually we had to make our excuses and set off again driving north to Moncao more or less on the northern border where Portugal meets Spain.  The road left the general small hills and valleys that are typical of central Portugal and started to clime into some more serious hills, negotiated hairpin bends and steep winging roads.  Beautiful  scenery but with the mountains came very heavy rain.  To-night is to be our last in Portugal. 

Moncao was the location where it was agreed which of John of Gaunt’s daughters  King Joao was  to marry ie the marriage contract was agreed  We were all ready for a good nights sleep in a great hotel after we enjoyed a meal with some of the local 'green' wine.  Tomorrow is a long drive and we were all keen to get to get a good nights rest.

DAY 1, 21^st May 2014 - After all the planning and discussions finally the day of the start of our adventure dawned.  An early breakfast, final packing and photographs were the first priority before setting off north out of Cascais.   What has been done is done and what has not been done will now remain undone, we are finally off on our adventure, Three old guys who’s combined ages are twice that of the 1913 Model T Ford are to drive from Cascais near Lisbon in Portugal to Lincoln in England in aid of Prostate cancer UK.  At the last minute we had received an offer of a donation to our charity (Prostate Cancer UK) from two friends. Joy and Roger Hansard for the pleasure of sitting in back of the Model for the drive from Cascais to Coimbra (in the rain!).

Exactly on schedule at 08:30 the Ford drove out of the Hotel car park with all on board.  The backup vehicle, carrying car spares and luggage followed on some distance behind.  The only problem was the unseasonal heavy rain that was not only a disappointment but also a considerable inconvenience in the open sided car.  The roof of the Ford Model T had been fitted which resulted in the noise levels in the car being very high.  But we were all in good spirits and a group of 20 or so were outside the hotel to wave us off.   We made reasonable progress north calling in at Bombarral.  The model T parked outside the Camera (Municipal offices) where we were received by the mayor and other local dignitaries.  The backup car and trailer were parked on a nearby street, but facing in the wrong direction. When it was time to leave Bombarral the Model T set off without incident but the backup vehicle had to be driven down a one way street the wrong way, at one point, guided by the mayor.  With the help of the mayor and assistance from the friendly people of Bombarral we were on our way north again.  A few kilometres down the road, near Obidos, the Model T started misfiring, the backup was summoned.  But before the backup vehicle arrived at the scene, Larry, the driver and owner of the Ford Model T, managed to resolve the issue.  It turned out that the papers showing directions etc had been placed behind the ‘trembler’ switches in the car which was the cause of the misfiring.  After the papers were removed and some minor adjustments made all was again well and we were able to continue north.   Over lunch it was decided to carry out a small adjustment to a wheel bearing that had appeared to be running a little loose, otherwise the care was running well and the heavy rain, which continued on and off all day didn’t seem to trouble the car or its original electrical system.

Next stop was Batalha where we parked outside the door of the monastery.   Aparently, the last British car to park there was in 1962 and was a Rills Royce carrying Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. The Monastery at Batalha is the resting place place of King Joao 1^st of Portugal and Philippa his wife (daughter of John of Gaunt, and first Duke of Lancaster, (originally from England).  Alongside rest their children (including Henry the Navigator).  I had some distant memory of hearing about Henry’s exploits and achievements over 50 years ago at school.  We again received a warm welcome by the local mayor and officials from the very beautiful monastery.  After making our way to the place where King Joao 1^st and Philippa rest inside the monastery,  a bouquet of red roses (of Lancaster) was placed beside the tomb.

We then set off again, heading north, and on to Coimbra where we were entertained, wined and dined by Alfedo Borgas in his restaurant,  Adaga Paco do Conde.  After a meal prepared for us on the grill by Alfredo we were entertained by local fado guitarists and singer, a real and unexpected treat.  Alfredo kindly donated the proceeds of the meal to our charity, Prostate cancer UK, taking our total to well over £5,000, halfway to our target of £10,000.  We managed a few more kilometres in the dark before settling down for the night in a hotel at Curia, tired but happy to have achieved our objective for that day without major incident.MAY 2014 – Two British pensioners and their Portuguese friend of are to drive the 2000KM in a 100 year old Model T Ford from Lisbon to Lincoln in aid of Prostate Cancer UK.

BACKGROUND and Information on the challenge:

Two pensioners, Larry Riches - the owner of a 100 year old Ford Model T – and his friend Richard Barrett together with Dimas Pestana aim to drive the 1914 car  the 2000KM  journey from Lisbon to Lincoln between 21^st  and 31st  May 2014.  The trip is being funded by those taking part and, therefore, all money collected / donated will go to Prostate Cancer UK.

Outline Schedule (more in hope than expectation!)  

21^st  May  08:30 -   Leave Hotel Cidadela,  Cascais near Lisbon.  Stop at Batalha, resting place of Pillipa and King Joao 1 of Portugal.  Then drive on to the university town of Coimbra for dinner and overnight stop.

22^nd  May    Drive on to Porto where Philippa and King Joao 1st were married in 1387. 

23^nd  Drive to La Coruna via Moncao (previously known as Ponte de Mouro) and then on toward Santander.

25th May 15:15 Board the ferry in Santander bound for Portsmouth.

26^th  May 15:15 Ferry disembark from the ferry and drive to Guildford for overnight stay.

27^th  May on to London for 12:00 – 14:00 reception at  UGLE Great Queen Street Then drive to  Letchworth for overnight stay.

28^th  May  drive to Peterborough travelling along the A15, passing through Bourne on A15 around 13.00/14.00, coffee stop at Quaintways in Folkingham leaveing at 15.00/16.00.

30^th   May Overnight Stop in Grantham

31^st  May  11:30 Sleaford - Masonic rooms (Watergate) from Noon until about 12.45.  Drive to Lincoln along A15, arriving at The Nightingale, 116 Nettleham Road at 14.00 Hours for a reception.

1^st   June 15:00  A Garden Party at Manor, School Lane, West Ashby, Lincolnshire.  The Ford Model T and the team will be at the garden party together with other vintage and veteran vehicles.

History - The route takes in some of the major sites linking Portugal to England with the marriage of Philippa, daughter of John of Gaunt - the first Duke of Lancaster, to King Joao 1st of Portugal in 1387.  This marriage cemented the alliance (The Treaty of Windsor) between the two countries that survives to this day making Portugal England's oldest ally.  

 About The Car. 1914 Model T Ford in more or less original condition except for the addition of modern brakes, which will be useful in the mountains of northern Spain in particular. Ford started production of the Ford Model T in 1908, by the time Henry Ford ceased  making the Model T in 1927,  15,000,000 cars had been produced. In the years between 1921 and 1925, 50% of the world’s cars were the Ford Model T.

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