Tamar DA’s 80s Throwback

Written By Jon Hall

Every club has its golden stories—the ones retold with a smile, a shake of the head, or a “you had to be there.”  As we look back, it’s impossible not to feel a little proud, a little nostalgic, and very grateful for the hardy, hilarious, and unforgettable characters who shaped our early years.

Easter 1986: Dartmouth, Downpours & Broken Fingers

Easter 1986 at Dartmouth Community College was one for the books—though perhaps not for the reasons anyone hoped. The weather was determined to test our spirit, delivering a weekend of relentless wind and rain. But Tamar DA has never been a fair‑weather crowd.

Two members, however, had a particularly memorable time.

Lee Britton somehow managed to break both of his little fingers—on consecutive days. A feat no one has managed before or since. Much of his Easter was spent in the local casualty department, no doubt becoming a familiar face to the hospital staff.

Then there was Mr. Ray Perkins, our Regional Councillor, who was determined to be on the winning team during the evening games. His strategy? Swap teams every time the score changed. The group’s response? A good‑natured bombardment with empty plastic drinks bottles. All in the spirit of fun, of course.

Even in the worst weather, Tamar DA knew how to make memories.

March 9th, 1986: A Dartmoor Walk to Remember

Just a few weeks earlier, around 23 hardy souls gathered between Dousland and Princetown for a Dartmoor walk. The weather was surprisingly kind—at least to begin with.

Led by Ken Norman, the group set off at a brisk but comfortable pace, exploring post‑boxes, old quarries, and the rugged beauty of the moor. Children and adults alike soaked up the adventure.

Lunch was taken in a sheltered disused quarry, just as the rain returned in light showers. The walk continued along the old railway track, eventually looping back to the car park—where an ice cream van awaited like a beacon of joy. After roughly eight miles, it was a welcome sight.

A huge thank‑you went to Ken for his knowledge, commentary, and leadership. Attendance may have been small, but the enjoyment was huge.

🏕️ The Campsite Archive:

April & May 1987 Campsites:

  • Higher Longford Farm, Moorshop, Tavistock

  • Werrington Park, Launceston (Motor Hill Climb)

  • Wooda Caravan Park, Bude (Easter Meet)

  • Dovers Caravan Park, Looe

  • Sydenham Farm, Chillaton (10th Birthday Meet)

  • Venn Farm, Brixton

  • Roborough, Plymouth (Open Meet)

  • St. Minver (THS)

April & May 1988 Campsites:

  • Berry Pomeroy, Paignton (Easter Meet)

  • Kitley Caves, Yealmpton

  • Treble ‘B’ Caravan Park, Looe (Birthday Meet)

  • Mushton, Pillaton (Landrover Rally)

  • Dovers, Looe

  • St. Minver (THS)

 

💬 Share Your Tamar DA Memories

These stories are just a glimpse into our early years—and we know there are countless more tucked away in photo albums, old meet books, and the memories of long‑standing members. If you were part of Tamar DA during the ’80s (or any era!), we’d love to hear your stories. Whether it’s a funny moment, a favourite campsite, a mishap, or a treasured tradition, your memories help keep our history alive.

Send them in, share them with us, and let’s keep celebrating the journey that made Tamar DA what it is today.

 

Jon Hall