Issue #26 – Spring 2008

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CLUB ORGANISERS

There have been a few changes here recently so this is the up-to-date information on club organisers.

Sales / AccountsPat Yule – Foxyemail: cruisers@ukcruisers.netTel: (0121) 777 5646

Membership & NewsletterHelen & Trevor Gunn – Steelcruisersemail: steelcruisers@aol.comTel: 020 8335 3430

Traders ContactJanet Cameron – JCjanetcameron99@hotmail.comTel: 07740 167058

Chris Wilson – Kruzerfanemail: wils62@tiscali.co.ukTel: 07702 778465

Organiser & Web SiteChris Shiers – KentKruzeremail: chris@ukcruisers.netTel: 01622 754595

OrganiserMichelle & Kev White - Rebelracersemail: whitek383@aol.comTel: 02476 316935

CONTENTS PAGE

Letter from Pat ..................................

Club Accounts 2007..........................

Snippets..............................................

Picnic in the Park Information Page

Previous Cruises:

Haynes; Midlands; Mira; OK Diner..

New Members....................................

Future Events.....................................

Meet the Members.............................

Area Reps...........................................

Contacts.............................................

Club Merchandise..............................

Discounts & Offers............................

Advertising........................................

Questionnaire.....................................

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All of the organisers and reps are happy to receive your phone calls, but please keep your calls within socially acceptable hours, i.e. between 9.30am and 9.30pm. Bear in mind that most people have daytime jobs.

Text and Photos from Members and associated other than imported magazine articles © 2006. All content copyright 2006 © U K C R U I S E R S All rights reserved

Front cover features Chris Shiers aka KentKruzer at the Whitehouse Fun Day 2007 in Crayford, Kent.

Peel's Motorkraft Ltd are proud to sponsor the UK Cruisers

Website in 2008/09

Letter from the ed:

Well here we are with a brand new cruising year. The weather might be foul now but come Spring and the sun will shine for us-I hope!

I’m quite overwhelmed and so proud that the club is still going strong and even going from strength to strength 7 years after it was only a thought in my head. I know that without all the great organizers and reps working away like made this would not have been the case. THANKYOU guys and gals. Also without our strong membership giving the club their support things may have been very different. So I thank you also.

2008 now sees us with a vision for a bigger and better PITP than the last one and many ideas are on the drawing board. Please let us know if you have any, your input is always welcome-it is YOUR club. Let’s make this an exciting year for the club. Not only at PITP but all year round. People are coming up with fabulous and novel ideas for cruises. Please don’t stop.

Happy cruising 2008 to you all.Pat

INCOME EXPENDITURE

Membership / Renewals £7,062.04 Printing / Post / Stationery £1,653.04Sales Goods £1,835.05 Sales / Stock £1,233.58PITP £1,055.20 PITP £1,908.61Charity Money £1,528.52 Insurance £450.00

£11,480.81 Miscellaneous to include:-Local meet trophiesXmas PartyClub Banners etc. £1,304.05

Stock in Hand £452.09 Charity Cheque £1,528.52£8,624.12

Cash at Bank & Petty Cash £3,308.78TOTAL £11,932.90 TOTAL £11,932.90

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LETTER FROM PAT

UKC CLUB ACCOUNTS 2007

CONGRATULATIONS – Due to a change in circumstances, Keith (Smeghead) is unable to give his full attention to the role of rep for East Anglia. However, I am delighted to say that Sarah & Frank (Safra Cat & Hurricane Blue) have agreed to take over the role from Keith who has admirably still offered his assistance when needed. I'm sure you will all join me in wishing them well in this new role and give them your full support.QUESTIONNAIRE – We have put together a short questionnaire which can be found at the end of this newsletter. We would really appreciate everyone taking a few minutes to fill it out and return it. The information will help us to take on board your comments and keep our database current. SHOW YOUR SUPPORT – The charity supported by the club is currently Breast Cancer Care but this will finish on 31st March 2008. However, you can still purchase the latest calendar produced in aid of the charity by members of the club, please contact your Area Rep or ask for one when you go to your next meet . Its the perfect must have gift for all your friends and family.

To All at UK Cruisers Car Club On behalf of Breast Cancer Care, I am writing to express my sincere thanks for the fantastic donation of £2,197.02 raised from a raffle, auction and the sale of calendars and pin badges. Your support to Breast Cancer Care is truly appreciated. When Breast Cancer Care’s founder Betty Westgate was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1968, there was little, if any, information and support available for people in her situation. Over 30 years later Breast Cancer Care is the UK's leading provider of free information, practical assistance and emotional support for anyone affected by breast cancer. We give direct support to over 22,000 people through our helpline, peer support and other direct services and we respond to two million requests for help and information through our publications, website and outreach work. All of our services are free, and it is the dedication and imagination of people like you at UK Cruisers that makes this possible. Once again, thank you for this wonderful donation and your support to Breast Cancer Care. We really are very grateful. Kind regards Amy CasboltArea Fundraising Assistant, North & Midlands

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SNIPPETS

Well the excitement is already starting to build with less than 5 months to go to what will be a truly international meet this year with some spectacular PT's attending. We already have PT's confirmed from Belgium, Germany, The Netherlands and Switzerland. So just to keep you up-to-date with a few things please take a look at the information below.

SOME OF THE TRADERS ALREADY CONFIRMED INCLUDE:

* MARTYS GRAFIX * AUTOGLYM * ROUTE 66 BODYWORK * THE CANDY STORE *

* PINSTRIPING UK * IAN GUY MOTORING ARTIST * SMARTWAX *

LOCAL HOTELSPremier Inn (J15 M1)Northampton Great Billing A45The Quays, Crow Lane, Great Billing, Northampton NN3 9DATel: 0870 9906510www.premierinn.com

Premier Inn (J15 M1)Northampton South (Wootton)Newport Pagnell Road West, Wooton, Northampton NN4 7JJTel: 0870 9906426www.premierinn.com

Premier InnNorthampton Bedford Road/A428, The Lakes, Northampton NN4 7YDTel: 08701 977196www.premierinn.com

Premier Inn (J16 M1)Northampton West (Harpole)Harpole Turn, Weedon Road, Harpole, Northampton NN7 4DD Tel: 08701 977195www.premierinn.com

Premier Inn (J16 M1)DaventryHigh Street, Weedon, Northampton NN7 4PXTel: 0870 9906364www.premierinn.com

The Overstone ParkBilling Lane, Overstone, Northampton NN6 0ASTel: 01604 647666www.overstonepark.com

The Aviator HotelSywell Aerodrome, Northampton NN6 0BNTel: 01604 642111

Travelodge145 Upton Way, Northampton NN5 6EGTel: 0870 2340354www.travelodge.co.uk

Hilton Northampton Hotel100 Watering Lane, Collingtree, Northampton NN4 0XWTel: 01604 700666www.hilton.co.uk

Northampton Marriott HotelEagle Drive, Northampton NN4 7HWTel: 01604 007252www.marriott.co.uk

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PICNIC IN THE PARK 2008 - INFORMATION PAGE

CRUISE TO HAYNES INTERNATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM – 24th FEBRUARY 2008

By October last year we were already missing ‘the cruise experience’ and with nothing planned, the thought sneaked into our heads of an early year cruise.

January was just too soon after Christmas, so February it had to be. The next question was where? Various venues were looked at, and rejected, for one reason or another. So we thought, let’s find an area first and then see what’s there. The most accessible region for the west coast cruisers, including those from Devon and Cornwall, and for those from the south, had to be on the A303 / M5 corridor, or close to it.

Enter Haynes, one of the best motor museums in the UK.

We knew that a few people were interested so the post on the Forum was made and we watched as the numbers steadily grew to over 20 cars.

Haynes offered us reserved parking, but if there were over 20 cars we would have to use the events field. I pointed out to the very nice young lady that certain cars attending were not very happy on grass, or rather their owners weren’t, so tarmac it was.

Once again, the gods smiled upon us and the threatened rain failed to materialise until later in the day when we were on our way home.

The cruise started when we met Norm before we joined the M5 and then waiting at Gordano services were members from Bristol, the Midlands and Wales

including The Shiners who had been fitting more chrome to OMDs car! A surprise guest appearance was made by DK who proceeded to give a couple of speed demonstrations, join Tony (The Shiners) in being good Samaritans to a Fiat Punto and was last seen sniffing at the rear of an Audi TT disappearing at high speed down the M5.

Meanwhile the rest of us had a pleasant cruise to Haynes through some beautiful Somerset countryside, collecting a prospective member on the way for his first cruise. We all managed to stay together, apart from one junction and arrived at Haynes in tight formation! Shep and the cruisers from the east, along with DK, were already there and it was great to see many familiar faces as well as some first timers.

The weather was springlike and it was a real pleasure to be outside just chatting and enjoying ourselves with the PTs. The museum finally beckoned and I think that everybody enjoyed the wonderful selection of cars on show from all eras.

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PREVIOUS CRUISES AND MEETINGS

My favourites were the Plymouth Prowler, the Dussenberg and, of course, the 1940s and 50s American cars.

SPARK was wondering if he could hide the Lambretta on display in his boot, but decided that they might notice it being wheeled out! After refreshments, Shell doing her best to relieve us of some money for merchandise, and a lot more chat and laughter, all too soon people started to leave for their journey home.

A big, big thank you to all who attended the first UKC cruise of 2008 - without you there would be no cruise. See you all next time.

Pete and Gill

MIDLANDS MONTHLY MEET

Just a quick up date on the long running, Midland Monthly Meets. As most people will be aware, in the Midlands, we meet on the first Wednesday of each month. This is a general get together and a chat.

Our biggest turn out to date has been 16 cruisers, which is great for a mid week meeting. We compliment the Yank Tanks from the AACUK, and with all of us there the display of vehicles has been stunning.

We have tried a couple of different venues, The Griffin Pub in Warwickshire, The Hare and Hounds in the West Midlands and The Bulls Head in Leicestershire, all of which are good places with

decent size car parks and food available.

As the night draws in we have been privy to private glow shows from a number of individuals, in preparation for the ever-increasing fantastic Saturday night PITP competition??

If anyone is interested in joining us for one of these meets, then please contact us on 07710 111016 or check the forum for information on which venue it will next be held at.

Merchandise is also always available at these meets.

Hope to meet with you soon, Rebelracers.

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PUBLICISING MEETS / UK CRUISER REPSIf you have an event that you would like UK Cruisers to publicise, contact Helen & Trevor on 020 8335 3430 or email steelcruisers@aol.com or contact your local representative as listed on the contents page.

If you know of an event taking place that you think PT Owners would be interested in (eg your local dealer is having an Open Day), please let us know.

MIRA PROVING GROUND & MICRO BREWERY CRUISE – 8th SEPTEMBER 2007

For those who are unaware, MIRA is the Motor Industry Research Association, and we were privileged as a club to be allowed to venture on site, not only through the gates, but also to be allowed to ride the circuits of the testing ground. The organisers of this meet were the Scrappyracers, Gabi & Darren, and our thanks go out to them first and foremost. Due to the confidential nature of the research that goes on a MIRA, security was very high and camera’s, mobile telephones etc… were not permitted, although MIRA’s own photographer took some great pictures at different times during our visit.

Friday Evening The event started on the Friday evening, as we were joined by the southern-based ‘Stocky’s’ and the Welsh ‘OMD’ wagon, who were making a weekend of it. We enjoyed a good meal, brilliant company and then proceeded over the road to the local Ten Pin Bowling alley. The bowling itself is highly entertaining, with Miss Candyblack leading many people into a false sense of security, stating that she couldn’t bowl and then wiping the floor with all and sundry! We occupied three lanes and the fun and laughter was in full flow. A couple of hours later, we all departed and arranged for meeting up the following day.

MIRAAs mentioned before, the work carried out by MIRA is very sensitive and secretive, so the importance of all of us arriving at the correct time etc... was important, well done to everyone who respected this and within a couple of minutes, the entire group were parked in the car park.

We were then taken into the conference room for a presentation of the work that MIRA completes, with a dedicated section for the PT Cruiser.

This presentation was delivered by a nervous Mrs Scrappyracer (Gabi does this for a living), however, I suppose if you were stood in front of a motley crew of UKC members it could prove to be quite off putting. Gabi then managed to get her own back on anyone who had given her a hard time, by showing the crash test video of our beloved PT Cruiser, the cries of pain from the PT owners in the room will haunt us forever!

Gabi then played it back once again, just for effect, and a repeat of the anguished cries as the PT hit the wall at a speed. As the group left the conference room, we were all given a goody bag that contained loads of useful information, plus a MIRA mug, thanks to MIRA for this, it was a great touch.

Back behind the wheels of the cars, we were then lead out onto the proving ground where we were treated to a number of different testing activities.

The PT handled very well, and there were definitely some nice cars also testing at the same time as us – cant say what they were, you had to be there though to see them.

A really big thank you to MIRA for allowing us to visit and we hope that we are invited again this year, perhaps Gabi can once again organise this on our behalf.

Micro BreweryFrom MIRA we travelled to a local Micro Brewery at Church End, the route took us along the A5 and the convoy definitely caused some head turning.

Once we were at the brewery we were treated to a tour behind the scenes, before making our way into the bar to try some real ales. The cars in the car park were causing some interest, however, the owners were all in the bar! Not really, after trying some very strange concoctions, were made our way outside and generally chatted about the events of the past 24 hours.

It can be safely assumed that 14 PT's and their owners had a great weekend, and special thanks to SWC, Stocky and OMD and their respective partners for making the journey to support us with this event.

All in all – a nice variety of activities and as always, excellent company.

P.S. We did then also get the Stocky’s and OMD’s up at 5.30am on the Sunday for the journey south to the Whitehouse Crayford meet, who says that UKC members have no stamina!!! Rebelracers.

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OK DINER MEET – DERBYSHIRE – 30TH JANUARY 2008

Feeling a little lost in the aftermath of Christmas, it was decided that a good meal, chatting to friends, was required. Where to go? Was the burning question, and seeing as UK Cruisers members can obtain a 15% discount at the OK Diner restaurants, the choice became obvious. (To receive the discount, you only need to show your UKC membership card to the staff)

For the Midlands members this was a new venue, however, the support of the regulars was again evident. After meeting at the Red Gate, we formed a nice little convoy, negotiating the twists and turns in the country lanes (as we took the scenic route), and arriving at the diner within 40 minutes of leaving Coventry.

We pulled into the car park to see another two PT’s standing proud, and as we ventured into the diner Daddykool and Tin Lizzy were seated and tucking into some very appetising looking food. All orders were taken quickly and the food soon appeared in front of us, good size portions and a nice friendly, efficient service from the staff.

Another PT pulled in, and we were surprised to see Mick & Carole (The Aviators), who had made the journey from Northampton to join us for some good

food and good company. The Aviators were closely followed by relatively new members ‘Peanut & Nessa’ from Cannock. As people finished eating they were treated to a short ride in Daddykools mean machine, now known locally as ‘Black Thunder’. We think we should start asking for a donation from the passengers, as they are all willing to form an orderly queue to have the accolade of saying ‘I have survived a ride in Black Thunder’, or maybe we could have some T-shirts printed with the statement on it! Only joking.

Although this meet had only eight cruisers, (Rebelracers, Daddykool, Aviator, Peanut & Nessa, Tin Lizzy, Madfrank, Les & Sandra and Happy Trails), it was just what was needed by all. Just for the record, these 8 cruisers came from 6 different counties – Warwickshire, Staffordshire, Leicestershire, West Midlands, Nottinghamshire and Northamptonshire.

Our thanks go to the staff of the diner for the service that was enjoyed by all. If anyone would like us to organise another meet here, then please let us know. The car park is huge and can support a large turnout of PT’s.

A very warm welcome to you all and thank you for choosing to join our club.

Claire DigbyVanessa NewtonLynn & Kelvin BeechTom CookeBryan Dalgleish-WarburtonJohn HawkinsLynn & George IrelandGertJan van den BergScott WaltonJorg RohrdanzGlen StoreyBrian WinspearNeil PorterColin Packham

EssexStaffordshireSuffolkStaffordshireLancashireWest MidlandsWiltshireNetherlandsHampshireGermanyNorthumberlandScotlandOxonLancashire

Anthony IsaacsJohn KozatAndrea & Alan BullenMichael TysonGarry LawDavid HerdKevin WhiteIan MercerTony MurrayTrevor NesterSandra BennettMike LiningtonDavid MacleanPaul Harris

KentSomersetLancashireStaffordshireWarwickshireHertfordshireKentStaffordshireNorthamptonHertfordshireKentKentDurhamPowys

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NEW MEMBERS SINCE LAST NEWSLETTER

THIS IS A PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

IF YOU HAVE ACCESS TO THISYOU CAN GET YOUR NEWSLETTER AS A PDF FILE VIA EMAIL

It’s more cost effective and less time consuming because it reduces:-

►PAPER ►PAPER ► TONER ►ENVEOPES

►POSTAGE ► TIMEYOUR REWARD - YOU SEE IT IN FULL COLOUR & A FEW

DAYS EARLIER!!!

TO RECEIVE YOUR NEWSLETTER IN THIS WAY CONTACT HELEN & TREVOR WHO WILL ADD YOU TO THE GROUP EMAIL steelcruisers@aol.com OR TEL: 020 8335 3430

Monthly Meets For further details contact...SE Monthly Meets – takes place on Wednesdays from 7.30 pm onwards at The Wharf, Cotton Lake, Galleon Boulevard DA2 6QE, Tel: 01322 229932

Tom (Rockin' Rebel) Tel: 07958 643042

Midlands Meet - 1st Wednesday of each month at the Hare & Hounds Pub in Coventry.

Kev & Shell (Rebel Racers)Tel: 02476 316935

Leeds Meet - 2nd Saturday each month – J1 M621 in B&Q/Burger King car park – meet from 7 pm onwards.

Frank & Becki (Magoo & Betty Boop)Tel: 01226 716297

MarchGOOD FRIDAY 21st March – Wheels Day, Rushmore Arena, Aldershot, Hampshire GU11 1SQ. Run by Surrey Street Rodders with thousands of custom cars / hotrods / motorbikes plus trade stands and much more. Meet at Tesco's car park, 5 Wellington Avenue, Aldershot GU11 1SQ at 09.00 and leave at 09.30.

Chris Wilson (Kruzerfan)Mob: 07702 778465

AprilSUNDAY 6th April – RSPCA EASTWINCH – Rare chance to see first-hand the hard work and rehabilitation of animals before they are released back into the wild. A donation of £5.00 per person is required by the hospital. Meet at 10.00 at McDonalds in Swaffham, Grange Farm (A47) PE37 7TZ. After the tour there will be a cruise to the OK Diner.

Sarah & Frank (Safra Cat / Hurricane Blue)East Anglia RepTel: 01284 723895

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UK CRUISERS FUTURE EVENTS 2008

SATURDAY 19th April – Ace Cafe, Ace Corner, North Circular Road, Stonebridge, London NW10 7UD – Starts at Midday www.ace-cafe-london.com

David (Fab Cruiser) – London & West RepTel: 01895 834161Mob: 07710 021932

SATURDAY/SUNDAY 19th/20th April – Enter the Dragon Wales Weekend

Saturday – includes a trip on the Brecon Mountain Railway @ 13.30 p.m. (approx. 1 hour) Adults £7.65, Seniors £6.75, Kids £4

Sunday - includes a tour of the Big Pit @ 11.00 a.m. www.museumwales.ac.uk A chance to go 300 feet underground to experience being a Welsh miner. Afterwards you have a chance to look around the museum and a pub lunch.

If you are interested in making this a weekend cruise you can book into the Premier Travel Inn, Newport South Wales, Coldra Jct (J24 M4), Chepstow Road, Langstone, Newport, Gwent NP18 2NX, Tel: 08701 977193

Kevin (OMD) – Wales RepTel: 01633 271262

SATURDAY 26th April – RAF Lakenheath Car Show, starts 10.00-4.00 and includes craft / food /static displays / prizes for best paint / best interior / competitors choice / ugliest car. Entries for this close 29th

March. Security for this show is top level. Driver must provide driving licence, and everyone must provide 2 forms of ID (one must have a photo). Must also provide make, model, colour, reg. no. drivers name, passengers names, email, address, postcode and telephone no.

Sarah & Frank(Safra Cat / Hurricane Blue)East Anglia RepTel: 01284 723895

SUNDAY 27th April – Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA – A chance to take a trip around the vineyard itself and then a tour of the working winery and enjoy some wine tasting (juice for kids). External vineyard tour £4 adults and the internal tour (45 mins) of the working winery including wine tasting £7.25 p/p. We can arrange a group discount (20 people reduces the price by £1 each tour) but will need to know numbers by end of March so that we can book seats on the tours. Closing date for this event is 4th April. www.denbiesvineyard.co.uk

Helen & Trevor (Steelcruisers) Surrey RepTel: 020 8335 3430

MaySUNDAY 11th May – Basingstoke Festival of Transport, The War Memorial Park, Crossborough Hill, Basingstoke, Hants RG21 4AG – Good selection of classic / vintage / military / emergency services / public transport vehicles / on show including static displays from other car clubs and an assortment of stalls. We have been allocated 20 spaces with the possibility of more depending on interest shown by April. We will meet at the Hilton Hotel car park again off Old Common Road, Basingstoke at 09.30.

Mark(Shep)Tel: 01256 781980Mob: 07768 005056

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SUNDAY 18th May – Black Country Museum, Dudley, W. Mids, DY1 4SQ – Visit the urban heritage park and see costumed demonstrators and living characters bringing history to life. There are period vehicles, tramcars, trolley buses running between various buildings or you can visit the local coal mine or take a trip on the canal (at extra cost). www.bclm.co.uk - We need a minimum of 15 cars to organise this event.

Kev & Shel(Rebelracers) W. Mids RepTel: 02476 316935

SUNDAY 25th May - Chrysler Day at Brooklands Museum – Brooklands Road, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 0QN – Tel: 01932 857381 - www.brooklandsmuseum.com – Open from 10.00 a.m. Adults £8 – Students/Seniors £6 – Kids £5 (aged 6-16) – Kids under 5 go free – Family Ticket £20 (2 adults, 3 kids).

Helen & Trevor (Steelcruisers) Surrey RepTel: 020 8335 3430

JuneFRIDAY/SATURDAY/SUNDAY/MONDAY 6th-9th June – Cruise the Netherlands 5 – visiting the region of Gelderland, Apeldoorn and surrounding areas and staying at the Hotel Cantharel (Apeldoorn). There will be a meet 'n greet at the local dealership, cruise, evening BBQ and buffet, competitions. Over 8 countries already represented.

Outward ferry: Dover to Dunkerque at 08.00Return ferry: Dunkerque to Dover at 18.01www.norfolkline-ferries.co.uk/ferry)

Pete (KentPete)Tel: 01622 853748Mob: 07879 426265

SATURDAY 14th June – Europaplatz, Hagen-Vorhalle, Germany. More than 60 PT's attended last year, so if you are interested please let Gert know.

Gertb7.pt.cruizer.club@gmx.de

SUNDAY 15th June – Fathers Day Vintage & Classic Vehicle Rally at Harewood House – Over 700 classic and vintage cars / commercial / motorbikes including the Yorkshire Post Motor Show with up to 20 major motor dealers in the region, trade stands and continuous entertainment including “The Honda Lings” motorcycle display team. £5.00 entry fee but we can get a discount on if we have 10 or more interested. Please let us know by May 15th.

Becki & Frank(Betty Boop & Magoo)Yorkshire & The North RepTel: 01226 716297

SUNDAY 22nd June – Ravens Wood Classic & Custom Car Show, Oakley Road, Bromley, Kent BR2 8HP – Over 300 cars on show.

SteveMob: 07767 200099

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SUNDAY 28th June – Chatsworth House, Chatsworth, Bakewell, Derby DE45 1PP – Tel: 01246 565300 – www.chatsworth-orgTHIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED

Chris (Motorvating)Midlands Rep Tel: 01455 446959

SUNDAY 29th June – Bristol American Car Show – Cars, bikes, trucks. £5.00 entry fee per car including passenger. Proceeds to special needs kids in the area. We need a minimum of 10 cars to organise this event.

Pete (Bladerunner)South West RepTel: 01453 843233

SUNDAY 20th July – Uxbridge Autoshow - £5.00 entry required by middle of May.

David (Fab Cruiser)London & West RepTel: 01895 834161Mob: 07710 021932

July

SUNDAY 6th July – Walton Car Show. Adrian (Rushphoto)

SUNDAY 13th July – Days of Thunder, Rockingham Motor Speedway, Mitchell Road, Corby, Northants NN17 5AF - www.rockingham.co.uk £10 tickets when special code quoted. We get a chance to cruise the oval track between races behind the pace car before being let loose on a lap of our own

Chris Wilson (Kruzerfan)Mob: 07702 778465

SATURDAY/SUNDAY 26th/27th July – Mail by Rail Gala – A re-enactment at Quorn station of how the mail trains used to pick up the post. You can travel between stations and look around the yards / museums. We can either do this as a one day event on Sunday or spread across to Saturday as well.

Helen & TrevorSurrey RepsTel: 020 8335 3430

SUNDAY 3rd August – Lingfield Steam Fair - £2.00 entry per car – Closing date 30th June.

DaveBudweiser Blues 2Tel: 020 8309 0255

A U G U S T

Any Organiser or Rep. Details listed in the newsletter

The UK Cruiser annual Picnic in the Park will be taking place in Puddleduck Field. Look out for updates in each newsletter and of course on our own club website.

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SATURDAY/SUNDAY 9th/10th - Billing Aquadrome, Crow Lane, Great Billing, Northampton NN3 9DA – Tel: 01604 408181 - www.aquadrome.co.uk

SUNDAY 24th August – Dunsfold Wings & Wheels, Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 8TB - www.wingsandwheels.net – Over 15,000 attended in 2007 – An exceptional family day out, showcasing some of the finest civil and military aircraft displays in the UK, including the Red Arrows, combined with an impressive line-up of record breaking cars and motoring displays, stalls and traders.

£10 per car & driver, additional adult passengers £10, Kids £5 – The closing date for this event is 23rd May. To reserve your space we will need to have received your payment by this date payable to .... send to 12 Cotswold Way, Worcester Park, Surrey KT4 8LL.

Helen & Trevor (Steelcruisers) Surrey RepTel: 020 8335 3430

SUNDAY 24th August – Streetrod Nationals, Trinity Park, Ipswich – Hundreds of hot / street / tot rods, customs, gassers, chops and bobbers.

Sarah & Frank(Safra Cat / Hurricane Blue)Tel: 01284 723895

SUNDAY 31st August – Colchester Lions Club – Annual vehicle show in Castle Park.

AdrianRushphoto

MONDAY 25th August - 2nd Annual West “Stretch your Legs” Cruise Pete (Bladerunner)South West RepTel: 01453 843233

September

SUNDAY 7th September – Whitehouse Crayford Fun Day – Non stop fun, entertainment, competitions, discount on parts bought on the day and free safety inspection. All day BBQ.

Keith(Khrome Kruiser)Tel: 01322 349733

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SATURDAY 13th September – Motor Heritage Centre, Banbury Road, Gaydon, Warwickshire CV35 0BJ – Tel: 01926 641188 - www.heritage-motor-centre.co.uk – Adults £6, Kids FREE. There is a free guided tour plus the chance to have a go on 4X4, GoKarts, miniature roadway and assault course rounding off the day with a meal (venue to be confirmed). Minimum of 12 required to arrange this event.

Chris (Motorvating)Midlands Rep Tel: 01455 446959

SUNDAY 14th September – Vintage Aircraft Club Wings & Wheels Fly In, Turweston Aerodrome, Northampton – Vintage & classic cars / motorbikes / farm machinery, BBQ (you bring the food and they cook it).

MickAviatorTel: 01933 674759

October

SATURDAY/SUNDAY 18th/19th – Although still in the planning stages this is the weekend that has been chosen to visit Blackpool and cruise the illuminations. So if you fancy a trip to the seaside for some candyfloss, fish 'n chips and a ride on the Big One contact Becki & Frank now to register your interest.

Becki & FrankBetty Boop / MagooTel: 01226 716297

November

SATURDAY 1st November – Halloween fancy dress at Nelsons Diner, Kingsclere, Hampshire. Great American diner and food. We hope to combine this with an Elvis night as well. A deposit will be required to reserve your space. www.nelsonsdiner.co.uk

Shep (Mark)Hampshire RepTel: 01256 781980Mob: 07768 005056

SATURDAY 1st November - Ace Cafe, Ace Corner, North Circular Road, Stonebridge, London NW10 7UD.

David (Fab Cruiser)London & West RepTel: 01895 834161Mob: 07710 021932

SATURDAY 8th November – Churchillian Pub – Meet for something to eat with great views from Portsdown Hill where you can see for miles and watch all the fireworks.

Mark (Shep)Hampshire RepTel: 01256 781980Mob: 07768 005056

SATURDAY 22nd November – Santa goes Panto – The festivities will again be taking place in Millars Restaurant at Crow Lane, Great Billing, Northampton NN3 9DA. There are only 65 spaces available to UKC members only and your space will only be booked on receipt of your £5 per person registration fee (payable to K. Leebrooke. If you are thinking of booking overnight stay at the Premier Lodge call 01604 417416.

Registration for this event does not open until 30 th June.

Keith (Khrome Kruiser)Kent RepTel: 01322 349733Mob: 07885 264245

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JOHN GAIR (NON INTERNET – MEMBER NO. 872)

John very kindly answered our plea and submitted the following member profile.

I'm afraid I can't offer any world shattering experiences:- I haven't climbed Everest, swam the Channel or won a Grand Prix. I did however kiss Carol the school netball captain when I was about 11. Anyway, fasten your safety belts, here we go:-

D.O.B. 22/5/36, which makes me .... OLD! I'm male, married with 2 adult children (1 of each). Final education: Technical Engineering College. Career History: Apprentice Toolmaker, then qualified plus City & Guilds I, II and III etc, – Design Draughtsman, cars aircraft, special purpose machines etc – Technical Author (a nuts and bolts Enid Blyton) - 2nd Line Manager over a team of technical authors. Generating manuals from draft to print including illustrations. (21 years with Rank Xerox). This required traveling to France, Germany, Holland, USA, Canada and UK local.

I took early retirement, then returned to work at the University of Hertfordshire as a Lab Technician / Instructor in Civil Engineering. (7 years, then early retirement) and also managed to squeeze in 2 years RAF National Service, where I rose to the dizzy height of Corporal in charge of the Station Post Office at RAF Northolt, Middx.My involvement with cars has been fairly comprehensive. I worked for Ford & British Leyland (Draughtsman), also technically related Rolls Royce and De Haviland (aircraft). I was involved with the building of one of the first UK drag racers used at the strip at Santa Pod Raceway, Bedfordshire. I became a member of staff involved with the B.D.R.H.A. (British Drag Racing and Hot Rod Association).

Since the age of 16 and starting with motorcycles, I have bought, sold repaired, improved, customised and serviced many cars. I've saved a few wrecks from the scrapyard crusher and got them back on the road.

There's been a few classics amongst them. I ran a small business for a few years and often used to own 2 cars at a time, one for 'work' and one to show and polish. They were usually UK or American, I didn't like 'the others'. More recently I have slowed down due to age and fitness and bought my first PT Cruiser, the oldest looking modern car I could sensibly afford. I've moved from a 'manual' to my current Auto, purely fro an easy drive. The following list is of the vehicles I have actually owned and indicate the scope of my interest.

(The list John has provided is a tad long but to sum it up John has owned 17 makes of cars spread between 33 cars purchased between 1961-2008. He bought his first cruiser Y233 XGS registered in 2000 and then traded for a second Y379 ABL also registered in 2000). The biggest difference with my 'todays' motoring is the massive drop in value over a short term. Gone are the days of buy it, renovate it, add lots of TLC, drive it for a couple of years, then sell it at a profit, or at least the buying price (so be it). I still have loads of tools and materials plus enough nuts and bolts etc to refurbish the Forth Bridge. I'm also a major D.I.Yer round the house. I still have a Drummond metal turning lathe, purchased second-hand in 1972 which I still use.

My other car interest is in models. I have a few hundred displayed around the house, collected over the last 35 years. The major interest being 'models of yesteryear' by Corgi. I also have a relatively small collection of Railway Memorabilia, mostly cast iron engine plates, signs and notices. These are also displayed, mostly on the hall/stairs wall. The opposite wall is covered with framed car pictures and a good selection of the more unusual American Car number plates, (the oldest being 1942).

Well that's it, I'd better stop at this juncture. I've loads more I could write but I'm running out of pens!

John I hope I have read your writing correctly, if I haven't, I hope you will forgive me.

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MEET THE MEMBERS

CHRIS MASON AKA MOTORVATING

Hi Petrol heads, this is my story.

Born in 1963 and brought up by parents who loved 50's Rock n Roll. My mum and dad lived the Teddy boy and Rocker life style, and with the radio or gramaphone blaring out rock 'n roll or rockabilly, I gradually started to appreciate the style and music.

Around 1976 I started to hang around with the local Teddy Boys in Southend on sea, which introduced me to classic, custom and hot rod cars, and of course British motorbikes, especially cafe racers.

The scene was set, Rockabilly, Cars and Motorbikes were my life for the next 20 years. Most the cars I've had have been British, such as ford MK 11's and PA Cresta. I've had a couple of yank motors but could never really afford to run them, as any car I have had has always been my main form of transport, so running a 57 Chevy was not practical as all my money went on fuel. This 57 Chevy was also like something out of the Flintstones, as it had so many holes in the floor passengers often asked if they should put their feet through them and push the car along.

Once picked up a series 11 Vauxhaul Victor from a scrapyard that needed a total restore. Once completed it ran on a Pinto lump that was pretty quick, and scary as it still had drums all round. The car was on a Q plate but I managed to find out what the original reg was. I asked DVLC if they had the reg available, but heard nothing off them until I had a knock on the door one morning, and upon opening it I saw a copper standing their. It had turned out this car had been in a armed robbery in the late 60's and the car had never been found.

I was allowed to keep the car but smashed it up shortly after in an accident with another car. A car had pulled out in front of me outside a school. My car totally demolished the Vauxhaul Cavalier, it was like a hot knife going through butter. My car suffered a dent the size of a cricket ball, it was amazing, however closer inspection showed the chassis to be a real mess. After hitting the car I had to avoid children so went up a curb and into a builders yard, the kerb was very high and had impacted the chassis.

I think the worst car I have ever owned was a Ford Classic consul. This car would rot away before your very eyes, everywhere it went it left a pile of rusty dust.

Also had a Classic Capri GT that had the same problem, which was a real shame as this little Coupe is probably one of the best looking cars to have come off our production lines.

The car I really regret not having now was a Ford MK 11 Console, this car was in the process of being customized, but lack of funds and a bad back meant I had to sell it on. This car sported a 2.8 injected lump out of a Scorpio, it also had most the running gear from the donor Scorpio. This car went like the clappers and looked the dogs dangly bits with a two tone primrose over ermine white paint job.

Selling the Console left me looking for a car that had to have the looks but not the all of the work of keeping a classic car on the road, as my back would not stand up to it any more. The potential car was also to be my only drive, needed to be economical as I travel 36 miles to work and back. And so the PT Cruiser was decided upon.

Looking out for and test driving a few PT Cruisers I quickly decided to choose the diesel, not only for the economy and power, but knowing that modern diesel engines can be cheaply and quickly tuned up.

Now knowing exactly what I wanted a search began that took me a month to find the car I wanted.

As most of you know I picked up a 2002 CRD Touring that was 3 years old and had 33.000 on the clock. I had in the meantime come across a full M&S

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body kit which was soon fitted along with the Bora twin free flow exhaust, and lots of stick on chrome.

I was by this time a UKC member and knew about PITP, so a trip to my first PITP was made, where upon seeing some amazing cars, I decided to change the look of the car. So off came most of the chrome, a project that is still ongoing.

Last year whilst driving along, a Stafford Bull Terrier tried to commit suicide by jumping in front of my car. The dog was fine, but the car was not, the front had to be replaced in full. So decided that a PTeazer Roadstar front end was the look I wanted, and was ordered. The future of the car is to French the front, air suspension, MR Mike interior, and may turn it into a panel van, however these are all expensive mods and will take a few years to complete.

What has been done to the car so far:

PTeazer Roadstar Body Kit on the front • M&S Side Skirts *• M&S Rear Skirt *• Bora Twin Exhaust * • Induction Kit *• Chipped * • Mopar rear wing thing * • Tinted Glass Sides & Rear * • Chrome Door Spears *

• Mirrors * • Door Handle Scallops * • Antenna Bezel & Jet Washers *• Up-Rated Brake Discs & Pads * • 18'' Chrome Wheels * • LED Lights under that you can programme a

million different shades, all on a remote * • Chrome Skull Gear Knob *• Bits of chrome inside *• Chrome Rear View Mirror * • Pioneer Bluetooth Head Unit *• Pioneer CD Stacker *• Fli Vibe Sub Infinity Speakers *• Lexus Rear Lights * • Lexus Fog & Reverse Lamps * • Skull Door Pins * • Stainless Door Shuts

So whilst doing all of these mods I was getting a little fed up with travelling south to meetings all the time, meetings where going on around the Midlands but they where with the ND's. Not that the ND meets where not OK, it was that the ND's tend to have weekend meetings, which was not good for me, due to Mary working shifts. So I decided to try and arrange a few meetings around the east mid's, and was soon joined by Rebel Racers (Kev n Shell) and the rest is history.

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Our reps list is growing and growing! That doesn't mean it's complete.

If you have a little time on your hands and would like to be more involved in UK Cruisers, please let us know. We are always on the lookout for regional reps, people who are willing to act as a contact point for local PT owners to be able to get in touch with to see what is going on in their area. Please see the Reps Charter for details of the responsibilities of your Reps.

Surrey & SussexHelen & Trevor Gunn – SteelcruisersEmail: steelcruisers@aol.comTel: 020 8335 3430

Yorkshire & The NorthFrank Nolan – MagooBecki Nolan – Betty BoopEmail: francisnolan@btinternet.comTel: 01226 716297

Hampshire & BerkshireMark Shepherd – ShepEmail: m.jshepherd@btopenworld.comTel: 01256 781980Mob: 07768 005056

West LondonDavid Webber – FAB CruiserEmail: webber.david@gmail.comTel: 01895 834161Mob: 07710 021932

East MidlandsAdrian Walker – TincaEmail: adrian_walker@ntlworld.comTel: 07976 503002

ScotlandGarry Reid – JavamanEmail: garry.reid2@virgin.netTel: 01324 552732

West MidlandsMichelle White - RebelracersEmail: whitek383@aol.comTel: 02476 316935Mob: 07715 071404

KentKeith Leebrooke – Khrome KruiserEmail: kleebrooke@yahoo.co.ukTel: 01322 349733Mob: 07885 264245

North MidlandsChris Mason – MotorvatingEmail: masonc@ntlworld.comTel: 01455 446989

KentDave Lewis – Budweiser Blues 2Email: busfx@tiscali.co.ukTel: 020 8309 0255

South WestPeter Davies - BladerunnerEmail: peterjdavies@talktalk.netTel: 01453 843233

EuropeanGert WesselEmail: b7.pt.cruizer.club@gmx.de

East AnglianSara Turner – Safra CatFrank Turner – Hurricane BlueEmail: turnersnails@aol.comTel: 01284 723895

Keith Butt – SmegheadEmail: smeghead_6@hotmail.comTel: 07834 918106

WalesKevin Pretlove – OMD BlokeEmail: k.pretlove@btinternet.comTel: 01633 271262

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AREA REPS

We are always aware that those of you without internet access do not have the same opportunity to make contact with other club members that our PC users do. We therefore have decided to print a contacts page in every newsletter. If you wish to have your name, area and phone number shown on this page, then please let us know by phone, post, or email to steelcruisers@aol.com.

Pat Yule Birmingham 0121 777 5646

Michelle Stanton & Alan Williams Newcastle 0191 237 3570

Chris Shiers Maidstone, Kent (07801) 045973 eve/wknd

Chris Wilson Hampshire 07702 778465

Pete & Pat Cansdale Maidstone, Kent 01622 853748

Brian & Pam Thompson Sutton Coldfield 0121 2400413

Trevor & Helen Gunn Worcester Park, Surrey 020 8335 3430

Sandra Johnstone Walton-on-Thames, Surrey 01932 245502

Duncan Bowden Carlisle 07763 583712

Steve Gerwat Croydon, Surrey 07767 200099

Lindsay Cole Walthamstow 07798 762825

Graeme Manning Rotherham 01709 703613

Adrian & Tracey Walker St. Neots, Cambs 07818 013209

Stuart & Linda Davies Wellingborough 07780 840223

Steve Grayston Tilbury, Essex 01375 846964

Steve Downes Horsham, West Sussex 01403 733358

Mark & Jacqui Shepherd Basingstoke, Hants 07768 005056

Bernd Michels Untersiggenthal, Switzerland +41 79 7659985

Mike McGrath Manchester 0161 7943737

Martin Boughen Somerset 07976 123188

Gary Wade Essex 01992 522795

Andy Simmons Norfolk 01760 722417

Andy Grainger Felixstowe 01394 283367

Wayne & Kay Stoneham Hextable, Kent 01322 663470

Keith Whalley & Tony Everitt Grays, Essex 01375 391107

Brian Errington Torquay 01803 614125

Clive Hambling Norfolk 07875 854922

Jeff Spriggs Peterborough 01733 568718

Barrie Stacey Staffordshire 07850270130

Club merchandise is now only available via reps at club meets. The reps hold different stock including mugs, coasters, car flags, stickers, t-shirts / sweatshirts (obtained to order). If you can't make it to a club meet and would like any of these items please contact your local rep who will liaise with you about sending it via the post.

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CONTACTS PAGE

CLUB MERCHANDISE

Company Discount Location Website / Comments Telephone

PT Cruisertuning 12% Hannover www.cruisertuning.de 05 11 63 62 52

North Hants Tyre 10% North Hants www.northhantstyre.co.uk 01252 613261

OK Diners 15% Anywhere Discount with membership card only

American Autobarn 10% Peterborough www.americanautobarn.co.uk 01733 533132

PT Tuning 10% Netherlands www.pttuning.nl 00 31 651110822

Race and Street 10% USA www.raceandstreet.comOrder online

Enter discount code STORE06

Listers Chrysler & Jeep 10% Coventry Stock ordered parts only Dean in Parts 02476 456700

HR Owen Chrysler 10% Hatfield Stock ordered parts only Andy Ford 01707 252222

John Weir Chrysler 15% Perth, Scotland Stock ordered parts only(exc special offers)

Chris Crawford 01738 477 700

Olds of Taunton Chrysler Taunton Please ask for details, may differ for various items

Neil Priddle 01823 374961

Power Bulbs 10% Online (UK) www.powerbulbs.co.uk John 0845 1232855

PT Company 10% Dorset www.ptcompany.co.uk 01202 639243

US Automotive 10-15% Northants www.usauto.co.uk/cruiser.htm 10% off accessories15% off parts

01234 273155

PT Cruzin 10% Wales www.ptcruzin.co.uk (exc body kits and alloy wheels / tyre packages) enter UKC111 in coupon code when ordering online

08708 550950

Peel's Motorkraft Ask Bristol www.peelsmotorkraft.co.uk Please ask about discount rates

Matt Peel0117 9351661

Whitehouse Crayford 10% Dartford, Kent Unit D Acorn Induestrial Park, Crayford Road DA1 4AL

01322 621050

Whitehouse15%

12%

Maidstone, KentOn accessories fitted by them.On service work and mechanical repairs.

1-18 The Broadway, Maidstone, Kent ME16 8QX

01622 686864

Listers 10%

20%

10%

CoventryOff labour on cars up to 3 years old.Off labour on cars over 3 years old.Off parts

Brandon Road, Binley, Coventry CV3 2AN

They will post parts to any UK address on proof of membership with UKC.

02476 456700Dave Lea = ServiceAndrew = Parts

The above list is correct at the time of going to print. If you are aware of any other discount arrangements offered to UK Cruiser members, or are a retailer that would like to offer a discount, please contact Kruzerfan – Chris Wilson (contact details in front of newsletter).

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CLUB DISCOUNTS

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Peel’s Motorkraft Ltd.CHRYSLER BODYSHOP

FOR YOUR SPORTS, PRESTIGE & CUSTOM CARS 107 Crews Hole Road, St. George, Bristol, BS5 8AY

We are a CHRYSLER specialist ! Bristol’s only Chrysler approved bodyshop for the past 10 years,

Plus we've been customising & repairing all makes of cars for the past 20 years Working to a high standard, producing many quality magazine featured & show cars.

Take a look at our web-site & click on 'Gallery' We also supply & fit modified body panels for PT Cruisers

Plus we are the original sole UK importer & stockist for

PTeazer from the USA This company make high quality modified panels & parts for PT Cruisers

that fit like factory panels to transform, customise & personalise your vehicle.PTeazer were the Manufacturer that received the prestigious‘Design Excellence Award’ Presented by Daimler Chrysler !

You can take a look at the PTeazer & Peel’s Motorkraft Ltd web-sites to get a better picture of what our companies are about & what we can offer to you & your car.

All Peel's Motorkraft prices quoted include shipping, import duty, taxes & vat

www.peelsmotorkraft.co.uk & www.pteazer.com_______________________________________________________________If you require us to supply the parts only & use a local Bodyshop, this is not a problem. Alternatively if you travel

to Bristol we are happy to give a free courtesy car, or a lift to the local train station, or to a local Travel lodge. It is also possible with some panels to have them pre-painted & we’ll fit them while you wait,

Speak to Matt to see how we can help!___________________________________________

We have worked on many of the UK Cruiser members cars, so if you wish to ask an opinion on us & our quality of work, just ask around in the club. We always give good prices to 'UK Cruiser' members

www.ukcruisers.net___________________________________________

Contact for any questions - Matt Peel Tel. Bristol - 0117 9351 661

Or Email via Web-site

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ADVERTISING RATES

FULL PAGE ADS: £15 per issue or £54 per annum

HALF PAGE ADS: £7.50 per issue or £27 per annum

SMALLER ADS: £5 per issue of £18 per annum

Annual advertising fees are payable March annually with fees for individual ads to be paid at the time of submission.

QUESTIONNAIRE

We would be grateful if you could take the time to fill out the following questionnaire and then return it to the address shown at the end.

1. NAME FORUM NAME MEMBERSHIP NO.

2. CAR REGISTRATION MODEL COLOUR.

3. HAVE YOU ATTENDED AN EVENT SINCE YOU JOINED THE CLUB?(IF NO, PLEASE GO TO NUMBER 7)

YES NO

4. PLEASE STATE THE EVENT ATTENDED.

5. DID A REP / ORGANISER INTRODUCE THEMSELVES TO YOU AT THE EVENT? YES NO

6. WERE YOU MADE TO FEEL WELCOME? YES NO

7. HAS A REP / ORGANISER CONTACTED YOU SINCE YOU JOINED THE CLUB? YES NO

8. HAVE YOU FOUND THAT ADVICE / INFORMATION GIVEN / PROVIDED FROM MEMBERS HELPFUL?

YES NO

9. HOME TEL MOBILE EMAIL

10. ADDRESS

11. WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE CONTACTED ABOUT EVENTS? YES NO

12. DO YOU GET ENOUGH INFORMATION ABOUT EVENTS? YES NO

13. DO YOU HAVE ANY SUGGESTION FOR AN EVENT.(PLEASE GIVE DETAILS)

14. IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE ON THE WEBSITE? (PLEASE GIVE DETAILS)

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15. HOW OFTEN DO YOU USE THE FORUM DAILY WEEKLY MONTHLY OTHER

16. IS THERE ANYWAY YOU THINK THE CLUB COULD IMPROVE?

NO YES PLEASE SPECIFY

17. DO YOU FIND THE NEWSLETTER INTERESTING? YES NO

18. IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TOSEE ADDED TO THE NEWSLETTER?

NO YES PLEASE SPECIFY

PLEASE RETURN TO:- UK CRUISERS, 12 COTSWOLD WAY, WORCESTER PARK, SURREY KT4 8LL

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