For reasons detailed elsewhere on this page, I regrettably didn't manage to get to the Carole Nash International Classic Motorcycle Show at Stafford showground this year, the biggest of it`s kind in the UK.

From the many reports I received, I gather it was one of the best.

Multiple World Sidecar champion Steve Webster was the guest of honour and had the visitors enthralled with never-before-heard details of his colourful career whilst being interviewed on the central stage over the weekend by former BSB star turned TV presenter Steve Plater.

Although Webster was billed as guest of honour, many of the thousands of visitors who did attend, were not aware they were rubbing shoulders with many other multiple world champion, including former MV Agusta and Yamaha star Phil Read MBE, whilst browsing the hundreds of trade stands and stalls that filled the inside halls and outdoor areas.

Nine-times TT winner Charlie Williams was there too, promoting his autobiography - a must for any motorcycle enthusiast.

As many of you will be well aware, Charlie had a glittering racing career, not just at the TT but competing in endurance races on the continent and here in the UK.

Former Honda rider Tommy Robb, now in his mid-80s, was spotted heading for the VIP lounge too.

Our own former Manx Grand Prix and Production TT winner Frank Whiteway was also in attendance with Martin Crooks in the large ' Suzuki Village' marquee, which housed a full range of classic and modern Suzuki machinery.

The outdoor Grand Prix Paddock again attracted good crowds each day, as exotic racing machines were fired up to the delight of the fans, whilst in a nearby wooded area, trials demonstrations were taking place, again attracting a good crowd of spectators.

Another former TT star Manxman Richard 'Milky' Quayle was also spotted - Richard getting his 'Milky' tag from his amazing likeness to the Milky Bar kid in the TV Ads - at the Bonhams Auction, which attracts enthusiasts from all over Europe, was reported as doing a roaring trade with hundreds of machines changing hands.

One Furness enthusiast who shall remain nameless was seen carrying a rather heavy motorcycle frame back to his car until he slipped in the mud to the delight of his so-called friends, who instead of helping the poor man to his feet merely laughed and took photos of his plight, which no doubt will be posted on one of the social media channels this week.

All in all, by the sound of it another great show and will definitely in my diary for next year.

*It`s a known fact as motorcycles get older they are more prone to breaking down and, as I found out to my cost last week, it applies to old men too!

A few days before I was due to go to Stafford, I stalled, going on to just three cylinders.

Furness General Hospital technicians plugged me into their diagnostic machine, revealing an electrical fault in my main pump. Unfortunately, they don`t carry the right spares at FGH.

After a few days on their bench, I was transferred to another NHS department at Kendal Royal Infirmary.

One of their skilled technicians inserted some new wiring and a CDI unit into my chest cavity and, following testing, I was advised I'll be now ok for another few thousand miles or so. I'm now back into 'Victor Meldrew' mode at home, firing on all four cylinders again.

*The Furness British Motorcycle Club held their monthly meeting recently at the Ulverston Sports and Leisure Centre.

During the meeting, club chairman and secretary Paul Taylor (pictured, foreground), who has held the roles for many years, regretfully relinquished his posts.

Paul is still recovering from complications following an operation and at the moment finds it difficult to carry out his duties.

Paul is one of the founder members of the club, which over the years has raised thousands of pounds for local charities.

Club member Chris Smith, who is also secretary of the South Cumbrian section of the Vintage Motorcycle Club has temporarily filled the secretary's role.

The position of chairman etc will be decided at the club's AGM on Monday, November 11, so members are respectively asked to attend. I'm sure all local motorcycle enthusiasts, myself included, wish Paul a speedy recovery.

*Tomorrow afternoon, members and friends of the Furness British Motorcycle Club are holding a tribute ride out to honour the life of one of their members.

Stan Hayes from Barrow was a long-standing member of the club and an ardent vintage motorcycle enthusiast who could often be seen supporting local gala days and shows around the Furness area with one of the machines from his collection.

His collection included a Velocette, a New Imperial, and a Mk1V Douglas. The Douglas picked up an award at a show in Grange only this summer.

Club members are meeting at the Broughton village square tomorrow morning at 11am before riding up the Duddon Valley to the Newfield Inn at Seathwaite. Everyone is welcome to join them, including non-members.