I missed out on Vera's Lunch last year because by the time I'd sent in my cheque the event was already fully booked. Attendance being limited to 100 guests, I ended up on the waiting list. Needless to say, nobody cancelled and that's hardly surprising for it's a unique informal event in the Maserati Club year. This year I left nothing to chance and got my cheque in early!

Vera Cooper, a Club member of long standing, lives in a beautiful house on the banks of the River Thames and every year she opens up her house to members for a buffet lunch. Vera does most of the cooking and preparation herself and what a fine cook she is!

Normally this event is blessed with fine weather and the classic Maserati classics turn out in force. This year the weather was unpredictable and heavy showers were forecast so the turnout was not up to its usual standard. Some members chose to arrive in alternative machinery, in fact even the Club President turned up in a Smart car! However, all was not lost for fortunately for me some very nice examples from the 'Biturbo era' did manage to make it. A Biturbo, a Biturbo Spyder, a Shamal, three Ghibli Cups, a Biturbo Si, two 430s, a 222 SE, a Ghibli 1a serie, a Ghibli Primatist, a Ghibli MY94 (rather special this one!) and four 3200GTs.

Once again that stalwart Roger Epsztajn, had a wide range of Maserati books, brochures, jewellery and other items of regalia on display for the members. I hope the members appreciate how much effort Roger puts into his work on behalf of the club.

All in all it was a mixed day. For the 'happy eater' it was a great success, but for someone hoping to take photographs of classic Maseratis, it was a little disappointing. Let's hope for better weather next year!