VVC Rally - Brighton 1964

The scooterists visited Brighton in force yesterday. But they were an orderly group of young men and women in marked contrast to the Clacton wreckers of a week ago.

Said Mr John Taylor, president of the Mid-Sussex Vespa Club, who organised the veteran Vespa rally in which 37 scooterists took part: “Our programme is not a military one but we will not tolerate misbehaviour or rowdyism by our members”. He explained that problems like the scenes at Clacton during the Easter weekend were discussed at meetings, and the activities of the clubs were directed along the right lines by the older members, who “keep the youngsters in line”.

“Anyway, all the hooliganism comes from breakaway groups who do not come under the jurisdiction of any proper club” Mr Taylor added.

The scooterists – some carrying pillion passengers and riding machines which were at least 10 years old – arrived at Brighton Sports Arena, where they were welcomed by the Mayor (Cr. Stanley Deason) after their 47-mile run from Tattenham Corner.

Said the Mayor: “This well-behaved rally is the answer to critics of youth who say that Clacton proved they were a bunch of unruly tearaways. Brighton welcomes scooterists as well behaved as these are”

Winner of the concours d’elegance was Mr J Ladkin of Leicester, with Mr J Woodhouse of Hayes, Middlesex, second

Winner of the gymkhana event was Mr D Braddick; second was Mr D Pullom, General Secretary of the Vespa Club of Britain; and third, Mr J Ladkin.

(This report originally appeared in an unknown publication in April 1964)

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