Taunton MAG – Tone Vale Tea Rally Report
Well… nobody tells me nothing… but apparently the Tone Vale Tea Rally was on and I’m very glad I found out.
The Journey
The journey itself felt like the opening montage scene of a proper British cop film being played to the songs scored by David Arnold. Setting off from Wales, 2 mad people from the ‘Rusty Sprockets MCC’ rode with me on our way down to Fowlers in Bristol before heading out toward Highbridge. This saw us cutting through the Mendips and deepest Somerset back roads. You know the kind – tight bends, rolling hills, views that make you forget you’re supposed to be watching the road but amazing biking roads. Places like Temple Cloud and Wells popped up along the way, full of that classic West Country charm. And then… there was Sexey. Yes, really – a village called Sexey.
A full village seemingly committed to the name – Sexey . With the standard village pub – The Sexey Arms, The local shop – Sexey Stores… the lot. I half expected someone to step out and say, “Yarp.” Proper highlight of the ride, if only for the confusion and double-takes.
The Rally
Rolling into the rally site, it was immediately clear – this was going to be one of those weekends. Sunshine from the off, a relaxed vibe, and the comforting smell of burgers already in the air. The kind of place where everything just clicks. For the greater good (all together – For the greater good).
The Tone Vale Tea Rally always delivers, but this one felt particularly special. The MAG team did a cracking job – everything ran smooth, welcoming, and exactly how a rally should be. No drama, no fuss, just good people enjoying bikes, beers, and music.
And speaking of music – some top bands across the weekend, including the brilliant Rizen, featuring ORGI MCC’s very own Brain (aka Wang) on lead guitar. Absolute quality, watching one of your own up there smashing it always adds something extra to the atmosphere. We sang, we head banged and we even attempted a weird arse moshpit which more like arthritic chickens running into each other.
The Food
Food-wise, you couldn’t go wrong – proper rally staples. Burgers that hit the spot and breakfast baps that sorted you right out the next morning. And then there was the Tea Tent. Strong brews, cakes that could probably solve most of life’s problems, and a place to sit down, recharge, and chat rubbish with whoever happened to be passing through. Essential rally life support, really… along with the occasional Cornetto.
Summary
The vibe all weekend was chilled – no rushing, no pressure, just enjoying the moment. ORGI MCC didn’t come away with any trophies this time, but honestly, that wasn’t the point. We were there, together as a club, catching up with familiar faces and meeting new ones. That’s what makes these rallies what they are.
If anything, this rally reminded me why it’s one of my favourites to attend. Great ride in, great people, great atmosphere… and the kind of weekend where you leave already thinking about coming back next year.
All in all – no swans, no paperwork, just a properly good rally. For the greater good.
Kez
