The ‘World-Wide’ London Douglas Motor Cycle Club!
During the 1920s, with many world records and racing successes to their credit, enthusiasm for Douglas machines led to the formation of factory-sponsored clubs throughout the UK. The ‘London Douglas M.C.C.’ was formed in 1928 and membership grew during the 1930s as popular activities such as sporting events, day trips, camping weekends and long distance runs were held.
After World War II, during which activities were suspended, a few members reformed the Club and the staging of social, sporting and touring events soon led to a renewed increase in membership. As a result, new sections were formed beyond London, around the country. As the popularity of motorcycling began to decline in the 1960s, the number of members dwindled to around 100 or so, but these enthusiasts kept the Club alive. By the 1970s, Douglas motorcycles were no longer a regular means of transport but machines to treasure, maintain, refurbish and ride for pleasure.
By the mid-1970s the Club had changed considerably and, although a London club by name, it had become the international club for Douglas owners. Membership increased across the country and overseas so that today the LDMCC is a healthy and thriving Club, participating in a wide range of activities and with a global membership exceeding 1000.
FAQs
Q. What is the cost of membership and how can I pay?
A. The annual subscription is £22 for both UK and overseas membership. Payment may be made by cheque, PayPal, bank transfer (BACS) and cash. There is no credit card facility. Details of payment options are available from the membership secretary.
Q. How may I join and is the Club open to persons who do not have a Douglas motorcycle?
A. There is an online membership application form or alternatively you may write to the membership secretary for a membership pack. Membership is open to everyone with an interest in the marque.
Q. Does the Club have a magazine?
A. The Club publishes a bi-monthly magazine, The New Conrod, which is sent free to all members. The magazine contains technical articles, section news, Club information and for sale/wanted items.
Q. Can non-members use the For Sale or Wanted columns of the magazine?
A. These facilities are only available to members.
Q. Can non-members purchase spares from the Club scheme?
A. The spares scheme is not open to non-members.
Q. What spares are available from the scheme?
A. The scheme is designed to provide parts to maintain both pre- and post-war machines and thus comprises mainly wear items. The scheme is not able to provide major parts such as frames and engine casings. Spares for the older machines are more difficult but the Club endeavours to provide as much assistance as possible. The Club does not deal with second hand items nor does it act as a broker for such parts. Used spares can often be sourced, however, via the For Sale and Wanted columns in the Club magazine.
Q. Does the Club have a library service?
A. The Club has an extensive library of material including sales literature and original drawings. As appropriate, copies are available at cost for members and, of course, contacts made through the Club may also be a source of information.
Q. Where does the Club meet?
A. There are nine sections spread throughout the UK and members are welcome to attend their local section. Additionally, if you are on the move and wish to attend another section, then a call to the appropriate section secretary is all that is required, just to confirm meeting arrangements. Most UK sections meet monthly and often join with others such as the local VMCC for events and runs. Overseas members are more thinly spread and therefore tend to meet less frequently but wherever you are there will be a welcome for any member who gets in touch. The Club is all about contact with others who share a passion for the ‘Bristol twins’.
The London Douglas Motor Cycle Club 