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This
page holds copies of the recent Avon Group News entries forwarded to the MCC's Motor Caravanner magazine by our scribe. The Avon Diary entry is not included as this information is available on our Rallies page.
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| 2012 |
Forwarded December For Insertion In February 2012 Magazine
9th- 11th December saw the Avon Christmas Dinner held at Unity Holiday Resort, Brean. We had 59 vans arrive for this rally, and again the weather wasn’t too bad, a little rain but mainly dry. Friday night there was a Ventriloquist in the Farmers Tavern and our group was invited to attend. This was a very good show and had everyone talking about it next morning ( some wanted us to book him for one of our rallies but at £500.00 I think it was a bit out of our price range) Saturday morning was a bit dull/wettish but this didn’t stop a lot of the people going out either to the village of by bus to Burnham, Western, or further afield.
Saturday night was our dinner night. The mini bus started at 6.30pm and ferried us across to Dickies bar for our meal. Once everyone was settled in the carvey started. The meal was lovely, Turkey & Beef with all the trimming and a good variety of vegetables. The sweet trolley was a treat to see and I was tempted by the Lemon Drizzle dessert, oh boy was it nice but by the time I had finished I couldn’t move.
After we had finished eating Roger then thanked all the committee for the work they had done preparing for the evening, and then Roger and Tony proceeded to draw the raffle. There were some lovely prizes, many thanks to Yvonne for getting them for us. There were 2 hamper raffles as well, the Avon Hamper was won by Colin & Barbara Nash, and the British Heart Foundation Charity hamper was won by Roy & Rosemary Totterdell.
Once the raffle was finished there was a singer for the evening’s entertainment, and he had a fair few people up on the dance floor. A disco rounded the evening off, and I think I can say that everyone had a great time. Mini Bus was again used to ferry everyone back to the camp site. Sunday was a lazy day as having the “coffee morning Saturday night” we didn’t have to rush to get up too early. People started to go home around 10.00 ( a couple did go earlier) and by lunch time I think a majority had left. I think a couple of people did stay on until Monday but as the site was officially closed they could stay no longer.
Wonderful time had by me(and hopefully all), look forward to next year.
Kay
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Forwarded November For Insertion In January 2012 Magazine
Backwell School, was a very quick re-arrangement of venues after Fry’s Social Club- who had a new manager and informed us that dogs were not allowed on the site(Something the previous manager had waived so we could have our rally there) well done Carol for finding an alternative venue so quickly. We had 29 vans, which just shows that the Internet, phone calls all worked, in our favour. The Friday afternoon as everybody was arriving was lovely and sunny. Many dug out the chairs and tables and were able to sit out until quite late. Shame Saturday was not as nice. The weather didn’t stop people going into the village and a few ventured a little further afield. The bus stops were just up the road. Friday night we started with a quiz and then Roger provided the music for the evening. Saturday was a Karaoke evening but first off there was a parade of all the witches, wizards & ghouls (pictures on our website). Rowena Moulding won the prize for the best outfit. Coffee
morning was held during Saturday evening (room @ £22.00 + vat per hour we decided not to book it). Many thanks to Roger and Katherine for a lovely weekend.
Kay
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2011
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Forwarded October For Insertion In December 2011 Magazine
Brassknocker Basin saw 29 vans arrive for the weekend. This was a free and easy rally, just hoping the weather would be kind. If fact the weather was not wonderful but it didn’t stop people taking walks alongside the canal. Bradford on Avon one-way and Bath the other way. A few people decided to walk to Monkton Combe Church were “Harry Patch” was laid to rest.
The Avon AGM had 45 vans attend the rally at Hamfields Leisure, Berkeley. Friday night was skittles night in the clubhouse. An event thoroughly enjoyed by all who took part. Saturday morning at 10.30 saw the Open Forum followed at 11.00pm by the AGM. Roger Clark decided not to stand this year, but all the other committee members were re-elected. Our committee saw 3 new members this year Pet and Tony Heal and Tony Norman. Saturday night saw Bula Bula ( a 5 piece band) entertain us. They were very good and had everybody up on the floor dancing ( nearly all). Hoping to re-book them for a future venue. During the bands interval the draw for the “Name the Dog” and the Snail Lamp was done. Katherine won the Dog, and Tony won the Snail lamp. Sunday coffee morning ,the raffle was drawn. Mike gave out the details of future rallies and also reminded people they needed to book for the Christmas Dinner.
Kay
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Forwarded September For Insertion In November 2011 Magazine
Despite the weather forecast Roy & Shirley, helped by John &
Sonia, welcomed 65 units to the rally at Moor Farm, Weymouth for the
August Bank holiday. Friday there was a huge thunderstorm but after
that the weather gradually improved (except for the wind). The tractor
tour took place twice much to the approval of those that went on the
ride. The main downside to the rally was that the bus that usually came
into the site was no longer running (he had retired) so we had to rely
on the public transport at the top of the lane but although we could
use our bus passes, they did not run very often or at all over the
weekend. The fishing lakes were well used with several large carp being
caught. The tea and cakes and table-top sale went down well on Sunday.
Another successful rally.
The pre-Shepton Show
rally at Ashcombe Farm, Glastonbury attracted 29 units in total. The
Quiz and music went down very well on Saturday evening and nearby
Clarkes Village was invaded by our members who went on a shopping
storm. Thanks to Pat & Pete.
Kay
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Forwarded August For Insertion In October 2011 Magazine
Gatcombe Farm saw a total of 91 attend this pre-Balloon rally. The weather was changeable but on the whole it was kind to us.This rally had plenty to offer. There was a Pig Roast on Saturday Night, a Carvery on Sunday and a Cream Tea on Monday afternoon. The food was wonderful and I think I need to go on a diet now!!!! The farm shop had a large range of everything( so if you had forgotten it ,they had it). We also had Bingo and a Pub Quiz ( think it was Friday) hosted by Mike - great fun.Thanks Mike. Pete did the music for us on a couple of nights, it was great watching everyone dancing. So a big thank you to Pete. The bus stops outside the farm were well used- one way to Bristol and the other to Nailsea,Clevedon and Weston. On the Wednesday all those going to the Balloon Fiesta got ready to move the couple of miles up the road to Ashton Court, and hoping the good weather would continue.
247 vans arrived for the Balloon Fiesta ( not all at once mind) Once again the weather was fairly kind to us. I went over to Ashton Court with Mike and Carol and as we got there the heavens opened ( I'm sure someone was doing a rain dance back at the rally field) It finally stopped and we could continue looking round. I've never been before to I found it very good, a few freebies as well. The two night glows took place , followed by the fireworks and were great. I saw the mass assents in the early evening and got a few pictures , but unfortunately I missed the early morning ones ( still asleep) After Coffee morning on the Sunday The Family Travel Centre ( a new company) arranged for two vintage buses to take people on a free trip round part of Bristol, the commentator on the bus was none other than Alan "The Voice of The Balls" Dedicoat. As there were 2 buses he change over half way round so everyone was able to hear him. The buses went to the Family Travel Centres showrooms for free Tea and cakes. It was then on to the Park and Ride (the other one) where the was a large display of vintage buses, then it was back to the rally field. I wish to say a Big Thank you to The Family Travel Centre for putting on this free trip it was much appreciated by all who took the trip. The Red Arrows rounded off the week-end with a wonderfully display. There was no masses accent after as the wind was in the wrong direction,but I think thethe Red Arrows display took away any disappointment. For those who wanted to get into Bristol there was a bus stop outside the site, or a little walk down the road was the Park and Ride ( which actually took my Old age bus pass. Must be a first)
Kay
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Forwarded July For Insertion In September 2011 Magazine
17 vans arrive for the weekend at Melksham House. The village was within walking distance and the shops were well used by all. The Skittles match was held Saturday evening - Ladies V The Men. The men had a handicap - all the kids. The ladies won 36lj to 332 and Kylie had the highest individual score of 39. Weli done Ladies. On Sunday there was a cricket match on the viliage green, which was watched by most of those on the rally. All had a great time.
Strawberry Rally at Cheddar saw 76 vans arrive for this popular venue. The weather was great and people ventured out into Cheddar and further. Friday night there was music in the new marquee for those who wanted to chat, but as the weather was good quite a lot sat outside their van. The Strawberries and cream + tea/coffee on Saturday afternoon were wonderful, and were enjoyed by all. We had a few extra strawberries & cream so people were able to purchase them if they wanted to. Saturday evening we had Greg Sugget to entertain us, very good show. Coffee morning was held later to enable all who wanted, to go to the Car Boot sale.
Old Down Country Park despite the weather forecast 17 vans arrived at the venue for the weekend. In fact the weather turned out to be good. The camping was inside the Country Park itseif so we didn't have to pay to get into the Park each time. The cafe and farrn shop were well used. 1 member went out on a bike and ended up in Wales (over the Severn Bridge). Everyone thoroughly enjoyed it and all want to go back again next year.
Kay
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Forwarded June For Insertion In August 2011 Magazine
The bad weather forecast for the week end of 10th June saw the new venue of Nibley House attach just 15 van - 5 visitors and 10 Avon ( incl.1 new Avon member). Saturday Roger & Rowena arranged a treasure hunt around the village of Nibley, which was great fun. Ploughmans lunch in the local Pub. Then there was a fete held in Nibley House Saturday afternoon (great for getting our of the rain) Sunday coffee morning held in our hosts van ( again due to the weather)
Home Farm, Blue Anchor saw 57 vans arrive for Whitsun even thought the forecast was not favourable. A few brave people put (or tried to) up there awnings, ours had to come back down as one of the pole catches broke, but all who succeeded found that they weathered the wind (gale force at times) Unfortunately the Tea rooms and the shop had closed and we had to get papers etc from the Costcutters on the site next door. This was a free and easy weekend and the bus and trains were well used. Both Pubs were also very busy each evening. Coffee morning was held in the Tea Rooms on the Sunday morning (29th May) as there were quite a few people leaving both Sunday and Monday (Back to work Tuesday).Mike Smart stood in for Mike Edmonds, giving out all the news and next rally details. We had one new Avon member at her first rally and 3 or 4 first time visitors. Kevin also received a birthday card. Happy Birthday Kev. Tony then drew the raffle. Many thanks for all the donated raffle prizes. The quiz was won by Mark Neale (whos a clever boy then?) again many thanks for those who took part in this. There were still a few of us left Monday and the rally finished Tuesday Morning. Weather still windy and wet, any good weather left for "Summer".
Kay
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Forwarded April For Insertion In July 2011 Magazine
113 vans enjoyed the Easter to May Day break at
Brixham. The weather was fantastic, a wonderful site, walks to Berry
Head. Lots of other events, Easter Bonnet parade, quizzes, bingo,
karaoke, and an old time music hall, being just a few. Hot Cross buns
on Good Friday. Tea and cakes to celebrate the Queens birthday and
bunting around the field. A TV in the marquee for the Royal Wedding
followed by a street party (in a field) we've never seen so much food,
we had to find more tables to accommodate it. There were 2 coffee
mornings with raffles so everyone had a chance of winning. Everyone
thoroughly enjoyed the break, this site has been booked for next
Easter.
28 Vans (9 S.Valley, 19 Avon) arrived for the battle of the Avon
Skittles Shield, at Sharpness Dock Workers Club. Friday was a get
together in the Club, meals served. Saturday was a free day to walk by
the Canal and Marina or further afield. Some of us tried the quiz - I
didn't do very well! Saturday night was the Skittles challenge where
Penny won the shield. Many thanks for all who took part. Sunday coffee
morning was held by our hosts van, Mike made a few announcements and
Pat drew the raffle. Jane gave the quiz answers, the winner was
Trevorwell done. Sunday Lunch was served in the clubhouse for those
who had booked. I can recommend the lovely meal plenty of everything.
Castle Combe 92 vans (41 visitors, 51 Avon) arrived at this popular
venue. We got a few short showers but mainly it was dry but windy. I've
never been before but enjoyed it immensely. Coffee morning on Sunday
got one of the short but heavy showers just as the raffle draw begun,
but all prizes found their winners. We were allowed to stay but had to
leave by 6pm. Time to spend some more money.
Kay
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Forwarded March For Insertion In June 2011 Magazine
53 Vans arrived at Broadway House, Cheddar for a very pleasant weekend. Friday night. Room available for an informal get together , the bar was open. Saturday a few ventured out into the wilds of Somerset from the bus stop outside the site(Cheddar and Wells) Some of us tried the quiz which had to be handed in Saturday night, I didn't do to well on that.
I couldn't tell you who won as I was unable to hear Mike at the Coffee morning even thought he was using a microphone.
Jane the receptionist at Broadway House donated a very large Bear for our charity which raising £39. Many thanks.
Saturday night we started the evening with one of Mary's now very famous Beetle drives - all proceeds from this again went to our charity £21.00 collected. Many thanks to all for this.The bar was again open and meals were served,and Roger provided music for both evenings. Sunday coffee morning at 11.00am. Mike presented Yvonne with a birthday card as she
celebrated her 60th birthday and an Roger presented an Anniversary card to Mike and Carol. Answers to quiz given out and prize to winner, then the raffle was drawn. Sunday lunch was being served at Broadway House and quite a few people stayed on for this.
Kay
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Forwarded February For Insertion In May 2011 Magazine
At
Wincanton we only had 15 vans, 4 visitors and 11 Avon, but it was a
small friendly rally and very enjoyable. We had lovely sunny weather
and people sat outside their vans or went into town. On Friday night
Roger did a quiz in the hall and background music. On Saturday
afternoon we played boules and Roger Clark, a clear winner, wins the
trophy for a year. Roger did a bit of singing and piayed background
music Sat night. Glorious
sunny and warm weather greeted the 47 vans that attended the Beehive
rally - 16 visitors and 30 Avon, has summer arrived early? (hope there
is some for later in the year). Being by the Kennet & Avon Canal,
many members decided to take advantagee of the lovely walks by the
canal. Some also took the bus into Trowbridge, Bath or Bradford on
Avon. Friday was Colin's birthday and cake and nibbles by their van to
celebrate the occasion. There was a quiz in the evening which was great
fun. Saturday saw a table top sale along with some fun and games
including Splat the Egg, a Tombola and horseshoe throwing being just a
few of the events. Saturday night Roger did a Karaoke evening. Usual
Coffee morning on Sunday with raffle etc. There was no deadline as to
when we had to leave so a fair few stayed on and enjoyed the good
weather.
Kay
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Forwarded January For Insertion In Apr 2011 Magazine
Bath Racecourse (a new venue) saw 47 vans attend for the Valentines week-end. Friday night saw a New Years rally (due to cancellation of the real thing) with all the fun and games we all expect at New Year, including Play Your Cards Right. There was £50.00 for prizes and Katherine won £20.00 and Carol won £ 30.00. Every one had a great time and enjoyed the evening. The Professional entertainment Saturday night was provided by 'The Barracudas'. Sunday was coffee morning and the raffle was drawn, and we wish to thank Celia for the naming of the dog competition. We had 2 Avon first time ralliers this week-end I do hope you enjoyed the week-end and join us again at future rallies.
Unfortunately St Martins School rally had no host, Mike asked for volunteers but
no one came forward so this rally was cancelled.
Kay
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