The motorcycle despatch rider is inextricably linked to wartime communication. Those who were chosen or railroaded into service had to be able to cope with all kinds of terrain and conditions on machines that were heavy, and the handling of which probably resembled a truck with all its tyres blown out. To say nothing of having navigation skills that would leave today's sat nav generation flummoxed.  

To celebrate the deeds of these riders, and to prove that some of these skills have not been completely lost, step forward The Despatch Rally. The event is being held on Sunday 7th May and will be based at the Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum at New Milton. The main theme is a route through Dorset using a map for navigation, negotiating a number of wartime themed checkpoints that will test your skill as a potential despatch rider. Though the organisers point out it's not compulsory to be involved in this.

Rally entry is £25 per bike (pillions go free). Camping has been arranged at a nearby farm site, and if you've never visited the wonderful Sammy Miller collection, this would be an additional treat.

Go to www.despatchrally.co.uk for more info and www.sammymiller.co.uk for the museum.

If you know of any upcoming events you'd like us to feature, email us at [email protected]