Adventure Bike Rider Forum

Crossrutted wrote:

garyboy wrote:
to me there is a simple answer. everyone ditch the TRF as it now exists, and set up a proper registered charity for the betterment of our sport/interest/ hobby .. give it a name, eg `Trail Riding For All` (TRFA) or maybe a better name?

and let the present directors preside over their own business interests, in their own unique way.

That could well happen.

However, the traction with councils, government etc has been built under the TRF name over many years, a new organisation would take time to establish itself . Also the presence of two bodies representing a relatively small interest group would dilute effectiveness.

Surely it is better to correct the shortcomings of the existing organisation?
Which needs all interested members to register their votes at the forthcoming AGM with a view to changing the current Directors behaviours.

Just paying a yearly membership fee is no longer enough to support the future of the TRF.

I would assume that the TRF membership would reduce greatly, while the TRFA (or perhaps the `REAL TRF` good name?) would gain in strength rapidly .. it not being a business but a charitable organisation more in tune with its members?

councils and NPAs would soon know the difference, and the `Real TRF` would be representing a much larger membership? so would be listened to more.

perhaps this new organisation could learn how to connect better with new members and retain their interest and hence grow its numbers. there are loads of trail riders out there!

garyboy wrote: perhaps this new organisation could learn how to connect better with new members and retain their interest and hence grow its numbers. there are loads of trail riders out there!

Not sure about anyone else but my local TRF is really good at this already.

scutty wrote:

garyboy wrote: perhaps this new organisation could learn how to connect better with new members and retain their interest and hence grow its numbers. there are loads of trail riders out there!

Not sure about anyone else but my local TRF is really good at this already.

That's a good point Andy, there are loads of good local groups within the TRF. It just seems to struggle to get it together as a national organisation.

My understanding is that the TRF is not charity - this was an avenue being explored but not taken.
My other understanding is the Ltd status was to protect members against hostile legal action by outsiders.
That is a simplistic view though from a simple person.

-Ralph- wrote: libelous (one "L")

Good grief :whistle: . If you're going to be the spelling police then please get it right...

Libelous in the USA
Libellous in the UK

scutty wrote:

garyboy wrote: perhaps this new organisation could learn how to connect better with new members and retain their interest and hence grow its numbers. there are loads of trail riders out there!

Not sure about anyone else but my local TRF is really good at this already.

Yes, the groups I attend are good, it is the National management team that are the problem.

Greetings folks,

The TRF is the premier trail riding club but some think that that over the past year the national organisation has lost its Fellowship aspect. There is a national organisation and that is supported with lots of really friendly Regional Groups which all try to help trail riders stay on legal routes and enjoy great days out riding the non tarmac roads.

The TRF has the best knowledge base regarding the legality of the lanes that we use; it has really switched on technical folk to help you maintain your bike or gear in tip top condition and probably most importantly it is recognised to represent Trail Riders' interests with local and central Government.

Despite what some may say the TRF does have a great future and you can be part of that but it requires a small bit of action on your part if you are a Member. The AGM will be held on 8th January 2017 at Swindon, if you can not attend then why not use your Proxy Vote to bring about a positive change. The official form can easily be downloaded from the TRF website or use the one that I have attached.

You could always contact your local Group to see if they will have a representative going to the AGM but be quick as the Proxy Votes have to be received before the 5th January 2017. I shall be attending for the Manchester Group and I would be pleased to carry your vote if you should so wish. Check out our attached pdf file for details of how to Vote and to help to bring about a positive change.

TTFN

Hugh.

Crossrutted wrote: National management team that are the problem.

Should we pay the TRF directors and make them salaried?

Scott_rider wrote:

-Ralph- wrote: libelous (one "L")

Good grief :whistle: . If you're going to be the spelling police then please get it right...

Libelous in the USA
Libellous in the UK

Swerving the question. You should be a politician!

Sent from my SM-G935F using Tapatalk

I am not in the TRF. from an outsiders perspective, I believe they have made great contributions to keeping open byways etc. This infighting is not helpful though & causes me concern, while no doubt offering ammunition for the ramblers etc.

The fact that 2 of the directors have been in business together previously is in no way a crime or something to be viewed with suspicion. If the information you pass forward (names & accusation) is made public- it is certainly not libellous- if it is true. If it is not, then you should not post it.

If you do not post the names-some people will assume, wrongly or rightly you are doubtful of the accuracy.

Libel is the reserve of the rich and famous.