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  • The Classic MotorCycle

    Memorial games

    Sep 01, 2021 5 minutes
    Words and photographs: ANDY WESTLAKE

    The Despatch Rally is establishing itself as one of the more unusual classic motorcycle events on the calendar, after running for the fourth time over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend at New Milton in the New Forest. The 2020 event had fallen victim to Covid restrictions, so this year’s event was highly appreciated by the 100 motorcyclists taking part. Owners of classic and modern Royal Enfield and Moto Guzzi machines were especially invited as both marques are celebrating anniversaries this year, but the main focus was on activities inspired by the unique motorcycle role that despatch riders (DRs) played in history.

    Why celebrate the despatch rider role?

    DRs were first used in the First World War, performing a wide range of essential roles, and this continued in the Second World War. Radio communication was unreliable in both conflicts, so DRs were used to ‘despatch’ messages and they also made essential deliveries of supplies

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