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News
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OBITUARY
The End of An Era |
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Ennice
Rimington

It
is with the deepest sadness and regret that Area6 announces
the death of ENNICE RIMINGTON.
Ennice had been in hospital for a few weeks and passed
away in the early hours of Wednesday 28th July 2010.
Ennice
and her husband John, have been active members of the ACC for more
years than I can remember.
Ennice was loved by all and was well known for her
genrosity, friendliness and fun loving nature. Ennice
was so generous and always trying to feed us all up. She was
notorious for her pie nights, she would bake meat &
potato pies for everyone in the club, then serve it with mushy
peas and gravy. Last year several of the members spent a week with
Ennice and John at their favorite site in Whitby, we were all
invited for dinner and they spoilt us all with food and
drink in abundance, generous to a fault.
At
party nights Ennice was always the centre of attention, especially
at the end of the evening when she would captivate her audience
with tales of her teenage years with sister Joyce, she loved
to make Joyce blush. Nobody
could tell a story like our Ennice.
Area6
party nights, especially Christmas, will never be the same
again. Ennice was a one off, after they made her they threw away
the mould. The world is a poorer place without you, God
bless you Ennice.
Our
love and deepest sympathy go to John and Ennice's family.
From
all your friends in Area6.
(More photo's on the Gallery Page)
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HAYES
FARM, NEWSTEAD, NOTT’S
23rd to 25th. July 2010. |
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| The site at dusk |
Afternoon gathering, Mandy's in the
chair. |
Hayes
Farm
is just about as central to the East Midlands Area as you can get.
No one has far to travel and we usually get a good turnout.
This weekend was no exception.
Three
units came on the Thursday, arriving well before lunch intending
to make the most of the full weekend.
The weather was quite good, although we did have a shower
or two in the afternoon. In
the evening the entire Thursday Club (all 6 of us) made our way to
the nearby carvery.
Three
pounds 50p for as much as you can get on your plate.
That's what I call good value for money.
Friday
morning lovely weather and the steady flow of members arriving,
starting with Colin Hubbard and ending with Dave and Debbie, 16
units in all, plus numerous day visitors.
Not bad considering that some are still on holiday and some
couldn't attend due to illness.
In the afternoon a few went fishing in the nearby pond
followed by the
compulsory Bar.B.Q and the obligatory few bottles.
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| The lads collect more firewood |
The fire's burning well |
The weather was warm enough to dine outside. With the help of the children firewood was collected from the
surrounding woods and two of the Bar.B.Q's were turned into
braziers, we all sat round the fires till midnight.
Saturday
morning and we were again blessed with lovely weather so it was
shopping time. Hayes
Farm is surrounded by numerous shopping areas, Mansfield, Hucknall,
Arnold or Nottingham. We
went to Arnold but the families with kiddies treated them to a
tram ride into Nottingham were the city square had been
transformed into a seaside beach and the fountains into a paddling
area. They came back
wet and bedraggled but very happy.
Mealtime was again spent outside with several bottles of
wine followed by an evening in the club tents. Paul called bingo
in his own inimitable way, followed by the raffle.
It must have been well after midnight before the tent was
cleared.
Sunday
again fine weather, no one was in a hurry to get off home.
Debbie gave her usual Sunday sermon at coffee morning and
the fisherman had the last few hours at the pond.
Again a lovely weekend with great company.
The next rally is at Beechwood another one for the
fishermen.
Metal
Mickey
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West
Hills Farm, Darley Dale
July
2010 |
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The Old Oak Tree, stood
here for hundreds of years. Until Dave leaned against it |
Wasn't me mate I never
touched it |
Friday
4.30pm, I left work and was glad to be going away for the weekend
in the caravan. After the week I had had, there's nothing better
than fresh air, a few drinks and chilling with friends.
We first used West Hills
last year and it proved popular, this year we had a smaller field
as there was a holiday rally of at least 60 units on the large
field. The grass was short, although there were little reminders
of the sheep that had been moved to the other field. We only
managed 7 units as a lot of members were going, coming back or
away on holiday.
Friday had been a glorious
day and was followed by a warm evening. Barry and Alan went to the
nearby pub for a few pints, whilst the rest of us sat out and had
a few onsite. We had a right giggle listening to Mick going
through his "keystone cops" routine, aided and abetted
by Paul, before we knew it was almost midnight.
The numbers were bolstered
to 9 units on Saturday by the welcome arrival of Rose, Ken, David
and Pat from Area 21. They were on their way to help marshal The
Northern Caravan Show at Knutsford, Cheshire. It was great to see
Rose & Ken again, they both look really well and they are
getting out and about by all accounts. They were telling us about
their various trips, including Australia for a month earlier in
the year. They had bought Pat & David with them this time,
great to meet you both and your all welcome anytime.
Saturday Dave and I did
nothing, apart from a stroll with the dogs which ended in sitting
in the beer garden of the local pub for a pint, I had to go to bed
in the afternoon - I can't drink at dinner! As usual on Saturday
we scattered, some went for retail therapy and some visited
Matlock on the train, the stop was a few minutes from the site and
if you're lucky it was a steam train.
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meal in the sunshine, |
Quiet evening drink |
In the evening we had our
meal in the sunshine, once the pots were washed and put away we
gathered under the canopies of the gazebos as it was too hot to
put the sides on. There were some dark clouds about threatening
rain and I didn't want to get caught out. We were just about to
start bingo when there were cries of disbelief, followed by an
almighty crash. We jumped up in time to see a dust cloud of a 30ft
tree that had just fallen over! Luckily it fell away from the
caravans, cars and people, thankfully we were all safe. The dust
settled and we carried on with the evening of bingo, raffle and a
good old get together. It was certainly a sight and caused a stir
with the neighbouring rally, one guy even came over the gate, in
his "pinny" to have a good look. We eventually went to bed
around 1am.
Sunday morning I was woken
by Dave, there had been a massive gust of wind around 6.45am and
he was wondering if the gazebos were still there. I had a look out
the window and saw Mick scurrying around them moving things from
the table that could blow away. He had been woken by his TV aerial
blowing over and bouncing off his caravan, no damage thankfully
though. I decided to get up and walk the dogs, although I did
avoid the other trees in the field, just incase.
After coffee morning, a
smaller than usual rambling club gathered for an hours walk. When
we got back, we had a spot of lunch in the sunshine, whilst Dave
and Mick watched the grand prix. Finally around 2.30pm we started
to pack things up and set off. A great weekend was had by all, the
fantastic weather really makes the difference.
Debbie
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| SPRINGWOOD
FISHERIES
25th.to
27th.
JUNE
2010.
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| You won't get many settings better than
this |
Bob & Sue's Party night |
Springwood
Fisheries is a new site
and what a little gem. Mick led the Thursday club, unfortunately
there were only two other members that took him up, as Brian and
Pauline were otherwise engaged and the rest were still on their
jollies in Europe. I had a text on Thursday evening to say what lovely
views over the lake they had whilst eating their meal al fresco,
in the brilliant sunshine, I wasn't jealous!
I
arrived just after 4pm on Friday to complete a "compact and
bijou" gathering of 9 units. Dave & Hazel have coaxed their
other son Mike and wife Nina to this rally in a tent, although
they are due to collect their new caravan next week, it was great
to see them, I hope we made them feel welcome. I was again on my
own as Dave was STILL in Australia working! I pulled up and help
came from all angles, the van legs were dropped, water filled and
dogs taken. I let the sun go down before I put the awning up, as
it was so hot. I was also spoilt as Phyl and Mick had cooked my
dinner, I did help wash up though! After tea, John kept the BBQ
going with some wood that he had collected. We sat chatting and
like a moth to a flame the others pulled up a chair, it was
midnight before we knew it.
Saturday
morning Mick tapped on my window and said that breakfast was
ready; Phyl had cooked the works which we sat out to eat. Later
some went into Ashby for a wander around the shops for an hour as
the weather was too good to waste.
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| Chris was proud of the one he caught |
But not a proud as Reece with the one he
caught. |
The fisherman amongst us took
to the lake, bagging some fair sized fish throughout the day. Well
all except Dave Marshall who sat there for hours and caught
nothing. Grandson Reece caught his first fish, what a whopper that
was, his line tensioned and we thought we would be dragging him
out of the lake as he was struggling to hold onto it. Uncle Chris
ran to the rescue and helped him bring it in for the obligatory
photo.
The
one downside to the site is the lack of nearby walks, so to walk
the dogs I got in my car and went off site. I went to Staunton
Harold Reservoir for a wander; it's a beautiful place and well
worth the 2 pound 50p parking. I spent an hour there as it was so hot I
was melting, never mind the dogs in their fur coats. We came back
and they got under the van to cool off whilst I got my head down
for five minutes as Jed has a habit of waking me at 5am for his
walk!
In
the evening, we positioned our table under the shade of a tree to
have an early dinner, as Brian and Pauline had joined us for the
day. Whilst eating we watched the fishermen, well Dave, who was
still there dangling his rod in the water and still nothing!
We
decided to make the best of the fantastic weather and arranged
some windbreaks at the back of Bob & Sues van to hold the
social. They are celebrating their 36th wedding
anniversary next Tuesday, and had bought food, wine, beer and soft
drinks for us to celebrate. I think they were starting to worry
that they would not get the food done in time, but with a little
help from their friends, it was all sorted in quick time.
Dave
and Hazel were hosting, so Hazel set off to sell bingo tickets
whilst Dave set up the board for his inaugural bingo call and a
grand job he did too! There were several new twists on the usual
game of bingo and we had a right giggle. The food and drink were
rolled out and everyone had plenty of both. I think I was one of
the last to leave around midnight.
Sunday
and we had coffee morning under the shade of the tree as it was
another scorcher. Hazel
read out the answers to the quiz she had done, which was won by
Chris and Diane. The lack of footpaths meant the rambling club was
cancelled, although most wanted to get off for the football match
starting at 3pm. The packing away was in stages, do bits then run
for the shade to cool down. A great weekend, hope to see you all
again soon.
Debbie
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UPPERTOWN
FARM,DERBY'S
11TH TO 13TH.JUNE 2010. |
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| View from the site |
Walk round the water |
Uppertown Farm, another
one of Debbie's new venues. A
nice little site with great views over Carsington Water, It's a
pity we didn't get the flaming June weather to go with it.
We had rain, wind with a little sunshine but mainly
overcast. Several
of the regulars were on holiday so it was a predictably low turn
out 9 units. Dave was
still away working in Australia, so Debbie had to take Minnie out
of mothballs. (That's
what she calls her own little caravan, which she uses when David
is away.) I had a
little look inside and I see that she has re-upholstered since
last time I saw it and a very professional job she has done.
There's no end to this girls talent.
To say that this is only the second time in her life she
has towed a caravan, she did exceptionally well.
Derbyshire is one of the more difficult places to tow.
It is full of very steep hills and narrow winding roads,
challenging to even the very experienced caravaner.
The only problem she did have was the same as last time,
lighting the fridge. Again it was a quick phone call to Australia.
One word from Dave and it lit straight away.
Friday afternoon and the weather was fairly
reasonable so half a dozen of us decided to light the Bar.B.Q and
eat outside, but at the last minute the weather changed so we
moved into one of the gazebos for the meal and stayed there for
the rest of the evening, lit a couple of gas fires and it was
quite cozy.
Saturday morning and I think that just about
everyone made their way to nearby Ashbourne.
In The evening we did away with the
traditional bingo. It was the World Cup, England v USA.
I fitted a TV in one corner of the tents and we settled
down to what turned out to be a disappointing game of football.
Despite all the shouting a bawling we only managed a draw
1-1. We ended the evening with a little social drinking.
After Sunday coffee it was a depleted
rambling club that assembled, but Debbie had arranged just a
steady stroll around the Carsington Water visitors centre
encouraging some of the none walkers to participate.
Well done Debbie a nice little venue if only we could get
rid of Derbyshire's unpredictable weather.
The next rally is Springwood Fisheries, another new venue
ideal for all you fisherman/women.
Metal Mickey.
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BOLTON
ABBEY AND
RUFFORTH
PLAYING FIELDS ASS. YORK
SPRING BANK HOLIDAY 2010. |
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| Bolton Abbey |
Rufforth |
As
in previous years a few of us decided to extend our bank holiday
break by having a few days before the spring bank holiday rally.
This year we met at Strid Wood, Bolton Abbey, before travelling
onto the rally at York. The site was almost full, so we were split
into two groups of three. We did get together for two out of the
four nights for a drink and natter. Strid Wood is a site with
picturesque views and walks; Dave and I walked the dogs for miles.
We twice walked to Cavendish Pavilion and back, a three and a half
mile round trip. The rambling group assembled for a walk to Barden
Bridge and back one afternoon, about a mile and a quarter, unless
you listen to Metal Mickey who recalled it as at least three
miles!
We finally
packed up on Thursday morning and headed to Rufforth Playing
Fields for the bank holiday rally. The rally field was very nicely
kept and made up part of a well used facility for the villagers.
When we arrived we set up camp and were swiftly joined by Pam and
Roy.
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| That's what you call a big engine |
On the footplate |
On Friday
morning the "lads" headed off to the National Railway Museum
in York, where they were given a guided tour by Dave, they were
gone for five hours, I knew he could talk! Whilst they were out a
further three units joined us, I thought we had some new members
until I got a little closer, it was Paul and Sue with their new
caravan in tow. By the end of the day we had a respectable 13
units. Whilst we were there we had sole use of the club house,
which we decided to take advantage of and have an impromptu
gathering on the Friday night, a few drinks and a game of bingo.
Saturday we were joined by another two units the final total was
fifteen. It was nice to see some new faces as Jamie and Kay had
bought some friends with them. I hope they enjoyed themselves as
we enjoyed having them. Mind you, we may have to include a "bingo induction" in the future, as Becky called for a line
without fully understanding that the line needed to be the top
line, not the bottom. This caused great confusion for poor Paul
who was calling, he didn't realise it was a false call and sat
waiting patiently to check the numbers back until we told him.
Saturday, most
ventured out and about, either to the local retail park or into
York, the park and ride was a few minutes away and seemed the
easiest option. Unless you were a pensioner and had a free bus
pass that you could use by catching a bus from outside the site.
Those that
didn't venture out were treated to a cricket match on the pitch
in front of us. The usual late afternoon bbq gathering was
surprised by a low level flypast of the James Bond style
gyro-copter from the adjoining airfield.
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| Debbie and Dave prepare for the music
quiz |
Kay places her bet on the race nioght |
In the evening, we had a
game of bingo and a game of "name that tune" Dave and I put
together. There were four teams which were whittled down to two by
a qualifying question. These two teams battled it out, being given
a clue to a song they had to identify, the bidding started at ten
seconds with each team bidding to either name the tune or pass it
to the other team to name. It was all going so well, with most of
the tunes starting with an instrumental intro longer than the ten
seconds played, this was until the song "Mona Lisa" was played
with the title of the song being sang in the first two seconds!
Talk about giving it away, it raised a laugh at least.
Sunday and
there was still loads to do, a choice of the local car boot,
antiques fair or even local national trust properties to visit. In
the evening Dave and I put on a race night, thankfully we had the
help of Margaret and "honest John the bookie", who after their
third race night are becoming professionals at managing the
betting table. After four races we had some supper, laid on by the
club and then the further four games. It was an enjoyable evening,
especially for Jamie who managed to be the only winner on one of
the races, scooping nine pounds winnings!
On Monday some
wanted to go into York early, so coffee morning was cancelled by a
unanimous vote. Emily
gave Sue a piece of her mind for voting not to hold it though, she
realised no coffee morning, no sweets. I said I would make sure
she got some sweets, offering to drop them off when I took the
dogs a walk around 6.30am. Emily was happy for me to knock on the
window, but with the look on Jamie's face I don’t think he
was. A few left on Monday, although the majority stayed till
Tuesday. I would just like to thank again the committee members
who helped out this weekend, most bank holiday rallies fall onto
the committee to run and the effort you put in to make this a
successful rally is very much appreciated.
Debbie
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Debbie wrote this report but I feel that I
must put my two pennyworth in because she failed to mention all
the hard work that she and Dave put into the organising of this
Spring Bank Holiday break. I think I speak for everyone who attended
Bolton Abbey and Rufforth when I say what a great time we all had,
it was entertainment all the way. Dave must have spent a
fortune on his new gear. It takes me back a few years when
he was the DJ for all our parties, you haven't lost that touch.
And Debbie she looks after us all like a mother hen, especially us
older ones. Well done and THANK YOU BOTH. Metal
Mickey
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EYE
KLETTLEBY LAKES
14th to 16th May 2010. |
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| Good turnout |
A happy man |
The Thursday Club was a
little sparse on the ground this weekend.
Howard was the only one to arrive on the Thursday and that
was only because he wanted to be on the lakes fishing as early as
possible on Friday. Phyl
and I were first to arrive on Friday morning.
This was unusual for us it's normally mid afternoon.
Before we had dropped the van legs John and Margaret
arrived closely followed by Brian and Pauline.
In all 15 units attend, even Debbie and Dave arrived early
afternoon, normally it's dark before they arrive.
The weather was fine and dry but a little breezy.
Being situated on the top of a hill we had lovely views but
got the full force of the wind.
If you sat on the leeward side of the van it was possible
to sit outside and enjoy the warmth of the afternoon sun, and many
did.
On Saturday morning the
fishermen were out early picking their spot around the lake.
There were eight lakes to pick from all filled with various
types of fish. A fisherman's paradise.
All the none fishermen, like me, were dragged off to nearby
Melton Mowbray so
that the ladies could do a little therapeutic shopping.
Mid-afternoon, whilst they
were deciding were to put the club tents I took the camera and had
a walk round one of the lakes.
I was just in time to see Jamie land one of the biggest
carp I have seen. He
had the biggest smile on his face, from ear to ear. I think it was the biggest he had caught and I managed to
take a photograph of it for posterity. A little further round the
lake was Shane and Stephanie.
I think it was the first time Steph had been fishing and
she appeared to be enjoying it.
They had caught a few but none a big as Jamie's. Steph was
quite happy to catch the fish but no-way would she remove them
from the hook. By
the time I arrived back on site the club tents were up. I'd timed
it just right. But then I am still convalescing and they won't let
me do any heavy work anyway so I am better off out of the way.
Later in the afternoon we
had a very welcome visit from Mandy's Mam and Dad. Mitch and Judy.
They were member of the club many years ago and Mitch
arrived wearing an old club 'T' shirt, sporting the club badge.
I'd not seen one of them for many years.
He must have gone to the bottom of the draw to find that
one. Then Mandy's
twin brother arrived in his open top sports car.
It was a bit of a family get-together as they were
celebrating their 50th.Birthday this weekend.
It was then time for the
mandatory Bar.B.Q. And several little bottles. It was still warm
enough for us to sit out and have our evening meal.
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Mandy blows out the
candles |
Mandy provides the
buffet |
Everyone then piled into
the club tents to celebrate the event of the year.
Mandy's 50th Birthday.
Sue and Paul were hosts for the weekend and Paul called the
bingo in his usual smooth way.
Mandy then brought in the largest buffet. I think she
thought she was feeding the 5000.
Stephanie brought in the Birthday cake and Debbie passed
round some photos of Mandy and Sue as teenagers. I don't know were
she got them from but both of them appear have worn pretty well.
That was the queue for Mandy to reminisce about her and
Sue's teenage escapades. When
Sue started to blush Mandy decided to go no farther.
I think they were a bright pair in their younger days.
Just after midnight we
decided to call it a night, although Dave was in bed a lot earlier
he hadn't got over the jet lag having only returned from Australia
the day before, That's three times so far this year, he's getting
quite a globe trotter.
Sunday morning another fine
day, the tents were soon down and stored away ready for coffee.
Debbie gave her usual sermon and we all sang Happy Birthday to
Margaret for her birthday on Monday.
Another one wearing well for her age.
It was then time for the
rambling club to assemble this time being led by Margaret.
She has sorted out a nice little route between the lakes
through a couple of fields a little road work and back to the
site, not quite as far as usual and not a style in sight. Perfect
for me, well done Margaret.
We were next to last to
leave, fairly late in the afternoon.
Shane and Steph were still fishing and we were taking them
home. Apparently they
caught a carp almost the same size as Jamie's but no one was there
with a camera. It
could have been to same one, they were fishing in the same lake. This is obviously a site to use again.
Metal Mickey.
(More photos on our web site
www.acceastmidlands.com
)
N.B.
There was a miss print in the last News Letter.
Rally 9 at Trent Fields is cancelled and the rally
attributed to Area 9 at Uppertown Farm 11th. To 13th.June
is our Rally No 9. (I
hope that makes sense.)
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DUKE OF
YORK, FLAG, DERBY’S
MAY
DAY B/HOLIDAY |
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| Then Site |
Mandy presents Pauline with her Birthday
Cake |
I didn't think the turnout would be
that good for the bank holiday rally at The Duke of York PH. The
published rally host and hostess had jetted off to Malta and there
were three other units sunning themselves in Tenerife, but we had
a respectable 14 in the end.
Chris and Diane joined us with their son for their first
rally, hope to see them again soon. Some of the retirees had
arrived Thursday and had already sampled the beer and food in the
pub by the time we arrived.
The weather on the last rally
spoilt us, but we were brought back to reality this weekend with
wind, rain and more wind! Saturday the usual shopping trips were
undertaken, some going to nearby Buxton and some heading for
Bakewell. Dave and I went further a field to Glossop, when we came
back Colin and his helpers had put the gazebos up, good job really
as after that the wind got up. The evening social was held in the
gazebos which were cosy once the fires were on, although most
acquired the "Granny Grindal" look, with blankets
wrapped around the legs. We had a few games of bingo called by
Mandy and most retired before midnight. Sunday was much of the
same weather wise, wind, wind and more wind. I half expected to
find the gazebos upturned when I opened the blinds, but they had
been anchored down well. It
didn't deter some from walking the nearby Tissington Trail,
although they were meant to ride on their bikes, I think the wind
was a little too strong. Sunday night we had another social in the
tent again. This time with Dave calling bingo, when "70"
was drawn, he led us all in a rendition of happy birthday for
Pauline, who was celebrating her 70th birthday. After
bingo we had a little quiz that got everyone thinking, it was a
close thing with Jane and Mandy’s team winning by one point with
16 out of 25.
We had coffee morning at 11am
Monday; the sun was trying to come out but not quite succeeding.
During coffee we tried to light the candles on the cake we had
bought for Pauline's birthday, but the wind was still blowing.
After coffee the rambling club gathered for just over an hours
ramble across the fields into Flagg village. It did hail at one
point and was very cold with the wind, I had already completed the
walk earlier in the morning and it was lovely and sunny, everyone
agreed that I should have knocked them up, but I don't imagine
that I would get a response at 7am.
Next rally is Eye Kettleby
Lakes, Mandy's 50th so not one to be missed!
Debbie
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MEADOWFIELDS
GARDENS ROLLESTON, NOTTS
16TH.TO 18TH. April 2010. |
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| The site |
Relaxing in the sun |
Having
missed the last two rallies due to being in hospital it was great
to be back rallying. I
was unable to tow my van, but Debbie and Dave came to my rescue.
Debbie delivered my van to the site and Dave made sure that
Phyl and I got back home. My
thanks to both of you. (What a great son and daughter-in-law we
have). Meadowfield
Gardens was a new venue and what a smashing little site it turned
out to be.
At the AGM Debbie announced
that during the coming season she would be arranging two surprise
rallies and this one was the first.
It was a B.O.G.O.F rally.
Buy one get one free.
Pay the rally fee for the first night and get the second
night free. She also
laid on a free cheese and wine evening.
As it turned out she had also arranged perfect weather.
It was the warmest weekend of the year so far.
Eleven units attended. Having
seen the weather forecast I thought there would have been more.
I arrived about lunch time and most of the others were
already there set up in the corner of a lovely field with short
cut grass and surrounded by trees which made a perfect windbreak.
There was a small fishing pond, which we could used free,
but I don't thing there were many fish in it, but the thought was
there. The rest of
the afternoon was spent sitting in the sun.
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| The kitchen in full swing |
Eating outside |
Late afternoon
and the Bar.B.Qs were out together with a few bottles.
Early evening and most sat outside to eat.
Fine food, a few bottles of wine and a lovely warm evening
and we sat there till well after 7pm.
We then retreated to the club tents for the rest of the
evening. It dropped a
little chilly but with a couple of gas fires and a drop of the
hard stuff we were as snug as a bug in a rug.
Saturday was again a beautiful
warm sunny day; some went fishing, some stayed sunbathing on the
site but I think most went shopping to the nearby Market Town of
Newark. We got back
early afternoon and it was kettle on, chairs out and enjoy the
sun. It was then a
repeat of the previous evening, eating outside and a little wine.
(I do enjoy my caravanning).
It
was then into the club tent for the social evening.
Phyl and I were hosts for the weekend.
With the help of Margaret I sold the tickets and Phyl
called the bingo. Margaret
and I then sorted the raffle.
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| Cheese Platter |
Ann and Ken tuck in |
It was
then time for the second treat
Debbie and Mandy brought in enormous platters with half a
dozen different cheeses, crackers, French bread, butter, grapes,
tomatoes and various other bits of fruit. There was a platter for each table. This was followed by as much red and white wine as you
wanted. ( I don't know how she does it. )
Dave set up the laptop computer and a couple of speakers
and Debbie ran a musical quiz consisting of theme music from TV
shows from the past, most of them from kids programs, soaps and
daytime TV. Most
guessed the odd one or two but Mandy and Jamie answered 90%.
You can see how they spent their childhood.
Sunday morning and everybody
rallies round to pack away the club tents. It
was then time for coffee, Debbie's little speech and a few sweets
for the kids. The
rambling club forms up and off we go through the villages, fields
and woods. We must
have covered between 4 and 5 miles what I didn't know was that
Debbie had done the same walk at 6am with the dogs. No wonder she is looking very trim these days.
I would like to take this
opportunity to thank everybody for the cards, phone calls and best
wishes during my short stay in hospital it makes a big difference,
especially the hugs and kisses I received from the ladies on my
return to rallying, that makes it all worth while.
I have been told that everything is fine and the prognosis
is very good.
Thanks again.
Metal Mickey. (Mick)
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Monks Barn Farm
Easter 2010
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| Not a bad turn out
considering the weather |
The best dressed Easter
Eggs |
Thursday, Dave
and I both had the day off so we could arrive in daylight for a
change; best laid plans and all that! The plan was to be off for
9am, we were doing well, and everything was ready to be loaded
into the car by 8am. On my way back from walking the dogs, I
noticed the rear tyre on the pickup was flat as a pancake! Dave
laughed when I told him as he thought it was an April fool's joke!
When he realised it wasn't, off he went to get the tyre repaired.
We finally left home at 10.40am, so still not doing too badly - I suppose.
We arrived to
find Bob and Sue in the car park looking confused, there were no
signs out, where's Mick when you need him. They followed us to the
field and we parked up just as the heavens opened! Four units were
already set up, four more than I expected with the weather
forecast. But still not a sign between us, Dave and I went to buy
some card to make some.
It didn't seem
to stop raining for almost two days, surprisingly the field just
kept soaking it up. By Thursday evening there were 11 units,
including Pat & Barry from Area 21 and Mr & Mrs Hooper who
had also joined us. Most people headed for Stratford on Friday,
which was busy by all accounts. Another three units arrived during
the day, bringing the total to 14.
Saturday there
was a little respite from the rain, with the odd shower. In the
evening we held a social in a newly restored thatched barn, we
sectioned off a third of it and were still rattling around. As it
was thatched, we couldn't use the gas heaters as the insurance
didn't cover naked flames in the barn. We rounded up several
electric heaters to use, plugged in the first two, the third and
then fourth, which blew the fuse! Dave went to ask the first time
for the fuse to be reset and after Paul had been a second time we
stuck to three fires on 1kw, which you can imagine were not that
hot. This led to an event that I didn't think I would ever see,
Area6 tucked up in their vans by 10.30pm, we still managed bingo,
raffle and an American supper before we left though!
Sunday's
weather was brighter, although the wind was cold. Up early I hid
the eggs for the annual egg hunt around the field. At 11am, coffee
morning and the egg hunt began, the kids ran their little legs
off, when they found a plastic egg it was exchanged for a
chocolate one, then after collecting three small eggs, a large egg
was won. Pat then
helped out by judging the "decorate an egg competition".
First prize went to Charles and runner ups were Courtney and
Emily. Well done kids, the entries were fab!
Sunday evening, again we went into the barn for a game of
bingo and this time a quiz, three teams battled it out with "Captain
Charles" team winning by one point! Some of us managed to
stay until 10.45pm this time, as we had put on extra layers.
Monday 10am,
the "rambling club" assembled, armed with one of the
walks given to us by the owners, off we went. Within five minutes
we lost one, Dave gave me the dog and said he needed to go back to
the van, he would catch up. Anyway we didn't see him again until
we returned two hours and twenty minutes later. The walk was a
little bit tougher than I thought it would be, especially as we
took the short cut. I did at one point think
I might lose a couple, when the going got tough with hills
and the wind, but the tough got going and we all got round. Not
sure if they will let me lead again though!
Eight units
stayed for the full five nights, as usual we were the last to
leave at around midday. All in all a great weekend, with the
committee hosting and all helping the weekend to run smoothly,
thanks.
Debbie
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ROYAL OAK
CAR COLSTON
MARCH 2010 |
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The
weather could only be described as damp for the new venue at The
Royal Oak, Car Colston. On Friday morning the early arrivals were
greeted with sunshine, which was taken full advantage of by the
lucky folks that don't have to work.
Dave and I must be Jonahs, as it didn't stop raining
until we were packing up Sunday morning, when again the sun
started to beam!
We
pulled up Friday evening, set up and went straight into the pub
where the majority were gathered in the bar. Dave and I mingled
with the locals whilst waiting for our food to arrive, and very
nice it was too. The site was only a few minutes from the A46, but
it felt like miles from anywhere. A good turnout too, 15 units,
would have been 16 but Metal Mickey and Phyl were unable to attend
due to Mick being in hospital, So no photos this weekend I am
afraid. Luckily he came out of hospital Sunday afternoon, so at
least he will be able to put the report onto the web! Get well
soon Mick, we all missed you.
As
we were only a matter of minutes from Lowdham Caravans, most
headed to have a look around Saturday, with the rest heading off
shopping. Later the BBQ gang were out, braving the rain and wind
huddled under the gazebo. After a few bottles Dave broke away and
we headed into the pub for dinner, "it was to save me
cooking", he said and then I realised that rugby was on the
TV!
The
social evening was in the skittle alley of the pub, John called
the bingo, as he and Margaret were hosting. The evening started
off quietly, with the bingo being almost shared between Margaret
and Pauline. Colin H had a false alarm as he had his thumb over a
number when he shouted for 'house'. Brian and Pauline
celebrated their Golden Wedding on the Friday,
so they supplied some drinks for everyone to help them
celebrate.
Mandy
soon livened up the evening, aided and abetted by Anita, (the
quiet ones are often the worst!) For some reason the conversation
turned to conservation, both were trying to save the rancid
rabbits of the world and nurse them into becoming rampant ones!
Mind you there have also been rumours of a "show and
tell" at the next rally, we will wait with baited breath!
Sunday,
the sun shone as we had coffee, we went into the skittle alley
which was colder than outside. A few had trouble getting off the
site as the rain had turned part of the field into a quagmire.
There were plenty of helping hands to push when needed. Except
when Howard and Anita came to exit, a few of us had gone for the
first ramble of the year around the village. When we got back
Howard was just un-hitching his caravan from the back of Barry and
Alan’s 4 x 4, they had taken it to the car park for him, as he
had tried to dig his way out by the looks of it. He will defiantly
need to polish his alloys when he gets home! We finally saw
everyone off and then hitched up ourselves and set off into the
sunset. Hope the weather improves for Easter!
Debbie
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CASTLE
DONNINGTON PARK HOTEL
5TH.TO 7TH. MARCH 2010. |
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| In the Oak Room |
The Birthday couple |
This was the first proper
rally for the 2010 season. I
must admit that I was beginning to wonder if the rally would take
place. When you
consider that we have just had what can only be described as the
longest and worst winter we have had for decades. You would think
that nobody in his or her right mind was going to turn out in a
caravan, in that weather. But
low and behold three or four days prior to the rally the weather
changed and the sun came out.
I was still a little sceptical as to how many would take
the chance and turn out.
Then catastrophe!!!
My car was involved in a road accident (not my fault I may
add) and was off the road. The other drivers insurance said they
would supply me with a hire car, but the day before the rally they
rang to say that they had scoured the country and couldn't find
a car with a tow bar. I
thought that's it the first rally and I can't go.
Then at lunch time on the day of the rally they turned up
at my door with a Ford Estate fitted with a tow bar.
Talk about cutting it fine.
Within 30 minutes the van was connected and we were away.
Ten units attended (all real
caravaners) and as it turned out the weather was almost perfect,
beautifully dry and sunny during the day but very cold at night.
But that didn't matter as we all had electric hook-up and
the heating was left on all the time. I was surprised to see the
twins Alan and Barry, as Barry had been seriously ill in hospital
for over 5 weeks. The
first sign of the sun and they are out.
They breed them tough up north.
Nice to see you both back.
Saturday I was up early
intending to visit nearby Long Eaton.
My old Regiment, the "Sherwood Foresters" were parading
through the town having just returned from Afghanistan.
Unfortunately the parade had caused a traffic hold up and I
was stuck in the middle of it, by the time I arrived the parade
was over. I still
managed to see many of the lads walking about town. They did look smart; they made me feel proud to be an ex-"
Forester. "
Although we didn't have a
Barb.B.Q, (John
Iliffe failed to turn up, some lame excuse about not having a
car). In the afternoon the faithful few gathered for the ritual
half a dozen bottles.
In the evening we all
congregated in the Oak Room for the usual social evening ably
hosted by the terrible twins, Janice and Ann. (I’ve just thought
we have four sets of twins in our small group.)
Ann called the bingo and Janice ran the raffle.
This weekend we had a double birthday celebration, Dave on
the Sunday and Debbie a day later.
To finish the evening off Daves' twin daughters Steph and
Chrissy came in with a birthday cake singing happy birthday to
them both. It was a
great evening, nice to be back with friends, I've missed it.
Sunday morning was lovely and
sunny but cold and we had a choice of things to do there was the
usual Sunday Market or Donnington racetrack with an enthusiasts
meeting and specialist car display.
Both were within easy walking distance.
I had to go to the market.
I bought a new set of caravan steps.
The weather was so nice that we didn't leave until after
4pm. Looking forward
to the next one.
Metal
Mickey
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Day meet at
the Cottage February 2010 |
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A well
deserved gift to our Debbie for a fantastic year of
caravanning
from Area 6 members |
This
year's day meet meal was at The Cottage, Blackwell. Dave and I
arrived as the doors were being opened. I had just finished
arranging for tea and coffee to be served on arrival, when I spied
Paul and Sue outside looking for the door, it opens outwards so
they assumed it was locked, I beckoned them in and we sat down
with a coffee to have a catch up. As we were talking I spied Jane,
Joyce and the gang also looking baffled, so off I went again. By
12.05 all had arrived, Mick was one of the last, he was out
putting ACC signs up just in case anyone got lost, they didn't,
I must have done a good job with the directions, I love Google
maps!
The Cottage is
quite deceiving, I am sure that from the exterior you wouldn't
think that it would be worth going in, but it has good home cooked
food, prompt service, at a reasonable price, everyone seemed
pleased. I had just finished dessert when I saw a beautiful
bouquet of flowers heading towards Ennice, I thought they are
gorgeous, wonder who the lucky person is. I was amazed, they were
for me!! The card read "from all the members of the ACC who were
at the Christmas rally" I didn’'t know what to say, I was
gobsmacked, what a lovely thought,
thank you all,
you're great, they have pride of place on my hearth.
Originally
there were twenty seven booked for the meal, but due to illness
four had dropped out. Alan and Barry Smith had to cancel as Barry
is currently in hospital. I would just like to say GET WELL SOON
from all his friends at Area6, hope to see them both back rallying
soon. Bob and Sue Dennett also cancelled, due to Bob not feeling
too well, so hope your feeling better soon Bob.
There is a
change to the rally calendar, Mick will be changing the details on
the website and I will make sure that everyone gets full details. Rally 9: Trentfield Farm has been cancelled due to a family
bereavement. This has been replaced by Uppertown Farm, nr
Carsington Derbyshire, it is another new venue and is not far
from the visitors centre, It was going to be a new venue for 2011,
but was also available for June 2010.
Anyway a great
start to the new season and hope to see you all soon.
Debbie
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CHRISTMAS
PARTY RALLY.
HOSE
VILLAGE HALL DECEMBER 2009. |
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| The Group Photo |
Debbie and Dave The
Organisers. |
|
Report from
Debbie
Well were do I start? Friday morning and I loaded up the car,
what was I thinking suggesting changing the format of the Christmas
party to a three course meal? Phyl thought it was a great idea and
was behind me, as my advisor, so too late to turn back now! Dave
had already taken the caravan, although I did get worried when I
had a call from Asst Organiser Colin asking me if Dave had forgotten
where the rally was, he had seen him pass the venue - twice! Dave
finally found the venue and headed off to work, mind you the fog
was like pea soup for most of the day.
During the day at least three
of the locals had told us that there was mulled wine and mince pies
6pm at the church, so Jane, Mandy and I went to have a look, it
was a Christmas fair. We had an obligatory mulled wine which was
an acquired taste I didn't have, then headed back with our purchases
of bracelets, earrings, necklaces and holly wreaths.
Later we had
a social evening in the hall, bingo and some music, well eventually
as Dave again was late, this time using a diversion as an excuse.
I left at around 11pm leaving the hardy drinkers the key to the
hall.
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| Preparing the Hall |
Getting the kitchen moving |
Saturday morning and volunteers came from every angle. Colin
had his hands full with the hall, putting out the tables and setting
them. I had wrapped a present box for everyone as a place setting
and was feeling particular as to where it was placed. Colin did
well though keeping his cool as a few "fussy birds" twittered about
moving things around! Mandy and Jane were assembling the tombola,
Margaret and John were first in the kitchen with potato peelers,
John apparently had plenty of practice with a potato peeler when
he was in the army. The preparation didn't take long really, the
potatoes for roasting were peeled, new potatoes scrubbed, brussels,
carrots and salad chopped in no time.
At 2pm we gathered in the
hall for the tombola and a cup of tea, Alan, Sue and Owen joined
us as they weren't staying for the party, they all came laden with
donations for the raffle. Most people donated to the raffle and
I would like to thank everyone for their generosity it was amazing,
thanks Area6. We had the tombola then in the distance we could hear
a bell, it was a much anticipated visit from Santa, Emily was waiting
with anticipation for Santa to find her present, but his elves had
put it to the bottom of the bag, so she had to wait for him to dig
deep. Santa then left the kids beaming faces to finish the rest
of his chores before Christmas day. Time for a quick feet up before
putting on our glad rags.
5pm sharp and the kitchen staff arrived
to assemble the starters of fruit juice, prawn cocktail or pate,
we had all 46 of them on the table by 5.20pm, what a team! We sat
down to eat on schedule at 6pm. After the starter the kitchen team
jumped into action again, new committee member Paul became the "trolley
dolly" as Mandy and Margaret decanted the vegetables into the serving
dishes, he wheeled them to the tables on a trolley. Meanwhile Phyl,
Jane plated up the meat, ready for Dave out front, who asked the
each table to come to collect their choice of roast beef &
yorkshire,
turkey and stuffing or salmon in turn. James and Sophie also pitched
in taking gravy out in the numerous receptacles we had begged or
borrowed. The food all arrived to the table hot and everyone seemed
to be pleased with the results. Dessert was a choice from the dessert
or cheese table which everyone helped themselves too.
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| One of the most important, but less glamorous
jobs. Cleaning up! |
What a sparkling job they made of it |
The tables
were cleared in no time, Anita, Elaine, Sue and Paul were in the
kitchen till it was shining. By this time the DJ had arrived and
set up, we had a party game then onto the dancing, from disco to
waltzing, we had it all. In the "present" place settings I had put
a strip of free raffle tickets for everyone for the "grand raffle"
and grand it was too. There was a cordless drill, two mobile phones,
M&S bath robe, electric steamer, numerous bottles of spirits and
wine, tins of sweets, biscuits, chocolates, to mention a few, mind
you the one that got the most attention was the shopping trolley,
which I feel will probably do the rounds next year! Bob and Sue
seemed to clear up with the raffle, although Mandy didn't do very
well, AGAIN! During the night the trolley made a few more appearances,
this time with drinks on it which Mandy and I took out to everyone
to have a drink with us, luckily we weren't drinking with everyone
or it could have been messy. The dancing continued till midnight
but the party carried on till the early hours, the last of us leaving
at 3am, even Mrs Kett was there till 2am! All in all it was a great
night which I felt sure all enjoyed, Ennice more than anyone, at
one point she had three men tripping over themselves to dance with
her, if you've got it Ennice flaunt it!
Sunday morning 10am and
almost everyone was in the hall helping clear up, followed by coffee
morning and mince pies. I made sure that everyone had a rally calendar
and took deposits for the day meet in February, and then we all
packed up and shipped out till next year. It's been a great year
for the club and I'm looking forward to next year. There are a few
surprises in store as I said at the AGM, all of them good! I would
like this opportunity to thank all the committee members and their
partners, for their hard work this weekend, without you it wouldn't
of been possible.
Have a Merry Christmas and a Healthy New Year!
Debbie
|
.One
from Metal Mickey
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Metal Mickey makes a fuss of the
Organiser |
This was the last rally of the season, and what better way to
end the year than with a fantastic Christmas Party weekend, because
the party extends over the whole of the weekend. Phyl and I arrived
just before lunch on the Friday. As usual Colin had saved us a space
close to the hall as, together with Debbie and Dave we carry most
of the equipment. As soon as we had dropped the van legs everyone
had lined up to assist with the unloading. Within minutes it had
all been transferred into the hall. While Debbie and Phyl put all
the food away several others prepared the hall for the evening.
By 8pm. everybody was in the hall for the social get-together, a
few drinks and a game of bingo called by Dave. We all sat and reminisced
until well after midnight. Saturday morning most had their little
jobs to do, Debbie and her crew were in the kitchen and Colin supervised
the rest in the hall preparing the tombola and setting out the tables.
Dave was sent to the last minute shopping. We also had a surprise
visit from Alan, Sue and Owen who although unable to attend the
party came loaded with wine for the raffle table.
2pm. it was back
in the hall for a cuppa and the Tomboa run by Mandy and Jane, as
in previous years nobody was slow in putting their hands in their
pockets. Every ticket was sold and quite a nice little sum was made
for the club funds. This was followed by the arrival of Santa Clause.
Before he had time to sit down little Emily was by his side letting
him know exactly what she wanted for Christmas and she had no intentions
of leaving him until he was sure that she wanted a dolly as big
as she was. He then carried on to give a present to all the youngsters
under the age of 16. Whilst all this was going on Debbie and the
kitchen staff were preparing the Christmas meal. It was then back
to the vans to get dressed ready for the evening Party.
5.30pm and
we all filtered back. The ladies dressed to kill in their party
dresses and many of the men wearing evening dress and bow tie. Everyone
did Area 6 proud.
6pm we sat down to what can only be described
as a spectacular Christmas Diner. We had a choice of either prawn
cocktail, pate or fruit juice for starters. Turkey, roast beef,
or salmon with all the trimmings for the main meal and a sweet trolley
to die for. All washed down with copious amounts of Quality wine.
Finally ending with coffee and cheese and biscuits. Debbie and her
crew did us proud. Then of course came the less attractive job of
cleaning up. As in previous years the "Leicester crowd " jumped
into action. They told Debbie that she was not allowed into the
kitchen. By 8pm the tables had been cleared, the pots and pans washed
and everything in the kitchen sparkled. Well done. By this time
the Disco and dancing was in full swing and the drink was starting
to flow. It was then time to break for Debbie and Dave to run the
raffle, and what a raffle, full of quality prizes. Many donated
by members and ranging from a cordless drill to mobile phones, boxes
of chocolate and numerous bottles of wines and spirits. Everyone
was given a free strip of tickets. John Iliffe won the drill and
Bob and Sue had an exceptionally lucky night. It was then back to
the dancing. Part way through this second session Debbie surprised
everyone when she and Mandy came round with the drinks trolley laden
with more than half a dozen bottles of spirits plus mixers. It was
free drinks all round until it was gone.
Dancing carried on till
midnight when the music had to stop, but the party atmosphere carried
on until the early hours. It was 3am when I crawled into bed and
I slept like a top.
By 10am. The early birds were back in the hall
clearing away and tidying up. 11am was coffee time and all the children
were given a selection box. Debbie gave her usual sermon and thanked
everybody for making the Christmas Party such a great success. Though
everyone did their bit to make the party such a success I think
we all agree the vast majority of the work and organising was done
by Debbie. She said that she wanted it to be different with more
quality and she certainly did that. Well done Debbie!..
Debbie was taking names with £5 deposit for the Day Meet
meal in February. Anybody wishing to go and haven't yet booked
give her a ring as soon as possible.
A Merry Christmas and a Happy and stress free
New Year To all.
Metal Mickey.
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