After the wintery conditions before Christmas we did not know what to expect. As it turned out we need not had worried. The day was perfect for driving, blue skies, fluffy white clouds and a barmy 6°C.

This year we decided to set a new challenge which was to wear a silly hat. OMG!!! As every car arrived we heard howls of laughter at the sight of the drivers and passengers sporting silly hats. We had no idea that so many of you were up for the challenge.

I wanted to be at the starting point before anyone else, so I aimed to get there just before 10am, however, I was greeted by a dozen classic cars that had already arrived. The biggest shock was the sight of Roger wearing his home made ‘Kidney’ hat, white coat and stethoscope.

By 10:30am there were 36 classic cars and a modern all lined up ready for the start. The vast majority were, as you would expect, Triumphs and TR’s but we also had an Austin A55, a Lancia Fulvia and a Merc to complete the line up.

After the briefing by Doctor Kidney, assisted by Miss Steak and Prof. Puff Pastry, the cars set off in groups to our first destination.

The first stage took us around the outskirts of Ripley, through Street Lane, Denby, and Kilburn where we turned north and headed to Belper. In Belper we passed the Market Place (the starting point of this years Peak Run) and then travelled along the A6 to Arkwright’s East Mill and crossed the River Derwent at that point. We were then Peak District bound visiting Wirksworth and Cromford before winding up Via Gellia towards Bakewell.

The cars turned a few heads as we drove through Bakewell and onto Chatsworth with the road climbing high above the magnificent Chatsworth House.

The first part of the run finished at the Peak Village in Rowsley. The cars were parked and there was a mad dash to the loo’s before topping up with a refreshing cup of coffee in the Village Café.

Everyone was having such a good time looking at the shops or just catching up on the gossip that it seemed a shame to insist that they continued the journey, but eventually we had to and we left the Peak Village somewhat later than planned. Unfortunately Jonathan from Northants had to head back home at this point as he had double booked himself.

The second part of our journey took us through the old mining villages in both Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. Not as picturesque but just as interesting. As we approached Church Warsop, Nottinghamshire began to reveal its own beauty – The Sherwood Forest.

It was a very quick stop at the Ollerton Visitors Centre before setting off on the final leg to the Sandhills Tavern for Sunday Lunch.

Nigel Hill and I were ready and waiting for the cars to arrive at the pub. When they did it was a mad panic as you would expect when 30 plus cars descend upon you all at once. Thankfully everyone was patient and carefully parked their cars in turn.

The wonderful aroma of Sunday Diner greeted us as we opened the doors of the Sandhills Tavern. A choice of Turkey, Gammon or Beef (or if like me all three) trimmed with roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, a selection of vegetables and lashings of gravy. It was as just as delicious as it smelt.

Charlotte and Victoria worked so hard taking orders and serving the puddings – Thank you girls.

Once everyone was fed we asked Glennis Charles to judge the Silliest Hat. It was a difficult decision to make. It was finally agreed to present two prizes and they went to Julie and Lisa from the TSSC’s newest area “Hallamshire”. Watch out Claire they will be laying claim to Robin Hood just like that airport in Yorkshire.

The best decorated car award was presented to Steve from the West Midlands and finally the best dressed in red was simply awarded to John from Leicester who was dressed totally in red – although we decided to take his word regarding his underwear.

It was a fantastic day and judging by the joking, mickey taking, frivolity and laughter we assumed that everyone had a great time. Both Notts and Derwent Valley would like to thank everyone who supported the event and entered into the spirit of the day.

We raised a total of £260 for the Kidney Patients Association whose work and support is very much appreciated by individuals who took part in the run.

It was great a pleasure organising this event for such friendly folk. So much so that we must do it all again next year…Oh! Did I mention that its Nigel and Claire’s turn to organise the 2012 event!!!