waggoner’s talk · your contacts 2 | waggoner’s talk elected council officers chairman - artin...

Waggoner’s Talk

The Magazine of the Motor Caravan Section of the Camping & Caravanning Club

Summer 2019 - Issue 185

Your Contacts

2 | Waggoner’s Talk

Elected Council Officers Chairman - Martin Whitaker, 46 Hillside, Kingsbury, Tamworth, Staffs B78 2NH

Tel: 01827 873105 – Mob: 07738 833 604 – Email: [email protected]

Vice Chairman / Dep. Membership Sec. - Colin Lang, 112 Huntley Avenue, Sponden, Derby DE21 7DU Tel: 01332 739693 – Mob: 07599 216125 – Email: [email protected]

Treasurer / Appointed Nat. Councillor - Paul Bastin, 27 Hyde Heath Court, Poundhill, Crawley, Sussex RH10 3UQ Tel. 01293 423203 – Email. [email protected]

Secretary/PRO/Web Master - Kathy Giles, 62 Poplar Drive, Heme Bay, Kent CT6 7PY Tel: 07951 063401 – Email: [email protected]

Minutes Secretary / Regalia Officer - Mabel Shaw, 1 Rose Gardens, Birchington, Kent CT7 0DH Mob: 07709 623491 – Email: [email protected]

Deputy Minutes Secretary - Vacant

Membership Secretary - Catherine Hodson, 24 Gay Meadows, Stockton on the Forest, York Y032 9UJ Tel: 01904 400935 – Email: [email protected]

Waggoner’s Talk Editor - Bryan Giles, 62 Poplar Drive, Heme Bay, Kent CT6 7PY Tel: 07719 640614 – Email: [email protected]

Deputy Appointed National Councillor - Paul James, 13 St Christophers Park, Ellistown, Leics LE6 1FG Tel: 07855 295995 – Email: [email protected]

Rep. to Special Interest Forum - Trevor Stenton, 55 Lutterworth Drive, Adwick-le-Street, Doncaster DN6 7DA Tel: 07984 050833 – Email: [email protected]

Deputy Rep to Special Interest Forum / - Dennis Rowley, 19 Ruskin Avenue, Bradford Road, Wakefield, Yorkshire WF1 2BD Section Sites Co-ordinator Tel: 01924 211250 – Email: [email protected]

Councilors without Portfolio - David Blair, 33 Dirrans Terrace, Kilwinning KA13 7PH Mob: 07835 475411 – Email: [email protected]

Bill Gosnay, Berthias, Rhydowen, Llandysul, Ceredigion SA44 4QB Tel: 01545 590360 – Mob: 07986 140170 – Email: [email protected]

Rosemary Sexton, The Brambles, Claypits Lane, Dibden, Southampton SO45 5TH Tel: 02380 840908 – Email: [email protected]

Alf Sexton, The Brambles, Claypits Lane, Dibden, Southampton SO45 5TH Tel: 02380 840908 – Email: [email protected]

Appointed Council Officers Devon & Cornwall - Jonathan Pope – Email: [email protected]

East Midlands - Bill Cooper – Tel: 07983 706465 – Email: [email protected]

Midland - Lynne Lang – Tel: 01332 739693 – Email: [email protected]

Northern - Carol Rowley – Tel: 01924 211250 – Email: [email protected]

North West - Barbara Webb – Mob: 07746 555950

Northern Ireland - Robert Cupples – Tel: 07715 468913 – Email: [email protected]

Scotland - (To be Appointed)

Southern - Roy Davies – Tel: 01634 696502 – Email: [email protected]

Area/Group PROs Devon & Cornwall - Rose Jeffery – Email: [email protected]

East Midlands - Sue Chester – Tel: 07375 115619 – Email: [email protected]

Kent - Bob Still – Tel: 01322 389116 – Email: [email protected]


North West - Nancie Mawson – Email: [email protected]

Northern Ireland - Elena Ferguson – Tel: 02828 272464 – Email: [email protected]

Scotland - Charlie Calder – Tel: 07967 614180 – Email: [email protected]

South West - Derek Maidment – Tel: 01425 475415 – Email: [email protected]

Southern - Mabel Shaw – Mob: 07709 623491 – Email: [email protected]

Surrey & South London - Mrs Chris Bastin – Tel: 01293 887732

Elected Council Officers Chairman - Martin Whitaker, 46 Hillside, Kingsbury, Tamworth, Staffs B78 2NH

Tel: 01827 873105 – Mob: 07738 833 604 – Email: [email protected]

Vice Chairman / Dep. Membership Sec. - Colin Lang, 112 Huntley Avenue, Sponden, Derby DE21 7DU Tel: 01332 739693 – Mob: 07599 216125 – Email: [email protected]

Treasurer / Appointed Nat. Councillor - Paul Bastin, 27 Hyde Heath Court, Poundhill, Crawley, Sussex RH10 3UQ Tel. 01293 423203 – Email. [email protected]

Secretary/PRO/Web Master - Kathy Giles, 62 Poplar Drive, Heme Bay, Kent CT6 7PY Tel: 07951 063401 – Email: [email protected]

Minutes Secretary / Regalia Officer - Mabel Shaw, 1 Rose Gardens, Birchington, Kent CT7 0DH Mob: 07709 623491 – Email: [email protected]

Deputy Minutes Secretary - Vacant

Membership Secretary - Catherine Hodson, 24 Gay Meadows, Stockton on the Forest, York Y032 9UJ Tel: 01904 400935 – Email: [email protected]

Waggoner’s Talk Editor - Bryan Giles, 62 Poplar Drive, Heme Bay, Kent CT6 7PY Tel: 07719 640614 – Email: [email protected]

Deputy Appointed National Councillor - Paul James, 13 St Christophers Park, Ellistown, Leics LE6 1FG Tel: 07855 295995 – Email: [email protected]

Rep. to Special Interest Forum - Trevor Stenton, 55 Lutterworth Drive, Adwick-le-Street, Doncaster DN6 7DA Tel: 07984 050833 – Email: [email protected]

Deputy Rep to Special Interest Forum / - Dennis Rowley, 19 Ruskin Avenue, Bradford Road, Wakefield, Yorkshire WF1 2BD Section Sites Co-ordinator Tel: 01924 211250 – Email: [email protected]

Councilors without Portfolio - David Blair, 33 Dirrans Terrace, Kilwinning KA13 7PH Mob: 07835 475411 – Email: [email protected]

Bill Gosnay, Berthias, Rhydowen, Llandysul, Ceredigion SA44 4QB Tel: 01545 590360 – Mob: 07986 140170 – Email: [email protected]

Rosemary Sexton, The Brambles, Claypits Lane, Dibden, Southampton SO45 5TH Tel: 02380 840908 – Email: [email protected]

Alf Sexton, The Brambles, Claypits Lane, Dibden, Southampton SO45 5TH Tel: 02380 840908 – Email: [email protected]

Appointed Council Officers Devon & Cornwall - Jonathan Pope – Email: [email protected]

East Midlands - Bill Cooper – Tel: 07983 706465 – Email: [email protected]

Midland - Lynne Lang – Tel: 01332 739693 – Email: [email protected]


North West - Barbara Webb – Mob: 07746 555950

Northern Ireland - Robert Cupples – Tel: 07715 468913 – Email: [email protected]

Scotland - (To be Appointed)

Southern - Roy Davies – Tel: 01634 696502 – Email: [email protected]

Area/Group PROs Devon & Cornwall - Rose Jeffery – Email: [email protected]

East Midlands - Sue Chester – Tel: 07375 115619 – Email: [email protected]

Kent - Bob Still – Tel: 01322 389116 – Email: [email protected]


North West - Nancie Mawson – Email: [email protected]

Northern Ireland - Elena Ferguson – Tel: 02828 272464 – Email: [email protected]

Scotland - Charlie Calder – Tel: 07967 614180 – Email: [email protected]

South West - Derek Maidment – Tel: 01425 475415 – Email: [email protected]

Southern - Mabel Shaw – Mob: 07709 623491 – Email: [email protected]

Surrey & South London - Mrs Chris Bastin – Tel: 01293 887732

Issue 185 - Summer 2019 | 3

Waggoner’s Talk

Contents Ramblings of the Editor

WT - WAGGONER’S TALK

Website: www.waggonerstalk.co.uk

Published By: The Motor Caravan Section of the Camping and Caravanning Club

Editor: Bryan Giles

Email: [email protected]

Printed in the UK by Truprint Media Ltd., tel: 01843 220200 website: www.truprintmedia.co.uk

Magazine PolicyThis magazine and all items contained herein are copyright, no other use is permitted without the written permission of the Editor. Readers should note that the views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those of the Publishers, Magazine Team or the MCS. However we believe that all contributors should be allowed to express their own opinions. All submissions are unsolicited & therefore subject to Editorial change. Submitted photographs are taken to be released for publication. Whilst every care is taken to ensure that the contents of Waggoner’s Talk are accurate, we accept no responsibility for any consequences that may arise from any errors or omissions.

The Editorial Team

Welcome to the Spring edition, I’ve just returned home from Northern Ireland, and their very first National meet (photo’s and reports inside). On the front cover we are queuing for the ferry at Cairnryan. A very smooth crossing both ways, we decided to go via Scotland to explore the lovely Solway coast, and to visit Bill and Susan Lees, club President and his wife, who were on holiday at Portpatrick near Stranraer [look it up].

Bryan

Your Contacts ............................. 2

Editor’s Message ........................ 3

Chairman’s Chat......................... 4

Letter from Robert Louden ......... 5

Around the Sections ................... 6

Edith Lang stands down ........... 11

National photos ........................ 14

Regalia ..................................... 18

Obituary .................................. 23

2019 National FOL .................... 25

Holiday Meets 2019 .................. 26

PRO Report .............................. 27

Next deadline date is 10 August 2019

Cover photo - Queing for the ferry at Cairnryan

Chairman’s ChatHi everyone I hope you have had a good year so far, also that New Joiners

enjoyed attending a new joiners meet were made very welcome. We have just

attended this years M.C.S National A.G.M in Northern Ireland, Doreen myself

and everyone attending had a wonderful time, Thanks to Northern Ireland

Area Committee and members.

It give me great pleasure to inform you that I have been re-elected as your

Chairman.

In the past I have wrote asking you to get in touch with me if we are no longer

running meet in your area to contact me. The Section Council as now elected

a National Site Coordinator and with your help he will try to put a national

programme together for 2020. I hope you all have an enjoyable Summer whatever

you are doing.

Bye for now

Martin WhitakerM.C.S Chairman


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A letter from Robert Louden


Around Your Areas and GroupsSo far this year we have camped during 3 named Storms;

Storm Frier in early March, Storm Gareth mid March (AGM

weekend) and Storm Hannah in late April. This does show

who are the hardy campers!!!

Our AGM weekend, Friday 15th March to Sunday 17th

March at Whitsands Bay Holiday Park, SE Cornwall, was

stewarded by Brian Shuttleworth. The weather forecast

was warning about Storm Gareth but this didn’t stop

members from enjoying their time there; going for walks

and meeting up for evening meal on Friday, and walks on

Saturday daytime. Unfortunately the rain was so heavy and

the vans were rocking with the wind on Saturday evening

and overnight, no-one ventured out. The morning of the

AGM was sunny and we were indoors! At the AGM Jan

and Lawrence stood down from the Committee and were

thanked for all their hard work over the years. Sue and Tony

Nettle joined us. The rest of the Committee were re-elected

unchanged.

Easewell Farm Holiday Village, Woolacombe Rally 4–7

April 2019 – Roger Russell

Nina and I collected the Regalia from our ill Stewards

in Paignton on the Tuesday; fortunately Lawrence and

Janet had purchased the prizes and prepared a quiz. We

arrived at 11.05am on Thursday. The first unit arrived

immediately after the official opening time of midday and

we were ready, but with scant knowledge of the site! Tony

and Sue Nettle were anxious to help from the start and

were responsible for the setting up of Bowls on 2 evenings

and skittles on the 3rd as well as helping site units as they

arrived. 19 in total. Four units had the same scores for

the quiz, we had kept back a single large bar of chocolate,

difficult, Julie had the answer 4 squares each, short straw

pulled sorted that one! Nina had the highest individual

score at skittles, no surprise to me her ability to knock

things over, you should see my kitchen!!!

The site was popular with most members taking a choice of

walks, bus trips to Woolacombe and Barnstaple also visits to

‘sister site’ attractions including cinema, pool, high wire, mini

golf, climbing wall, water splash, segways even an indoor

purpose built surfing area, amusing! I have to add that in the

18 years I have been involved this was the most helpful of

staff I have yet to come across with sound business practice.

Thank you Martin, Keith, Margret, Mike and Sharron.

After a pleasant Easter, the weather deteriorated just in

time for our next meet at Kings Down Tail Campsite near

Sidmouth, SE Devon, from Thursday 25th to Sunday 28th

April. A total of 20 vans attended this rally stewarded by Jan

and Stan. Storm Hannah had been forecast for this weekend

but this didn’t stop members from going out and about

as this site had an hourly bus service going passed the

entrance into Sidmouth one way and Seaton and then Lyme

Regis the other. We had use of the Games Room on site

and on Friday evening Philip organised the Dice Game and

Playing Card Bingo. Saturday afternoon Jan had arranged

Afternoon Tea with cakes and Saturday evening Jonathon

read a quiz from the internet entitled ‘Care Home Quiz –

Tailor made Quiz for the Elderly’ which produced much

hilarity. We all achieved fairly high scores but we are not

sure if that means we are all eligible for a Care Home or that

we are too good to go in yet!!!

We were very lucky with the weather for our return visit

to Whitsand Bay Holiday Park, again stewarded by Brian

with 21 vans attending. This was held from Thursday 9th

to Sunday 12th May. This site is built in the grounds of a

19th Century Fort and is invisible from the seaward side.

The other side overlooks Plymouth Sound. An hourly bus

service goes to Cremyl one way and all the way round to

Plymouth the other. Cremyl is situated on the water’s edge

and members took the ferry across to Plymouth; others

visited the Mount Edgecombe Estate; walked the coast

path and visited Cawsands and Kingsands which also has

a ferry service across to the Barbican in Plymouth. For the

first time this year, we were able to have our Sunday coffee

morning outside. Afterwards Brian led a guided walk

around the ramparts and underground rooms. We will be

back again in 2020.

Devon and Cornwall...


Between Thursday 16th and Sunday 19th May myself and

my husband Jack stewarded the meet at Timaru Campsite,

situated between Wadebridge and Padstow. We had a total

of 6 vans attend. Although we had very small numbers I

think everyone enjoyed themselves and took advantage of

the hourly bus service to visit Padstow and also Wadebridge.

Owing to the small numbers I was able to bake enough

scones in my van to go with the jam and cream in my fridge

so that we had a Cream Tea on the Saturday afternoon and a

very sociable weekend.

Future Meets:13th–16th July

Swanage and Wareham Rugby Club, Wareham BH20 4HY –

Own Services Essential. The Rugby Club is situated within

easy walking distance of Wareham town with its riverfront,

shops, bus and railway access to Poole, Swanage and

Weymouth.

16th–19th August

Birthday Meet – Tiverton Rugby Club, Tiverton EX16 1DG –

Own Services Essential. The town of Tiverton with its shops,

buses and canal are all within easy walking distance. A

weekend of fun and games is planned as well as a “Bring and

Share Supper”.

30th August–1st September

Harford Bridge Holiday Park, Peter Tavy PL19 9LS. This site

is within the Dartmoor National Park, with a bus service into

Tavistock.

5th–8th September

Little Winnick Touring Park Pentewan, PL26 6DL. This site is

on the cycle path between the coast and the town of St Austell.

19th–22nd September

Cofton Holiday Park Starcross EX6 8RP. This site has a

swimming pool and restaurant and bus between Exeter and

Newton Abbot goes past.

11th–13th October

Tower Park Caravans and Camping, St Buryan TR19 6BZ.

This site is situated in the Lands End Peninsular, 3 miles

beyond Penzance and 5 minutes walk to the village of St

Buryan.

25th–27th October

Widdecome Farm Torquay – Adults only. This site is situated

adjacent to the Torquay Ring Road. There is a possibility of a

minibus service to the nearby towns.

Annual Dinner and Dance has been provisionally arranged

for Friday 29th November – supper and Saturday 30th

November – Dinner and Dance at Cofton Country Holidays,

Starcross, Dawlish.

Safety Notice - The Committee of the Devon and Cornwall

Motor Caravan Section have decided to make it a

requirement for campers attending our meets to provide

a fire bucket filled with water outside each unit in order

to provide an immediate response to an emergency. We

also require that the appropriate approved electric cable

be ‘flaked out’ whilst in use and that no part remain coiled

either on or off a reel to prevent overheating.

Rose


East Midlands...Breedon on the Hill. 5th to 7th April2019

The meet opened on Friday at 2pm and we were warmly

welcomed by our stewards Paul and Linda.

We did not expect many members as the Antique Centre,

Shops and Cafe had all closed down ready for demolition,

but in fact it was quite well attended with 17 units.

We erected the at social tent ready for the evening

gathering. Meeting up with old and new friends. Colin and

Sue provided us with a gas super ser heater and with thee

addition of a blanket it was very cosy.

Saturday was spent exploring the local village. Some

people went to the local hostilery for lunch.

Saturday night we gathered in the social tent which

was quite full. Maybe it was the lure of hot dogs which

donations for our charity LOROS was gratefully received.

Big E provided us with entertainment via his smart phone

and speaker system. In response to any request, Harry the

youngest member was rewarded with the Bobbin Song and

he knew all the actions.

Sunday morning at 10.30 was the final get together for

coffee morning and the drawing of the raffle.

Thanks to everyone who made this meet a success and a

special thanks to the stewards Paul and Linda.

Maz and Derick

Easter at Market Bosworth Rugby Club. 19th to

22nd April 2019

With a good weather forecast the stewards welcomed 28

units. This was an invite to the Midlands Section.

Getting the weekend of to a good start the stewards took

orders for fish and chips which they kindly fetched from

the Chippy that was ate in the hall. After we all socialised

catching up on news.

Saturday morning some of us walked across the park to

explore the area.

At 5pm the Midlands held their AGM followed by Jacket

Potatoes, Meat and salad.

The best part of the evening was the entertainment by

the Recycled Teenagers including our very own Big E and

Jan the Legend. They were brilliant. We sang and danced

the night away, even causing the group to collapse in fits

of laughter as we did all the actions to Running Bear and

running round in a circle doing an Indian cry. Honest were

not mad just like fun.

Sunday (Easter Day) We had tea coffee and hot cross

buns followed by an Easter egg hunt. The children were first

to find symbols and the adults had to find bottle tops (eggs

would have melted in the sun) Easter eggs were handed out

to the winners. IN the evening was the Easter bonnet parade.

Two children entered both had prizes followed by the ladies


the men let us down. After a short break we had a team quiz.

We did quite well answering over half. Thanks to Sue.

Monday the raffle was drawn along with tea, coffee and a

nice piece of cake.

Thanks to all the stewards and helpers for a memorable

weekend

Judy and Paul

Shardlow Marina May Day. 3rd to 6th May 2019

Arrived Friday afternoon to be greeted by our stewards

Glynne, Denise, Bill and Linda and a torrential rain shower

which turned into a blustery afternoon and evening. Soon

the social tent went up with willing volunteers. This is a very

popular site with campers, boats and a pleasant little bar

which we had to try out for this rep

Saturday a bit better but still blustery. A nice walk around

the village and lunch at the Clockhouse with good company.

In the evening we all gathered in the tent for a quiz followed

by a lovely supper.

Sunday morning a better day dry and bright. A nice walk

along the canal. Had a happy afternoon playing Bat and Trap

and Croquet. Enjoyed a visit from the Okey Man(ice cream

to all you southerners). Gathered in the tent for an evening of

a quiz and an interesting game of cars bingo.

Monday morning we gathered for coffee morning and

the drawing of the raffle.

Once again a great weekend. Thanks to all the hard work

of the stewards and everyone who joined in.

Paul, Linda and Billy

Future Meets:-9th–11th August - £8.50

Lyndon Top. Rutland Water

Stewards Dianne and Dave. 07971 318564

Free and easy weekend. Plenty of walks

22nd August–8th September:- £10.00

THS Batemans Brewery. Wainfleet.

Stewards Sue, Colin, John and Barbara

Site opens at 12 noon.

Bus stop outside site for Skegness or Boston

Train station in village

Co op, Chemist, plenty of other shops, plenty of take aways

and pubs in village.

For any changes or further information please visit our

website www.eastmidlandsmcs.co.uk

Hope to welcome you on site somewhere.Cheers

Sue Chester East Midlands PRO


Kent...Welcome, fellow campers of Kent and friends. It`s a beautiful

day as I put the first words together for my Summer report,

just right, warm and sunny with wooly clouds drifting lazily

across a mellow late spring sky. There is even a gentle

breeze, just enough to make it interesting – a good sign for

the coming camping season ahead!

Greatstone School at Greatstone in Romney Marsh was

our “Cod & Kite“ rally, an old favourite with the group. It was

a very windy weekend but nevertheless a goodly number

graced us with their presence. To start the weekend off

we had a jovial evening on the Friday with plenty to catch

up on for everyone. In the morning many of us took to the

buses or walked into New Romney. I think it`s “hats off “ to

Bryan however, as he braved the gusts to fly his kite ! In the

evening folk met in the hall once again to partake of a very

tasty Fish & Chip meal delivered by the local shop.

Nethercourt, Ramsgate was the next meet which many

campers found to be just right for a stroll into town or by bus

to take advantage of the Nautical nature of the locality.

Palm Bay,Cliftonville, near Margate was the next rally.

Another seaside meet, just right for the “Get Together“ on

the Friday evening. Saturday morning saw campers faced

with a very cold wind...Brrrr! It shows how most campers are

intrepid when it comes to making the most of the weather.

Many of us congregated in the local Restaurant Botany Bay

Hotel. In the evening, after the initial “chat time“ we were

treated to “Quiz & Games“, courtesy of Marilyn – Great

Stuff! There was a Boot Fayre on the adjacent field on the

Sunday morning.

Tillingborne School at Chilworth in Surrey was the

venue of our “Easter Celebrations“ with an invitation to join

Surrey & South London Group & the Southern Area for their

A.G.Ms. On the Saturday those who attended were treated

to one of Mabels` legendary “Wine & Wisdom“ evenings

(with Kathy her able Assistant & me as the “Runner“) –

Phew (it lets you see how fit or not you are, as the case may

be!). Surrey & South London A.G.M was on the Sunday

morning, with the Southern Area A.G.M in the afternoon. In

the evening we all waited with baited breath as the winning

numbers in the raffle were called out by Paul (sometimes a

change of colour meant a change of luck, but don`t Bank on

it!). Jennie won the rather large Easter Egg kindly donated

by the Kent Group.

Hole Park,Rolvenden was our “Bluebell“ rally.

Unfortunately this meet was only attended by a few

members, which is a shame as I am sure, most of us know

that our Sites Secretary, the committee and not least, our

Stewards, put in a great deal of effort so that we can all enjoy

the benefits of camping with our Group.

Quex Park in Birchington was the venue for our “May

Day“ bank holiday rally. It was good to be camping on grass

again! We even had the “O2“ up. A good turn out, with in

excess of 30 units. A great weekend,even though we had

strong gusts of wind and very heavy rain, also hailstones

Issue 185 - Summer 2019 | 11

which Sting!. At this point I would like to ask members

to think again about “Stewarding“ a rally. It`s not difficult

(members of the committee and other members will help

you), so please put your name forward for this. Remember

– No Steward – No rally! Also, I would remind members to

keep up to date by viewing our website on

www.waggonerstalk.co.uk before going on a rally. That`s all

folks.

KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON CAMPING !

Bob Still

Future Meets 5th–7th July

2 nights. Craft Weekend. The Oasis Academy. Marine

Parade. Sheerness ME12 2BE. £7.50 PUPN .

Site opens 17.00pm.

3 nights. 11th–14th July. Fishing Weekend. Sandwich Lakes.

Sandwich Rd., Ash, Canterbury CT3 2DA. MR179/310585.

£7.50 PUPN. Site opens 14.00hrs.

12th–16th July. Southern Area Invite you to join them at

Museum of Power, Langford, Malden, Essex CM9 6QA.

£12.50 PUPN. (includes 1 entry per unit into Museum).

Site opens 14.00hrs.

3 nights. 18th–21st July. Summer by the River. Bowbridge

Marina, Wateringbury ME18 5ED. MR188/691527. £7.50

PUPN. Site opens 14.00hrs.

25th July–20th August. Kent Group Holiday Meet. Quex

House, Gardens & Powel Cotton Museum. Manston Rd.,

Birchington CT7 0BH. MR179/309682. £10.50 PUPN.

Site opens 11am.

3 nights. 1st–4th August. Invite from Surrey & South London

to join them at Swiss Farm, Marlowe Rd., Henley on Thames

RG9 2HY. £13.00 PUPN. Site opens 14.00hrs.

4 nights. 22nd–26th August. August Bank Holiday break.

Skinners School Field, Southfields Park Chestnut Avenue,

Tunbridge Wells TN4 9BU. £8.50 PUPN. Site opens 14.00hrs

3 nights. 29th August–1st September. Bridge Farm,

Appledore TN26 2DP. £7.50 PUPN. Site opens 14.00hrs.

At our 57th AGM this year Edith Lang stood down from SectionCouncil, as I am sure many of you know Edith has been a member of Section Council for many years, and has been our Vice Chairman & Chairman. During her time she has organised National Meets for the Section, has assisted at other NationalMeets, and has always been there to assist any Area/Group or Member that she can. Edith has also worked on the Club Stand at various shows both recruiting new and speaking with existing members. Whilst she has stood down from Section Council this year we all know that she will continue to be there to ably assist as and when needed. The Section Council were very pleased to Appoint Edith as Vice President of the Section.

At our 57th AGM this year Edith Lang stood down from SectionCouncil, as I am sure many of you know Edith has been a member of Section Council for many years, and has been our Vice Chairman & Chairman. During her time she has organised National Meets for the Section, has assisted at other National Meets, and has always been there to assist any Area/Group or Member that she can. Edith has also worked on the Club Stand at various shows both recruiting new and speaking with existing members. Whilst she has stood down from Section Council this year we all know that she will continue to be there to ably assist as and when needed. The Section Council were very pleased to Appoint Edith as Vice President of the Section.


Welcome to the Midland Area

The year is in full swing and we’re having a good time

enjoying it. The meets are being well attended and I’m

pleased to say that you are finding them a great place to

camp and get out to use your vans. Along with our friends

in the East Mids the variety of camping on offer should

give everyone somewhere to visit. We still have some other

camping options for you to bring your van to so read on and

check out what’s in store.

We the Midland Area have had our AGM and we have

had some changes to the committee, we are pleased to

welcome Andrea and Bob Morgan who will bring their

thoughts on different camping sites, we also welcome Alan

Mason who has been a Midland member for some years

and will bring his experience to the committee. We also

have to say goodbye and thanks to some retiring committee

members, Paul Nightingale has supported the committee

for the last couple of years but now would like to support the

area by attending meets. Finally, but by no means least we

are saying au revoir to Shylie and Jim off the committee, they

have been great contributors to the area over many years

and have held many positions on the committee, however

they are not escaping completely and will steward a meet

annually and intend to camp locally to home.

Jim and I would like to thank everyone for our retirement

gifts presented at the Midlands AGM at Market Bosworth

over Easter. Will be seeing everyone next time we are out.

Health permitting.

Bye for now. ShylieUttoxeter Racecourse.

Uttoxeter provided good walking, a farmer’s market in the

town and everyone seemed to enjoy it. We had a better

room this time that lent itself to improved gatherings in

the evenings. We tried a music quiz that had a lot of head

scratching and during the answers had choruses of singing!

Another one of our entertainment attempts we called fake

news and had everyone out their seats which also had

singing of all sit down (also a well-known song)

New Members Meet, Dodderhill Equestrian Centre,

Droitwich.

This was a return visit to the equestrian centre. Andrea

and Rob did a good job and are good hosts so we were

made welcome. We were treated to a canal festival again

in the town. The weather was kind to us and the evening

entertainment was very relaxed and we had everyone

‘playing your cards right’ and the support everyone gives

shouting higher or lower added to the fun. We enjoyed

Afternoon tea and shared stories about our camping

experiences.

MCS National Meet, Bready Cricket Club. Northern Ireland.

This was the first time our national meet had been held in

Northern Ireland and what a great time we had. Most people

who attended the national extended their stay to make a

holiday and we were no different. We attended the pre-meet

at the North West 200 motorcycle road racing and saw some

great racing by the top stars (the weather on Saturday made

it a long day but nothing a glass of Guinness couldn’t fix).

The town put on a live group for evening entertainment and

a fantastic firework display. When I set off, I drove the circuit

just to say I’d be round the track! The Northern Ireland

group gave us information galore on places to explore and

the best way to get there and where we could park. The

National meet itself was well organised on a pleasant site

with good views over to Donegal. The trip to ‘Derry’ was

good mixing both the history of the place with the modern.

The excursion to the Giants causeway was very informative

by the guide and with our ‘Sherpa Christopher’ Bill and I

were well exercised in time for our Afternoon Tea with fresh

scones. The evening entertainment was varied between

nights and had people up dancing and even singing on the

stage. We attended both follow on meets at Broughshane

and Lisburn and we were made welcome at both meets.

I have to say that if you couldn’t make this year’s national

meet you missed a treat and that the Northern Ireland Area

should stand up and take a bow for doing a fantastic job.

Thank you.

Future Meets -5th–7th July 2019

‘Ride on the train’ Peak Rail, Rowsley DE4 2HX. Steward

Edith and friends. 07951144343. £9.00pun.

This is a great venue on a number of levels. Firstly, we will

be camping at the steam railway, while having breakfast

watch as the steam train comes past as it’s brought from the

sheds. Secondly the sheds are open for viewing and there

is a nostalgic trip down memory lane from the railways past.

There is of course the steam train ride down to Matlock and

back. Matlock is rich in antique shops as well as a lovely

park with all usual shops. We usually socialise on the train in

the evenings (although they don’t leave us an engine).

Midland...

Issue 185 - Summer 2019 | 13

19th–21st July 2019

‘Steam Rally’ Much Markle, Weston Cider. Stewards Doreen

and Martin. 07738833604. £8.00pun.

This is a new venue for us and we’re trying this part of our area

to make camping available to more of our members so it would

be good to see as many of you out to support. During this

weekend there is the steam rally nearby that is always a good

source of entertainment and I believe is a good place to visit.

15th–19th August 2019

‘Hereford Rowing Club, 37 Greyfriars Ave, Hereford

HR4 0BE. Stewards Edith and friends. 07951144343.

£10.00pun.

The Hereford Rowing Club website informs us with

‘Hereford Rowing Club is ideally situated as a campsite,

being only a very short walk from the centre of Historic

Hereford and all the amenities you would expect from

supermarkets to restaurants yet is still in a very rural setting.

We are located on the banks of the river Wye making this an

ideal spot to camp overnight.

30th August–1st September 2019

Carsington Water, Uppertown Farm DE6 1NR. Stewards Sue

and Paul 07906813113. £8.00pun.

The Uppertown Farm website has this to say about the site –

‘This is a site with fantastic views of Carsington Water, close

to lots of local amenities to make your stay as comfortable

as possible. Friendly atmosphere. Based on a real working

farm you can get a real taste of the country. Large un-

crowded pitches so you won’t feel like you are penned in,

and all this within a short walking distance of the local pubs

serving good food and ales Red Lion and Knockerdown

Inn, also a short walk you will find Carsington Water Visitor

Centre, with gift shops, cafe, water sports, cycle hire and

good walks’.

5th–8th September 2019

Stafford Boat Club. Steward Alan and friends. 07910839437.

£11.00pun (+Elec) Please Note Date Change

This is a popular venue and our invite to our friends in the

East Mids Area. This meet has a good clubhouse that we

can socialize in the evenings. The boat club has good walks

along the canal. There is a number of pubs nearby for a walk

and a drink/food and there is a retail park within walking

distance. There is a bus stop nearby that can take you

Stafford if you want to explore a little further.

13th–15th Sept July 2019

Tilstock Village Hall, SY13 3JL. Stewards Doreen and Martin.

07738833604. £10.00pun.

This is another new venue for us to try make camping

available to more of our members. This is an invite to our

friends in the East Mids Area. It’s a good-sized village hall

for us to use over the weekend and is on a bus route for

those who want to visit Whitchurch.

25th–27th October 2019

Ridings Wood Caravan and Camping Park, Bullock lane,

Riddings DE55 4BP. Stewards Sue and Paul 07906813113.

£13.00pun.

The website for this camping park claims ‘Riddings Wood is

an eco-friendly Caravan and Camping park set in 11 acres of

woodland in the tranquil and idyllic Derbyshire countryside

offering a quiet and relaxing retreat. Just a short distance from

the Peak District, our park is the perfect location for enjoying

walking, climbing, cycling, bird watching and fishing’. We will

have the opportunity to use the electric hook up pitches.

Midland Members

Weekend camping is about having a good time whether it

is partying, socializing, chilling or going out exploring. We

try to cater for all choices and make campers welcome at a

wide range of venues and we want to meet more members

so come along and say hello.

We have introduced 5 new camping venues this year to

compliment the 3 new venues last year. We would like to

hear your views on these sites so we understand what your

preferences are for camping.

We keep our meets up to date by using google calendar.

This way we can instantly inform our members of any

changes to the programme such as meet full or even worse

cancelation. if you would like to be included to get these

updates then feel free to contact me or Martin Whitaker

[email protected] for details

Can I add a special mention to those who have or will

be stewarding for us and the volunteers that help us run the

meets.

You’re all doing a great job, we really appreciate it!

For up-to-date information visit www.waggonerstalk.co.uk.

All the best

Colin

Midland MCS PRO [email protected]


National photos

Issue 185 - Summer 2019 | 15

National photos


Springtime at Warton Cricket Club, surrounded by acres of

golden daffodils is where our group , invited members from

Lakeland DA to join our splendid St Patrick celebrations.

Arrivals were welcomed with hot refreshments and given the

program of activities planned by Andrew and Karen Baines.

The social evening of bingo, music and a quiz which had

folks teaming -up to win the bottle of wine. More wine and

whiskey was on offer on Saturday where 30 plus members

gathered in a transformed Irish Grotto, decorated with

banners, flags, lights and shamrocks. Most members wore

fancy dress in leprechaun outfits or regalia and were treated

to a delicious Irish stew made by ‘masterchef’ Karen and

capable team of helpers. A cream birthday cake was given

to help Brian Langtree celebrate his 80 th birthday and

sponsors for his 80 swimming lengths helped to raise money

for his local youth association .Entertainment continued into

the evening with Bernie Wright ‘s Trio playing and singing

Irish Lyrics.

At the end of March members met in the cosy village hall

at Winmarleigh near historic market-town of Garstang. All

nineteen members enjoyed social events in the evenings and

celebrated Mother’s Day that Sunday.

On the 13th April at Whittingham & Goosenargh Sports

Club, the AGM was chaired by Andrew Baines who praised

the committee and members for supporting the club making

the past year a great success. Retiring committee members,

David and Rita Martin were thanked for their contribution

and tremedous hard work and both presented with gifts

in appreciation. He welcomed 6 new recruits to share the

roles and responsible positions of the committee and looked

forward to new their ideas and sites for the future.

A beautiful commercial site, Heron’s Nest Budworth

Lane Cheshire, was the venue for the May time meet .

The members could enjoy the site facilities on the edge of

Marbury Mere in the stunning brilliant sunshine .

The North West Regional Meet providing a host of events

and activities for family and friends was held at Arley Hall

& Gardens, Cheshire 16-20th May. Tombola, raffles trade-

stands food court, real ale bars and competitions galore. For

younger ones there was football, volley ball and Miss May &

Master Hero competitions plus music in the marquee.

Many members travelled to Ireland for the 57th National

and AGM in Bready, Co Tyrone on 24th May bank holiday

weekend.

The hectic holiday season begins 09.06.19- 24.06.19 at

Cemaes Bay on the Isle of Anglesey.LL67ODS Take A55 to

exit junction 3 at roundabout take 4th exit Holyhead road,

A5, to next roundabout 1st exit. At lights, turn right A5025 to

Cemaes Bay, then third exit onto Ffordd-y-Felin site on right.

Contact Karen 07802787200.

Future Meets24th June–8th July

Manorafon Farm, Abergele LL22 8ET just off the A55

Gwrych Park Llanddulas, Abergele, Conwy. This is a

commercial site with excellent facilities , close to shops bars

and restaurants. Maureen and Eddie Kaye are stewards.

07388932060

2nd–4th August

Cotton Arms ,Cholmondeley Rd , Wrenbury,

Cheshire CW5 8HG

From N travel A49 2 m S of junc withA 534 until just past

Cholmondeley House & gardens, (on right) take u/c rd E. In

0.5m bear R. Cont ahead 3.5 m after crossing canal. Turn L

in about 80 yds imm before pub. £8.50

11th–16th September

Victoria Park, Southport PR8 1RX

From S M6 junction 26 then M58 junction 3. Follow A570.

From N Follow A 59 from Preston M6 junc 31 and A565 to

Southport. £11.00

19th–23rd September

Farmer Parr’s Animal World Wyre Field Farm Rossall Lane

Fleetwood, Lancs FY7 8JP

From M55 follow sp. for Fleetwood, on a 585. Follow Farmer

Parrs brown sign at roundabout take 3rd exit. 500 yards on

right. £8.50

All units welcome to join us on site in future,

Nancie Mawson PRO North West Motor Caravan Section

North West...

Issue 185 - Summer 2019 | 17

Northern...Hi all campers. This is my first shot across the bows (as they say)

at writing for ‘Waggoners’. May I thank my predecessor Trevor

Stenton for the work he has done for the magazine over the years

and to his better half Carole for keeping him on the straight and

narrow, and she still does.

Here we go then.

At the time of writing quite a few of our members are gearing

up to cross the water for our National AGM in Northern Ireland,

with some of us extending our stay to make it our annual holiday.

AGM Thirsk Racecourse

A well attended meet with 75 units joining us and 71 members

attending the meeting on Saturday morning. Some of those

who strolled into the town for lunch and to visit the local public

houses managed to see the Yorkshire Vet Peter Wright at a local

bookstore.

Beverley Racecourse

Another well attended meet to celebrate Easter 61 units. Very

well organised by our stewards Rob, Maureen, Alex and Justine,

supplying us with quizzes, bingo, games and raffle, and of course

the Easter bonnet parade on Sunday morning.

Malham Showground

Dennis and Carol once again were our stewards for this annual

meet. The weather forecast wasn’t great for this meet, however

22 units of hardy campers arrived which was down on our usual

numbers .We had two days of rain followed by three days of

sunshine. Campers went out walking each day in this lovely area,

visiting Malham Cove and Gordale Scar plus many other walks

in the area.

Grinton

31 units attended the meet with 11 staying until Tuesday. The

weather wasn’t great, lots of heavy showers and cold winds but

again our intrepid campers went out walking or into Reeth. We

had a few of our regulars there and some new ones who enjoyed

it despite the weather.

Bready Cricket Ground Northern Ireland

Report next issue.

Future Meets:Unless otherwise stated all our meets start at 2pm please do not

arrive before this time.

6th–11th August

Nawton – Cherry Tree Park Y062 7RG. On the edge of

North Yorkshire Moors National Park close to the market

town of Helmsley. Buses to Pickering, Thornton Le Dale and

Scarborough. In the other direction 10 minute ride to Helmsley,

plenty of Public Houses and cafes. Quiet site with some electric

hook-ups.

11th–16th August

Malton and Norton RUFC Y017 7EY.

Easy walk either on roadside or across the fields into the market

town for pubs, shops and cafes. Coastline buses to Scarborough

/ Whitby. Eden Camp a former WW2 POW camp is close by.

16th–21st August

Pickering – Mount Terrace Y018 8JH. Level sight near to the The

North Yorksire Moors Railway station. Steam trains start here to

Goathland, Grosmont and Whitby.

21st–6th September

Beadnell – Anstead Farm THS NE67 5BT. On the

Northumberland coast. Level site close to beach. Excellent

cliff top walking and cycling, walking distance to village shop,

fish and chip shop, café and restaurant. Buses to Seahouses,

YOUR Choose Leisure experience starts here

We’re worth the trip...

Choose Freedom ~ Choose Adventure ~ Choose Leisure

01227 733557 ~ www.chooseleisure.co.uk

NEW


Bamburgh and Berwick on Tweed and Alnwick to Newcastle.

Boat trips to the Farne Islands seal colony or a drive to Holy

Island (beware of the tides).


Seaburn THS SR6 8AA. Site is located on Seaburn promenade

next to Morrison’s supermarket and close to town and shops,

ideal for families, excellent walking and cycling. Buses to South

Shields and Sunderland.


Stanhope Showground DL13 2PQ.

Set in Weardale, County Durham. Good walking area with local

shops and hostelries and close to the old lead mines with a

museum.


Masham- Gebdykes Farm HG4 4BT. Unfortunately the sheep

fair will take place a week later than our meet but it has been

replaced by the UCI road cycle race, the women’s race will

take place on the 28th. Two local good breweries also cafes

and hostelries.

3rd-6th October

Ilkley Cricket Club LS29 0AD. Nice walk into town with good

shops and cafes. Trains to Leeds or Bradford available.

10th-14th October

Marsden Cricket Club HD7 6NN. Hard standing. Jazz weekend

with plenty of venues where you can be entertained. Bus from

site into town with plenty of good pubs, cafes and restaurants.

Buses to Huddersfield and Oldham.

18th-20th October

Whitby – West Cliff School YO21 3EG. Nice walk into this North

Yorkshire seaside resort, famous for its fish n chips and the

Gothic Abbey. Plenty of bars, cafes and shops.

25th-27th October

Wetherby Racecourse LS22 5EJ. Hard standing level site

with room for evening socials. Level walk into town to

supermarket,shops,pubs and cafes. Bus stop to York outside the

site.

Steve Hiblin

Northern (continued)...

Regalia Section Pennons - £3.00 inc VAT - Postage £1.50 Lapel Badges - £2.50 inc VAT - Postage £1.50 Umbrellas - contact your Area/Group Regalia Officer Section Polo Shirt - The Polo Shirt (pictured opposite), is

available from Mabel Shaw in all colours and sizes - prices on application

Please make cheques/PO’s payable to;

The Camping & Caravanning Club Motor Caravan Section.

Cheques should also be crossed.

Orders to:

Mrs Mabel Shaw,1 Rose Gardens, Birchington, Kent CT7 0DH.

Tel: 07709 623491

email: [email protected]

Issue 185 - Summer 2019 | 19

Hi Folks,

Once again I send you greetings from N. I. It is hard to

believe that we are halfway through another year, and for us

here in N. I. a very busy time.

Our meets in March where in Downpatrick and

Cookstown, very few units attending the Downpatrick meet

possibly because of terrible weather but Cookstown had a

good number of units out which made for a good weekend

with lots of fun and laughter as we played Tin Top Bingo

on the Friday night and the Yes, No game from the old T. V.

programme Take Your Pick on the Saturday night.

The April meets brought with them warmer and sunnier

weather. At the meet in Holywood we were able to sit out

and some folk even gave the Barbeques an airing.

The Portstewart meet took the form of our A.G.M. and

Easter Celebrations. There was a good turn out for this and

the lovely sunny weather made all the difference. We had a

catch up and Tin Top Bingo on the Friday night and as usual

the craic was great.

Our A.G.M. on Saturday went well with all positions being

covered, after lunch we had, Horse Shoe throwing outside and

then games in the hall. As well as our Easter Bonnet parade.

We met in the hall in the evening and danced to the music of

D.J. Gardner before retiring to our vans after a very busy day.

Those who stayed on Sunday enjoyed a much quieter day and

again enjoyed a game of bingo in the evening.

May was upon us and Portstewart was the venue before

we moved on to Bready, for the National meet and A.G.M.

those people who came to Portstewart enjoyed the town and

the entertainment provided by the stewards.

May 24th - 27th. Two years in the planning and finally it

was here. The National meet and A.G.M. Eighty Eight vans

rolled into Bready Cricket Club and we welcomed folk from

England, Scotland and Wales, tea, coffee and fresh

scones were available when folk came to register and this

gave them time to catch up with friends.

Northern Ireland...


The chairman’s reception and opening ceremony took

place in the evening with a wonderful welcome from the “

Sollus Highland Dancers”. Later Music was provided for

dancing by “Pure Country” Colin Harney, before a lot of

weary travelers and organisers headed for bed. Shuttle

buses were provided on Saturday for anyone who wanted to

go into the city. The buses filled up quickly so a small bus

had to be hired, I think everyone who went enjoyed all that

Londonderry had to offer.

A Barbeque for all members took place in the pm, and

entertainment was provided by the group, “The Castaways”.

Sunday was the A.G.M and in the afternoon folk were

invited to an afternoon tea party to celebrate the Tenth

anniversary of the M.C.S. N.I. it was great to have so many

join us for this special occasion. Entertainment in the

evening was provided by “Purple Heather” with the ballot

taking place in the interval. A BIG, BIG thank you to Linda in

her fabulous costume for selling the ballot tickets for us. I

am delighted to say that Hubby and I won the £500.00 travel

voucher, which will come in handy.

Monday and the buses were packed with folk heading

to the Giants Causeway and for Tea/Coffee and scones in a

local hotel, reports on the trip were very favourable.

We met up later in the evening to chat and enjoy the

hospitality of Bready Cricket Club.

We hope you have enjoyed your stay with us, as we enjoyed

meeting you all and hope we will see you all in the future.

Safe and happy travelling.

Elena

Norther Ireland (continued)...

Issue 185 - Summer 2019 | 21


SAMCS June 11`

Rap-tap-tap upon your fingers,

Rap-tao-tap upon your hand -

sang Matt McGinn, himself a refugee from teaching. Our

AGM at Cairnsmill in March featured a School Night, a

hugely more interesting business than the AGM. Educational

brutality was dispensed by the smiling and sadistic Emma,

our head mistress, overseen by David, our heidie and

generally directed by Aileen, her of the jolly hockey stick.

Much fun and games was had byeveryone, especially the

many enthusiasts who dressed up in their school togs, From

a moral point of view, it was disconcerting to see so many

pupils in shorts and uniform embibing huge quantities of

alcohol! Great fun, and our thanks to everyone involved in

organising this smashing night.

The AGM was much less exciting. We’ll leave the

events of the AGM to the official record, except to welcome

Sheila and Andrew to the committee. Good luck, folks!

The meet attracted 33 units,which is as many as can be

accommodated at the moment at Cairnsmill, a popular and

comfortable venue, but one that some think may be a little

restrictive for an AGM meet.

Glenburn Dairy in Troon was poorly supported, but

I’m told that it was highly successful socially. The same

indiffierent weather affiected the meet at Crathes on Royal

Deeside, a lovely venuewhere a steady number of vans

averaged about 14 per night, despite the blustery weather.

The new tent was up to all this, and provided a venue for

morning tea and evening drinks and shenanigans various.

Looking forward, a plethora of summer delights!

Scotland...

Issue 185 - Summer 2019 | 23

Future Meets:19th July–5th August

Bankhead Farm, Crail

A mile from Crail and on a good bus route, you can take in the

Crail Festival, visit the picturesque harbour villages of the East

Neuk, walk the Fife Coastal Path - or gorge on freshly picked

fruit from the wee farm shop just along the road.

17th–27th August

Maritime Museum Irvine

Another popular meet which coincides with theMarymass

and the Irvine Folk Festivals. The site is restricted, and

booking is essential. Contact details in Out and About.

27th August–4th September

Castle Cary Caravan Park, Creetown

A follow-on from Irvine, in beautiful Galloway and a lovely

well-grassed site with very nice bar lunches and shop, not

forgetting toilets and showers.


Border Union Showground, Kelso

Another follow-on meet in the lovelyborder town of Kelso,

crammed with craft shops, history and excellent hostelries,

Toilets and showers here too.

16th–23rd September

Black Isle Showground, Muir of Ord

New for us, an expedition northacross the Beauly Firth to a

well-appointed site (flat, grassy pitches, toilets and showers)

with numerous attractions - red kites, Moray Firth dolphins,

Muir of Ord Distillery, the lovely nearby town of Beauly and,

of course, the capital of the Highlands, Inverness only a short

bus ride away.

23rd–30th September

Spey Bridge C P, Newtownmore

A follow-on to the Black Isle,Newtownmore is a bonny

wee town, with some good eateries and pubs, a Highland

Museum and, for walkers, the Wildcat Trail is accessible

directly from the campsite, which nestles amongst brilliant

mountain scenery - and has toilets and showers.

What’s not to like?

JVK, pp Charlie Calder, PRO SAMCS

Bernie VenesIt is with great sadness that I have to announce the passing of Bernie Venes a long standing member of the Section

& South West area. He peacefully passed away in Hospital on Tuesday 30th January 2019, and would have been

96 in March. 21 MCS members attended his funeral on Wednesday 20th February.

I have known Bernie for over 35 years. Bernie joined the SWA in the early 80s & was on the committee in 1985

and was made chairman in 1989 to 1996. In 1990 Bernie with other SWA members went to Devon and started &

started the Devon & Cornwall area of the section.

Bernie also served on Section Council and in 2007 he was made the President of the Motor Caravan Section.

I have so many memories of Bernie like him cooking over 100 sausages on the BBQ, baked beans & soup. Horse

shoe competitions - a champion - I think I beat him once. Winter walks & always around to help anyone, I & all the

SWA and the section will sadly miss him and out thoughts go out to all his family.

Derek MaidmentSouth West area

Obituary


Southern...Hi Campers

Winter was still kicking at our heels would it ever

improve, but then along came a week in February, just to

make us believe it was improving and then when Easter

arrived we were delighted with a sunny and warm holiday

weekend. In Guildford on the Saturday there was a re-

enactment of the Passion Play, which was excellent. Surrey

& South London and Southern Area held their respective

AGMs on the Sunday and both returned full committees.

Well how time flies and what a time we had in Northern

Ireland. Thank you to all our friends in the Emerald Isle,

which is beautiful and wouldn’t be so without the liquid

sunshine. Before the Rally I went to the Titanic Museum it

was truly amazing certainly not a museum to miss. As well

as over two hours in the museum we took a trip on the open-

top bus with a very informative courier who never stopped

talking, a wonderful city, let’s hope they manage to keep it

together!

What a wonderful welcome we got from our Northern

Ireland friends, how good it was to see so many from the UK

making the trip. Northern Ireland welcomed Robert and

Donna Louden on their probably last trip away. Everything

went off smoothly with John Finney, John and Maureen

Reid getting their well deserved Certificates of Merit. The

entertainment was good and the barbecue was excellent, so

much food. There was a very large raffle and one of our own

members Owen Wright won three prizes!!! The coach trip to

the Giants Causeway was interesting, I had been before but

at least it was not so windy this time and this was followed

by tea/coffee and scones. I went to the follow-on meet at

Lisburn and visited the Linen Museum which told the story

from Flax to Fabric of the Irish linen industry.

Now to look forward to the next meet run by Southern

Area, this will be at Rye Rugby Club from 27 June to 7

July, we shall be holding a Penny Fair followed by tea and

cakes. If last year is anything to go by it was good fun and

enjoyed by all with stalls from bygone years which I for one

remember well

Our next meet is at the Museum of Power, Hatfield Road,

Langford, Maldon, Essex from 12 to 16 July. This is a new

venue for us to try and encourage members who are in the

Essex/East Anglia Area to come and camp with us. The

rally fee includes 1 entry per unit to the museum, so I hope

members will take advantage of this offer. I am definitely

going but I haven’t told Blue he is going in the tunnel again.

After that we are off to the Norfolk Motorhome show to help

Kathy and Bryan on the Club stand. By the time this is over

we are almost halfway through our camping year, it seems to

go quicker each year.

Don’t forget the Section is going to do a block booking

for the feast of lanterns which is from 19 to 23 September

and the theme is “Down on the Farm” we thought we could

go as scarecrows which shouldn’t be too difficult for me.

Please contact Kathy if you are interested in joining us.

Whatever you do or wherever you go have a great

camping season and I look forward to seeing you

somewhere.

Mabel

Anglia Area to come and camp with us. There is plenty of

things to do and the site fees include 1entry per

Issue 185 - Summer 2019 | 25

Surrey &South London...Hi everybody hope you are fit and well and ready to read

all my ramblings this fine morning down in sunny Sussex

and I must say now, that I have lots to report to you about the

recent Section 57th A.G.M. That was hosted by Northern

Ireland Area, in the very grand area of Londonderry Co

Tyrone, and although a long way to travel, to was well worth

the journey to a very enjoyable gathering of friends old

and new, that we are lucky to have in this great Club of ours,

of course all events have a beginning and an end, but the

time spent getting there and back, is part of the pleasure of

visiting places that go back to when my sons and daughter

were small and things were not as posh as we are today,with

our super Motor Homes with all modes and cons to enjoy

while we go down memory lane, but also discover new

wonderful parts of the country,that because we are foot

loose and fancy free, we can stop and admire the wonderful

views in our own time, as I often say its not all bad getting

old, the ferry from Scotland over to Ireland was smooth as a

mill pond, and after a stop over in the Clubs delightful site

near Down Patrick we arrived on site to a warm welcome

from our hosts and a full programme to keep us entertained,

Paul and I did the 2 day Belfast tour on the top of a very

windy Bus, that was still too much to fit in as the Titanic

plus the tour of the city and all it entails you could be there

a week and still be finding sites to enjoy, but like all good

things, they come to an end, but the memories of the journey

will be with Paul and I for many years to come I hope, now

to tell you about all the goodies you have to come with the

venues that we hope you will enjoy with our very friendly

Committee.

Future Meets:5th–7th July

Wey Hill Fair PH, Weyhill Fair, Hants SPII OPP

On A342 Bus Stop site entrance, Full Programme, invite to

Kent\South West. Site opens 13.00pm 9.00 PUPN - 4 Nights

good touring area.

1st–4th August

Invite to Kent /South West -Swiss Farm, Marlow Rd, Henley

on Thames RG9 2HY MR175/760834 can walk into town 13

-00 PUPN – 3Nights.

22nd–26th August

Invite from Kent to Skinners School Field, Southfields Park,

Chesnut Ave, Tunbridge Wells TN4 9BU.

Good site with buses to Town centre and further afield site

opens14.00pm 8-50 PU 4Nts.

Well I hope I have got you filling in your diaries for these

excellent venues booked for your pleasure, and Paul and I

look forward to seeing you at some if not all soon.

Chris Bastin.

2019 National Feast of LanternsTurnpike Showground, Dorset -

19 - 23 SeptemberTheme “Down on the Farm”

The Section is again doing a block booking for this event, so if you would like to join us please complete a Booking form and send it with your cheque to -

Mrs K Giles, 62 Poplar Drive, Herne Bay, Kent CT6 7PY.

We will be doing a street scene and may also enter the Mardi Gras and this will be Worzel Gummidge, Aunt Sally family & friends - we are certain that if you join us we

can all come up with some brilliant Scarecrows!


Motor Caravan Section Holiday Meets 2019

As well as weekend and 5 night meets that our Areas &

Groups hosts throughout the year, we also Host Holiday

meets, so below are the details for you, so take a look and

maybe see where you can travel in your unit for a break.

These are always in beautiful parts of our country, usually

close to shops/cafes/bus stops, places of interest to visit and

good walking and cycling.

9th–24th June - North West Area - Dolydd, Ffordd-Felin,

Cemaes Bay, Anglesey LL67 0DS - MR114/366927 - Beautiful

site with some sea views overlooking the village, good

beach and shops & pubs in village.

20th June–4th July - Devon & Cornwall Area -

Exmouth RFC, Imperial Rd, Exmouth, Devon EX8 1DG

-MR192/998810 - Popular Site, own sanitation. Advance

booking essential, please call 01803 812162 - Phil Hingston

to book - £12.50 pu pnt

23rd June–8th July - North West Area - Manorafan Farm,

Abergele MR Good flat site close to beach and walking

distance of village - £8.50 pu pnt

27th June–7th July - Southern Area - Rye Rugby Club, New

Rd Rye, E Sussex TN31 7LS - MR179/928206 - Good flat site

walking distance of the Cinque Port of Rye with shops/pubs/

cafes & museums. Market day Thursday - Bus stop outside

site - £10.50 pupnt

27th June–11th July - Northern Area - Settle Football Club,

Bridge End, Settle N Yorks BD24 0BU - MR98/816641 - £8.50

pu pnt add adult £3.00 on. Good walking, town centre,

riverside please call for availability - Peter - 07927 109289 -

site opens at mid day.

5th–14th July - Northern Ireland Area - Shimna Intergrated

College, King Street, Newcastle, Co. Down BT33 0HD -

MR700/376298 - this a lovely place , with fantastic views -

come & see the Mountains of Mourne - £15.00 pu pnt

19th July–5th August - Scottish Area - Bankhead Farm, 26

Third Part, Craig, Fife KY30 3XB - MR59/590058 -l ovely

location with Fife Coastal Park a short walk from the site, bus

at site gates - 10 day Crail Food Fesitval on during this meet

- £9.00 pu pnt

20th July–6th August - Northern Area - Caedmon College,

Mayfield Rd, Whitby N Yorks YO21 1QD - MR94/896101 -

WC/Shwrs avail. Walking distance of town, handy buses,

cinder track walking/cycling x Pannett Park & Museum

- £14.00 pu pnt add adult £3.00 pnt. Call Dennis - 07927

109291 for availability - Site opens midday

25th July–20th August - Kent Group - Quex House,

Gardens & Powell Cotton Museum, Manson Rd, Birchington

Kent CT7 0BH - MR179/309682 - Excellent Site for exploring

East Kent, Farm Shop/restaurants/gardens/House & Museum,

Jungle Jim’s, Alpaca walks available. Stroll to Birchington

with shops/cafe.s & pubs or catch a bus to further afield.

Broadstairs Folk Festival runs while we are here - £10.50 pu

pnt - own facile essential.

25th July–16th August - Motor Caravan Section - Stow on

the Wold RFC, Oddington Rd, Stow on the Wold GL54 1JJ -

MR163/214255 - Ideal venue for touring the Cotswolds with

Shwrs/WC, Batt charging avail. You can walk to Stow or Buses

avail from site - check with Steward - £8.50 pupnt

29th August–15th September - Motor Caravan Section -

Manor Lodge Caravan Site, Staithe Rd, Ludham, Gt Yarmouth

NR29 5NP - MR134/388179 - Close to Nroads, walking

distance of shops/pubs and buses to Norwich/ Gt Yarmouth

etc - £9.00 pu pnt

4th–10th September - Scottish Area - Kelso Springwood

Showground, Springwood Park, Kelso, Scottish Borders

TD5 8LS - MR74/725336 - Good site walking distance of

town & buses - Showers & WC avail - £9.00 pupnt

6th–19th September - Northern Area - Seaburn Showfield,

Seaburn, Sunderland SR6 8AA - MR88/405606 - Nice site

on promenade close to town, lovely walking/cycling, sandy

beaches, beautiful coastal scenery - GT North Run finishes

8 Sep N of site - Buses to Sunderland & S Shields or walk

to Glass Museum £8.00 pupnt add Adult £3.00 pnt - own

sanitation essential

16th–23rd September - Scottish Area - Black Isle

Showground, Muir of Ord, Ross-shire IV6 7RS -

MR26/529501 - £9.50 pupnt w/out EHU or £14.00 pupnt

with EHU

23rd–30th September - Scottish Area - Spey Bridge

Caravan & Camping Park, Perth Rd, Newtonmore PH20 1BB

- MR35/709981 - £11.00 pupnt

3rd–9th October - Scottish Area - Loch House Farm,

(A706) Bo’ness Rd, Linlithgow, West Lothian EH49 7RG -

MR65/994776 - Good flat site walk to local shops/pubs &

restaurants or Linlithgow Palace only 5 mins walk from Loch

- Bus stop at site - £8.00 pupnt

For site directions and upto date information always check Out & About.

Issue 185 - Summer 2019 | 27

Please call for a [email protected]

Tel: 0115 932 9988 • Fax: 0115 932 6451

Luxury quilted covers High density foam interior,

Curtains made to measure, Cab seats completely

re-upholstered, Small family business, Electric hook up for

overnight stays

Regal Furnishing

Hav

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SEE US AT THE SHOWS

Unit 4 Merlin Way, Quarry Hill Industrial Estate,Ilkeston, Derbyshire DE7 4RA

See us at the The National Motorhome

& Campervan Show20th April – 22nd April 2018

PeterboroughStand Number 193

egalFurnishings.indd 1 21/02/2018 09:29PRO Report - Summer 2019We have just returned from Northern Ireland, and what a great time we had with our friends at the 57th National

Meet hosted by Northern Ireland Area, we had 61 units attending from the UK and a total of 90 units at our very

first National held in Northern Ireland, and of course we also celebrated the 10th Anniversary of the Northern

Ireland Area. I would like to say a big Thank You to Travel Services for getting us a good deal on the ferries, which

encouraged our members to go. Whilst we were on our Travels we met up with the Section President Bill Lees &

his lovely wife Susan and spent a couple of our reminiscing with them. Bill is looking good and was sorry tohave

missed the National, but he is hoping to join us for the 58th National next year.

Well what have we got to look forward to - Holiday Meets as detailed hosted by the Areas/Groups and the

Section, and of course also the weekend meets - come out and join us for a relaxing time where you can meet

old friends and make new ones. Then in September we have the NationalFeast of Lanterns, there is still time to

join the Section Block Booking just send your completed form together with cheque to me at 62 Poplar Drive,

Herne Bay, Kent CT6 7PY by the 12th July - as I said in the last issue we will be entering the Mardi Gras as Worzel

Gummidge, Aunt Sally, Family & Friends and I am sure we will have some brilliant Scarcrows!!

Finally my team and I manned the Club Stand at National Motorhome Show at Peterborough and we recruited

43 new members to our Club and chatted with many existing members. We will be at the Norfolk Motorhome

Show at Norwich Showground in July and then the Western Motorhome Show at Three Counties Showground in

August so come up and say hello and have a chat with us.

Happy Camping to you all

Kathy

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