Dates For Your Diary
Next meeting is on 13th April, From 7.30pm for a 7.45pm start .
The return of an old friend, Stephen Wilkinson-Carr for an interactive talk on "making progress"
Do you have a topic you would like discussed, or know of an interesting speaker? Please contact speaker at speakers@wiltshireroadar.co.uk
SkillShare & Social
4 April 2026 meeting at the Crown's Cafe, REME Museum, Lyneham. 9.30 am for 10 am start. See main section for more details.
Bike Ride-Outs on the 3rd Saturday of every even numbered month and the 3rd Sunday of every odd numbered Month. Email will be sent out to Bikers and added to the Forum.
Please note the next ride out Sunday 19 April Details will be forthcoming via email to all bike members.
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Congratulations
Congratulations to the following members who have passed their Advanced Tests recently:
Steve Thomas Bike - Gold – Tutor Mark Sealey
Steven Hyde - Advanced Tutor Bike Pass
Mark Oliver - Bike - Silver – Tutor Winston Castle
Keith Johnston - Car - Silver - Tutor Les Brown (Keith has passed both car and Bike tests)
Please welcome the following to the Group:
Michael Neave – Bike (returning Member)
Paul Crossey – Bike
Dan Ahern – Car
David Wellman. - Bike
Clive Wells - Bike
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We are reviewing the process for purchase of branded clothing - please bear with us |
Newsletter Content
We are always looking for more articles, ideas and news for the newsletter. Have you been somewhere interesting recently that would make a good story? If you attend any group events then take a camera and send us your pictures!
Please forward all contributions to newsletter@wiltshireroadar.co.uk |
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I have been reminded this month of the power of a first impression. One of our members was chatting with someone who had been along to a skillshare some 10 years ago and not had a good experience. He perceived the Group elitist and offering some considerable distain towards sister organisations. This impression has stayed with him for 10 years. After some discussion he has promised to come along to one of our monthly socials and see what he thinks; I hope we can create a better impression this time.
I am often asking you all to promote our activity whenever you can and I still firmly believe this word of mouth promotion is some of the strongest available - whatever the subject. We must be immensely proud of what we have achieved and what we do continue to promote the improvement to road safety we strive to achieve. We must also retain the humility to understand to some people this is not their passion and there are equally good options available elsewhere. Please strive to make people welcome and try and see things from their point of view. We strive to be an inclusive Group and we all need to play a part in this
Be safe and enjoy the longer evenings
Bob
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April 13th Interactive Talk - Making Progress |
The Road Safety Strategy was published in January 2026 and can be found here
The Transport Committee has launched an inquiry that will examine the ambitions and potential effectiveness of the Government’s new Road Safety Strategy. The Committee will examine the Government’s proposals and the series of consultations that has been launched under the strategy which will consider whether the targets set by the Government reflect the right level of ambition, and whether arrangements across Government departments are strong enough to achieve these targets. Alongside this, the Committee will investigate what measures would be most effective in reducing deaths and serious injuries involving new and novice drivers, and what is the right approach to safe driving later in life. MPs will also consider evidence on wider issues raised by the strategy, including speed limit management, road design, safety on rural roads, and lessons from international and UK practice.
Five public consultations have been issued All close on 11 May 2026
Introducing a Minimum Learning Period for Learner Drivers Found Here
Improving Moped and Motorcycle Training, Testing and Licensing Found Here
Introducing Mandatory Eyesight Testing for Older Drivers. Found here
Proposed Changes to Penalties for Motoring offences Found here
Mandating Vehicle Technologies in GB Type Approval Found here
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Notices
April Ride out - Date Change
Please note this April's ride out will be on Sunday 19 April.
Merchandise
The eagle eyed of you will have noticed the merchandise section of the newsletter has been removed. There is little demand for this and we do not really hold any stock (a poor use of our money). We are looking at a way of providing branded clothing to those who need it and will publish the results of our efforts as soon as we can – please bear with us.
Committee Members
A number of people have asked who is who in the zoo. The list of Officers for the Group is on the website here. Feel free to join us
Calne Bike Meet - 25 July
We have booked a stand for the Calne Bike Meet this year. more details to follow but please do book some time in your diary to help on the stand if you can. We recruit a lot of members, mainly bikers, but we do get the message across to car drivers as well. Please come and support the group recruiting efforts - and have some fun into the bargain.
Atwell Motor Museum
We are hoping to have a stand in the annual festival at the Atwell Motor Museum near Calne. More details to follow but again please help out at this promotional events. This is a great opportuity to chat to motoring enthusiasts and to see some classic cars.
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Saturday Social & Skillshare
Monthly Saturday Social meeting at the REME Museum Café in Lyneham.
Bring a friend and join us on the first Saturday of the month at the Wiltshire RoADAR Saturday Social.
Come and meet your fellow members; exchange notes with other associates; meet some of our tutors and pick their brains.
We usually stay chatting eating cake and drinking tea until 11 ish.
The first Saturday of the month - 09:30 - REME Museum, Calne Rd, Lyneham, Chippenham SN15 4XX
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Have you been up to anything to do with Riding or Driving lately? If so, then please let us know as we would love to include it here; photos would be great too!
Rideout - A Trip to Cheddar Gorge
The March Rideout was moved from its scheduled Sunday to Saturday in the hope by avoiding Mothering Sunday we would attract more riders. I’m not sure if it was this, or that the weather forecast was correct for once, but we had 18 motorcycles set for departure on this beautiful morning.
Following the ride briefing, we left Cepen Park service area just after 10am and headed northwest through Castle Coombe and on up towards Old Sodbury. Turning south onto the A46 we worked our way between Bristol and Bath and stopped in Keynsham for a quick leg stretch and to pick up an additional two riders. We continued southwest passing Chew Valley Lake and onto the B3135 for the final 8 miles into Cheddar Gorge. Unfortunately, there were no feral goats roaming the gorge for us to see, however there were many visitors enjoying a day out.
After lunch at Hillier Garden Centre, we had a quick picture taking session followed by a short briefing regarding the return ride, as there was a tricky crossing of the A36 to negotiate. The return journey took us once again through the gorge, which was by now full to capacity. I suspect the goats knew what was coming and decided to
shelter elsewhere today! We made our way through picturesque countryside, passing through Farleigh Hungerford and Bradford upon Avon, reaching Melksham and then north to our final destination in Chippenham. It was a big rugby day and we were 45 minutes behind schedule, so apologies to any of the many rugby fans who
were with us that day! Those of us who had not peeled off (all giving advanced notice, thank you) settled down for coffee and cake in the sunshine at Costa for a good hour or so chatting all things bike related.
I would like to thank my busy TEC, Paul Prictor, for his help planning and executing the days ride and to all the riders who made for such an enjoyable day out.
Scott Bonnell
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Becoming an Advanced Motorcycle Tutor.
Having been a group motorcycle tutor for over 12 years I decided I’d run out of excuses not to take the next step. I discussed starting the training with the advanced tutors who were all extremely encouraging and all offered to help. Previously AT status was achieved by taking the diploma, no longer an option or group training followed by a test.
My AT training started by sitting in on tutor training classroom sessions at Urchfont in February 2025.This was extremely useful as it helped me understand what new tutors needed to do.
I obtained all the Highway code & roadcraft quizzes drawn up from previous Glos & Wilts group training courses. Swatting and taking the tests caused me the most concern as I was struggling to hit the minimum pass score of 85%.
Next was practical reviews and rides with Steve Tucker, Phill Colbourne, Mark Sealey & David Blackledge. The last being the most challenging because we both had punctures!
27th February 2026 I logged on to the RoSPA website and booked the test, 3rd March the examiner contacted me to say he had received my application for a retest. I called him to explain it was an AT test. He checked with HQ who had made a mistake, which they quickly rectified. The examiner sent the instructions and a scenario, then checked to ensure I was OK with it.
After we agreed a time and date, I gave the examiner my preferred start point, the Codford Tearooms, highly recommended.
The test consists of three sections
Part 1 – 30 minutes
Instruction:
Present a lesson and a route for an associate who is new to the group. Their main issue is cornering (not slow manoeuvring). Their theory of the Principles of Cornering is satisfactory; however, they have difficulty in getting the speed right.
Part 2 – 30 minutes
Demonstration ride:
A ride of about 30 minutes where you are required to ride at a gold standard throughout.
Part 3 – 30 minutes
Written Examination:
Multiple choice questions on Roadcraft and the Highway code.
Pass mark is 85%, all three parts must be a pass to gain the qualification of Initial Advanced Tutor.
After each section the examiner gave me feedback and explained the next. I surprised myself by scoring 24/25 on the written exam, the one I got wrong was silly and we both laughed at my answer.
Overall, the test took about 2-1/2 hours.
If anyone has any questions on my experience do ask.
Steven Hyde
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Upcoming event - A camping trip!
A trip is being planned for the first May bank holiday weekend. Saturday 2 nd May, riding down to Caffyns Farm campsite, staying overnight, and riding back the next day. See their website for more information https://www.exmoorcoastholidays.co.uk/
This is open to all members of the group, including car members.
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The Great Tommy Sleep out
Thank you to all the members who supported my Great Tommy Sleep Out I didn’t meet my target of £1,000.00 but I got over £800.00
There is still time to donate which you can do here
The eagle eyed among you might notice my score on The Tommy website was £795.00 I paid some of the money directly into the Tommy Bank account thus reducing costs but sadly did not go against my name.
I had not slept out for many years so… What I found out about sleeping a bit rough:
- It is cold when you see sparkly bits on the tent when you finally dive in
- Just make sure you zip every bit of the tent up. If you leave a gap you will wake up later feeling very cold.
- Sleeping in a comforter is great on a bed not so much in a tent.
- Do a trial run with the tent
Many thanks to Mark Oliver who lent me his tent and Bob Fram for his support and loan of a surprisingly comfy patch of grass.
Winston Castle
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EUROPEAN NEW CAR ASSESSMENT PROGRAMME
The European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) has unveiled its most significant protocol
overhaul in over a decade. Starting in 2026, the voluntary safety rating will shift to a new
methodology based on four factors:
• Safe Driving,
• Crash Avoidance,
• Crash Protection,
• Post-Crash Safety.
Euro NCAP is also pushing back against the “touchscreen-only” interior design trend. To secure a top
safety rating, manufacturers must provide dedicated physical controls for core functions, including:
• Indicators and hazard lights
• Windscreen wipers
• The horn
• SOS/eCall functions
The 2026 protocols introduce dedicated scoring for systems capable of identifying signs of drug or
alcohol impairment. Euro NCAP will place emphasis on Driver State Monitoring (DSM). To achieve a
5-star rating, vehicles must employ continuous eye- and head-tracking. Crucially, the tests will now
reward “unresponsive driver” interventions – technologies that can detect a medical emergency or
extreme intoxication and safely bring the vehicle to a controlled halt.
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ACU National Road Rally (NRR)reborn
For those bikers who like to clock up big miles and have a challenge you may be interested in this.
The NRR was first run in 1933 and has always been a popular event. Last year the event was not run due to a lack of a viable committee. The ACU wishes to re-establish the event and the response to the call for volunteers has been excellent. Although it's early days, there is a working committee of 7 volunteers who are confident there will be three rallies in 2026, the Welsh NRR (9 May), the NRR (4/5 Jul) and the Scottish NRR (12/13 Sep).
The rallies take the format of a Navigational Scatter Rally and there will be a variety of classes to suit individual needs. The aim is to modernise the event by using electronic Apps instead of the paper format. I know that comes with risk, but it's about attracting and retaining younger riders.
The ACU have reviewed the Regulations, it appeared the event rewarded speed. Although previous organisers have assured this is not the case, but the intention is to review and potentially set average speed limits which must not be exceeded.
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CLODS
A new survey has revealed widespread concern among motorists about lane behaviour on motorways which has prompted the AA to call for a national campaign to improve driver lane discipline across. the United Kingdom.
Middle-lane hoggers, or centre-lane-only drivers (CLODS), are a key area of complaint despite National Highways campaigns on the issue. Research by the motoring organisation found that eight in ten drivers regularly witness risky lane manoeuvres on motorways. The most frequently observed behaviour is middle lane hogging, reported by 85% of respondents, followed by undertaking (80%) and motorists changing lanes without signalling (79%). The findings highlight a persistent problem on the country’s 2,300-mile motorway network, where poor lane discipline can lead to congestion, frustration and potentially high
risk situations.
According to the survey, 78% of drivers frequently see motorists “swooping” across multiple lanes at the last minute to reach an exit, while nearly three-quarters (74%) report frequent lane changes even in heavy traffic. Although the data suggests some marginal improvements in certain behaviours, the overall picture indicates that poor motorway lane discipline remains widespread.
While middle lane hogging is not a specific offence, police can issue a £100 fine and three penalty points if the behaviour is deemed careless driving. Undertaking is also discouraged outside slow-moving traffic, as it can catch drivers unaware.
The AA believes a combination of confusion about motorway rules and declining visible enforcement is contributing to the problem. The organisation says a national awareness campaign, coupled with more motorway patrols, could help change driver behaviour. The AA suggests that another factor behind middle lane hogging could be a lack of confidence in using the inside lane on “all lane running” smart motorways. Some drivers fear encountering broken-down vehicles in live traffic lanes and therefore avoid lane one even when it is clear. While the instinct may come from caution, the organisation warns that avoiding the inside lane can actually worsen congestion and lead to more undertaking as faster drivers pass on the left and, in turn, the potential for more crashes. Such behaviour also raises levels of frustration and driver stress, leading to further driver behaviour issues.
With motorway traffic volumes continuing to rise, motoring groups argue that reinforcing the simple rule of “keep left unless overtaking” may be one of the most straightforward ways to improve safety
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WHERE ARE DRIVERS LOOKING?
The state of the roads and the fear of exceeding the speed limit are encouraging motorists to spend too much time looking at their speedometer and observing a few feet ahead watching out for pot holes rather than scanning the road ahead?
This in turn means they are not looking where they are going – a major factor in road collisions and putting the vulnerable at a greater risk.
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Promotional activities
SkillShare
Starts on 4 April at REME Msuem Cafe along side the Saturday Social.
Successfully supported by Wiltshire RoADAR motorcycle tutors and WABAM Observers. Dates for 2026 are below:
All are on a Sunday at Devizes Police Station unless otherwise stated:
April
12th
19th
26th
May
10th
July
5th
12th
September
13th
October
4th
Calne Bike Meet and Atwell Motor Museum
We are returning to the Calne Bike Meet - 25 July 2026 - and the Atwell Motor Museum - dates tbc.
If you have any ideas for events, then please get in touch with the committee using the committee email address :
Look forward to hearing and discussing your ideas.
Presentation material
A generic set of slides has been created for use if you are asked about Wiltshire RoADAR and have the opportunity to present. This could be at a local club, workplace etc. Please send a mail to committee@wiltshireroadar.co.uk and the slides will be sent over to you.
We also have flyers and business cards so ask for these via the same means.
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New year, new motorcycle touring company!
After planning, organising and enjoying several motorcycle trips to places such as the Alps, Dolomites, Pyrenees and Ireland, amongst others, Peter Genet has, along with a couple of advanced riding, albeit IAM, friends set-up www.tiptoptours.co.uk These tours are encouraging riders to explore and enjoy more their riding amongst like-minded riders. After all, “I ride not to go anywhere, but to ride. I ride for riding’s sake. The great adventure is to ride!”
Look forward to seeing you soon!
Peter Genet |
Taking both Car and Bike tests?
We have a handful of people who have passed both their car and bike tests. If you wish to do the same it can be confusing as we include the training in your membership of Wiltshire RoADAR but your membership of RoSPA only covers free retests for one vehicle type. My thanks to Ryan Jones who clarified the situation with RoSPA.
If you are already a bike member, you can just pay for an interim car test @ £55. Your main membership would be bike (first one to pass) so "free" retests would be for bike. Each car retest would be same interim @ £55.
The interim test is accessed from the RoSPA member area here:
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Booking a Retest
Please be aware you need to book your 3 yearly retest directly with RoSPA via their website. Sadly we cannot book it for you as it is all done electronically. You may also need to check when your re-test is due if you have not been paying your subscriptions to RoADAR as they will not remind you.
Tutors will be happy to conduct a refresh should you wish one prior to a re test.
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Membership and GDPR
Due to GDPR we are required to remove an individual's details from our Group database when they are no longer required by us. We remove a lapsed member's details if they have not paid a subscription by the 31 Dec following the AGM (3 months after the subscriptions are due). If a member has forgotten to pay their subs and pays after 31 Dec we will require a joining form to be completed so we can replace them on the database.
It all seems a bit strange, but we do not want to get on the wrong side of the Government's Information Commissioner. We understand if members forget or are late with their subscriptions, but please help us to keep our database accurate and compliant.
This is, of course, separate to those of you who maintain a membership with RoADAR HQ.
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Committee minutes
These are available from the Group Secretary if any member wishes to see them. If you are interested in reading the minutes, then please send a mail to the Group Secretary whom will promptly forward them onto you.
Test results
Reminder to let the Membership Secretary and your tutor know when you have taken your Advanced Driving/Riding Test and result. This is so our database is kept up to date; there is no need or pressure at all to have the result published on the website or in this newsletter if you wish to keep your result confidential.
If you have read this far, thanks! If you have any feedback or suggestions about content for your newsletter, then drop us a line at newsletter@wiltshireroadar.co.uk If you can't leave constructive feedback though, then we don't want to hear from you!
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