We are saddened to announce the death of ThamesMOG member Terry Tedman, on 13th February. If we look back over the decades at the history and evolution of Thames Valley Centre we would see what a very significant contribution Terry made. He was famous for owning the Duchess - a 4/4 DHC in French Racing Blue with a reg GWR which was very appropriate as Terry was a train driver. He was very proud of the Duchess and its friendship with the Duke, a similar vehicle belonging to Geoff Giles. These Morgans would often park up together at National Morgan events.
Terry was truly adventurous as is the spirit of Thames Valley. At past MOG events we would always install a Thames Valley Camping area - roped off while displaying our flags and banner. One year the campsite was on the approach path of Stansted Airport. I remember sitting next to my tent and looking up to see the undercarriage of a Boeing 737. On this occasion Terry had to arrive late. In the best tradition of the Special Forces, he unwrapped his sleeping bag and laid down next to his Morgan and went to sleep. Anyone looking out of their Boeing window seat would have seen an unusual sight!
Terry went on quite a few European tours with the Morgan Club. A particular meaningful trip for Terry was the trip to a Bridge Too Far. Terry was a Colour Sergeant in the Parachute Regiment, his son followed him into the army and is now a Major General. The army runs in Terry’s family, and Terry proudly followed his father who was a paratrooper at the Operation Market Garden (a Bridge Too Far) during World War Two. When the famous movie was made Terry was asked to be first out of the planes during the enactment for the film. Terry can be clearly seen in the film and it was a fine tribute to his father. This was a really thoughtful gesture by the producers.
Terry will be sadly missed. We enjoyed loads of adventures together in the Thames Valley, including those he arranged to the Fawley Hill Railway Museum. On behalf of the Centre, I would like to send our sincere condolences to Terry’s family and friends. I will think of Terry up there with our other members who have gone to higher places, where the roads are always perfect for a sliding pillar suspension.
Kind Regards
Roger Bluff