Sunday 2 August 1914

The Le Mans Motorcycle Grand Prix due to take place on 15 August was eagerly awaited. However, it was said to be less challenging than the Isle of Man T.T. course.

Meanwhile in Europe

German troops invade Luxemburg. France entered at four points. Poland invaded by Germans, who occupy Kalish, Chenstokhov and Bendzin.

East Prussia entered by Russian raiders near Schwidden. Libau bombarded by German light cruiser "Augsburg".

German Note to Belgium, 7 p.m. alleging that Germany must violate her soil in order to "anticipate" the French attack in Belgium; demands that latter should remain passive; answer required in 12 hours. England assures France that British fleet will stop German fleet if latter attacks French shipping in Channel. Moratorium proclaimed in England.

Monday 29 June 1914

 29 June 1914

Vernon Busby 2nd from left Howard Davies 3rd from Left

The Triumph motorcycle with Gloria Sidecar converted to an Ambulance seen at the Brooklands Red Cross day on 20 June 1914 was very much a concept machine. It was however later further developed by Royal Enfield.

Sunbeam had been very successful in the 1914 Isle of Man TT winning the team prize. Rider Howard Raymond Davies later of HRD fame was no doubt thinking of his racing career and could not have known that he would soon be flying for the Royal Flying Corps as an artillery spotter later to be shot down. Unknown to the Allies he was captured alive leading to him being posted missing presumed dead. Vernon Busby another team member had already had some military experience, although this was far from his thoughts as he also continued a successful season.