I’m writing this as we’ve just moved out of our lockdown status and into the current Tier arrangement. Most of us in the TVAM area are in Tier 2, with the exception of those residing in Slough, who are in Tier 3. From a TVAM
activity point of view this means that:
- We can’t hold indoor social meetings, or indoor training sessions.
- Those members who reside in Tier 2 areas can participate in observed and social rides with up to six people, whilst maintaining appropriate social distancing. Note that socialising is only allowed in outdoor settings, so you should not meet with others who are not from your household in any indoor setting – so we are not able to meet/stop in cafés except for take-away drinks, etc. Riders should avoid riding into Tier 3 areas, although it is permissible to ride through a Tier 3 area as part of a longer journey.
- Those members residing in a Tier 3 area (e.g. Slough) should not participate in observed or social rides, since people residing in Tier 3 areas should not meet socially indoors or in most outdoor settings.
The list of tiers is here: www.gov.uk/guidance/full-list-of-local-restriction-tiers-by-area.
I’m pleased that we’re able to run our Slow Manoeuvring courses on the third Saturday of the month at St. Crispin’s. Places are limited and you can book your place online in the TVAM web shop at www.tvam.org/product/slow-manoeuvring-at-st-crispins
We are continuing with our programme of free Taster Rides and these are advertised on social media and on the TVAM website. They’re designed to give someone an overview of the sort of coaching we offer and an introduction to advanced riding. If you know of someone that might benefit from this then please do let them know.
Remember to participate in your local team video meetings and also the next virtual St Crispin’s at 9am on 20th December. The link for the meeting is on Groups.io and is also on the opposite page.
The AGM is approaching and will be held, virtually, on 17th January 2021. As well as a review of the activities of the previous TVAM year, we will also discuss outline plans for the coming year and elect positions for the committee. It is important that you participate, so please make every effort to attend and note that you will need to pre-register (details are in this issue of Slipstream – see page 17).
I’m sure we’re all hoping that 2021 will prove to be a better, more involving year than 2020 and the signs are encouraging that it will. We are, therefore, planning for a return to normal activities, albeit with a measured approach to take account of ongoing restrictions.
In the meantime it just remains for me to wish you all a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.
Chris Brownlee
Chief Observer