CASTLE DONNINGTON PARK HOTEL
5^TH.TO 7^TH. MARCH 2010.

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.

Day  meet at the Cottage  February 2010

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

CHRISTMAS PARTY RALLY.

HOSE VILLAGE HALL DECEMBER 2009.

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. 

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. 

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

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.

DONNINGTON PARK HOTEL
6^TH. TO 8^TH. N OVEMBER 2009.

The Site	Bar.B.Q. Gang

Here we are again at good old Castle Donnington Park Hotel.  Twice a year we come to this venue.  Usually at the beginning and at the end of the rally season.  This is normally the coldest time of the year and we are guaranteed electric hook-up for each unit and this year most had hard standing as well.  It is also right on the boarder of all three counties Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and Derbyshire.  We couldn't be more central.  The site is also directly under the flight path of all the planes from East Midlands Airport. Ideal for plane spotters.  We normally have a good turnout for this rally but this time we were a little down on numbers.  11 units attended, still not bad for this late in the year.  Phyl and I arrived before lunch on Friday so together with John and Margaret we did a little afternoon shopping in nearby Ashby.  We managed to get back in time to have a few drinks with the Bar.B.Q. Gang.  They had erected the gazebo and fitted it with an electric light but despite a roaring fire it was still bitterly cold and it was throwing it down with rain. But they kept the tradition, we have had a Bar.B.Q. at every rally, even at the Christmas Party.

Saturday the weather was a little better, bright and sunny but still cold.  I also noticed the signs indicating the new Norton Motor Cycle factory inside the grounds of the Donnington Race Circuit.  I had a walk round but couldn't find the way in. Maybe next time.  In the afternoon we had the usual ritual of walking round the shops, this time it was Long Eaton.  By the time we got back the Bar.B.Q. was again in full swing it was dark but the weather was much better so I decided that if you can't beat them join them.  It was hot dogs and beer. Phyl had no sympathy for me when I finished up with indigestion and couldn't eat my tea.  She just laughed and said I should have more sense at my age.

7.30pm. it was social evening in the Oak Room at the hotel.  Richard and Dawn should have been hosting this rally but they have moved to live in Dorset so mother Ann and aunty Jan did the honours and what a good job they made of it, but then they always do.  Janice called the bingo and Ann organised the raffle.  After numerous requests from the Assistant Organiser Debbie finally gave in and let him have his Beetle Drive.  Everyone joined in except the instigator so Debbie let him be the timekeeper.  It was a bit of a laugh and Sue Burton won a bottle of wine. It must have been well after midnight before Debbie kicked us out.  It would have been later but Brian wasn't here this weekend, Pauline's had a poorly chest but hopefully everything should be OK for the next rally.

The weather was again quite good on the Sunday.  We don't have coffee morning as everybody visits the nearby Sunday Market.

Metal Mickey. 

The Site	The A.G.M.

WOW!  What a rally and what a great year we have had. 17 units attended the A.G.M at Copt Oak plus three day visitors; even the weather was good to us.  The meeting was opened at 3pm. prompt and was over in 20 minutes flat. Everyone was more than satisfied with the way that Debbie and her team had organised things over the past year, and from looking at next years rally sheet there's much more to come.

Debbie gave her Organisers Report, which was received with a well-deserved outstanding ovation. With calls of "Well Done!" from Bob Dennet and "Here! Here!" from the rest of the floor.   Phyl gave her Treasures report and informed us that the financial state of Area 6 was very good and that we could look forward to a bumper Christmas Party.  The original team, with exception of one committee member, were re elected for a further year. Paul Gask was elected as the new committee member.

The audiance	The D.I.V.O.R.C.E. Choir

Debbie had decided to cancel the beetle drive, which had been arranged for the evening's entertainment, stating that she and Dave had something better.  Dave had spent the last two weeks on" ebay" spending a fortune on what can only be described as a professional Karaoke System.  The evening started off with Colin and Ken, the rally hosts, selling the tickets for both Bingo and the raffle, and Mandy jumped at the chance to call Bingo.   Dave then took over for the rest of the evening.  He had fixed up a sound system second to none, he had a TV screen for the individual singers and the words were projected onto the wall for the rest of us.  Getting someone to be the first person up to sing at a karaoke is always difficult so Dave and Debbie started it off with a great rendition of "I got you babe" that really got things moving.   Paul did several solo performances and a great duet with his wife Sue, followed by Dave and Hazels grand children Beth and Reece.  Jamie did his bit with son Charles.  A group of the girls, led by Debbie gave a fantastic rendition of  D.I.V.O.R.C.E.  with everyone joining in the chorus pointing  a finger at one prominent person in the room.

Paul's impersonation of Tom Jones went down very well, but Dave not wanting to be out-done got up and did his version of the "Green, Green Grass of Home."  That really got the girls going. Debbie and Mandy rushed to the front and threw their bra's at him, then bounced all the way back.  Paul threw all his cloths at him with the exception of his underpants.  Some wondered just how far he would go but he was very modest in the end.  Whilst all the was going on trays of sandwiches, cakes and other finger licking goodies were delivered to each table.  As the evening went on Dave slowed things down to a gentle sing along. Brian brought things to a close with the old favourite "You'll Never Walk Alone."  Although the music stopped at midnight the party went on into the early hours.  We even had an extra hour when we put the clocks back.

The early birds were back in the hall Sunday morning cleaning, tidying away and preparing the coffee.  Debbie gave her sermon thanking everybody for making it a great weekend.  No rambling club this weekend everyone was too busy. 

Thanks Debbie and Dave for a great year of caravanning, as we all know the organisers job is always a joint venture.

  Metal Mickey

ORGANISERS LETTER, A.G.M. COPT OAK 2009.

I would just like to give a short report of the Copt Oak rally as this was the AGM rally, 

it's normally a great turnout and this year was no exception. There were 17 units for the weekend with some members visiting just for the afternoon meeting.

The AGM itself went smoothly, and with the exception of one new committee member, the existing committee were re-elected.

I received a warm reception whilst delivering my organisers report. The treasurer followed me with her report, in which she explained that we were in a good position financially, mainly due to the generosity of John Greenwood at Warner's, who reimbursed us with the cost of two of the gazebos purchased earlier this year. I would like to thank Warner's for their assistance it is greatly appreciated. The floor was then opened to comments and questions, comments were overall positive from members. I explained what "hosting a rally" was and asked for volunteers, who promptly added their names to the list. I also asked if maybe some of the other members would like to have a go at writing the rally report occasionally, I would like to thank Bob & Sue Dennett for the prompt emailed rally report received on my arrival home, thanks you two. Finally a big "THANK YOU!" to the committee and members of Area6 for their help and support over the last year.  

Debbie

LETTER FROM BRIAN AND PAULINE

 Having just had the first year of our retirement as Area Organiser we would like to say how much we have enjoyed being able to sit back and relax.
Having said that we would like to congratulate Debbie and her team for the wonderful job they have done.   Keep up the good work, looking forward to 2010.  Well Done Debs.  Brian and Pauline

Collingham Cricket Club	The ramblers set off

It is that time of the year again, autumn is here and the dark nights are approaching.  The club tents have been packed away and put into storage until next spring.  I shall miss the summer but we can now look forward to a different type of caravanning. On the plus side we don't have so much gear to carry around and we spend the social evenings in warm village halls.  We dress more civilised and are not restricted to boots and woolly jumpers.

Our first winter venue this year was at the ever-popular Collingham Cricket Club and what a spectacular success it was!  We have the use of the clubroom for the entire weekend, and did we make full use of it, wall-to-wall entertainment all weekend.

To start with the weather was perfect, warm, sunny and dry.  Fourteen units attended, not a bad turn out for the middle of October.  Phyl and I were hosts for the weekend but we were only allowed to collect the rally fees the rest of the activities were considered to be to complicated for us the professionals took over, and what a good job they made of it.  I think deep down Debbie was looking after me I had only been out of hospital a few days having had surgery on my head. (Long time overdue, many said.)  I was quite the centre of attraction for a few minutes; everybody wanted to look at the scares on my head.  But the novelty soon wore off when they realised that they hadn't cut down to the brain.  (Yes I know, "What brain!")

There are several good country walks in the area, ideal for the newly formed rambling club. On Friday afternoon John, Margaret and myself did a little 3 or 4-mile stroll to give us a appetite for the evenings proceedings.  We knew that Ennice was putting a little supper on for the evening, and we know what her little suppers are like.  Enough for the feeding of the five thousand.

We all congregated in the hall for 7.30pm.  I prepared the Bingo board, and then talked our Dave into being the caller for the night.  He's much better at it than I am and he does like to hear the sound of his own voice, just like his dad.  Hazel carried on from were she left of at the last rally, winning most of the games.  I thought Debbie said she was barred?  We then settled down to Ennices supper.  There was the biggest pile of meat and potato pasties, at least enough for half a dozen each.  There were two very large pans of mushy peas and jugs of meaty gravy, plus mint sauce. It took us quite a while to get through that lot.  I saw quite a few doggy bags come out to finally clear it.  Well done Ennice and John as usual it was fantastic. It was quite late before everyone staggered out, mostly through eating too much.

Saturday morning and again the weather was lovely, although I must admit I didn't see it to early it was gone 9.30am. Before I put my blinds up. By lunch time it was that warm that most sat outside to eat.

7.30pm and we were all back in the clubroom, Dave and Debbie were there quite early preparing for the race night.  They really go to town when they arrange things.  Dave sets up the computer, projector, screen and sound system.  Debbie, Margaret and John set up the bookies table.  Within a short time we were ready for the off.  Dave gives a running commentary, Debbie and John takes the bets and Margaret keeps the betting chart up to date.  This is the second time they have done it and everything went like clock work.  It's 50p. a bet and they pay out on first and second places with a wooden spoon for the last.  The person with most wooden spoons wins a prize. I forgot to mention Debbie had also arranged an American supper.  We had 4 races then a break for supper then 4 more races.  It makes a nice change from bingo.

Finally Dave had nice surprise for us he left the sound system up and had on his computer hundreds of songs from the 50's to the present day.  We had a good old fashion sing-along.  Auntie Maureen and Ennice got quite emotional over a couple of the good old favourites and both had a little cry. (Auntie Maureen takes after her mother).  It was one of those evenings when nobody wanted to leave. Ken and his cronies had half a dozen different bottles of cognac and brandy. They had a little tasting session, swilling it round in their little brandy glasses, sniffing it then swilling it round their mouth.  I noticed that they didn't spit it out.  I’m glad I don't drink.  It was quite late before Debbie kicked the last one out and locked the door.  The end to a perfect night.

Sunday morning again lovely weather, we had coffee and biscuits in the hall and Debbie gave her little sermon, she gave details of the arrangements for the Christmas Party, many of the arrangements are well in hand. We are to have a sit-down Christmas dinner with all the trimmings and she encouraged the men to have suit and bow tie.  The women always dress to kill anyway.  She gave out the invitations asking them to be returned as soon as possible to help with the catering which is in the capable hand of Debbie and Phyl.

After coffee Debbie rallied the troops for a few miles ramble before lunch. (Don't that girl ever rest?). She led us through ploughed fields, fields of turnip, carrots and various other unidentifiable crops.  We crossed the railway line four times and climbed numerous styles.  The rambling club goes from strength to strength.  It was a great weekend full of activity, I'm knackered.

The next rally is the A.G.M. at Copt Oak let's have a good turn out and give Debbie the support she deserves.  She has just completed her first year as Organiser and what a rip- roaring success her and Dave have made of it.  I have seen the hours she has spent in arranging next years rally calendar, well over half are new venues and that takes some doing.  Well-done Debbie!

Metal Mickey.

WEST HILLS FARM   DERBYSHIRE
25^TH. TO 27^TH. SEPTEMBER 2009.

The Site	The kids playing

Finding a new venue is always a worry, you have recommended it and what if others don't think the same as you and hate it. Well Jane need not have worried about her recommendation for West Hill's Farm. What a GREAT find it was, the field was flat with well cut grass and fabulous views all around, and we also had a bonus of the fabulous sunshine. Well-done Jane!

Dave and I arrived Friday in daylight, quiet a change for us. I was shocked to find we made 17 units and shortly after Jamie, Kay, Charles and Emily brought up the rear to make 18 units in total, what a great turnout.

Saturday and the sun was still shining. A few visited nearby Bakewell or Matlock, stopping at the odd designer shopping village for a spell of retail therapy.  Debbie and Colin headed for the hills for a spot off walking and Mandy sat reading her book!  After a quick chat with Mandy, I suggested we put a little bit of supper on. So I headed off to Bakewell, stopping of for some supplies on the way back. We didn't tell anyone, as we wanted it to be a surprise.

The "three musketeers" (myself, Mandy & Jane) gathered in my awning at 7pm to butter, fill and cut sarnies. It only took twenty minutes and we had them plated and covered, ready for distributions later in the evening. Jane & Joyce were hosting the rally and enlisted the help of John to call the bingo, grand job he did too, with the "Derbyshire Flyer" making the last full house worth a whopping ten pounds!!!   Dave Marshall had a very lucky night, as did wife Hazel on the raffle, well done you two, but I forgot to tell you "you're barred!" The raffle was heaving with donations, all gratefully received, I am always humbled by the generosity of the members of Area6. The sarnies were bought in and went down a treat. It was quite cosy in the tents and the majority of people were there till the generator went off at 11.30pm. Then the serious drinking started and I fell asleep, so thought it time for bed.

First thing Sunday it was misty, but the sun shone through in no time. Then all hands to the pumps as we gently took down the gazebos and settled down for coffee morning. The results of the quiz were read out, Sue won hands down with a whooping 47 out of 50 and Paul didn't help her either!  I gave my coffee morning talk and covered a lot of topics, who was going to take the outdoor club equipment to store, donations for the Christmas tombola, change of venue for the day meet meal, pasties and race night at Collingham and the up coming AGM, no wonder my mouth wouldn't work. I at least didn't have to resort to Mandy's offer of working me like a ventriloquist's dummy! 

 
The rambling club assembled after coffee and we set off for a stroll, it was slightly easier than normal as there wasn't a stile in sight. We all strolled around quite easily, some stopping off at the park for a go on the swings. It was then time for a well earned rest and we came home, who said caravanning is boring! 

Debbie

The site	John gets instructions from Tim

It was supposed to be the beginning of autumn but the weather for our rally at Quorn Lodge was perfect, it was more 

like mid- summer.  At its peak the temperature must have been in the mid-twenties.  Quorn Lodge was a new venue situated on the outskirts of Loughborough.  The rally field was slightly slopping but with a grandstand view of the Great Central steam railway.  The only preserved double track main line in the UK.  Sixteen units attended all hoping to see plenty of the good old-fashioned steam trains travelling the track over the weekend.  But we had picked the wrong weekend; it was the "Diesel Weekend"  Very interesting but not as nostalgic as steam.  We must try again another year making sure they are running steam.

Debbie and Dave were hosts for the weekend but both work quite late so Debbie's Second in Command, Colin, took charge until their arrival.  In true caravan club style he had pegged out the pitches and as each van arrived guided them into their exact spot with military precision.  Everything was very neat and tidy.  Well-done Colin.

Friday evening the Bar.B.Q's were out in strength and most took advantage of the fine warm evening and dined outside.  Unusual for us we had quite a few youngsters this weekend, mainly members' grandchildren.  These were up quite late running about the field with their torches and hiding from each other.  They had a great time, its something they can't do at home in such safety.

Saturday it was either shopping in Loughborough or on the trains.  I had to go shopping the wife's not keen on trains but she does like shopping.

Ken has a go	Debbie looks very professional

The site owners son is keen on shooting and offered to set up a few targets for us to have a go at if we liked.  Well this was music to Tim's ears.  If anybody knows guns it's Tim.  Guns and cameras are his specialty, but mainly guns.  He had a word with the farmer and went off home at speed. Hour and a half later he was back with a boot full of top quality air guns, enough for everybody to have a go.  We then spent the next few hours shooting at various targets in a nearby field.  It was great fun and everyone enjoyed it, even the walking wounded John Iliffe and Dave Marshall, both put their eye too close to the telescopic sight and got a bruised forehead from the recoil. Many of the men said it took them back to their army days and Debbie said it reminded her of the time spent in the Falklands as a Corporal in the NAAFI.

The weather was still fine and warm so out came the Bar.B.Q's and a few bottles and outside eating.  The evening was spent socialising in the club tents with the usual bingo, a little drinking and a lot of talking.  This went on till quite late.

After Sunday morning coffee the rambling club re-formed and a dozen or so of us hiked a couple of miles down to the canal.  Debbie entertained us by throwing sticks into the water and letting her two spaniels dive in and retrieve them.  The kids thought it was great.  This new venue was a great success, will have to use it again.  Metal Mickey.

AUGUST BANK HOLIDAY RALLY
CHAPEL ST.LEONARDS. LINC’S

The site	Everyone gives a hand to erect the tents

The August Bank Holiday Rally at Chapel St.Leonards gets longer, all but a couple of members arrived on the Thursday and several didn't leave until the Tuesday.  We had 16 units including Pam and Roy who come for a week or more and stay on the 5-van site.  Even Debbie and Dave managed to get time off and stayed for the full five days.

The weather was mainly dry and warm but very, very windy.  Putting up the club tents was a mammoth task needing everyone to give a hand by hanging onto the poles until everything was finally battened down.  All 6 tents were needed as we had over 60 people inside on the Saturday evening.  Mandy and Colin hosted the rally.

Thursday and Friday evenings everyone did their own thing having their little get together. Friday evening we helped John and Margaret celebrate their 44^th wedding anniversary.   During the day it was either trips to Skeggy, Ingoldmells, Mablethorpe or if you could get out of the wind relaxing in the sun.  

A very rare sight	A very common sight

Every afternoon just about every group had the Bar. B.Q out.  Even Mandy got the bug and cooked the evening meal and I have never seen that before in all the years she has been caravanning.

Saturday evening was the usual get-together in the club tents.  It's a good job that Debbie bought the two extra tents or we would not have been able to get everyone in.  If the turn out gets any bigger we may even need more. We celebrated Sue's birthday I won't say how old she is but she doesn't look her age, or should that be she doesn't act her age.  Paul did a very professional job in calling the bingo.  I'm sure I've heard that voice booming out over the loudspeakers as I walked along the seafront at Skeggy.  Mandy did the raffle in her own inimitable way.  She always manages to do things different.  Another great evening which carried on until quite late.

I can't come to this site without collecting a few blackberries and John went back to his boyhood days and went scrumping for a few apples.  Margaret supplied the pastry, Phyl did the baking so for a very small cost we all had blackberry and apple pie with our Sunday dinner.

Sunday was another social evening in the tents.  We again had the obligatory five games of bingo then Debbie and Dave took over and gave us three games of "Play your Cards Right".  Debbie decided that it was going to be free to enter with three chances to win a free nights rally fee.  Debbie read out the questions and Dave was the dolly bird who turned over the cards.  Nobody was quite sure of the proper rules, but it was a laugh and passed on a good hour. Chrissy, Pam and Roy and John and Joyce won a free night at the rally of their choice.

Monday morning and we still had gale force winds.  We had to muster all the troops to be able to take the tents down safely.  Many hands make light work and within half hour all six tents were down and packed away.  We had coffee morning and Debbie thanked everybody for the great turnout and for making it a very enjoyable weekend.

The next rally is a new venue at Quorn Lodge, Loughborough near to the steam railway. 

Metal Mickey

Thorseby Park  14th to 17th August 2009

Thorseby-While the cats away!

On Thursday my Colin put his back out, so it was touch and go as to whether we would be going to the rally at Thoresby, but he rose to the challenge and with a little help from his friends managed to set up the van on arrival. Think he was glad he did though as he lapped up the attention paid to him by Jan & Ann rubbing his back all day Friday. That soon stopped when I arrived though, no way Jose!

We were lucky with the weather, although there was a stiff breeze all weekend. Erecting the tents took all of us to hang onto them to get them up, but once in place they were steady as a rock.

Friday night Colin retired early, about 10pm, so whilst the cats away and all that! I ended up being put to bed about 11.30pm, it was one of those silly nights where I got rather loud and I loved everyone (some more than others, Barry!) NO drink for me Saturday, as I was learning about the evils of drink all through the early hours.

There were the usual BBQ's Saturday and social evening in the tents. Although Saturday was not as late as normal, something to do with the regular drinkers not being there I wonder.

Sunday morning we celebrated a birthday, Jane Herzig 21 again and again and again. Thanks for the chocolate cake provided by the birthday girl.

We wish Richard & Dawn Merricks well with their relocation to Poole, Dorset in a few weeks, this is probably the last rally for them and the girls, we'll miss you. There are negotiations in progress for a rally on their garden, but still early days!

Some went to Thoresby market Sunday morning and then off home, next rally is last chance to "be beside the sea side, beside the sea" at Chapel St Leonards, bank holiday.  

A big thanks to all for helping with the rally, offers came from everywhere.

Mandy

LYNDON TOP AND 
APPS COURT FARM  AS GUEST OF AREA 18

FROM RESERVOIR TO RIVER

Area 6 Rally  The Reservoir	Area 18 Rally   The River

It's the last night of our week at Apps Court holiday rally hosted by Area18, we have just eaten a takeaway and were wondering what we can do now, I suggested that we could all the write the rally report...so here we go...It all started a week ago at our Lyndon Top rally near Rutland Water. We arrived Saturday as Dave had to deal with some impromptu car repairs on my son's car. We joined 12 other units, including some very welcome guests Ken, Rose and their grandsons from Area 10. It was a good turnout as a lot of members are still on holiday.

On Saturday, most had a trip to the local market town of Oakham, which sold fantastic locally grown fruits and veg, the strawberries were fantastic. Jane and Tim ventured down to the nature reserve to view the nesting ospreys, but unfortunately a kestrel had taken residence in the ospreys nest. The weather was great so we had a street party style meal Saturday night with the social evening in the tent afterwards. Mandy and Colin had collected the rally fees so I offered to call the bingo. Well in a fashion, firstly I was asked to slow down as I was a little too quick for some of the elderly, then I had a few mishaps with bingo terminology, I called 16 but said "key of the door"  by mistake, my argument being there are a lot of latch key children these days! We carried on until late, much to the surprise of our guests from area 10; it was almost midnight before they knew it. They are welcome to join us again at anytime.

Sunday we had coffee morning, followed by a Le Mans start for the four units that were heading south for the weeks holiday rally at Apps Court, Walton on Thames. Ken & Ann Merricks would be bringing up the rear and joining us Monday directly from their two week holiday on the Isle Of Wight.

On arrival, we were greeted by Area 18 Organiser Ken Field, followed by a welcome cuppa from his wife Sandy.

Once set up and settled, we all decided that we would have a takeaway as Ken & Ann had got the BBQ and were not arriving until Monday. We had just settled down to eat when we were invited to the marquee for bingo, we had to decline as the curry was calling. On Monday it was bright and sunny, we ventured out to a local town, then came back to wait for Ken & Ann to arrive.  

Tuesday we all decided to visit Windsor, we took two cars and the pretty route via Slough, who needs a sat nav when you have Metal Mickey leading the convoy. Say no more but next year he is not leading when we go to France! 

Tuesday night Big Bob and Dee hosted a cheese and wine evening. Phyl put her bottle in the basket of her scooter and was mugged immediately on entry. I was in bad books as Big Bob was not so quick to get my bottle, which I immediately opened and poured for myself before offering it to be put on the table, I did feel guilty though and asked Dave to bring another bottle to be put onto the table. The evening was a great success and we all enjoyed it. 

Wednesday, we all thought was the highlight of the week with a river cruise on the Thames financed by Warners, it went from Hampton Court to Richmond. Thank you very much Warners for paying and Sandy for organising it, we all thoroughly enjoyed it. We were all free to either join in with the numerous activities held throughout the week or do our own thing. We all managed to visit Hampton Court Palace, Windsor and the local marina, as well as numerous walks by the river. 

On the last night our hosts arranged a beetle drive in the marquee which some of us ventured, it was quite fruitful as Ann won first prize, a bottle of wine. 

At coffee the next day she gained another bottle of wine for winning the quiz, Jan complained though as she gave her most of the answers! This was followed by a fantastic raffle with top prizes of a portable TV with DVD player and a solar panel, we did win our fair share but not the top prizes. We topped off the week with a visit to the onsite Sunday car boot then said our good byes and headed home up the M1.

We would all like to say a big THANK YOU to Ken, Sandy, Big Bob, Dee and the committee of Area18 for the warm welcome and great rally. It was brill to meet members from other areas of the ACC, including the infamous Tony & Tessa Hawes. Hope to see more regular inter area gatherings in the future. 

Debbie, Dave, Mick, Phyl, Brian, Pauline, Ken, Ann, Jan & Col.

STEAM ENGINE AND COUNTRY SHOW, 10^TH. TO 12^TH. JULY 2009.

Plenty to see at this one	Debbie's little van

The Rempstone Steam Rally is one of the best rallies of the year it is always good value for money with plenty to see and do, but it is at the wrong time of the year.  Most of our members are away on holiday.  Hence the fairly low attendance.  This year it looked as though our Organiser, Debbie, would not be able to attend and she had booked a day of work to be able to get there on the Thursday.  About three weeks ago Dave told Debbie that he would not be able to go to Rempstone as he was going to Australia for two weeks on business.  Debbie was devastated. She couldn’t tow their caravan, which is a 6-berth twin axle, as her licence didn't cover her to tow a trailer of that weight.  If you think that a small thing like that was going to stop our Debbie, think again.  She spent the next couple of weeks on ...eBay ...looking for a cheap smaller caravan.  She found one the day before Dave flew out to Australia.  That gave her three days on her own to get it ready for the rally.  I don't think the van had been used for years.  Early afternoon on the Thursday Debbie arrived at Rempstone with a smile from ear to ear and the cleanest little van you have ever seen.  She stuck her head out of the car window and shouted, "I’ve done it."  She had never towed before. And on her own she pulled her little caravan over 30 miles along side roads, lanes, the M1 motorway and finally across three fields.  Nothing stops our Debbie.  Within the hour she had the awning up and everything working with the exception of the fridge. No matter how we tried it wouldn’t light. Debbie got out her mobile phone text Dave in Australia, within a minute he rang back.  Ten seconds of instruction from him and the fridge was working.  She just stood there and said," That's the way to do it."

Three vans arrived on the Thursday the rest arriving by late Friday afternoon.  About a dozen of us spent the evening in the club tent having a few drinks and putting the world to rights.

Saturday was spent at the show. The Knights of Nottingham put on a great show of Jousting and hand to hand fighting, apparently most are stuntmen and have done work in many films.  Well worth watching.

Saturday evening was spent in the club ten. Brian and Pauline were hosts for the weekend and for the first time in her life Pauline called the bingo, well done.

We don't have a coffee morning because everybody wants to get off to the show.

The main point of interest was the Dog Show; Debbie had entered her two Spaniels Fudge, the pretty one and Jed the rescue dog.  Between them they won three awards a 1^st, 3^rd and a 4^th.  But I can't remember what for.  It was a great weekend. 

The next rally is Lyndon Top and then from there a group of us are making our way down south to spend a few days with Area 18 at Apps Court Farm, that one I am really looking forward to.

Metal Mickey.

Good turnout	Saturday night

I maybe about to jinx the weather but when we go to Beechwood Park the weather's always kind, no different this year. It was hot, hot, and hot. Some rain was forecast, along with some newbie's in tents, but as it was raining heavily in Leicester neither the rain nor the newbie’s ventured to Derbyshire, what a difference a few miles makes!

On Friday night when we arrived, post 9pm as usual, there were several groups outside their vans enjoying the warm evening. The retirees who arrived on Thursday were on their second night of sitting out till the early hours having a wee dram. After I had settled down with a bottle of beer Dave came and said he needed to go home, shocked I asked why, he reminded me that at the last rally the Elsan became blocked and we took the cassette for the toilet home and it was still in the shed. Of course it was MY fault! Off he went getting back around 11.30pm just in time for bed.

Saturday was a little misty to start with but we all managed to eat out in the usual street party fashion, as it was warm. In the evening we arranged windbreaks around the marquee for a game of bingo. It was cosy, and we had Queen Maureen and King Tony sitting on the raised floor overseeing us all. It had been John and Joyce Cantrill's 50^th wedding anniversary recently and they generously supplied a buffet of sandwiches and nibbles, along with various colours of wine to mark the occasion. It was greatly appreciated. When young Charles came in he caused quite a stir as he passed me a piece of his handy work – a swear box. The cost was 10p per word, funnily enough it made some people a lot quieter and others realised just how much they did swear. The club funds rocketed. We had a couple of sets of visitors join us; Brian and Pauline joined us in the afternoon as they couldn't make the rally due to fridge trouble. Diane and Chris joined us for the evening and won the bingo again, gosh I must be lucky in love. Mind you I did win on the raffle and funnily enough I got the salad spinner that I was hanging my nose over. We were all in bed by midnight though.

Sunday and everyone packed up and slowly filtered away. We as usual are last to arrive and last to leave, we didn’t leave the site until gone 8pm. It was a great rally and I am looking forward to the next one at Rempstone, although I have yet to find something to sleep in. I have had several offers of help, but think I will end up in a two-man tent as a LAST resort!

Debbie