Autumn Gold Run 2003
Over one hundred MGs gathered on a bright but crisp morning at the Over Community Centre in Cambridgeshire to embark on a 120 mile road run over the open fenland plains of Cambridgeshire, and along the leafy lanes of Suffolk and Essex. For those new to the area guided tours around the offices, spares stores and workshop of the MGOC HQ were available and several groups took advantage of the chance to view the Club from the inside.
This year’s midday stop over was Anglesey Abbey in Cambridgeshire. Originally an Augstinian Abbey the house has been rebuilt and remodelled over the centuries. Now a National Trust property, Anglesey Abbey holds a wonderful collection of paintings and furniture. The house is set in beautiful gardens and also on the grounds is Lode Mill, now a restored and fully functioning water mill, so there was plenty to see for the MG contingent. All the MGs on the Run were able to park together in an area set aside at Anglesey Abbey which gave everyone a chance to picnic, chat and admire each other’s cars.
First stop the Over Community Centre |
 Autumn Gold Runners gather outside the MGOC HQ |
After lunch the final part of the route took the MGs across the rural fenland landscape with a broad horizon and a wide expanses of sky. As the weather was glorious throughout the day most of the soft top MGs were able to take part in the Run with their hoods down.
After the participants had returned to the Over Community Centre for refreshments and their finisher’s badges; a raffle was held which raised over £100 in support of ‘Bliss’ the premature baby charity.
The weather had been kind and after such a long hot summer this year’s autumn leaves were a particularly stunning sight.
 Steve and Carol Back 1963 MGB |
 1958 MGA Coupe Nicky and Barry Faiers braves the ford |
 John and Angela Fisher in their 1973 MGB GT V8 |
 The designated MG parking area at Anglesey Abbey was soon filled |
 Mr J Herkes splashes out in his 1972 MGB |
 Robert and Linda Fox make waves in their 1974 MGB |
 John Day’s 1929 18/80 in attendance. The car park displays the many hues of MG available |
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Richard Ladds