News and Views Winter 2013 Edition 79
Transcript of News and Views Winter 2013 Edition 79
The magazine of theThe magazine of theThe magazine of the
INTERNATIONAL CARAVANNING INTERNATIONAL CARAVANNING INTERNATIONAL CARAVANNING
FELLOWSHIP OF ROTARIANS FELLOWSHIP OF ROTARIANS FELLOWSHIP OF ROTARIANS FOUNDED BY ROBERT SUTCLIFFE IN 1967FOUNDED BY ROBERT SUTCLIFFE IN 1967FOUNDED BY ROBERT SUTCLIFFE IN 1967
www.rotarianscaravanning.org.ukwww.rotarianscaravanning.org.ukwww.rotarianscaravanning.org.uk
NewsNews andand
ViewsViews Winter 2013Winter 2013 Edition 79Edition 79
Chester AGM RallyChester AGM RallyChester AGM Rally
Chester RacecourseChester RacecourseChester Racecourse
on the Kennet and Avon Canal.on the Kennet and Avon Canal.on the Kennet and Avon Canal.
Photo by Colin Bradford Photo by Colin Bradford Photo by Colin Bradford
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Page 1 www.rotarianscaravanning.org.uk
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In this Edition
Adverts in News and Views Includes a link on ICFR website as sponsor
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Enquiries/Adverts to: John Hackney,
Editor, News and Views,
Closing Date - copy and adverts
31 March 2014
The Winter 2013 edition of News
and Views is full of the usual
eclectic mix of reports, news,
views and trivia.
As well as the 2014 Rally
Programme and Christmas
Greetings from fellow members,
we have reports from Officers,
problems with caravans, news
about MOTs and Arthur's secret.
Oh and, of course, reports from
rallies near and far. In the centre of the magazine you can
book for the AGM at Banham and we even have a tease
about the AF for 2014. To show how things have changed I
have included the front page of what was then just
‘Fellowship News’ of 25 years ago.
Well, this is the last of my six editions. The three years have
flown and I have thoroughly enjoyed learning so much
about producing a magazine and about ICFR. I hope you
have enjoyed my efforts. I was very grateful to our
Secretary Derrick who was kind enough to pass on an email
from RI which is included on the Letters Page.
I could not have done it without a lot of help. Chiefly, of
course, Christine, who has not only helped with proof
reading and editorial advice, but who has also put up with
essential home jobs being delayed.
My good friends John and Diana Lomax have been stalwarts
as proof readers and have also occasionally given editorial
advice, but only when asked! Over the last couple of days
John and I have spent more than two hours on the phone as
John patiently corrects all those spelling, punctuation and
grammatical errors which have got past me (not difficult).
We try to allow correspondents to speak with their own
voice but we correct where we feel it essential.
But none of that team would have anything to work with
unless items have been sent for inclusion and I am very
grateful for all the Officers, rally correspondents and
photographers who have sent items for inclusion, as well as
the many who have provided fillers and articles.
Of special mention as photographers are Colin Bradford,
Martyn Griffiths, John Hackney and Don Howard who have
each regularly supplied such superb photographs that the
problem has been deciding which to leave out.
My regular correspondents have also been wonderful. In
addition to the Officers’ reports I should particularly
mention Diana Lomax for her cookery page, Archivists,
initially Derrick Sanders and latterly John Hackney and last
but not least Daisy for their pieces. Only one gets any
reward and that is only dog biscuits. It has also been nice to
receive a smallish but important number of letters and
similar for inclusion.
I now pass on the mantle of Editor to John Hackney. His
excellence as a Bulletin Editor for his club has been marked
by the award of a Paul Harris Fellowship. I am sure that I
leave our magazine in very capable hands and I wish him all
success. Can I encourage you all to provide him with copy
and photos in a timely manner to enable him to produce a
quality magazine.
Gerard Turley, ICFR Editor (retiring!!)
Views expressed in the articles in News
and Views are those of the contributors
and not necessarily those of ICFR or of the
Editor.
When following any advice or instructions
given in News and Views you should apply
common sense and not attempt any action
which could put you or others in danger.
From the Editor 1
President’s Report 2
Rally Programme 2014 3
Secretary’s Report 5
Vice President’s Report 6
Past President’s Report 6
Membership Secretary’s Report 6
Programme Secretary’s Report 7
International Liaison Report 7
Equipment Officer’s Report 7
From the Archives 8
Christmas Greetings 9
Rally Reports 2013 12
AGM Notice and Minutes 22
AGM 2014 Booking Form 24
Rally Reports continued 27
Tails of the Dog 39
Letters to the Editor 40
Congratulations 41
Caravan Problems and MOT 42
ICFR Fallout SA continues 43
Member to Member 44
Fellowship News 28, Summer 1988 45
Diana’s Cookery Page 46
Adverts
Coast Insurance 11
AGM2014 & AF2014 29
From the Editor
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Page 2 News and Views Winter 2013
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Hello everyone,
You will be reading this in early
December when it is likely to be cold
and many of you will have wrapped
up your caravan/motorhome for the
winter and thinking about Christmas
or possibly about finding some winter
sun or cruising. Well I am writing this
on the last day of September and the
sun is shining and I am still walking
about in shorts and short sleeve shirts
and hoping this will continue for a
little longer.
I would like to tell about my summer and the rallies
(reports in N&V) we attended in reverse order because it
was warmer this month September than in April. Did
you get to Brean? We did and so did 80+ units with us, it
was organised by Tony and Ann Rawlings everyone had a
great time on Northam Farm. Many joined us for the
Saturday meeting when I had the honour to present Life
Membership of ICFR to Don and Paula Howard who have
both served ICFR so well over the years in various
capacities. I got a tremendous thrill when Arthur and
Mavis Marrow received from me the Robert & Mildred
Sutcliffe Memorial Tray, as my ‘ICFR Couple’ of 2013.
Previous to this rally Sylvia and I joined Cliff & Rosemary
at Witney where we attended this ‘active’ district’s
autumn meeting. Have you seen the Fewing’s new van
yet? You might need to book an appointment!
August we took our granddaughters to the Family Rally.
If you have not experienced this rally then you don’t
know what a thrill it is to ‘let the children go mad’, we
also took the girls to Millau to see the bridge and then we
went on to Spain, ‘a family Trip’. July, we attended the
Holt Rally and we actually had lots of sunshine, high
temperatures and great fellowship. June, we should
have attended the Steeple Rally, but a broken Alko hitch
that could easily have separated from the car, but didn’t,
meant that this and Gainsborough Experience could only
be treated as an ‘evening event’ as the caravan was with
the repairers. However we had a repairer who managed
to get the caravan roadworthy enough for us to attend
the Welsh Tour. Whoever said "it always rains in Wales!"
not me. We had a great time at all 3 but please forgive
me for finding the Swansea Rally with its night out with
the Orpheus Choir the highlight, as it linked with the
2011 South African Tour we were on. May, we managed
three, Bridlington, Gelderwood and Chester AGM. I had a
great time and have continued to thank those
responsible for a super rally. Last in my list is April but
of course this was the start for our rally season. We
attended the RIBI Convention at Harrogate then off to Bo
-Peep in Oxford followed by our own rally at Aldeburgh.
Each one had very changeable weather but we are
pleased we made the trip.
That covers the best part of our year and I continually
praise all those Rally Marshals and their Assistants who
create the Fun & Fellowship that always shines through.
Whether rallies are large or small in numbers we have
always enjoyed ourselves. If you weren’t there then you
are the missing ingredients from my rally programme. So
please try to meet up with us next year when we hope to
have similar journeys.
2014 will include the AGM Rally at Banham in Norfolk
(booking form on page 24) and a return visit to Bridport
in Dorset, please see the Rally Programme and put the
dates in your diary. We say goodbye to four Officers at
the end of this month, David Cooper as Treasurer, Tim
Hadrill as Programme Secretary, John Lomax as
International Liaison and our brilliant Editor Gerard
Turley, they have all performed their duties exceedingly
well and I thank them all on your behalf.
Peter Skerratt, ICFR President
President’s Report
Robert & Mildred Sutcliffe Memorial Tray Mavis and I would like to thank President Peter and ICFR
for the delightful presentation as "Members of the Year
2013". It was such a complete surprise to us, we have
always enjoyed the fellowship and friendship of ICFR that
it has always been a joy to contribute to the organisation
as much as possible.
We joined before the AGM at Reading in the 1990s with
our folding caravan which caused amusement to many
during the erection, both when we arrived and departed.
Jim Hancocks and I had to mend the bed of Jack Leyland
and his wife after it collapsed in their new caravan.
We have a board in our caravan with over 60 plaques on
it, one day I will list them all (the caravan is in store at
the moment). We have attended four world conventions
at Glasgow, Barcelona, Copenhagen and Birmingham. We
have been Rally Marshals on 9 occasions since our pep-
talk with George and Marjorie Locke - with afternoon tea
from a china tea service. Four of our rallies have been
abroad the latest, Province Revisited, was for 9 units and
the membership really gelled making a moot into a hoot.
Although we are both in our 80s - we do not want to give
up caravanning just yet!! and have started planning for
2014. We have been requested to run another French
Rally but we are still recovering from the past year; but
still thinking about
it. If you are
interested let
us know.
I am 'Mr
P a n c a k e
Man' at the
F a m i l y
Rally which
we have
attended since
number eight; last
year was number 26. I
have a secret recipe which has never been published (Ed
are you interested) [Ed yes see page 41]. Gill Rogers and
Derek have joined the team for the last five years. The
excitement and delights of the children is our reward we
make nearly 100 pancakes at each session.
At district level, we have served on the committee for 14
years and as officers - Chairman for two years before
Mavis's spinal problems, and now as District Treasurer
for two years.
Thank you everyone for your congratulations we really
appreciated all your good wishes.
Arthur and Mavis
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FOREIGN RALLIES
Tue 3 to Sun 22 JuneTue 3 to Sun 22 June
Lakes in Italy and Lakes in Italy and
SwitzerlandSwitzerland Using ACSI sites starting on the Southern shore of Lake Garda, Italy where you can take a boat ride round the lake and also have the opportunity to visit Venice and Verona. Then on to Baveno, alongside Lake Maggiore, with its many
attractions. Finishing at Lake Thun, Interlaken, Switzerland where you can take a funicular or mountain railway. Enjoy 19 days of outstanding scenery and the chance to explore the surroundings of these lakes. Max 10
RM: Derrick & Sheila Sanders and Don & Paula Howard
Tue 3 to Tue 10 JuneTue 3 to Tue 10 June
DD--Day+70Day+70 Benouville Normandy
Rally is held over the period of the 70th Anniversary of the D -Day landings in 1944. It is the last time
organised celebrations will be held. The site is 500 metres from "The Pegasus Bridge" where the first landings were made by glider on that momentous day. Max 15 RM: Eric Matkins & Mo Morrison
Follow on from D-Day+70
Tue 10 to Sun 22 JuneTue 10 to Sun 22 June
Loire ValleyLoire Valley The first site is about 160 miles from
Caen at Brissac-Quince in the Angers area. It will be followed by a site at Ballan-Mire near Tours. Chateau and pretty wine villages abound. This rally is intended as a follow on to the Normandy Rally and the programmes
will be integrated Max 15 RM: Terry & Carole Cooke
UK RALLIES
Wed 19 to Tue 25 March (6 nights)
Skelwith FoldSkelwith Fold Popular 6 day rally. New programme for 2014. All hard standing pitches. Book early to avoid disappointment. Max. 30
RM: Ted Walmsley
Mon 7 to Sat 12 AprilMon 7 to Sat 12 April
Ride A Cock HorseRide A Cock Horse Come to the popular Ride a Cock
Horse Rally near Banbury. Good dog walking facilities, toilets, showers. Close to Cotswolds, Blenheim, Oxford. Excellent site Max 20
RM: Brian Key
BO: Brian Tonkin
Tue 8 to Mon 14 April Tue 8 to Mon 14 April (6 nights)
AldeburghAldeburgh Regularly held rally close to beach offers fresh air, walks, fish and chips.
Places to visit in Suffolk and Essex. Organised walk and invitation to Rotary Club of Saxmundham's Club
Night. Golf morning. Use of Church Hall venue for speaker, games, self-entertainment. Superb dinner at Thorpeness Golf Club on last night. Max 25
RM: Peter & Sylvia Skerratt
Thu 8 to Wed 14 May Thu 8 to Wed 14 May (6 nights)
All Things Wight & BeautifulAll Things Wight & Beautiful 5 star site Appuldurcombe Gardens,
Wroxall, Isle of Wight. Function room, bar, shop excellent facilities, All serviced hard standing pitches. Opportunities for walks, wine tasting, National Trust, English Heritage and much more.
Max. 15 RM: John & Jenny Rice
Thu 8 to Tue 13 MayThu 8 to Tue 13 May
Discover BridlingtonDiscover Bridlington A private walled paddock for 20 vans in an excellent commercial site near Bridlington on the Yorkshire coast. Visit Sledmere House, view sea birds nesting at RSPB Bempton and visit
Filey and Scarborough. A lovely coastal area. Max 20 RM: Tony Wakefield & David Smith
Fri 9 to Wed 14 MayFri 9 to Wed 14 May
Usk ValleyUsk Valley This peaceful, well run site is in the
River Usk valley, part of the beautiful South Wales countryside between Usk and Abergavenny. Come and see why
this rally is so popular. Full facilities, Wi-Fi, Golf nearby. 2 extra nights at rally rate to make 7 nights if wanted. Max 20
RM: Gerard & Christine Turley
Thu 15 to Tue 20 MayThu 15 to Tue 20 May
AGM2014 Banham AGM2014 Banham Applewood Caravan and Camping
Park, Banham, Norfolk Return to South Norfolk for the Annual General Meeting.
The site provides good facilities for socialising as well as for the AGM No Max
RM: Gwyn Weallans
BO: Mike Segon
Follow on from AGM
Tue 20 to Sun 25 MayTue 20 to Sun 25 May
On to ObyOn to Oby (35mls ENE of Banham)
Tranquil spacious site close to river Bure. Full facilities. Fishing, slipway, heated outdoor pool.10 minute walk to Thurne for pub, restaurant and shop. Visit traditional vintage sailing boatyard and Broads museum. Enjoy
a paddle steamer or electric boat trip and fellowship with IYFR Max 19
RM: Jacquie Greenfield
BO: Ken Chapman
Thu 5th to Tue 10 JuneThu 5th to Tue 10 June
Crystal Palace CC SiteCrystal Palace CC Site See London from within Paxton's Park with trains and buses nearby. We
hope to offer; guided walk in the City, a show, visit to Eltham Palace, The Royal Blackheath Golf Club Museum, and raid a Rotary Club! Max 12
RM: John & Carole Dickinson
Tue 10 to Sun 15 JuneTue 10 to Sun 15 June
Dolgellau AgainDolgellau Again Relax at Cefn Maelan in Southern Snowdonia, a site with splendid views
of Cader Idris. Climb a mountain, ride a narrow gauge railway, visit a slate mine or just chill out. Max 12
RM: John & Ann Hackney Follow on to Snowdonia
Tue 10 to Sun 15 JuneTue 10 to Sun 15 June
Kings LynnKings Lynn A new site for ICFR with full facilities and just a mile outside Kings Lynn. A
full programme is planned with opportunities to visit Norfolk's West Coast, Sandringham etc. Max 20
RM: Michael & Barbara Segon Follow on to Woodhall Spa Lincolnshire
Follow on from Dolgellau Again
Sun 15 to Fri 20 JuneSun 15 to Fri 20 June
SnowdoniaSnowdonia Riverside Caravan Park in Caernarfon is
described as " a hidden gem in the heart of
Snowdonia". Castles, Bridges, Puffin Spotting, dinner aboard the Welsh Highland Railway and amazing National Trust Properties. 4 Star site with cafe/restaurant, mountains, beaches and free WiFi. Max 15
RM: Robert & Eirian Jones
Look for updates on the website
Rally Programme 2014
RM and BO Contact Details
Now only
available from ICFR Directory
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Page 4 News and Views Winter 2013
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Follow on from Kings Lynn
Sun 15 to Fri 20 JuneSun 15 to Fri 20 June
Woodhall Spa LincolnshireWoodhall Spa Lincolnshire First visit to this modern new park in E d w a r d i a n W o o d h a l l S p a (petwoodcaravanpark.co.uk). Full rally programme - historic 617 Squadron Officers Mess, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Museum, Kinema in the Woods,
Cottage Museum, Rhododendrons, walks, antiques etc. Max 15
RM: Keven & Barbara Roberts
Sun 22 to Fri 27 JuneSun 22 to Fri 27 June
Middle England Golf Non golfers welcome at Meriden. Easy access to Coventry, Birmingham and many local tourist attractions. Golf in the mornings leaving rest of day free.Max 10
RM: Bruce & Sue Liddle
Sat 12 to Thu 17 JulySat 12 to Thu 17 July
Rosehill, Market DraytonRosehill, Market Drayton A relaxed rally in the garden of a Market Drayton Rotarian in a picturesque part of North Shropshire.
Basic facilities. Use of large room in inclement weather. Battery charging Max 12 No Electrics
RM: John Walgrove BO: Paul Quinlan
Sun 13 to Fri 18 July Sun 13 to Fri 18 July
Rother Valley, East SussexRother Valley, East Sussex We aim to provide a place of peace
and quiet. Close to the East Sussex Railway and river trips on the River Rother. Close to Rye (Cinque Port)
and numerous NT Properties.Max 15 RM: David Cooper BO: Don Jeffrey
Fri 25 July to Fri 1 AugFri 25 July to Fri 1 Aug (7 nights)
Family RallyFamily Rally Fun for all the family - swimming,
sports, sandcastles, food and fe l l owsh ip i n t he beaut i f u l surroundings of Sexey's School Max 30 No Electrics RM: Judy Maynard & Clive Little
Fri 8 to Thu 14 Aug Fri 8 to Thu 14 Aug (6 nights)
Frome ShowfieldFrome Showfield Level site, electrics. Walking distance
to Longleat, short drive to Stourhead (NT). Full programme: coffee, walks, visits, last night meal at local hostelry. Bring boules, BBQs. Max 20 No toilets or showers
RM: Philip & Rosalind Cary BO: David & Jane Mack
Fri 15 to Wed 20 AugustFri 15 to Wed 20 August
AshbourneAshbourne Long established rally. Green field site. Scenery, walks, cycle trails. Places to visit: Chatsworth, Kedleston hall, Caulke Abbey, Sudbury and Chrich Tram Museum. Max 30 No Electrics
RM: David Huxley
Wed 3 to Tue 9 Sept Wed 3 to Tue 9 Sept (6 nights)
Coast and CastlesCoast and Castles North Northumberland is sometimes called "The Secret Kingdom ".This welcome return to Bamburgh gives
you the opportunity to discover and share the delights of this beautiful
part of Britain. Max 35 RM: Colin & Kathleen Bradford
pre AF2014
Sat 13 to Thu 18 SeptemberSat 13 to Thu 18 September
Hurley Riverside ParkHurley Riverside Park Site is in the heart of the Home Counties on the South side of the Thames within easy reach of the village of Hurley which pre dates the
Norman Conquest. Situated near the thriving towns of Henley and Marlow with many shops, restaurants and pubs, as well as the famous Henley rowing museum. Max 20
RM: Cliff Dorling Follow on to AF2014, Bridport
pre AF2014
Sat 13 to Thu 18 SeptemberSat 13 to Thu 18 September
Second Heart of WiltshireSecond Heart of Wiltshire Return to site adjacent to Caen Hill Flight of Locks on Kennet & Avon Canal.
Full and varied interesting programme for those returning and first timers. Bath, Devizes, Avebury, Stonehenge, Lacock Marlborough all short drive or bus distance away. Come and enjoy
Rotary fellowship in a beautiful spot. Battery charging Max 25 No Electrics
RM: Alan & Nita Martin BO: Derek & Gill Rogers
Follow on to AF2014, Bridport
Thu 18 to Tue 23 SeptemberThu 18 to Tue 23 September
AF2014 BridportAF2014 Bridport Once again to be held at Freshwater Beach Holiday Park,
Bridport a beautiful part of the Heritage Coast. Remember AF2011; full programme on similar lines. Look forward to seeing you all there. No Max
RM: Peter Jennings
BO: David Mack
Thu 2 to Tue 7 OctoberThu 2 to Tue 7 October
Stonham BarnsStonham Barns Situated in stunning Suffolk countryside, but with good access to Ipswich, Stowmarket, Bury St E d m u n d s , W o o d b r i d g e a n d Framlingham. Max 20
RM: Gwyn Weallans
Thu 9 to Tue 14 OctoberThu 9 to Tue 14 October
Wonders of WellsWonders of Wells On the Cheddar Road, within walking distance of historic Wells with its Cathedral, Bishop’s Palace, Gardens,
Market and variety of shops. The well maintained site has good facilities and
welcomes dogs. Easy access to Mendips and Somerset Wetlands Max 12
RM: Bob & Carole Wright
Fri 10 to Thu 16 Oct Fri 10 to Thu 16 Oct (6 nights)
ChippingChipping On the edge of Chipping Village; all level hard pitches; under floor heating in toilet block; modern Village
Hall for our events; free bowling
green; great views. Max 15 RM: Malcolm and Kath Ward
Follow on to Autumn Tints
Follow on from Chipping
Thu 16 to Tue 21 OctoberThu 16 to Tue 21 October
Autumn TintsAutumn Tints This beautiful site is located in South Lakeland at Staveley. So come and join us and see the Lake District at its
best in full Autumn splendour. Rally programme affords lots of time to enjoy fun food and fellowship.Max 25
RM: Duncan Dearden
Thu 27 Nov to Tue 2 DecThu 27 Nov to Tue 2 Dec
Thursford Christmas Thursford Christmas
SpectacularSpectacular We shall again enjoy the full facilities (electrics, hardstandings, clubroom, laundry, toilets / showers etc. ) at the Old Brick Kilns, Barney. A full programme will include Thursford Christmas Spectacular Show; a cast
of over 100, music, dancing, singing
and humour, all of West End quality. Max 28
RM: Michael & Barbara Segon
New Year 2015 RallyNew Year 2015 Rally We are investigating a New Year Rally. Read Summer 2015 News and Views for further details
To obtain Booking Forms
1.Download from ICFR website www.rotarianscaravanning.org.uk — Bookings
2.Request by email. RM & BO email addresses from ICFR Directory
3.Request by post but include SAE, RM & BO addresses from ICFR Directory
Rally Programme continued
For any other 2014
rallies or for updates
look on the Website
or contact the Rally
Programme Secretary
TERRY COOKE
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Nomination & election of Officers for 2014 All Officers (except IPP) require to be elected annually under the Constitution Rule 10 and the Secretary has received completed nomination forms for these Officers by the deadline of 31 October 2013. No elections were necessary and the
following were elected at the AGM 2013 for 2014
Officers 2014
Trustees for 2014
Officer Nominations for 2015 Nominations for Officers have been received as required by 31st October 2013 for appointment at the 2014 AGM, for office beginning on 1st January 2015:
Elected Members of the Executive Committee for 2014 will be:
Nominations for Election to the Executive Committee for 2015 One nomination has been received before the 31st October 2013 for membership of the Executive Committee for 2015-17 from John Walgrove, District 1060/1210.
Co-opted appointments to the Executive Committee Under Constitution Rule 12(d) the Executive Committee again co-opted:
Report from the Executive Meeting 20th September 2013
I reported to the committee that our Public Liability Insurance with Grove Insurance had been renewed for the period 1st August 2013 to 31st July 2014. Indemnity limit - £5m. Cost £451.52 – no increase.
Also the Trustees Insurance with Martin Kemp Insurance Services had been renewed from 30th September 2013 to 29th September 2014. Cost £ 481.48 – no increase.
Association of Caravanning and Camping Exempted Organizations (ACCEO)
I offered ICFR’s apologies for ACCEO’s AGM held from 2nd to 7th October at Towcester Racecourse. ACCEO is the link organisation between Defra, Natural England (a department of Defra), and other bodies concerned with the legal requirements for caravanning. Its recent magazine states that there is no progress or information to report on the European Parliament’s consideration of the introduction of some testing for the roadworthiness of caravans.
Individual membership costs £5. This helps to support this important body. Members receive ACCEO’s magazine AM (ACCEO Matters) twice yearly. This organisation is well worth supporting, you may wish to join by visiting www.acceo.co.uk.
Natural England (NE)
Our Exemption Certificate under Paragraph 4 & 6 of the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960 from Natural England, the Scottish Government & Welsh Assembly are valid until November 2014. A reminder that our Certificate is for caravans only; the only exception being Children’s Pup Tents as part the main unit.
Rotary Fellowships
The annual report of our activities has been sent to RI, including an extract of the AGM minutes. I have had confirmation that these have been received with the added complement that this is the best fellowship magazine and there will be encouragement from RI Fellowships Coordinators for other fellowships to try and emulate this production.
RI - MYGROUP
RI changed its website format on 26th August and at the same time introduced MYGROUP. This provides for any groups within RI to register as a group (MYGROUP) which will allow it to communicate with any other MYGROUP in RI. Fellowships are encouraged to set up their own MYGROUP, thus allowing them to communicate with any other group in the system. It’s limited to sole use within the context of Rotary. ICFR has joined as ‘Caravanning Fellowship’
This is an unknown area and we cannot envisage what benefits may follow for ICFR however it is believed we have to see what it may bring. Consequently all members are encouraged to add their names to the group by registering on the RI website then going to MYGROUP > Caravan Fellowship> adding their contact details. It will be interesting to see what, if any, benefits this brings.
Derrick Sanders, ICFR Secretary, October 2013
President Peter Skerratt
Vice President Gerard Turley
Secretary Derrick Sanders
Treasurer Paul Quinlan
Programme Secretary Terry Cooke
Membership Secretary Gwyn Weallans
Editor John Hackney
International Liaison Bob Wright
(Immediate Past President Don Howard)
President Peter Skerratt
Secretary Derrick Sanders
Treasurer Paul Quinlan
Programme Secretary Terry Cooke
President Gerard Turley
Vice President Gwyn Weallans
Secretary Ted Walmsley
Treasurer Paul Quinlan
Programme Secretary Terry Cooke
Membership Secretary Derek Rogers
Editor John Hackney
International Liaison Bob Wright
Philip Cary Brian Key Richard Swainston Geoff Fewings John Stone Ted Walmsley
David Shaw (IT Secretary) Maureen Morrison (Equipment & Sales)
Honorary Secretary’s Report
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Page 6 News and Views Winter 2013
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Vice President My additional role as Editor will be over in about a month
and I will be able to spend more time on the important
role of VP of ICFR, including publicity. I have already
been investigating the cost of including adverts in the
caravan and Rotary press and will be seeking guidance
from other Officers on the cost/benefit.
In these two years I must also plan for the upcoming
AGM and AF rallies and a heartfelt thank-you to those
who are already working on these rallies for my years as
President, and to the Districts who will host them.
This year Christine and I (and of course Daisy) ran the
Usk Rally at which we had our District AGM and then
attended the AGM Rally at Chester which was excellent,
in a wonderful position, and very convenient for the city
of Chester and the location was superb. I hope that a
further rally will be held here in the future.
Christine and I were assistants at the Pembroke Rally
and the Swansea Bay Rally. My congratulations to both
sets of Rally Marshals for two excellent rallies.
The Family Rally was again the success we have come to
expect. The way almost everybody gets involved with
helping with jobs, as well as helping each other look after
the little ones. It is fellowship at its best, and again thank
you all for looking after Freddie, our grandson, when he
made his various unreported trips to other caravans, and
to those who helped find him afterwards! The
tremendous planning which Judy and Clive put into this
rally makes it so enjoyable for the little people (and the
big people).
We had to cancel a couple of rallies this year and I
apologise to the Rally Marshals. I know
how annoying it is even when, as for
us, it is unavoidable. We did make the
AF at Brean, a new site which had
excellent facilities and at which we
were made very welcome. We were
also at the 1150 District Autumn Lunch
which was well attended and I was very
pleased that our District agreed to run AF 2015,
appointing Roger Howells as Rally Marshal. The dates
have been chosen to include the popular Tup Sale again!
We round off the year at Tallington Lakes New Year Rally.
Can I ask Chairmen and Secretaries of Districts at any
get togethers to raise with the meetings the need to
publicise ICFR in their District and to look at how they
can involve more, the many members who are not
currently active in the fellowship but who could be.
We all enjoy the fun and fellowship of ICFR because a
number of the members put themselves out to run
rallies. We can never say too often how much the effort
put in by that hard working band of Rally Marshals and
their assistants is appreciated. Having said that, there is
lots of help around if you want to try your hand at
running a rally. Is there a location anywhere near you, or
where you have stayed before, which would be suitable
to run a rally? Give it a go! If you do not know an
experienced rally marshal who will guide you, let our new
Programme Secretary Terry Cooke know—he will find
someone to help. Your Fellowship needs YOU.
Gerard Turley, Vice President ICFR.
Past President
I hope everyone has enjoyed their
caravanning this year as much as Paula
and I. Hopefully you have been able to
attend all the rallies you wished to.
I do see one (may be the only one) of my
functions is to provide some continuity
with the President maintaining the best of
the past while helping to move on to the
21st century, to look and improve where
we can for the benefit of all.
You all will be only too aware of Rotary’s decrease in
numbers, making us as a Fellowship vulnerable to a
decline in numbers, so we will have to promote ourselves
even more to counteract this.
Lastly please do support your District as they are the
heart of ICFR, putting forward offers of rallies to maintain
our programme. Thus enabling us all to carry on enjoying
what ICFR is all about, caravanning and great fellowship.
Paula and I very much hope to meet you on a field in
2014.
Don Howard, Immediate Past President
Membership Secretary
Can I start by please saying a big
thank you to all those who have
helped to keep the directory up to
date by providing me with updates to
addresses, changes of clubs,
telephone numbers and e-mails.
Please keep it going, I would like to
hand over an up to date Directory to
my successor next year. It has been
great to receive all your messages and keep in touch with
you all. Some news has not been so good it is true. But it
is still better to pass the news so that we can avoid
embarrassing moments for friends.
Along with the News and Views you are reading you will
have received the 2014 Directory, please check your
entries are correct and advise me if they are not. So
please keep me updated with all the news and I will pass
it on where necessary. Look forward to seeing you on the
Rally fields.
Gwyn Weallans, Membership Secretary
Deaths reported since last News and Views
Gina Mayall D1050
Rutger Prinz Netherlands
Olive Lockwood D1040 Margaret Gibbons D1120 John Allen D1060 Margaret Bryden D1230 Shirley Stephenson D1210 John Heller 1080/1240
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Page 7 www.rotarianscaravanning.org.uk
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Programme Secretary 2013 has been a good year with well
over thirty rallies available for
members. One had to be cancelled
through lack of numbers but there is
a strong possibility that Middle
England Golf will be resurrected in
2014 or 2015.
As my successor will find out, the
Autumn is the busiest time for
Programme Secretary. Trying to get Rally Marshal’s
offers in for the Editor’s 31st October deadline so that
their rallies can be advertised in the Winter News and
Views is challenging. Rally Packs have then to be
dispatched to all Rally Marshals before the end of
December.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the last three years and wish
Terry Cooke all the best for his three year term.
Tim Hadrill, Programme Secretary
Equipment Officer
It was decided at the Executive
Committee Meeting at Brean to have a
sale to reduce the equipment held in
stock and the following is now available
by downloading an order form on the
members’ website and sending it to me
with your cheque. My details are on the
inside cover of the directory.
Unfortunately, the bottle bags have all
been sold however, we still have the ties and scarves on
offer @ only £1 each in the sale (can you believe it!)
The sale of the ‘Herbie Hats’ in either colour (natural or
navy blue) are still very good value at only £10. (just
check M&S prices to see that these are very good value)
These are 50+ quality sun screen and due to the
number of our members who are lacking in the hirsute
area of the top of the head, will (I imagine) find them
very useful when venturing into the sunlight!!! We also
still have some red bowls/golf towels embroidered with
the logo at £7 which, incidentally, look very nice
hanging on the towel hook just inside your caravan!.
The car stickers at £2 and oval metal badges at £2.50
are still available with an order. Also on order are the
sweatshirts and polo shirts which are sent out direct
from embroiderers to reach you in 7 to 10 days.
Merry Christmas to all the members of ICFR and have a
very Happy New Year. Regards,
Maureen Morrison, Equipment Officer
Ps. Happy Caravanning & Motor Homing and hope to
see you next year.
International Liaison The weather during the 2013 summer
period has been typically varied. It is
always a talking point in the UK. But
what about elsewhere!! The following
tales from two of our overseas
c o n t r i b u t o r s p u t t h i ng s i n t o
international perspective:
Gil Cooper, our regular reporter from
New Zealand, has forwarded a
newsletter describing a rally where strong winds and
pelting rain upset the programme resulting in a
proposed trip to a local island being “mercifully”
cancelled. Sounds vaguely familiar. In an earlier
communication Gil described the surprise of one of their
members returning from a rally in strong winds when he
was overtaken by a wheelie bin!
David Werrett, the ICFR Member living in Canada, near
Calgary, sent photos of houses where flooding in part of
Calgary had caused all electricity and natural gas to be
cut off. He and his wife, Sharon, helped Rotarian friends
to tear out drywall partitions and insulation, removing
cabinets, hardwood flooring, carpets, etc. The flood
waters had filled the basement with muddy water (about
8 or 9 feet deep) and up to 15 inches on the main floor.
Arrangements continue for the Muster associated with
the Rotary International Convention, Sydney 2014. A
substantial contingent from the Recreational Vehicle
Fellowship of Rotarians (North America) are interested in
attending. There have also been a number of enquiries
from ICFR members. The Lane Cove National Park has
been booked from 28th May to 6th June 2014 with 80
sites, 23 cabins plus 5 single cabins. The stay in Sydney
will be followed by a tour of about 10 days finishing up
in Brisbane.
Congratulations have been sent to Richard Ward who
has been appointed President of the Recreational
Fellowship of Rotarians (North America). He has taken
over from Bob Craig.
Regular newsletters and rally reports are received from
New Zealand, Australia and North America and are
available on the ICFR website. Contact is also
established with ILOs in the Dutch and French
equivalents to ICFR. Addresses are available for
members arranging rallies in those countries wishing to
make local contacts.
This is my final report as ILO. Bob Wright will be the
new ILO with effect from 1st January 2014. I wish him
well in that position and hope he enjoys the role as
much as I have.
John Lomax, International Liaison Officer
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Page 8 News and Views Winter 2013
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From the Archives I left off in the last edition with
December 1987 number 27 when
the editor was John Waddington.
For the next edition it was all
change. Peter Jeffries took over
and made big changes. Peter
started off writing out his reports
long hand until the executive
approved the purchase of an early
letter writing machine. For his first
edition he was asked to include a column for members’
birthdays, a column for each of the ICFR officers, details
of forthcoming rallies and reports on previous rallies. Not
only all this but also to include articles of general
interest to caravanners. The quest for advertising was
also ongoing at this time. (Peter has written an amusing
account of his time as editor which I hope to include in a
future “From the Archives”).
So No. 28, summer 1988, looked quite different from all
previous issues. [Ed a facsimile of the front page is
included later in this edition] Of interest in this issue was
a report entitled “Galley on the Three Rivers” a rally
organised by Trevor Galley to Sarlat-la-Caneda, Souillac
and St Georges-de-Didonne. A photograph shows a
youthful Edna Swainston winning the 1988 Boule
Championship.
Peter’s first edition ended with a crossword and a little
filler called “Final Edition” which said “If you are
wondering whether or not you can spare the time to get
away for an ICFR rally next weekend, just remember
that the only person who got all his work done by Friday
was Robinson Crusoe.”
No’s 29 and 30 were produced in the same way but
issues 31 to 37 were produced in A5 format.
These were packed with easy to read information and
made a very interesting read. No. 33 had articles by
outgoing Chairman, Charles Lynham, and incoming
Chairman, Ken Halliwel; George and Marjorie Locke were
congratulated on their golden wedding anniversary. In
order that those who can only rally for a short weekend
(the workers that is!) Rally Officers were asked to
consider starting rallies on a Friday, so that everyone
could arrive and start the rally on the same day. They
could still run for five nights for those who didn’t have to
go to work on Monday mornings. Peter certainly took our
magazine to new heights with lots of innovation, We
have now reached winter 1992 and No. 37 was the last
by Peter Jeffries. He signed off with:
So, to this new editor called Jacks
It’s to him you send all the facts,
Don’t send them to me,
Or you’ll be up a gum tree
‘Cos me, I’m just making tracks.
After five years as editor Peter Jeffries handed over the
reins to Edwin Jacks.
John Hackney, Archivist
The Awning Erector’s Wife
An awning erector’s wife is not the happiest of souls On site she suffers most whilst he is playing with his poles
She knows from past experience his ego needs a prop “He’d never hold his head up if his canvas were to drop”
The monster is uncoiled from its mundane canvas bag, And her muscles bulge like footballs to sustain the channel drag
“It’s out, it’s in, push harder, pull the damn thing through Why don’t other people have the trouble that we do!”
“Now stand just where I tell you” he commands through gritted teeth As she supports the awning while he pushes poles beneath
As arms complain and shoulders strain, he bellows “don’t let go” As she tries to stop the poles descending – to the earth below
Smothered by the canvas in the missionary position. She wonders who will be the first to have a heart condition
Her ordeal isn’t over, though the awning’s on its legs, The poles have to be tightened, it needs curtains, guys and pegs
Temper gone, good cheer restored, he smiles benevolently, “I’ve made a smashing job of that, I need a cup of tea”
You think the drama’s ended, but he thinks he’s spotted rain! He hates to get his awning wet so he takes it down again
Should you want a quiet, placid, normal married life Never volunteer to be an awning erector’s wife.
Poem located by Alan Robinson, Submitted by Diana Lomax
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Page 9 www.rotarianscaravanning.org.uk
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President Peter and Sylvia SkerrattPresident Peter and Sylvia SkerrattPresident Peter and Sylvia Skerratt Happy Christmas to Happy Christmas to Happy Christmas to all ICFR membersall ICFR membersall ICFR members Geoff and Maddy BellGeoff and Maddy BellGeoff and Maddy Bell
Wish all their friends Wish all their friends Wish all their friends in ICFR a very Happy in ICFR a very Happy in ICFR a very Happy Christmas and lots of Christmas and lots of Christmas and lots of
caravanning fun in 2014caravanning fun in 2014caravanning fun in 2014
Tom and Barbara CryerTom and Barbara CryerTom and Barbara Cryer Wish all their friends Wish all their friends Wish all their friends
in ICFR a Happy and in ICFR a Happy and in ICFR a Happy and
Healthy Christmas Healthy Christmas Healthy Christmas
and New Yearand New Yearand New Year
Geoffrey FryGeoffrey FryGeoffrey Fry Wishing all my Wishing all my Wishing all my
caravanning friends a caravanning friends a caravanning friends a
Merry Christmas & look Merry Christmas & look Merry Christmas & look
forward to the futureforward to the futureforward to the future
Len and Marilyn BoudierLen and Marilyn BoudierLen and Marilyn Boudier Happy Christmas Happy Christmas Happy Christmas and a Peaceful and a Peaceful and a Peaceful New New New YYYear to all ear to all ear to all
in ICFRin ICFRin ICFR
Duncan and Ivy DeardenDuncan and Ivy DeardenDuncan and Ivy Dearden Happy Christmas Happy Christmas Happy Christmas
with love and with love and with love and Warmest Wishes Warmest Wishes Warmest Wishes for the New Yearfor the New Yearfor the New Year
Roberta and Frank GrayRoberta and Frank GrayRoberta and Frank Gray Wish our friends in Wish our friends in Wish our friends in ICFR a very Happy ICFR a very Happy ICFR a very Happy
Christmas, and great Christmas, and great Christmas, and great rallying in 2014rallying in 2014rallying in 2014
Jill and Bob BradleyJill and Bob BradleyJill and Bob Bradley Wish all their friends a Wish all their friends a Wish all their friends a very Merry Christmas very Merry Christmas very Merry Christmas and a Healthy, Happy and a Healthy, Happy and a Healthy, Happy
and and and Prosperous New YearProsperous New YearProsperous New Year
Ray and Jenny DixonRay and Jenny DixonRay and Jenny Dixon Happy Christmas and Happy Christmas and Happy Christmas and a Healthy New Year a Healthy New Year a Healthy New Year to our ICFR friends to our ICFR friends to our ICFR friends in fields everywhere in fields everywhere in fields everywhere
Tom and Christine GreenTom and Christine GreenTom and Christine Green All best wishes for All best wishes for All best wishes for Christmas and the Christmas and the Christmas and the New Year. See you New Year. See you New Year. See you on a Rally in 2014on a Rally in 2014on a Rally in 2014
Pauline and Roger BrownPauline and Roger BrownPauline and Roger Brown wish all friends they wish all friends they wish all friends they have made in ICFR a have made in ICFR a have made in ICFR a
Joyous Christmas and a Joyous Christmas and a Joyous Christmas and a Happy and Healthy 2014Happy and Healthy 2014Happy and Healthy 2014
Rosemary and Cliff DorlingRosemary and Cliff DorlingRosemary and Cliff Dorling wish our many friends wish our many friends wish our many friends in ICFR a very Merry in ICFR a very Merry in ICFR a very Merry
Christmas and a Happy Christmas and a Happy Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Yearand Healthy New Yearand Healthy New Year
Bryan and Liz GriffithsBryan and Liz GriffithsBryan and Liz Griffiths Wish their ICFR friends Wish their ICFR friends Wish their ICFR friends a Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas, and
Happy and Healthy Happy and Healthy Happy and Healthy caravanning in 2014caravanning in 2014caravanning in 2014
John and June BumfreyJohn and June BumfreyJohn and June Bumfrey Greetings from across the Greetings from across the Greetings from across the pond, spending Christmas in pond, spending Christmas in pond, spending Christmas in USA. Happy Christmas and USA. Happy Christmas and USA. Happy Christmas and
Happy New Year to everyoneHappy New Year to everyoneHappy New Year to everyone
Malcolm & Maureen DungworthMalcolm & Maureen DungworthMalcolm & Maureen Dungworth Have a Happy Have a Happy Have a Happy Christmas and Christmas and Christmas and a great ICFR a great ICFR a great ICFR
New YearNew YearNew Year
Ann a John HackneyAnn a John HackneyAnn a John Hackney. . . Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn
Newydd Dda i bawb yn ICFRNewydd Dda i bawb yn ICFRNewydd Dda i bawb yn ICFR Merry Christmas & Happy Merry Christmas & Happy Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all in ICFRNew Year to all in ICFRNew Year to all in ICFR
Bob and Una CantlayBob and Una CantlayBob and Una Cantlay Wishing Wishing Wishing
everyone a very everyone a very everyone a very Merry Christmas Merry Christmas Merry Christmas
and New Yearand New Yearand New Year
John and Dot EdwardsJohn and Dot EdwardsJohn and Dot Edwards Wishing you all a very Wishing you all a very Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and Happy Christmas and Happy Christmas and
lots of fun and lots of fun and lots of fun and fellowship in 2014fellowship in 2014fellowship in 2014
Tim and Shirley HadrillTim and Shirley HadrillTim and Shirley Hadrill Wish all their ICFR Wish all their ICFR Wish all their ICFR
fellow members a very fellow members a very fellow members a very Merry Christmas and a Merry Christmas and a Merry Christmas and a
Happy, Healthy New YearHappy, Healthy New YearHappy, Healthy New Year
Phil and Ros CaryPhil and Ros CaryPhil and Ros Cary Wish all ICFR Wish all ICFR Wish all ICFR caravanners a caravanners a caravanners a very Happy very Happy very Happy ChristmasChristmasChristmas
Pauline EverdellPauline EverdellPauline Everdell A very Happy and Merry A very Happy and Merry A very Happy and Merry Christmas and to all my Christmas and to all my Christmas and to all my wonderful friends. Hope wonderful friends. Hope wonderful friends. Hope to see you all next yearto see you all next yearto see you all next year
Jim HancockJim HancockJim Hancock wishes all his friends in wishes all his friends in wishes all his friends in
ICFR a Merry, ICFR a Merry, ICFR a Merry, Peaceful Christmas and Peaceful Christmas and Peaceful Christmas and a Happy, Healthy 2014a Happy, Healthy 2014a Happy, Healthy 2014
David and Ann CooperDavid and Ann CooperDavid and Ann Cooper Best wishes to all Best wishes to all Best wishes to all members of ICFR members of ICFR members of ICFR
for Christmas for Christmas for Christmas and the New Yearand the New Yearand the New Year
Geoff and Brenda FewingsGeoff and Brenda FewingsGeoff and Brenda Fewings Wish their ICFR friends Wish their ICFR friends Wish their ICFR friends a Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas, and
Happy and Healthy Happy and Healthy Happy and Healthy caravanning in 2014caravanning in 2014caravanning in 2014
David and Winifred HatherallDavid and Winifred HatherallDavid and Winifred Hatherall Happy Happy Happy
Christmas to Christmas to Christmas to all our friends all our friends all our friends
in ICFRin ICFRin ICFR
Christmas Greetings
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Page 10 News and Views Winter 2013
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Tom and Denise HobsonTom and Denise HobsonTom and Denise Hobson Warmest Greetings Warmest Greetings Warmest Greetings
to all our friends to all our friends to all our friends for Christmas and for Christmas and for Christmas and
the New Yearthe New Yearthe New Year
Roz and Martin ParrottRoz and Martin ParrottRoz and Martin Parrott The Parrott House The Parrott House The Parrott House send greetings to send greetings to send greetings to all our friends in all our friends in all our friends in
ICFRICFRICFR
Lynn and John StoneLynn and John StoneLynn and John Stone Wish everyone Wish everyone Wish everyone
in ICFR a Merry in ICFR a Merry in ICFR a Merry Christmas and Christmas and Christmas and
Happy New YearHappy New YearHappy New Year
John and Margaret HorlerJohn and Margaret HorlerJohn and Margaret Horler Wish all their friends Wish all their friends Wish all their friends
in ICFR a Merry in ICFR a Merry in ICFR a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Christmas and a Happy, Christmas and a Happy,
Healthy New YearHealthy New YearHealthy New Year
Jean PowellJean PowellJean Powell All Good Wishes All Good Wishes All Good Wishes
for Christmas and for Christmas and for Christmas and the New Year to all the New Year to all the New Year to all my friends in ICFRmy friends in ICFRmy friends in ICFR
Jill StorerJill StorerJill Storer All Good Wishes All Good Wishes All Good Wishes for Christmas & for Christmas & for Christmas &
the New Year to all the New Year to all the New Year to all my friends in ICFRmy friends in ICFRmy friends in ICFR
Don and Paula HowardDon and Paula HowardDon and Paula Howard Wishing all in the Wishing all in the Wishing all in the
Fellowship Christmas Fellowship Christmas Fellowship Christmas Greetings and a Happy Greetings and a Happy Greetings and a Happy and Healthy New Yearand Healthy New Yearand Healthy New Year
Paul and Chris QuinlanPaul and Chris QuinlanPaul and Chris Quinlan Wish all their friends Wish all their friends Wish all their friends
a very Merry a very Merry a very Merry Christmas and a Happy Christmas and a Happy Christmas and a Happy Caravanning New YearCaravanning New YearCaravanning New Year
Richard and Dorothy SwainstonRichard and Dorothy SwainstonRichard and Dorothy Swainston Christmas Christmas Christmas
Greetings to Greetings to Greetings to all our friends all our friends all our friends
in ICFRin ICFRin ICFR
Peter and Margaret JenningsPeter and Margaret JenningsPeter and Margaret Jennings Wish their ICFR friends Wish their ICFR friends Wish their ICFR friends a Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas, and
Happy and Healthy Happy and Healthy Happy and Healthy caravanning in 2014caravanning in 2014caravanning in 2014
Graham and Angela RobertsGraham and Angela RobertsGraham and Angela Roberts... Wishing all our friends in Wishing all our friends in Wishing all our friends in
ICFR a very Happy Christmas ICFR a very Happy Christmas ICFR a very Happy Christmas and a Healthy and Prosperous and a Healthy and Prosperous and a Healthy and Prosperous 2014 with plenty of Rallying2014 with plenty of Rallying2014 with plenty of Rallying
Gerard and Christine TurleyGerard and Christine TurleyGerard and Christine Turley Wish to all a Merry Wish to all a Merry Wish to all a Merry
Christmas and a Christmas and a Christmas and a very Happy and very Happy and very Happy and
Healthy New YearHealthy New YearHealthy New Year
Robert and Eirian JonesRobert and Eirian JonesRobert and Eirian Jones Nadolig Llawen a Nadolig Llawen a Nadolig Llawen a
Blwyddyn Newydd Blwyddyn Newydd Blwyddyn Newydd dda dda dda --- a Happy a Happy a Happy
Christmas to you allChristmas to you allChristmas to you all
Gill and Derek RogersGill and Derek RogersGill and Derek Rogers A very Happy Christmas A very Happy Christmas A very Happy Christmas to all our ICFR Friends. to all our ICFR Friends. to all our ICFR Friends.
Hope to see you on Hope to see you on Hope to see you on various ralliesvarious ralliesvarious rallies
Ted and Ann WalmsleyTed and Ann WalmsleyTed and Ann Walmsley Best Wishes Best Wishes Best Wishes
to all our to all our to all our friends at this friends at this friends at this Christmas timeChristmas timeChristmas time
Diana and John LomaxDiana and John LomaxDiana and John Lomax With all Good With all Good With all Good Wishes for Wishes for Wishes for
Christmas and Christmas and Christmas and the New Yearthe New Yearthe New Year
Sheila & Derrick SandersSheila & Derrick SandersSheila & Derrick Sanders Happy Christmas Happy Christmas Happy Christmas and a Peaceful and a Peaceful and a Peaceful and Healthy and Healthy and Healthy New YearNew YearNew Year
Gwyn and Eileen WeallansGwyn and Eileen WeallansGwyn and Eileen Weallans Wish you all a Wish you all a Wish you all a
Happy (Good News) Happy (Good News) Happy (Good News) Christmas. Sad Christmas. Sad Christmas. Sad News will followNews will followNews will follow
David and Jane MackDavid and Jane MackDavid and Jane Mack Wish all their ICFR friends Wish all their ICFR friends Wish all their ICFR friends
a very Happy Christmas, a very Happy Christmas, a very Happy Christmas, good health and a successful good health and a successful good health and a successful
rally season in 2014rally season in 2014rally season in 2014
Mike and Barbara SegonMike and Barbara SegonMike and Barbara Segon Wish all their Wish all their Wish all their
friends in ICFR a friends in ICFR a friends in ICFR a Merry Christmas and Merry Christmas and Merry Christmas and
a Happy New Yeara Happy New Yeara Happy New Year
Bob and Carole WrightBob and Carole WrightBob and Carole Wright Wish all their friends Wish all their friends Wish all their friends
in ICFR a Happy in ICFR a Happy in ICFR a Happy Christmas followed Christmas followed Christmas followed
by a great 2014by a great 2014by a great 2014
Arthur and Mavis MarrowArthur and Mavis MarrowArthur and Mavis Marrow We wish all our We wish all our We wish all our
friends in ICFR a friends in ICFR a friends in ICFR a very Happy and very Happy and very Happy and
Peaceful New YearPeaceful New YearPeaceful New Year
David and Jeanne ShawDavid and Jeanne ShawDavid and Jeanne Shaw Merry Christmas Merry Christmas Merry Christmas
to everyone in to everyone in to everyone in ICFR. See you in a ICFR. See you in a ICFR. See you in a field somewherefield somewherefield somewhere
Robert and Doreen YoungRobert and Doreen YoungRobert and Doreen Young Wish their ICFR friends Wish their ICFR friends Wish their ICFR friends a Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas, and
Happy and Healthy Happy and Healthy Happy and Healthy caravanning in 2014caravanning in 2014caravanning in 2014
Maureen and Eric MatkinsMaureen and Eric MatkinsMaureen and Eric Matkins Merry Christmas and Merry Christmas and Merry Christmas and
a very Happy New a very Happy New a very Happy New Year to all our ICFR Year to all our ICFR Year to all our ICFR
fellow membersfellow membersfellow members
Mike and Janice SpencerMike and Janice SpencerMike and Janice Spencer Wish to all a Wish to all a Wish to all a
Merry Christmas Merry Christmas Merry Christmas and a Happy and and a Happy and and a Happy and
Healthy New YearHealthy New YearHealthy New Year
The Editor and his The Editor and his The Editor and his staff wish all our staff wish all our staff wish all our
readers a readers a readers a MerryMerryMerry Christmas and Christmas and Christmas and a Happy New Yeara Happy New Yeara Happy New Year
Christmas Greetings
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Page 12 News and Views Winter 2013
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Mon 15 to Sat 20 April
Ride A Cock Horse
Twenty one of the twenty two vans booked in arrived on
Monday to a fine but breezy start and enjoyed an evening
get together with a welcome cheese and wine party in the
Party Tent City
Rainbow over Bo-Peep Rally, Photo by Alan Robinson
Following a warm welcome from Rally Marshals Brian and
Shirley Key, also present was ICFR President Peter who
presented an ICFR Banner to our guest for the evening
District Governor 1090 Judith Diment Rotary Club of
Windsor St George, DG Judith said she was delighted to
visit us once again on our rally at Bo Peep.
On Tuesday Cliff and Rosemary Dorling arrived to make up
the twenty two, the wind however was blowing stronger
and morning coffee was enjoyed in the still standing party
tents. In the evening two sessions of hospitality in vans
provided another opportunity to enjoy Fellowship in our
vans.
The party tents again provided shelter from the ever
increasing wind on Wednesday morning and in the
afternoon we enjoyed a group visit to the nearby Sulgrave
Manor, the Ancestral Home of George Washington, the
only piece of joint Anglo-American property in the UK.
We enjoyed an excellent guided tour which included many
explanations of the English language, particularly for those
who like to have their feet “Under the Board”. The tour was
followed by a delicious cream tea with scones and cakes.
Sadly on arrival back at the site, we were greeted with a
bare field as the party tents had been swept away in the
gale. Luckily the few who had remained on site managed
to rescue the split coverings and bent poles.
The following day a large group enjoyed a walk via
Adderbury Lakes to the Red Lion for lunch and a further
stroll around the village.
The one remaining caravan full awning was requisitioned to
provide shelter for the last two coffee mornings and on the
Friday President Peter made a small presentation and
thanked Rally Marshals Brian and Shirley and their District
for all their hard work and once again for putting on a most
enjoyable rally.
The last night supper was held just down the road at the
Pickled Ploughman and it was nice to see Geoff and Brenda
Fewings with us for the evening and we were all pleased to
hear that they will be continuing to caravan with us again
very soon.
Many thanks from us all to Brian and Shirley and their
helpers for once again putting on a most enjoyable rally on
this delightful site which promises to provide even better
facilities in the future.
Margaret Warrack
Tue 23 to Mon 29 April
Aldeburgh
The rally opened with the usual welcome of hot drinks
and cakes followed by the evening get together of Soup
and Christmas Pud! and a hilarious rehearsal of 'St.
George and the Dragon' - later to be performed at
Saxmundham Rotary Club dinner.
Wednesday saw 'Summer' visit us for our walk with Rob
Geator around Minsmeer reserve followed by lunch at he
Twelve Churches Restaurant and a visit to Rob's Nursery.
Thursday the sun shone again. Golfers played, the Red
Team walked and many local sights and hostelries were
enjoyed. The day ended with dinner at Saxmundham
where our Rotary 'Mummers' entertainment of 'St
George' was performed and much appreciated.......they
did think they might upgrade to Broadway......still
wondering when they will get paid!
Friday the sun still shone but with a bitter cold wind and
once again to the village hall for a welcome hot Fish and
Chip Supper and an interesting talk by Toni Watkins-
Burton on an 'Unusual Journey'.
Saturday saw us being served a delicious supper by the
'Staff' followed by entertainment by the 'Two Ronnies'
aka Bob W. and Ted W. with a 'Truth and Myths' team
game by John W. Weird facts were the answers.
The final night saw us enjoying dinner at the local Golf
Club - thank yous and goodbyes were said.
So thank you Peter. Super King Entertaining Royal
Rollicking Aldeburgh Theatre Troup---not to forget the
suffering STAFF, Sylvia, Paula and the poor butcher of
Catford!
Jenny Rice
Thu 9 to Tue 14 May
Discover Bridlington
After setting up the marquee in the Paddock area of
Thorpe Hall Caravan Site, Rudston on the Wednesday
evening with Rally Marshalls Tony Wakefield, Dave
Smith, their wife’s and friends the rally was all set to get
under way on Thursday 9th May
Rally Reports 2013
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Page 13 www.rotarianscaravanning.org.uk
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Day 1 of the rally saw all the fellow Rotarians and their
units arrive in good if gusty weather. A cheese and wine
evening followed giving us a foretaste of the days to
come.
Day 2 saw us all assemble outside the Harbourmasters
office for a walk around the harbour, followed by a most
informative talk about the history of Bridlington Harbour.
His knowledge of the harbour and its histories was very
interesting and enjoyable.
That evening saw the Rotarians enjoying Hospitality
welcoming each other into their caravans. Enjoying good
company whilst learning a few things about each other.
Some were later to bed than others!
On the 3rd day we were all invited to Rudston Village Hall
for a Supper and Film Quiz. Tony, David and their wives
Elizabeth and Maureen really did us proud at this event.
The hall was made to look as if we were entering a
cinema and we were greeted at the door by the cinema
Manager (David), the Projectionist (Tony) and two
usherette’s (Elizabeth & Maureen) who showed us to our
seats. A competitive evening with food and good
company.
Day 4. We visited Burton Agnes Hall for a Guided Tour of
the hall with access to the beautiful grounds and a classic
car rally that was also being held there. The evening saw
us sharing each other’s company at a friendly BBQ and
competitive games of Mexican Trains!
Day 5. That evening our final rally meal was held at the
Bridlington Links Golf Course a great place to close the
rally. The final presentation of the rally was the Oscars,
when a statue was awarded to the Film Quiz winning
team led by Rtn. Peter Skerratt.
Well done to our Rally Marshals and see you next year.
Peter Pimperton
Fri 10 to Thu 16 May
Usk Valley pre AGM
As in previous years the pre AGM rally was held at the
excellent Pont Kemys Caravan site on the banks of the
River Usk between the towns of Usk and Abergavenny.
Arrivals day for the 18 units was Friday and in the
evening following a welcome from Rally Marshals Gerard
and Christine Turley, the fish and chip supper arrived, a
bit too chilly to eat outside so small groups set
themselves up in various awnings.
Saturday was a free day to explore this beautiful corner
of Wales and the traditional caravan "hostilities" were
enjoyed in the evening.
On Sunday following the commendably short District
1150 AGM there was a carvery lunch at the nearby Alice
Springs Golf Club.
Monday afternoon saw us at the Penderyn Whiskey
Distillery where we enjoyed a witty and informative tour
from guide Alan with an opportunity to smell and taste
the product during its various stages from malted barley
to fine single malt whiskey.
The quality of the product was a revelation with most
ralliers taking the opportunity to purchase a bottle or
two. Any light headiness from the tasting was soon put
to rights by an appetising welsh cream tea at the nearby
Ty Newydd Hotel before driving back to the site.
Tuesday was the day of the torrential rainstorm, several
braved the delights of Abergavenny Market but
unfortunately the planned evening barbecue was never
going to be an option.
Thankfully Wednesday dawned bright and sunny and
many enjoyed a good day out. In the evening we
returned to Alice Springs for the farewell dinner with
prize giving for the quizzes organised by Dot Edwards.
On Thursday morning the rally finished with many units
travelling on to the AGM at Chester.
Martyn Griffiths
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Page 14 News and Views Winter 2013
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Thu 16 to Tue 21 May
AGM Chester Racecourse
I have only been to a horse race meeting once. That race
was a ‘point to point’ way up in the hills above the
market town of Hexham in Northumberland. I chose a
grey horse so that I could see it all the way round.
The chosen venue for the ICFR AGM rally was Chester
Racecourse and I have rarely been to a better place.
Opulence is probably an apt description.
We had the run of the premises and eighty nine vans
were carefully and spaciously parked inside the race
track adjacent to the course buildings and the lovely
gardens where the horses parade and race goers watch
and relax. I know that Duncan and Ivy Dearden wanted
a venue which would make an impact and this was it.
Well done!
Organising this AGM was complex and lengthy, ranging
from sorting field electrics for everyone and financial
negotiations with the racecourse owners. None of these
without problems but all eventually concluded
satisfactorily. We were parked on the field which had
been the Roman port for Chester so all fingers were
crossed for a “dry” period.
The AGM itself was well organised and positive with the
perennial problem of membership numbers being the
only downside to a series of heartening and well
delivered reports. Us Northerners in a Northern venue
might have had some difficulty with the cockney/
Tottenham dialect but well done President Peter.
Members were also
delighted to see Past
P r e s i d e n t P e t e r
Jefferies at the meeting
and a warm welcome
was extended to him
by everyone in the hall.
We all enjoyed the
environs of Chester
which is rich in history
and deserves a visit of
more than a few days.
My highlights were the
canal cruise with a
meal, and the bustling
centre of the town only 500 metres away. The
organisation was completed with meals in the complex.
Once again the planning was perfect with good food and
excellent entertainment provided by David Mitchell the
Town Crier for the City of Chester who is a past National
Champion Town Crier, and Celtic Clare a lovely singer
and Irish dancer who exposed parts of President Peter
that he didn’t know existed and certainly couldn’t touch!
There was also David Morris who is currently the World
Champion Whistler with extraordinary talent who amazed
and surprised us all.
Songs of Praise on Sunday morning consisted of personal
choices by members which were enjoyed and sung with
great enthusiasm and vigour to the music of Wrexham
Citadel Salvation Army Band
The rally was a tribute to Duncan and Ivy and all the
team, and a few days of fellowship and friendship with
like-minded people never to be forgotten. The AGM of
our organisation deserves to be well attended and it was.
We were reminded that there are still spaces on some
rallies and that all future activity and membership is
dependent on support and enthusiasm.
It was all bright and happy with absolutely no grey.
Alex Swailes
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Photos from Chester AGM by Colin BradfordPhotos from Chester AGM by Colin Bradford
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Page 16 News and Views Winter 2013
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Wed 22 to Mon 27 May
Gelderwood
Gelderwood Country Park Site was an ideal location for
the treats our Rally Marshals, Tom & Denise Hobson and
Duncan & Ivy Dearden had arranged for us.
Day one saw us all arrive to a true Rotarian Fellowship
welcome and a much needed cup of coffee. An informal
meeting in the gazebo in the evening informed us of the
forthcoming events.
Day two saw us have an excellent evening of fellowship
when we visited the Chadderton Failsworth RC and their
guest speaker a local Magistrates Clerk. The Crompton &
Royton Golf Club is an excellent setting with a delightful
meal provided. This was Duncan’s home Rotary Club.
Day three was to be a great day of music attending the
Whit Friday Marches. The morning saw many of us attend
Uppermill to see the “Walk of Witness” procession in
awful weather. Lunch at “The Kingfisher” proved to be a
warming retreat and a great meal. Although the weather
managed to stay dry the marching bands contest began
in earnest at all the local villages. Angela and I
personally attended 4 venues, Lydgate, Upper Mossely,
Uppermill and Delph before returning to the warmth of
our van at about 11.30pm. If you have never been to the
Whit Friday Marches can I suggest you put it in your
calendar as it is truly an unforgettable experience?
Day three saw evening hospitality in fellow Rotarians’
vans with a late night for a few?
Day four was once again a free day with a chance to
catch up with friends locally. In the evening we all met in
a local hall for a delicious Meat & Potato Pie followed by a
10 piece brass band made up of some of Tom’s friends
from Whitworth Vale and Healy Band who at certain
points during their entertainment reverted to “Dicky
Milton and the Heidelbergers” when playing their
Oompah Music?
Leaving on Bank Holiday Monday was once again a
wrench but hopefully see you all at future rallies.
Peter Pimperton
Thu 30 May to Tue 4 June
Gainsborough's Elegance
Gwyn and Eileen Weallans were the excellent rally
marshals and they would have been assisted by Peter
and Sylvia Skerratt but unfortunately Peter lost a couple
of nuts and was unable to join us. We would all like to
take the opportunity of wishing Peter a full recovery (of
the caravan of course). Being mostly British the calamity
at the loss of Peter and Sylvia brought out the best and
Mike and Barbara Sagon stepped in to the breach ( they
carry a torque wrench and always check their nuts before
moving off ).
Never having personally checked my nuts I was grateful
to Gwyn showing me how to tighten them up. I can now
say that despite grey hair and trouble getting up
sometimes, all my nuts are fully operational. Pat, my
wife, is delighted to know my nuts are all ok now.
We had good weather and some sunshine and even had
a first time rally family. Paul King, Sarajane Edwards and
the children Billie, Tori, Jamie and Lucy. They were of
course presented with the coveted first time rally badge
by Gwyn.
The evenings included a welcome supper, some fantastic
fish and ships, an American bring a plate of food and
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hope it all goes together, a DIY BBQ and of course a
farewell meal at the George in Cavendish a local pub of
repute. Peter and Sylvia also joined us. It was great to
see our President and his wife who drove without the
caravan just to spend the afternoon and evening with us
Clearly Gwyn and Eileen put a lot into the organisation,
and on behalf of the seven other vans that joined in, our
grateful thanks.
So for all ICFR members remember to check your nuts
before moving your caravan.
Bruce Wallace
Fri 31 May to Mon 3 June
Derbyshire Dales
The rally opened with a briefing in the lovely setting of
the Bakewell Camping and Caravanning Club campsite at
Youlgrave with 16 ICFR members attending. This was
followed in the evening with dinner at the Lathkil hotel in
Over Haddon; the view over the fields and dales was
spectacular, the food was good, and it was a pleasant
evening getting to know our fellow campers.
Saturday 1st. We woke up to sunshine though the air
was rather cool. After coffee, a group of us set off on a
delightful walk to Middleton village to view the ‘well
dressing’. This was done very artistically using various
coloured flower petals pressed into clay depicting a
country or religious theme. The walk back down Bradford
Dale was extremely pretty with new spring leaves on the
trees and the trout jumping in the river. We even found a
geocache as one of the group is a geocacher.
In the evening we had a wonderful concert and barn
dance at the village hall. The hall was packed as we were
joined by a big contingent from the Matlock Rotary Club.
It was a fun evening with tasty pies and peas and a full
bar. Keith Kendrick and Sylvia Needham entertained us
with traditional Derbyshire songs. The excellent caller
(Ian Carter) led the barn dancing and had most of us up
and dancing enthusiastically.
Sunday 2nd. was another fine day. After morning coffee
two groups of hikers set off, some for a short walk, the
more energetic of us for a longer walk through stunning
scenery getting back to camp mid-afternoon for a well-
earned rest in the sunshine. We had a final, farewell BBQ
and a communal supper in a large tent. This was a
superb ending to a splendid rally, as we were all off back
home in the morning. The only mystery is why there
were so few people at an interesting, varied and well-
organised rally. Thank you very much Anthony and
Joanna Johnson and Tony and Sandra Forsyth.
Ralph and Valja Roseman
Fri 31 May onwards
RI Convention in Lisbon
We left a pleasantly sunny UK on 31 May for a brisk four
day ride through France via Bordeaux and into Northern
Spain. The plan was to head for Santiago de Compostela
visiting towns along the coast as we went, and then on
into Portugal. San Sebastian was lovely, a great
sweeping bay of sandy beach, and a pleasant town, but
the plan changed when storms literally blew us south via
Salamanca to arrive in Portugal somewhat further south
than we had planned.
We arrived in Lisbon in blistering heat. The Municipal
Campsite in Lisbon was surprisingly good and well
situated with local bus services and an RI service to the
convention centre.
After a day of sightseeing in the attractive city we joined
300 RIBI colleagues for a very tasty lunchtime boat
cruise on the River Tejo organised by RIBI President John
Minhinick.
The opening plenary session featured a welcome from RI
President Sakuji Tanaka of Yashio, Japan. He explained
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that his motto for the year had been ‘Peace Through
Service’ because of his experiences during the war as a
child in Japan. There was a very impressive flag
ceremony which ended with all the flags being raised to
an elevated position. The session concluded with
entertainment by none less than Il Divo.
The House of Friendship occupied two massive halls and
really demonstrated
what Rotary is all
a b o u t w i t h a n
exhaustive number of
excellent projects on
display. A beautiful
archway of flowers
made a spectacular
entrance way and
p e o p l e w e r e
encouraged to use it as
a backdrop for photos.
We listened to some
v e r y e l o q u e n t
presentations including a Nobel Peace Laureate and an
African Child Soldier, turned Peace Campaigner. In the
former Bull Ring we were treated to a ‘very Portugese
entertainment’, Fado music. This comprised a female
singer and three male guitarists performing what can
only be described as intense, sad songs. Interesting!
Understanding the words might have assisted the
comprehension more.
We weren't the only ICFR members who attended the
Convention. Rodney & Pam Spokes and Stewart & Eileen
Gilbert stayed on the same site as ourselves in Lisbon.
Stewart, who is a Rotary Public Image Coordinator, was a
moderator at a session on Thanks for Life—End Polio
Now. Ivan & Barbara Palmer stayed at Cascais (north of
Lisbon) with Eddie & Ishbel Gordon. Maddy also bumped
into Norman & Margaret Andrews at one of the events.
All too soon the Convention ended with the Lisbon Peace
Declaration and the introduction of the RI President-
Elect, Ron Burton of Alberta, Canada. We were then
treated to an excellent concert featuring the tenor
Fernando Varela (no, we hadn’t heard of him previously,
but he sang Nissen Dorma and Bohemian Rhapsody with
equal aplomb!) and Kiwi Hayley Westenra.
After eight days we left Lisbon and over a period of three
weeks made our leisurely way home via Spain and
France. Seven weeks, three thousand three hundred
miles and thirty-two campsites, and of course a lot of fun
and great memories.
Geoff & Maddy Bell
Tue 4 to Sun 9 June
Steeple
A second visit to this pristine farm gave us 5 days of
continuous sunshine with lots of fun and fellowship.
Newlands Farm is owned by Michael Pudney, a member
of the Rotary Club of Burnham on Crouch, who also
belongs to the International Fellowship of Flying
Rotarians and flew into the farm in his own plane.
We were warmly welcomed by Christine and Roger and
their Assistant David Shea who prepared an excellent
welcoming buffet, eaten watching a stunning sunset and
hares running across the beautifully mown field!
At our Fish and Chip supper and Race Night we welcomed
three members from the Burnham Rotary Club and
President Peter and Sylvia. The races were great fun with
human ‘jockeys’ winding in wooden horse heads, the
fastest jockey was Barbara Roberts! The ‘Tote’ was ably
run by John Allen and Roger who printed their own
‘money’!!
Roger arranged for a group to visit Stow Maries, a WW1
airfield in a time warp. Four ladies visited the smallest
church in the UK, St Peters on the Wall for a midweek
service in this small but beautiful and peaceful chapel
built from remains of a Roman fort by St Cedd in 654AD.
We enjoyed two rounds of hospitality on Thursday Then
on Friday morning we had Archery tuition from David and
his daughter Jo, an Archery coach, before a competition
that was won by Roger, a very consistent archer!
At the joint BBQ we were joined by the President of the
Burnham Club and his wife, Vera who are also members
of IFFR and John and Margaret who are members of the
International Yachting Fellowship. President Steve said
over coffee “This is what Rotary is all about”
For our farewell evening we were joined by Peter and
Sylvia and our hosts Michael and Jane for an excellent
dinner followed by a ‘Shea’ quiz!!
Well done to the Steeple team.
Fran Allen
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Wed 5 to Thu 20 June
The Ardeche to the Tarn
After a long cold winter followed by a wet spring in the
UK, we were all looking forward to some warmth and
sunshine. Even our journey through France proved to be
rather damp and cold. The itinerary consisted of three
carefully selected sites each with its swimming pool. But
when we eventually found (don’t ask!), the first site in
Chauzon in deepest Ardeche, the weather had markedly
improved. On our first night we had a welcome buffet
supper with drinks. It was great to relax in pleasant
company (well, the wine did flow). The rally followed the
familiar Terry Cooke format with hospitality syndicates
(five in all), English breakfast with bubbly, continental
breakfast, many BBQ’s and fellowship of some kind every
night. There was also plenty of opportunity to soak up
the sun by the pool. The Ardeche region is famed for its
river, and shooting its rapids in canoes being a very
popular act ivity. One
enterprising rallier had
even brought his blow-
up canoe. Others
chose to explore the
area on dry land. The
Pont D’Arc (pictured)
and the Gorge de
Ardeche itself were
gorgeous(!) highlights.
Our stay at Chauzon concluded with the site owner
arranging an impromptu canapés and drinks farewell do.
Most enjoyable it proved to be, chiefly because the drink
was a potent cocktail of wine and a liqueur made from
sweet chestnuts. The final excitement of our stay at this
site was on our day of departure, when no less a person
than the rally marshal found himself literally bogged
down. Kindly moles had chosen to do some excavation
right under Terry’s van which caused the nearside wheel
to sink up to its axle. Further frantic digging was
involved, this time by humans and, with the aid of Don
Howard’s tow car, the van was finally released. One
rallier was heard to mutter ….‘making mountains out of
molehills’!
Derrick Sanders helping Terry and Carole out of the mole hole
The next site was at Le Val del ‘Arre in the Cevennes. Yet
more interesting and picturesque scenery. Another family
run site which made us very welcome. We were within a
good bike ride from the charming town of Le Vigan. Most
of us took the opportunity to explore this unspoilt and
beautiful area, one of the highlights of which was a drive
to a natural phenomenon called the Cirque de Navacelles,
which was created 1000s of years ago by the erosion of
the Vis river.
At this site, the boules tournament started in earnest and
the French themselves could have picked up a tip or two.
The winners were David Mack and Sheila Sanders.
Fellowship was much in evidence and our final night
supper at this site was our first excuse to celebrate a
birthday, that of David Pilgrim. Not only did the wine flow
but we finished the evening with a glass of bubbly. You
could say that this was in aid of Pilgrim’s Progress!
Our final site was at Millau, in the Gorge du Tarn. Nearby
is the world famous Millau Viaduct which spans the river
Tarn. It is the tallest bridge in the world, with the highest
point being 343 metres above the base. Designed by
Norman Foster, it is a truly impressive engineering
achievement. There was a very instructive visitor centre
sited at the base of the tallest column.
Millau Bridge photo by Don Howard
Also nearby was the centre for producing Roquefort
cheese, which many of us chose to visit. This is a unique
but understandably expensive cheese, quite delicious and
produced exclusively within naturally formed caves.
Roquefort Cheeses being matured photo by Don Howard
Birthdays were now coming thick and fast - two in a day
– Terry Cooke himself and Jane Mack, and this was
celebrated with a roast poulet main course followed by
French Tarts (the edible kind) and bubbly again. The last
night was a meal taken in the site restaurant where we
all said our goodbyes.
A most enjoyable rally with good company in a
spectacularly beautiful and still unspoilt part of France.
Many thanks are due to Terry and Carole Cooke ably
assisted by Derrick (when he wasn’t paddling his own
canoe!) and Sheila Sanders.
David Mack
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Thu 6 to Tue 11 June
Duke of Wellington
The weather matched the warm welcome we received
from first-time Rally Marshals Paul & Christine Brunsch
and Michael & Freda Parkinson, who put on brave faces
when illness reduced units attending from 12 to 8, of
whom 4 were headed (debatable perhaps!) by Past
District Governors.
The Minnows site is about a mile from J27 of M5 and is
beside the Grand Western Canal near Sampford Peverell,
easily walkable from the site.
The full programme was outlined with drinks after dinner
priming us for Friday free morning and then afternoon
visit to NT Knightshayes Court Victorian Gothic House
and beautiful Garden offering views of Tiverton and the
Exe Valley, concluded with a Devon Cream Tea. Evening
brought a self-catering dinner in the Party Tent.
Saturday highlight was a visit to Sheppys Cider Museum
near Taunton with tour and tasting putting us in the
mood for the evening West Country Skittles and meal at
the Globe Inn.
Sunday morning we travelled to the incredible privately
owned Bakelite Museum at Williton rekindling childhood
memories of everyday items. Lunched in nearby Dunster.
Ploughman's Supper in Party Tent.
Monday morning Brunch was superb preparing us for a
guided tour of Tiverton Museum including the John
Heathcoat patent lace-making machine and mid Devon
history.
Final Dinner was at the Globe Inn, where we thanked and
congratulated our four hosts for an excellent maiden
Rally and hoping for more in the future!
Graham Roberts
Thu 13 to Tue 18 June
Severnvale
This most enjoyable rally was held at the Apple Tree
Caravan Park, where we enjoyed glorious views over the
Cotswold Vale and escarpment. It was superbly
organised by four ICFR District 1100 members, Derek &
Gill Rogers (RM) and Mike & Nan Shillitoe (ARM).
The welcome evening on the Thursday gave us all the
opportunity to renew friendships and make new ones.
On the Friday evening an American Supper with
fellowship in the hospitality tent was much enjoyed by
all; the inclement weather caused the evening to be
curtailed slightly, but most of us got together in our vans
for informal hospitality; all was not lost!
Members enjoyed a variety of visits during the free days,
visiting the WWT at Slimbridge, Chedworth Roman Villa
and Stroud Farmers Market to name just a few. The
excellent shopping facilities at Cribb’s Causeway,
Gloucester and Cheltenham gave opportunities to flex the
plastic.
On Saturday evening we had Supper and a Band Concert
in the Whitminster Village Hall. The Chalford Silver Band
under the direction of Steve Tubbs gave a sterling
performance to suit all tastes; we were joined by Graham
Furley (whom everyone congratulated on his well
deserved award of the BEM), District 1100 members Don
& Enid Lewis, Gloria Gunn, Brian & Jeanie Lowden and
several Stonehouse Rotarians and
wives, The Band called for two
“volunteer” soloists from the
audience, Rtn. Lawrie Anderson
an Australian who is a member of
Stonehouse Rotary (Cymbals)
and yours truly who excelled on
the Trombone (this was my first
attempt at playing a Brass
instrument!) I read the music and
followed the band Trombonist.
Sunday was Father’s Day which
most celebrated. During the
afternoon we visited “The Hidden
Gardens of Frampton on Severn”,
an annual event organised by
Stonehouse Rotary. This was a
most enjoyable event and it is
pleasing that approximately £1000 was raised.
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During the evening we gathered in the tent for“ Games,
Relax and Chat”.
The feature of Monday was the most interesting walk
around Painswick led by Rtn. and ICFR member Bernard
Pearce, who explained why only 99 Yew trees exist in the
churchyard, should be 105, and of “the Clyppings
Festival” where the church is encircled by flower
bedecked parishioners who are addressed by the Bishop
of Gloucester. The evening finished with skittles at the
Tudor Arms with an excellent supper and prize giving to.
Doreen, Young Ladies Skittles, Lawrie Anderson, Gents
Skittles, and the Quiz Winners Mavis and Arthur Marrow
Arthur Marrow
Mon 17 to Sat 22 June
Pen y Fan
Beautiful scenery, Welsh hospitality and sunshine made
this the perfect rally. Pen-y-Fan Caravan Park located
high between the valleys, with fantastic views, was
ideally positioned for walking and touring. Excellent
directions brought us to the site with Mike and Jan
Spencer welcoming us on arrival, although one of our
number did manage to take out the gate bollard! With
ten units the twenty of us fitted perfectly into Richie and
Carole’s awning for the welcome get-together which was
billed as a light buffet but was anything but light. Soon
the drink and the conversation were flowing and the
scene was set for a great time. Sufficient free time had
been built into the programme which allowed for trips
into Cardiff with the new Cardiff Bay area and Big Pit,
one of many free museums in Wales. Here we were able
to descend 450 feet on a guided tour conducted by ex-
miners. Ralliers also visited local castles and walked in
the Brecons. Tuesday evening was Safari Hospitality and
members scurried furtively between vans seeking drinks
and nibbles making new, and catching up with old,
friends. Wednesday we all visited the “Guardian” a
spectacular and emotional monument equivalent to the
Angel of the North commemorating the Six Bells tragedy
and miners lost everywhere.
The more energetic of our number tried their hand at
Nordic walking; very impressive. The social evening in
the club house was an excellent meal and talk by local
Heritage Officer and TV personality Frank Oldring
covering 6000BC to 1066. We managed the BBQ but
again retreated to Richie’s awning where there seemed a
never ending supply of sausages. The farewell Dinner
came all too soon with thanks to our Rally Marshals from
President Peter on behalf of all of us.
Ray and Jenny Dixon
Thu 20 June to Wed 10 July
La Belle France
After several days of leisurely travel through northern
France, Anne and I were very pleased to arrive at
Chateau Martragny, near Bayeux, for the first leg of La
Belle France rally, organised by the Warracks and the
Carys. We were to be here for ten days, followed by a
further ten days at La Pointe near Chateaulin in Brittany.
Fifteen caravans were warmly welcomed by the leaders
who helped to make us comfortable under the trees on
both sides of the quiet private approach to the Chateau.
It was a pleasure to see many friends both old and new,
at the coffee welcome followed later by a mini tour of this
lovely Chateau, conducted in English by the current
owner. There followed superb cuisine in the Chateau
when we all got to know each other as the wine flowed!
We were sorry to hear that the Wolfenden’s car had to be
taken away for repair, after a serious malfunction of the
engine. It was away for five days!
The following day was a ‘settle in’ day followed by BBQ in
the evening.
On Saturday we all drove to a local Calvados producer,
where we had a lovely tour and taste. The rally was very
quiet in the afternoon. Much snoring was heard!
Sunday our hosts provided an English Cream Tea. It was
great to be reminded of this English tradition. Monday we
all took our cars to visit the infamous Pegasus Bridge and
museum. There was not much chatter, as we reminded
ourselves of the bravery of our predecessors…very
emotional! (Continued on page 27)
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I C F R A Rotary Fellowship recognised by Rotary International
Founded in 1967 by Robert Sutcliffe
All members are invited to attend the
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
at Banham on Saturday 17th May 2014 at 10.30 am Within this leaflet are:
1. The agenda for the AGM at Banham (The conduct of the AGM shall be in accordance with Rule 4 of ICFR’s Rules & Regulations)
2. A summary of the Minutes from the previous AGM at Chester
NB Postal Voting is available to Full and Life Members for any changes to the Constitution and for the election of Officers and Executive should this be necessary. If Postal Voting becomes necessary your District Secretary will advise.
AGENDA
1. In Memoriam
2. Apologies for absence
3. Report from the Rally Marshal
4. Approval of Minutes from previous AGM
5. Matters arising from Minutes of previous AGM
6. Notice of any other business
7. Appointment of tellers, if necessary, for Election of Officers, Executive Members or proposed changes to the Constitution
8. Election of Officers and Members of the Executive Committee, if necessary
9. Reports from: a) President
b) Vice President c) Secretary including i) Reports from the preceding Executive Meeting ii) Constitutional Amendments - if any and
appropriate voting iii) Advise meeting of any changes to the Rules
iv) Reports from District Committees
v) ACCEO vi) Any other pertinent notes and general report d) Treasurer, including i) 2013 Accounts for approval and acceptance
ii) Recommend the subscription for 2015 iii) Ask Meeting to recommend and approve auditor
for 2015 e) Membership Secretary f) Editor g) International Liaison Officer h) Programme Secretary, including:
i) Future programme ii) RI, RIBI, ICFR AGM and Fellowship Rallies j) Equipment & Sales Executive
K) IT Secretary
10. Announcement of Officers and Executive elected for 2015 (if there has been an election)
11. Any other business as notified earlier
12. Vote of thanks by the Immediate Past President
13. Date, time and place of next AGM and Fellowship Meeting
Present: President Peter Skerratt and about 170 members.
In Memoriam: Members remembered the 17 members known to have
passed away since the last Autumn Fellowship.
Apologies: Were received from 26 members.
Report from the Rally Marshal: Duncan Dearden reported there were
85 vans and 170 on the rally. There were no first time ralliers.
Minutes of the 2012 AGM at Newark: These were approved and signed.
Matters Arising: None.
Notice of Any Other Business: None notified.
Appointment of Tellers: Four tellers were appointed for the proposed
Constitutional amendment.
REPORTS FROM THE OFFICERS
President Peter Skerratt. May I welcome you all to the meeting. 2012
was a good year for rallies, albeit the weather and the wet conditions made it quite challenging, especially for Rally Marshals. The theme
continues of members having fun and on-going fellowship. You will hear
from Gwyn how numbers have changed but I would remind all members
that we must take the lead by informing clubs we visit, about ICFR.
Thanks should go to those members who have actively promoted us by
taking a table or stand at Conferences with our most recent being the RIBI
Conference at Harrogate.
My thanks go to all the Officers for their support and advice and to the
members of the Executive Committee for giving their time to play a part in the necessary administration of ICFR.
Vice President Gerard Turley. These days there are not many people
who can claim to have been given a job by Elvis. But there I was in a large
tent at Bath Marina in the early moments of 2013 and Elvis was coming
towards me brandishing my badge of office, and I was trying to look like a
playing card (not easy, as few would describe me as thin.) Mind you Elvis himself had been anointed President only a minute earlier by a Pearly
King. Who says ICFR does not have a sense of humour.
Rallies for 2015/2016 The first challenge was handed to me very early in
the New Year by an apologetic Phil Cary. He felt that the New Year Rallies
in Bath, may have passed their sell-by date, he and David felt it was time
to give someone else a chance to organise New Year for the handover.
Therefore, it would be useful to hear member's thoughts, advice and offers on this. Given our timetable this will need finalising by the end of August
this year!
I have started asking Districts to host the major rallies during 2015-16 and
have had a good response. Possibly South Wales for the AF 2015 and
Dorset for the AF 2016, so probably the North and East should feature as
areas for the AGMs
Attendance at Rallies It has been disappointing to hear that the
attendance at rallies this year is lower. The Usk Rally has had a poorer
show than previously and as far as have all of the three South Wales.
The Derbyshire Dales and Middle England Golf have been "Cancelled due to lack of bookings". It seems a shame that rallies should be cancelled for
this reason, as smaller rallies are particularly friendly. We need to
encourage attendance at rallies and discourage cancellation?
Revitalising the membership District Officers and Committees have a
particularly important role in publicising ICFR around their districts and it
is encouraging that so many are now attending District Conferences to
spread the word. Many thanks to Eric Matkins & Maureen Morrison for their
often unsung role in leading this effort. I would like to be involved helping
Districts with this vital task, and in encouraging the dormant members of ICFR to become involved, and will be in touch to see what more I, and
they can do. I have decided to impose a talk on fellowships on my own
club. Clearly ICFR will feature heavily! Once I have experimented on them
I will be looking to reprise it in other clubs in the District. There is a
surprising and disappointing, amount of ignorance about Fellowships and
particularly 'Rotary's best kept secret', ICFR.
Secretary Derrick Sanders. Report from yesterday’s Executive Meeting
a) Agreed that refunds for those unable to attend rallies following their
cheques being presented would be a matter for the Rally Marshal but once
the cheque is paid in and expenses necessarily incurred, those costs can
be legitimately deducted from the funds to be returned. (Rally Marshal’s
Extract of the Minutes of the AGM at Chester on Saturday 18th May 2013
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Guidelines to be updated to include this confirmation.)
(b) Once again the question of when rallies could be booked was discussed. It was agreed that News & Views would be with members by
1st December and our website was likely to have booking forms for many
rallies so members could book from then.
Constitution Amendments In accordance with Constitution 19(a) a
proposed change to the Constitution had been signed by 10 members of
District 1070 and received by 31 October 2012. A proposed amendment
had been received, as required, by 1 May and the proposed amendment
was accepted by yesterday’s Executive Meeting to be put to this meeting.
President Peter then presided over the process. In the absence of anyone from D1070 being available, Past President John Warrack presented the
amended proposal that “Any member of the Executive Committee who
fails to attend two (2) meeting during their three (3) year term, other
than through RI, RIBI business or illness, will be deemed to have
resigned from the committee.” Following a brief discussion voting by a
show of hands from members was recorded by the tellers as 68 for, 55
against & 4 abstentions. The proposal was defeated as there was less
than the requisite 2/3rds of members in favour’ as required in
Constitution 21 (b).
Trustees Our trustees for 2013 are President Peter Skerratt, Treasurer David Cooper, Programme Secretary Tim Hadrill and Secretary Derrick
Sanders.
ACCEO Our membership of ACCEO continues
District Reports Once again can I thank District Secretaries for letting me
have copies of the minutes from their meetings.
Nominations for Officers I have received nominations for those Officer’s
posts becoming vacant in 2014 and they will be announced later.
Nominations for the posts of Vice President, Secretary and Membership
Secretary and three elected members of the Executive Committee starting on 1st January 2015, need to be with me by 31st October this
year. If you hear that someone has been nominated for a position it
doesn’t mean you can’t apply.
Treasurer David Cooper. The accounts for 2012 have now been audited
and are enclosed with this edition of News and Views. Once again, with
care, we have a surplus, slightly smaller than 2011. The operational
surplus was £67 and after the net increase in the Party Tent fund and the
Bank interest of £124, leaving a net surplus of £485.
We have over 600 family members, some of our retired members still
give a donation to receive copies of News and Views.
On the expenditure side, the Summer and Winter editions of News and
Views cost the same as in 2011. The Printer of the Directories changed in
2012, with a saving of £400. Most of the other items remained almost the
same, with the exception of postage, for News and Views. Soon some will
be sent electronically, which will reduce the postage costs.
Copies of 1) How Subscription Spent; 2) 2012 Balance Sheet; 3)2012 Income & Expenditure; 4) Party Tent Funds; 5) Profit & Loss on
Merchandizing and 6) Summary of 2012 Rallies had been circulated to the
meeting.
Approval of the 2012 Accounts was Proposed by Duncan Dearden and
Seconded by Ted Walmsley.
Approval that Subscription remains at £10 was Proposed by Geoff Bell
and Seconded by Eric Matkins
Approval of the Audited Accounts was Proposed by Roger Restell and
Seconded by Peter Jennings.
Membership Secretary Gwyn Weallans. Membership now stands at
1,027 which is 138 less than I reported at the last Autumn Fellowship, 58
of which are due to non payment of annual subscriptions, others have
been members decisions to withdraw from caravanning. We have had 24
new members this year which is down on last years as well. There are a
lot of Rotarians out there with Caravans or Motor Homes that do not
know of ICFR, so I urge you all to talk to them and encourage them to join.
There are still a lot of changes in addresses, telephone numbers and e-
mail addresses that are only found out by accident, Please let me know so
that we may keep the directory up to date and keep you informed of any
changes or programme matters in ICFR. Some wives have been asking if
I can include them on the circulation list for the messages, as they
believe us men just do not pass on the information! Well if you want to be
included please let me know by e-mail what address you would like the
messages sent to and I will add them to the circulation lists. But Ladies please remember to let me know when you change them.
Editor Gerard Turley. Since my report at the Autumn Fellowship, two
editions of News and Views have been produced, circulated and offered
members the opportunity to have a paper copy rather than the default
electronic copy, as agreed at the last AGM. 215 members have opted to
continue to have a paper copy. This means that just less than 400 have not. In the mailing in December 2012 all members received a reply card.
In the May 2013 mailing those members who have asked for paper have
received an acknowledgement, those who have not have received another
reply card. The Executive Committee has approved that the full transition
will be completed during 2014.
Contributions from members are a little spasmodic. For December, where
I was short of space, lots of contributions arrived. This last edition where
there was space very few arrived. Please try and keep your contributions
coming, it’s your magazine to allow you to contribute to ICFR.
As the treasurer has noted in his report, the Christmas Greetings were particularly popular last year. Possibly another effect of the increase in
postal costs. I always struggle with adverts in News and Views, and I am
not really keen, or a good salesman, but they are a means to an end and
I believe that Christmas Greeting are much more in keeping with the
ethos of our fellowship.
International Liaison Officer John Lomax. RI Convention Sydney
2014 If anyone was thinking of attending the 2014 RI Convention in Sydney as the RVF of Australia was considering a Muster for the occasion.
Two or three couples from ICFR expressed interest but we await details.
The original proposal came from the RV Fellowship of North America but
this has now been taken over by the RVF of Australia. The Muster, which
will start in Sydney on 28thMay continues on to the Convention and then
carries on for about another three weeks. The organiser is looking for
feedback from interested travellers before finalising the programme.
Anyone considering the Muster should contact John Spath
([email protected]) Still in Australia information has been received from the Secretary of the Rotary e-Club of NextGen about its 2014
Australian Red Centre Safari. This is a 9,000 kilometre journey through
the remote South Australia; the Northern Territory, outback Queensland
and parts of New South Wales. Full details from
www.rotaryeclubnextgen.org.
Are e-Clubs becoming more popular? David Werrett, the only ICFR
member in Canada has notified me that he has transferred to the Rotary
E-Club of Canada One. His new Club is the first in Canada and the newest
of almost 100 E-Clubs scattered around the world. David invites ICFR
members to have a look at www.rotaryeclubcanada.ca and possibly "do a meeting" and receive a makeup credit for meeting attendance.
Newsletters from New Zealand, Australia and North America are
reproduced on the ICFR website. The latest versions are: New Zealand -
Wentworth Valley/Waihi Beach, January/February 2013; Australia RVF -
The Overlander 64, December 2012/February 2013; North America RVF -
The Caravanner, January 2013. Anyone without access to a computer
wishing to see any of these newsletters should contact the ILO who will
be pleased to provide hard copies.
Programme Secretary Tim Hadrill. At this stage we are hearing that
several rallies are down on bookings. Is this just the foul weather
preventing us from putting pen to paper and so causing rally marshals
anguish? I hope that this is the only reason.
At the Autumn Fellowship last year, there were only 22 rallies notified to
me. In the next six weeks another 16 came in. Brilliant and may thanks
to those rally marshals. However it would have been good for their details have been available for the Autumn Fellowship, to increase the
anticipation of those there as well as giving early promotion to these
rallies. For those looking to take the time and trouble to organize a rally
in 2014, I suggest getting details to me before the Autumn Fellowship will
be helpful to both of us as well as to the members.
Equipment & Sales Maureen Morrison Maureen had expressed her concern
over the amount of stock held at yesterday’s Executive Meeting. It was
then agreed there should be an immediate ‘Sale’ at the AGM with ties at
£5 so as to clear the stock as soon as possible. A few ties would be held
back against future possible need. New hats at £10 and golf towels at £7.50 were for sale after the meeting.
IT Secretary David Shaw. My main task is keeping the web site up to
date, this involves quite a lot of work at the beginning of the year when
the new rally programme is launched. After that mammoth task the main
function is to update the news letters from our international sister
organisations. I have tweaked the presentation of the site a little and removed many outdated rally pictures. I add new pictures to the site as
they are sent after rallies or events. This year I’ve added three new
pages, one special page for the AGM and a page which I called Splash
and Dash, this page is intended to emulate a foreign sites directory which
was published by ICFR a few years ago. I don't know if members use it
and only one member has responded to my request for suggested
convenient site for brief stops while travelling across France and Spain.
The third page is the News and views page where members can download
current and past editions of our newsletter.
Announcement of Officers & Executive for 2014. President Peter
announced that under the Constitution Rule 10 all Officers (except IPP)
are required to be elected annually, at the AGM. The Hon Secretary has
received completed nomination forms for these officers as follows:-
President - Peter Skerratt: Vice President - Gerard Turley : Secretary -
Derrick Sanders: Treasurer - Paul Quinlan: Programme Secretary - Terry
Cooke : Editor - John Hackney: Membership Secretary - Gwyn Weallans & International Liaison Officer - Bob Wright
Executive Committee for 2014. Philip Cary, Ted Walmsley, Brian Key,
John Stone, Geoff Fewings & Richard Swainston.
Any Other Business. None.
Vote of Thanks. Immediate Past President Don Howard said many
congratulations and best wishes to President Peter who was enthroned
and crowned "King" at a super change over at the Bath New Year Rally.
Best wishes also to all his team for the next two years with a warm
welcome to Brian Key in his first year on the executive.
Next a very huge thank you to all the Officers and committee members
who supported me in my two years as your President, not forgetting all
the rally marshals with a special thanks to those organizing my four
major rallies. Last but not least, thank you to all the membership who gave Paula and I such great support. Before I conclude I must thank John
Rogers, Duncan Dearden and Michael Stolton who have left the
committee having served their time!!!
Having been President I am now fully aware of the hard work and
commitment made by the Executive and the District Committees on your
behalf so PLEASE do support them.
I look forward, with Paula, to being involved in the support of the
Executive and the promotion of ICFR in general.
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You’ll Be Welcome at the 2014 AGM
15-20 May 2014 Applewood, Camping Park, Banham, Norwich, Norfolk
Applewood is 13-acres of multi-award winning touring caravan park adjacent to Banham Zoo and is ideally placed as a base to
explore the Norfolk and Suffolk countryside and coast. One day’s entrance fee gives unlimited access to the Zoo whilst on the
campsite. Applewood has 200 pitches with 190 on level grass and ten on hardstanding; 120 have 10A electric hook-ups (We have
reserved 80 of these for the ICFR Rally). The large central area has unmarked pitches for those who do not need electricity. Other
pitches surrounding this area are in small groups separated by neat laurel hedges. Just four minutes walk from the park is a small
supermarket, a pub/restaurant, a fish and chip shop and gift shops.
This is the first time we have tried Banham in Spring, when the weather in East Anglia is better and drier.
Norfolk and Suffolk offer a wide variety of places to visit, including stately homes, steam railways, gardens, nature reserves and, of
course, the Broads, which become packed with visitors during summer. Small towns with local food and craft shops are good for a
morning or afternoon of gentle pottering – and, on a fine day, seal-watching boat trips are a great way to get a new perspective on
the coast and its wildlife. Some of these are detailed below.
There may also be trips to Greene King Brewery in Bury St Edmunds and the St Georges Whisky Distillery at Roudham, Norfolk.
There are the main resorts of Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft and Southwold. Blakeney Point (nationaltrust.org.uk/blakeney) is a bird
sanctuary, and home to common and grey seals, Contact Temples (sealtrips.co.uk),
Autumn Fellowship Bridport from Thursday 18 September to Tuesday 23 September
As you would expect Peter Jennings and the team are well in hand to welcome us to Bridport
for AF2014. A provisional programme full of fun and fellowship is planned, with a hot meal
on the Thursday night, entertainment on the Friday night and that traditional ICFR mixer,
hospitality, on the Saturday night. The uplifting Sunday Service from the Salvation Army will
be followed in the evening by more entertainment. All too soon we will arrive at the Monday
Farewell Dinner which will again feature entertainment. There will be a Golf Competition, and
a walk led by John who led the successful walk three years ago. Also to reprise the success of
2011 another visit to Palmer’s Brewery. For the foodies there will be a visit to Ashley Chase
Cheese factory where you will be able to taste and buy the famous Dorset Blue Vinny Cheese.
Freshwater Beach is a great site as you will remember from 2011 and we are again in the
very capable hands of Mike Smith the manager. The team have even put in a request for the
exceptional weather that we had in 2011 - see you there
and at the 2014 AF
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On Tuesday a coach was hired and we were taken on a
day tour of the WW11 landing Beaches. Annie, our Guide
was superb. She answered all our questions with
consummate ease. She certainly knew her subject. I
don’t get emotional, but I admit that I was quite upset as
we visited the immaculately kept military cemeteries…
They were all so young!
On Wednesday, Douglas Vaughan celebrated his very
senior birthday and provided
champagne for all, and
received a cake, and card
signed by everyone.
Over the next few days, we
individually toured the area,
including a visit to see the
world famous Bayeaux
tapestry. On the final evening
we were pleased to be on site to hear some excellent
singing from the visiting Stoneygate Senior School choir
who were on a short tour from Leicester. Wonderful!
We then broke camp and travelled 223 miles to our next
stop at Camping La Pointe. At this very pretty site, by a
river and near the old market town of Chateaulin, we
were warmly greeted by the British owners Julie and
Marcus. Here, we found the ambience to be very, very
relaxing. On our first evening Margaret had prepared us
a lovely buffet supper – thank you! On other occasions
we had an American supper, a Pimms reception followed
by a group BBQ and locally cooked crepes.
Ralliers also enjoyed visiting the lovely towns and
villages and beautiful coastline in this region
Our final most enjoyable dinner was at Le Chrismas Hotel
in Chateaulin which is run by a local Rotarian. Two
members of the RC of Chateaulin called in to wish us
well, and John had the pleasure of exchanging banners
with them. Thanks for a great rally was given by Alan
Martin. Our ‘goodbyes’ were then said prior to next
morning’s departure.
Anne and I were so comfortable that we stayed for a
further few days.
In conclusion, may I thank John, Margaret, Phil and Ros
for a great rally. We all look forward to your next epic!
Same great weather please!
John Walgrove
'Getting Off' or Wagons Roll from Martragny to Chateaulin
7.05am and Vaughans are off - had Douglas taken Margaret by surprise! Hey! what about the bread you ordered?
7.30am and the Jennings are away - quickly followed by the Martins who should have known better - didn't the Jennings nearly lead them astray getting here.
Ralph is out and packing. 8.10am The Horlers make their exit - and they said not before
8.30 - well, the race is on! and Ralph is packing. 8.30am Wolfy looking for bread - "It's not 'til 9am John". ("Well
I didn't know") - of course he didn't - we've only been here 10 days.
The Rawlings & Walgroves showing movement - could there be another spurt to the gate?
8.35am and the Hatheralls are all showered and packed. No sign of Jeanne - is she in make-up?
8.45am and Stuart is around and around his van threatening to wind up the legs, Oh! but not yet. NOW LINDA ASKING FOR BREAD.
8.50 am Tim back with his toilette cassette - can't see them very well, David H. car blocking the view. Are they still here!?
Is Ralph turning his van, under instruction from Pat? Where's the bread? Where's the bread? 9.00am Hadrills, Walgroves & Leylands hitching up - It's neck &
neck. ......... 9.02am and the Shaws do a grand exit with their TWIN AXLE. 9.04am Ann & Anne, Shirley & Pat & Linda ambush Phil with the
bag of bread. (Scary having that many ladies descend on you early morning).
9.05am Ralph & Pat are off and Wolfy has turned his van. The Rawlings are Off. Well when did Cliff & Rosemary go? 9.09am Walgroves are off down the track. Oh! no they're not -
what's up - quick inspection and back in the car and away. (I'm missing Ralph already) 9.12am the Wolfendens leave with their bread for lunch and a
rejuvenated car. Shirley H out watching Tim do all the necessary.
9.15am Stuart Cox winding up his legs, again? Tim's moved 10 yards, then out for further inspection and
they're off. 9.20am Coxes back from last visit to the ablutions. Didn't know you could get so much in the back of a Volvo.
Well done Joan and Stuart - it was fun watching and they leave at
9.31am with the Vaughan's bread - but that's another story! 9.36am The Carys (Tail Gunners) leave having rung John W to
warn him who to expect first in Chateaulin. Anon (name supplied but withheld at author’s request )
(Continued from page 21)
Rally Reports continued
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Sat 22 to Thu 27 June
Picturesque Pembroke
The rally was sited on an attractive family run site with
excellent amenities. After
our welcome with tea &
home-made welsh cakes
the first day ended with a
fish & chip supper.
The next day, from notes
provided, was a guided
drive of the stunning
Angle Peninsula with quiz
questions to answer along
the route. Two of the
highlights were the
Stackpole Nature Reserve with Barafundle beach (rated
in the top 10 beaches in the world) and near-by lilly
ponds in full flower.
That evening we had ‘pot luck’ hospitality which is always
very enjoyable although, through no fault of the
organisers, we did have 6 visitors to our van instead of
the expected 4!
We had 2 days to explore the local area and attractions
on our own or in small informal groups. There is certainly
plenty to see in the area with the beautiful beaches,
walks and St David’s peninsula with the Cathedral.
Monday evening we
all sat out together in
the warm sunshine
for a DIY barbecue.
On Tuesday, 25th,
many of us took the
opportunity of visiting
the very interesting
Pembroke Castle
before meeting with
the whole group for a
guided stroll around historic Pembroke. The last
organised event of the day was a superb cream tea
enjoyed in the garden courtyard of ‘The Haven’.
The final full day was another free day to explore before
we all gathered for the Farewell Dinner and presentation
of prizes at the Neyland Yacht Marina were we enjoyed
another excellent meal and evening of good fellowship.
Thank you John, Dot, Gerard & Christine for a very
enjoyable rally.
Peter Downham
Thu 27 June to Tue 2 July
Swansea Bay
You will all be familiar with the form of barometer
favoured by our grand-parents – a small house from
which the man or lady emerged, depending on the
weather. The Swansea Bay Rally worked on the same
principal in that John & Diana Lomax, and Gerard &
Christine Turley took it in turns to be in charge.
The first night was supper at a nearby hostelry, the
appropriately named “Welcome to Gower” Inn, along with
the usual chatter of what we had all been up to.
Unfortunately John and Diana had to attend a family
funeral on the following day and so had to leave the rally
immediately after the welcome supper. This also meant
they had to miss the “pot luck hospitality” on the
following evening when Gerard and Christine took over.
There were no fixed daytime visits but I suspect we all
visited the “National Botanic Garden of Wales” and were
very impressed. I thought it was better than the Eden
Project. The Gower Heritage Centre was also enjoyed.
Between Swansea City, Swansea Marina area, Swansea
Bay and the Gower Peninsula there was plenty to keep us
occupied both inside and out.
Rally members had the opportunity to attend on
Saturday evening a charity concert at St Mary’s Church,
Swansea organised by the local Rotary Club. The concert
which featured the Morriston Orpheus Choir and the
locally based Ariosa Singers was to raise money to assist
the work of a Rotary Club in Montagu, South Africa, a
Club which had been visited by an ICFR tour two years
previously. It was an excellent concert by two flawless
choirs and we hope that a healthy sum was raised.
Professor Sir David Hall from the Montagu Club attended
the concert with his wife Susan, another medical doctor.
He and Susan were staying with John and Diana which
was the reason Gerard and Christine ably covered the
rally at times.
John Lomax being congratulated on the concert by Swansea President
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The last night celebration was a group visit to a meeting
of the RC of Swansea at Sketty Hall, where we were all
made very welcome and after dinner the Professor and
his wife gave an interesting presentation about the
Bonnie People Project, the work the Swansea Club is
supporting. [Ed see article on page 43]
All in all it was an interesting and very enjoyable rally.
John & Carole Dickinson
Thu 4 to Tue 9 July
Lichfield City
What a rally!! Lovely site, great Rally Officer organisation
with a super team, and five days of wall to wall sunshine,
only a mile from Lichfield town centre, a medieval
Cathedral City which was hosting an Arts Festival event
during our stay.
On arrival we were greeted with tea or coffee and a
choice of several homemade goodies in the Party Tent. A
very nice welcome supper was provided on the first
evening and a barbecue the following evening. Each
evening was a happy hour get together with various
quizzes etc including Ding Bats and Diminishing Whist.
During the Rally there was plenty of spare time to visit
the Cathedral, Cars in the Park and the other events
associated with the Arts Festival.
Probably the highlight of the Rally was the visit to the
National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas, and a tour
round the site in a “road train” before allowing plenty of
time to visit the various memorials in our own time.
The rally finished with a very good meal at nearby
restaurant, and Alan & Gillian and their team of helpers,
Robert & Doreen Young, Brian & Barbara Froggart and
Brian and Margaret Leverton must be thanked for
providing a wonderful time.
Frank Matthews
Tue 9 to Sun 14 July
Claverley
This was a rally of 'firsts' for us. Our first 'follow on' rally
(straight from Lichfield), our first rally where we had
already met everyone somewhere, our first dry rally (the
weather-not a comment about drinking habits!) our first
rally run by first class RM Derrick Sanders and Sheila,
and this is my first rally report.
Having negotiated the narrow lanes of Staffordshire/
Shropshire, and sorted out the electricity supply to
everyone's satisfaction, we settled down in our peaceful
hideaway, and enjoyed our welcome get-together. (Only
9 'vans, so it was easy to talk to everyone).
Despite a feeling of being in the middle of nowhere, there
was plenty to do in the area, and during coffee on
Wednesday, everyone studied the tourist information and
began their exploration of the area. A scrumptious cream
tea was greatly enjoyed, thanks to Sheila and Jackie.
Thursday and Friday were 'please yourself' days, and
visits were made to Ironbridge, with its wide variety of
museums, RAF Cosford for its amazing museum, David
Austin Roses, for the keen gardeners, the Severn Valley
Railway, for train enthusiasts, not forgetting Halfpenny
Green Vineyard for those whose supplies were
diminishing!
Friday evening's BBQ was followed by musical
entertainment provided by the Sanders' daughter Helen
and grand daughter Ellie. A lovely way to relax at the end
of the day.
And so to Saturday. A stunning flower festival in
Claverley Church, and local history exhibition in the
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Village Hall, with lots of delicious homemade food
provided by the ladies of the village. Back to the Party
Tent for a BYOD Happy Hour, before retracing our steps
for a meal at 'The Plough'.
Sadly the end of the rally came all too soon, but many
thanks to Derrick and Sheila, ably supported by Paul and
Jackie Sharman, and to all attendees for a great 5 days
of fun and fellowship.
Pauline Brown
Thu 11 to Thu 18 July
Holt Rugby Club, Norfolk
What makes a good rally??? Venue? Weather? Facilities?
Programme? Members? Rally Marshalls?
At Holt we had it all!!!!
Venue, Holt Rugby Club Field and Clubhouse, is an ideal
spot for a rally enabling us to meet for optional coffee
each morning and then again in the evening for a meal
and fellowship.
Weather just got better and better each day with us
basking in glorious sunshine or looking for some shade –
we had the hottest day of the year while we were there.
Facilities – no electric hook-up but we certainly did not
need central heating this year!!!!
Programme offered plenty of possible visits each day on
this beautiful North Norfolk coast and opportunity to
meet together in the evenings for food, fun and
fellowship. The Cromer Pier Show on Tuesday evening
was excellent – last year the rally was too early and we
were not able to go. On Friday before it became too hot
we all enjoyed a beach/heath four mile walk from
Weybourne back to site.
Members were quality not quantity – we only had nine
units on site but the company was perfect and I feel
everyone fully enjoyed themselves.
Rally Marshalls were, as usual, their efficient selves –
nothing was too much trouble. newspapers were
delivered, coffee served, ideas for visits provided, often
using our bus passes and evening events organised.
We all enjoyed a cooked welcome meal, a full English
Sunday Breakfast and numerous other meals together.
Well done Barbara and Mike – thank you – we all look
forward to your next rally.
Barbara Roberts
Fri 26 July to Fri 2 August
Family Rally
After so many hot, dry days the forecast was for a
stormy week. However the grand children did not care as
our 6 hour tow was filled with excited anticipation “I can’t
wait to get in the pool” and “will Grace be there” and
Sophia wondering if she really would be able to cycle
without her stabilisers.
By mid-afternoon on Friday the pool was full of happy
children and smiling faces as friendships were renewed
while others enjoyed the freedom to cycle around the
fields and playground. We enjoyed a lovely warm
’Welcome’ evening outdoors where ‘Katy’ local cider was
definitely the most popular item.
Each morning many grand children reported for duty and
delivered papers and milk. Such enthusiasm so early in
the morning! Our two granddaughters were fast asleep
until 08.30, or later, so when we emerged into the
awning the deliveries had miraculously arrived!
One team of Paperboys & Papergirls
At Saturday morning’s coffee we were delighted to find
not only Caroline’s delicious cakes but also gingerbread
men for the children baked by Christine Green. Soon the
pool was packed again, but the clouds were gathering.
Bicycles, scooters and adults had to make a sudden dash
for awnings as it began to pour. In the strong gusts of
wind the marquee threatened to disappear. It tipped
water on the unwary from time to time as John and
Jenny organised children’s dominoes. Later our noble
cooks worked under umbrellas to cook our barbeque
supper and dashes were made back to units to eat under
cover as the rain continued.
Monday dawned fine and we were able to enjoy bacon
baps and coffee out of doors. Because of the forecast
Sports Day was brought forward. The sun shone as Gill
and Derek Rodgers organised more fun team games, this
year with a household theme. Inevitably, soaking
teenagers in ‘The Stocks’ was very popular and for Talia
(just 7) the highlights were wrapping grandmas with
toilet paper to look like mummies and dressing and
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putting make up on granddads to make them look like
grandmas! Remarkably the sun still shone as we enjoyed
cream teas with Judy’s mother’s - lovely scones - and
Judy awarded prizes to all the children. Adult
competitions of boules and croquet (oh, the rules)
continued and adult dominoes were played.
Next day despite intermittent showers and more ominous
black clouds we went to Burnham-on-Sea for the
sandcastle competition. We wondered if the rising tide or
approaching storm would wash us out before judging,
but no. We all then hurried to the pier kiosk and some
cover. As Judy treated children to ice creams an almighty
thunderstorm broke. Soon many roads and pavements
were flooded the only beneficiaries being Asda and
Highbridge Caravans! Later the dry, windy afternoon was
excellent for kite flying and our competitions. In the
evening, Gill nobly spent 2 hours calling Bingo for
children while some members visited Yatton Rotary Club,
for a talk about “Tyntesfield”.
We woke to more rain so out came cards and board
games for a while until it was dry enough for more
cycling, scooting and even swimming. After early
afternoon rounders, Paula, Ann and Sylvia led crafts
making fabric flowers, brooches, banner flags and
painting models. Arthur’s teatime pancakes that were
eagerly wolfed down by the children followed this. The
evening turned warm as we tucked into a filling fish and
chip supper.
After mixed weather for the free day on Wednesday,
Thursday was forecast to be the hottest day of the year.
A brisk wind kept the temperature pleasant and also
dried yesterday’s damp awnings ready for them to be
packed away. The finals of the boules and croquet were
played and the pool was much in demand. A particularly
tender “Grand Pig Roast” was enjoyed on a final lovely
balmy evening. Then awards were made and our grateful
thanks were made to all those who led activities but
especially to Judy and Clive and the assistant rally
marshals.
Sophia (4) was very surprised when, after some
persuasion, she joined in
Bingo only to astound
everyone by winning the next
three prizes. We had to phone
her daddy so that she could
tell him that she “was almost
crying with happiness”
because she was so proud that
she could ride without
stabilisers straight away! She
was very impressed to get a
certificate marking this
milestone (a lovely idea by
Judy who has seen so many
pairs of stabilisers removed at
the rallies) Both Sophia and
Talia (just 7) really enjoy the
freedom that the large area of the rally affords
(something lacking in their urban lives) and are asking
about next year’s rally whenever we see them.
Jill & Rex Andrew
Thu 8 to Tue 13 August
Heart of the Fens
A return after 2 years to the Welland Yacht Club site at
Spalding saw fifteen outfits pitched on the side of the
river.
We were welcomed by Terry and Carole and Tony and
Meryl with a cuppa and home-made cakes followed by a
veritable feast classed as a "Welcome Buffet" at 7.00pm.
On Friday morning the battery-powered water taxi took
most members to Springfields to the outlet shopping and
Festival Gardens. They were seen off by the Rally
Marshals. Unfortunately the Band of the Royal Marines
were at Southampton on other duties! In the evening we
enjoyed fish and chips from Sheddys and quizzes - the
winners' prizes of sweets we all helped to eat.
Coffee on Saturday morning and afternoon tea of
sandwiches, home-made cakes and tea got us ready for
the visit to a concert on two organs - a Wurlitzer and a
Compton at Burtey Fen Collection. This privately- owned
music hall houses in addition to several organs, a vast
amount of entertainment memorabilia. It was a truly
splendid evening.
There was the District 1070 AGM after coffee on Sunday
morning, the meeting lasting half an hour before we went
off to The Ship at Pinchbeck for lunch enjoyed by all. A
snooze was felt to be coming on afterwards in readiness
for hospitality in vans in the evening.
It seemed that the last full day was upon us all too soon.
Unfortunately the programmed town walk in the morning
was cancelled due to a bout of vertigo experienced by
the leader. At 2pm we met at the Spalding Gentlemen's
Society founded in 1710 and whose past members
include Sir Isaac Newton and Lord Tennyson. This
building houses thousands of antiquities gathered over
generations. Finally we had sausage and mash and
pudding, and the Spalding Ukulele Orchestra gave us a
lovely musical evening to round off a great rally in a
lovely spot with superb food and dry, warm weather.
What more could we ask for. Many thanks to Terry and
Carole and Tony and Meryl.
Tim Hadrill
Fri 16 to Wed 21 August
Ashbourne
The Rally Report, that all important resume of five days
of fellowship and fun, but what of the content and make-
up of the Rally.
As the years pass by the development of ICFR rallies has
advanced - but the essential ingredients of yesteryear
are necessary and such has been the Ashbourne Rally for
the past 16-18 years. Nevertheless the basis of any Rally
is its venue, location - Mr and Mrs Peter Spencer at Tan
Mill Farm have provided for that with an idyllic setting,
yes, level field, traffic noise free, no electric hook-ups
and the all important weather.
This year 28 units enjoyed such a Rally and from the
welcoming party on Friday to the departing farewell on
Wednesday everyone enjoyed the five whole days of
Look Daddy no stabilisers!
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fellowship. Yes the risk assessment factor was conducted
by David Huxley, Rally Marshall, backed up by a superb
regular team who dovetailed their various duties quietly
and efficiently.
For five days; the start with coffee, briefing by the Rally
Marshall and then a whole pot-pourri of activities to
select from - the Ashbourne Show, a Rally walk from
Tissington, a town walk with historical overtones or
individual trips to local stately homes - Kedleston, Calke
Abbey and Chatsworth, or for the more discerning
shoppers a spending spree to David Napier at Alfreton.
The evenings were well
planned, including an
American Supper, BBQ
etc but after each
evening meal there was
a feast of home-grown
entertainment in the
party tent provided by a
miscellany of artists
including Peter and
Angela Pimperton, David
and Wendy Richardson
and Alec Swailes and
Colin Bradford, with the
odd original and risque
m o n o l o g u e f r o m
Elizabeth Wakefield. On
two evenings Alec and
Colin entertained us with
Northumbrian poetry,
folk songs and convivial
participation. It was this
originality and individual
composition that really
displayed the wealth of
t a l ent t ha t ICFR
possesses. A final lunch
at a completely new
venue proved a huge
success.
Our thanks must go to
David and Mary Huxley,
Rally Marshalls, Eric and
B a r b a r a S a w f o r d
(pictured), who initiated the Rally many years ago, Frank
and Gwen Matthews and David and Maureen Smith, a
total team whose individual input provided us all with a
superb Rally.
Tom Heyes
THE ASHBOURNE VAN
Inspired by the traditional folk song, the Derby Ram
As I was going to Derbyshire, on one fine August day,
I spied the biggest van, sir, that ever came this way.
This van it blocked the road, sir, and caused a traffic jam,
From Manchester to Derby and then down to Birmingham.
CHORUS - Men
Indeed, me lads. It’s true, me lads. I never was known to lie.
If you had been in Ashbourne you’d have seen the same as I.
CHORUS - Women
It’s a lie. It’s a lie. It’s a big fat lie.
Let me tell you it is just not true..
This van was wide behind, sir. This van was wide before.
From one side to the other was five metres, maybe more!
This van was also long, sir, much longer than a bus.
The rally marshal moaned and groaned and really made a fuss.
CHORUS - (Men then Women)
The awning on this van, sir, was long and it was wide.
Three pitches deep this awning stretched, and four from side to
side.
The man fixed up his awning tight, and pegged it well all ‘round.
But when his wife tripped on the guys she swore & cursed &
frowned.
CHORUS - (Men then Women)
This van was posh, as posh, sir, as ever posh could be,
With chintz and chrome and even, a porcelain lavat’ry.
No Elldis, Swift or Bailey, no Carlight or Van Royce,
Could offer to a buyer, a more up-market choice.
CHORUS - (Men then Women)
The folk inside this van, sir, liked very much to dine,
On fillet steak and pommes frites with a very good red wine.
We all hoped for an invite for hospitality.
So we could witness for ourselves, this height of luxury.
CHORUS - (Men then Women)
Just ponder now on why it is, a good Rotarian,
Should bring to rural Derbyshire, this monstrous Ashbourne van,
And why each year this man and wife, should come here from
afar.
They come of course to meet old friends, in our I C F R !
CHORUS - Men and Women together (in harmony!!)
Then... an additional Verse for the last night of the rally
The Huxleys and the Sawfords, the Matthews and the Smiths
Our gratitude is genuine. It’s not the stuff of myths.
To finish off this story I’ll tell you one last thing,
The good folk on this rally can really, really sing...
CHORUS - Men and Women together (in harmony!!)
Colin Bradford
Thu 22 August to Thu 5 Sept
A Real Taste of Holland
The Rally was held on a site near Hummelo a lovely and
very well kept village in Gelderland in the East of the
Netherlands. An area that, we were told frequently by
the locals, is not normally visited by the British.
The management of Camping Jena had reserved a
spacious field surrounded by trees for the exclusive use
of the 15 outfits that attended the Rally which was held
for two weeks at the same location. They had also
erected a large “Party Tent” in the centre of the field
which easily accommodated the 29 attendees.
Among the organised events in the party tent was a first
A trio of talent, L to R, Peter
Pimperton, Colin Bradford,& Rally
Marshall David Huxley
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night typical Dutch meal with wonderful belly pork
cooked in different ways with the usual trimmings. It was
also used by Theo to talk about the hardship he and his
family had to undergo during the war. He also
entertained us another evening with his keyboard.
Visits were paid to markets at Doetinchem and Zutphen
two lovely Old Dutch towns where we all sampled the
delicacies, Kibberling, (small pieces of fried cod) together
with garlic and other dips. The braver members tried the
salted herring the Dutch way by swallowing them whole.
We had a guided tour of Doesburg a very old fortified
town with many medieval buildings which had escaped
relatively unscathed during the war.
One exception being the Church Tower which had been
blown up by the Germans two days before the war
ended. The town was also home to one of the four
“Lalique” Museums and a “Clog” Museum which were well
worth a visit.
Most of the group visited “Obelink”, the largest Camping
and Caravan store in Europe and bought accessories and
litres of toilet fluid as it was very cheap.
A visit was also arranged to Doesburg Church which as
stated earlier had been damaged during the war. The
visit had been arranged specifically to see and hear about
the wonderful Church Organ. It is one of the largest in
the world and it has over 5,000 pipes varying in size
from over 6 metres to 15 centimetres.
To me one of the highlights of the tour was to see Theo’s
face when he was invited
to play by the organist.
The church is cathedral
like in size and we had
been told the organ was
worth 26 million euros.
Theo gave a perfect
rendition of “When you
come home again to
Wales” which was applauded by visitors to the church. A
rather large step up from a keyboard in a tent!
Some of the more linguistically gifted members had a
real go at speaking and learning Dutch and by the
beginning of the second week they could understand
Eten en Drinken and could pronounce the name of the
nearest village and mispronounce the names of the two
nearest towns.
Many thanks are due to Theo, Pauline, Peter and
Margaret for all the hard work they put in running and organising this excellent Rally.
Jack Swainston
Thu 22 August to Tue 10 Sept
Provence Revisited
After leaving La Belle France rally in July and wandering
around France and Italy for six weeks, until the
beginning of the Marrow’s Provence Revisited rally it was
a change, to have assistant rally marshal Tom Green
pedal up to us at the gate and give us a very warm
greeting “in English”.
The Site Municipal was on the southern edge of Mornant
a town with Roman and Medieval roots and still retaining
lots of it’s medieval character. The site was small with
good sized level pitches, a reasonable shower block, and
a very friendly couple who managed it. Shade could be
found if you moved around a little during the day, the
temperatures still in the mid 30’s. The site held a folk
music night with the singer also playing a barrel organ,
they served wine at 1euro per plastic cup and ham and
cheese panini and chips, of course, Arthur had to
participate in the singing and I can’t remember what he
sang, I suspect he couldn’t either. Arthur was fit enough
to make us Bucks Fizz and bacon butties for breakfast on
26th a fine start to the day, and later he gave us a
demonstration of divining at the Roman aqueduct site
with some bent coat hangers. On the last night we all
when down to have a Chinese banquet in nearby Givers.
28th August and time to move on to Embrun, close to
the Italian border. At the navigator’s meeting we were
advised to avoid the infamous “Route Napoleon”, a few
adventurers decided to bite the bullet, only had to
change down to second gear once on a particularly steep
bit. The riverside site was again level with some shade
and had water, electric, grey water and chemical disposal
points on every pitch. It was within easy walking distance
to the town which had good shops and many fine
restaurants. Arthur organised one of his famous pancake
parties, a trip around the nearby lake and a whisky
tasting, we only got half way through the samples, to be
continued? Fabulous scenery in the Southern Alps and
many navigable passes up to 3,000 mtrs.
On the 30th we had the sad news that Mikes wife Shirley
who now lives in a care home had passed away during
the night. After considering several options, Mike decided
it would be best to get back as quickly as he could with
Dutch rally enjoying a drink after the forest walk at the campsite
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his van, Jack and Barbara Bridge agreed to accompany
him on his return journey.
Our next stop would be Carpentras, another Municipal
site on the edge of town, it was showing its age a little, a
bit dark and dusty. However it was in a very good
location. We visited Le Pins vineyard organised by the
team, had a paella party, a lunch in Caromb (€13.50
including wine) and a last night supper in a very nice
restaurant in nearby Beaumes de Venise.
Very difficult to compress three weeks of wonderful
camping into 500 words. Well done Arthur, Mavis, Tom &
Christine.
David Shaw
Thu 29 Aug to Tue 3 Sept
Robin Hood
The sun welcomed us all to the Holme Pierrepont
Camping Site in Nottingham and so began 5 days of
fellowship.
Thursday evening saw all the ralliers attend an evening
buffet provided by our rally Marshalls Bruce & Sue Liddle
and Marylyn and Derrick Nurse. We had a large marquee
supplied by the site complete with disco lighting which
made the evening slightly different as you chased
numerous colours across the table.
Friday evening saw a Pie Mash & Peas evening with a
“Robin Hood” themed fancy dress thrown in as well. Our
Rally Marshalls looked resplendent as Robin and Maid
Marion with competition from Gwyn & Eileen Weallans.
A hearty meal was followed by a Music Quiz made all the
more interesting by the musical blunders from Bruce
Liddle (I think they were deliberate) and the winners
were Angela & Peter Pimperton.
Saturday evening saw everybody contributing to an
“American Supper” themed night. This was followed by a
great evening of Folk Music performed for us by John and
Joe who are both members of the Beeston Folk Group.
Some of the songs were new to us but we were also able
to join in the more memorable ones.
After a free day on Sunday our Rally Marshals arranged a
BYO Barbeque followed by a games evening which saw
us all competing against each other at Archery, Boules,
Shut the Box, Table Skittles and rounded off with a quiz.
Once all the scores had been totalled it was Nan Shillitoe
who ran out as the winner.
The Robin Hood Rally was concluded on Monday evening
by a visit to the Rotary Club of Beeston and a most
enjoyable meal with our fellow Rotarians.
Peter Pimperton (District 1220 Retford)
Thu 5 to Tue 10 September
Rosedale Park Wrexham
The beautiful countryside of the Welsh Marches put all
ralliers in the mood for a relaxing and sociable get
together. A cosy room, just right for 30 and with a carpet
and posh chandelier even, was our venue for the
evenings. We were treated to a lovely welcome supper
with our rally marshals spoiling us by waiting on us. Even
the rhubarb and blackberries for the jelly were home
grown. Delicious.
On barbecue night the weather did not comply but rally
marshal John set an example by declaring he was not a
wimp and soldiered on. The rest of us admired from afar.
Don and Anne Smith joined us for the evening and it was
a treat to see them.
The American Supper was as good as ICFR suppers
always are, everything consumed. The owner of the site
even made a large chocolate cake which was very much
appreciated. An excellent quiz, prompting much
discussion and laughter
followed. Paul Quinlan
bravely kept control of the
answer session most ably
and with good humour.
Sunday began with bacon
baps and ended with table
top games where true
c o m p e t i t i v e s t r e a k s
emerged.
There are lovely walks in this part of our country and
some ralliers took full advantage of them. The National
Trust properties of Erddig and Chirk Castle had their
visitor numbers boosted by our presence. Some of us
tried an oggie and will do so again now.
We had many impeccably behaved dogs with us who had
their own totally enclosed field to race around with each
other. The owners had cleared the field of sheep for them
so we could have had our very own Crufts.
For our final evening we went to the Boat Inn on the
edge of one of the many lakes in Ellesmere. Geoff and
Enid Travis were able to join us together with Don and
Anne. Another quiz sorted out those people with quirky
brains though they called it lateral thinking.
I'm sure these quizzes will be recycled in our own clubs
eventually.
Many, many thanks are due to rally marshals, John and
RMs, John and Anne Walgrove
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Anne Walgrove and Paul and Christine Quinlan for their
hard work and careful planning.
Paul and Jackie Sharman
Thu 12 to Tue 17 September
Jack & Jill
On behalf of John and Rosemary Barber, our excellent
rally marshals, assisted by John and Maggie Mold and
Eric and Maureen Matkins, - greetings. We were
delighted to receive a card from Peter and Silvia Skerratt
saying they were sorry not to be with us.
Instead of the usual morning tea and coffee we had
happy hour from six pm to about 7.30 and I can confirm
we all left very happy. John and Julie Adamson led a walk
on the Friday. He said it was about 2 miles but I made it
4283 steps.
Saturday was the day we were invited to visit the
Bluebell railway. This is an amazing line that runs from
Sheffield Park to East Grinstead and takes about 45
minutes. The stations are like stepping back 80 years
and are faithfully reproduced in every detail. There are
shops a museum and a restaurant to keep you
entertained while you wait for your steam driven engine
to arrive complete with carriages from the 1920’s again
faithfully restored. Being poor we could only afford 3rd
class but some of the toffs travelled 1st class. I know
some of the children complained there was no wifi on the
trains but we did try to explain that in Victorian times not
everyone had a mobile phone.
Sunday saw our 1250 /1140 ICFR AGM led by Eric and
kept in order by our secretary Maureen. The highlight
being our treasurer’s report from Derek Scrafton – the
one entry making the accounts much more difficult than
last year.
The weather then was wet and windy so no one managed
to get to the windmills (Jack and Jill) so everyone is
looking forward to next year.
Our thanks again to John and Rosemary especially.
Bruce Wallace (on behalf of the 12 units who attended)
Sat 14 to Thu 19 September
Hardwick Park Witney
We were warmly welcomed by Cliff, Rosemary and their
team to Hardwick Park a short drive from Witney and the
beautiful Cotswold area.
We had not visited this part of the country and were
keen to explore as were others on the Rally. Places
visited were Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Sir Winston
Churchill, Waddestone Manor, Bourton-on-the-Water,
Northleach and Witney. Some of us visited the Museum
of Mechanical Music, the Motor and Toy Museum,
Cotswold Pharmacy (for cologne), Park and Ride to
Oxford and a garden centre where hot water bottles in a
cashmere cover cost £98!!! We visited Adam’s Farm of
BBC’s Countryfile fame and saw Eric the Highland bull,
several of his ‘wives’ and 2 of his children! We met an 8
day old donkey called Clover and watched the sheep
show with Tyson the Texel being very cheeky.
The Museum of Mechanical Music was fascinating and
many of the items were
played including a 19th
century Juke Box which only
charged 1d.
Our farewell supper was at
The Rose Revived on the
banks of the Thames, where
a good time was had by all.
Not just that evening, but all
of the 5 days thanks to the
hard working team.
The word Cotswold comes
from the Old English of Cots
(sheep pen) and Wold (on the
hill).
Many anniversaries and
birthdays were celebrated so
Cliff announced that next
year he would also be arranging christenings,
barmitsvahs and weddings!! We can’t wait!
Fran Allen
Thu 19 to Tue 24 September
Autumn Fellowship
ICFR’s return to Brean Sands and this attractive Holiday
Park with its excellent facilities, close to the beach was
met by a sudden spell of “Good West Country Weather”
and by late Thursday afternoon, 80 units had booked in
with one more to arrive on the Friday and also with two
couples staying in accommodation on the site.
All members on arrival were met by members of
President Peter’s Global Rally Committee with RMs Tony
and Ann Rawlings, the District 1200 Chairman Peter
Jennings and his District Team, extending a very warm
welcome and providing a cup of tea in the Party Tent.
In the evening in the nearby Scotty’s Bar, only 5
minutes’ walk from the site entrance, the scheduled
informal drinks and nibbles in the programme turned out
to be a help yourself Sandwich Buffet.
On Friday morning coffee, tea,
cake and biscuits were
provided in the party tent and
a free day was enjoyed by
those not engaged in the ICFR
Executive meeting. In the
evening it was back to Scotty’s
for an excellent Hog Roast,
followed by “Miss 60’s”, a most
accomplished singer and
entertainer reminding most
present of their younger days!
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On Saturday Morning, an extremely well attended
Autumn Fellowship Meeting was held in The Seagull.
Before concluding the well run meeting by 12 noon,
President Peter presented a Life Membership Certificate
to Past President Don and Paula, a very warm welcome
with a First time Rally Plaque to Ray and Karen May-
Wilcox and also his thanks and a First time Rally Marshals
Plaque to Tony and Ann Rawlings.
In the evening on site “Pot Luck Hospitality” was enjoyed
by most as was arranged, although it was said that a few
had lost their way!
On Sunday the Service of Praise and Thanksgiving was
led again in The Seagull by Major Margaret Fozzard (Wife
of a Rotarian) of the Salvation Army who last led the
Service in 2009. All present enjoyed the Hymns,
Readings, Music and Prayers with the proceeds from the
collection (£320) being split between the Salvation Army
and Macmillan Nurses.
In the evening a generous Carvery was enjoyed by all
and followed by Nyla King, a TV singer and entertainer
with “A Tribute to Witney Houston”.
There was an early start for Golf for 11 players on
Monday morning and 57 others made a hair-raising
coach journey to enjoy Phil Cary’s arranged visit to the
spectacular Tyntesfield House and all returned safely to
enjoy a Farewell Evening Curry Meal at Scotty’s with
magical and mystical entertainment from Taffy Spencer.
The winner of the Golf “Leverton Cup” was Bob Wright
and June Jones won the Ladies prize.
President Peter was pleased to say that the £65 coach
surplus was added to the donation to Macmillan Nurses,
he also thanked Ben, the Catering Manager and his staff.
Finally congratulations to R M’s Tony and Ann Rawlings
(and Harry) who together with President Peter’s Global
Team, helped by ICFR District 1200 Chairman Peter
Jennings and his District Team for all their hard work and
organisation in putting on such an enjoyable programme
and running such an excellent Fellowship Rally.
Also a big thank you to the Scott Family, the site owners
and their staff for their most hospitable and generous
welcome to their very busy and well managed site with
its own nearby social facilities and meeting rooms and in
providing such excellent professional entertainment for
us all to enjoy.
John & Margaret Warrack
Thu 10 to Tue 15 October
Return to Stonham Barns
Stonham Barns is a leisure and retail village with
boutique-style shops, post office, golf course and
restaurant as well as facilities for caravans and camping
visitors.
The five of us were joined by three further units on
Friday making a very select group including the ICFR
President and Auditor. Tea and coffee on arrival was
followed by a substantial finger buffet in the evening.
Morning coffee was available daily, a good reason for a
chat.
Throughout, we were able to sit very comfortably in two
linked awnings with sufficient heating for a sauna! With
rain pounding the awnings from time to time I'm sure
that steam would have been rising from the roofs.
Wet Friday with fish and chips and apple crumble in the
evening meant that we were not short of food and
Michael saw that none was wasted! It was good to see
Florrie Heller, who called in for coffee. Saturday dawned
dry and bright and members dispersed to enjoy the
delights of Suffolk, returning for an American Supper in
the evening.
District 1080/1240 had their District Meeting to which we
were all invited prior to lunch, all taking place at the Park
Hotel, Diss on the Sunday morning. In the evening Ray
May-Wilcox, our newest caravanner, who is a Social Care
Practitioner, had us all doing stretching and rocking
exercises to rid us of the problems associated with
ageing limbs (and internals!) causing much hilarity.
After a free day on Monday, we went to the on-site
restaurant (Sweet and Savoury) for the final meal. This
was a lovely end to an excellent rally attributable to the
hard work put in by Roger and Christine Restell, not
forgetting the "rubbish lady", Jacquie. Many thanks to
you all.
Tim Hadrill
Thu 15 to Tue 20 October
Cotswold Water Park
This Rally was organised, in part, to support the District
1200 Conference which was held close by. Philip Cary
was in charge, ably assisted by Bob Wright. My major
memory of Philip (apart from his organising skills) was
his rendering of "There was a young lady of Aberystwyth"
at a 10 o`clock coffee break.
Rotarian Stephen Seager gave us an excellent guided
tour of Westonbirt Arboretum and, on another day, his
wife led us on a learned guided tour of Cirencester
We, of course, had a (or is it an) hostilities evening,
plenty of `in van’ fellowship on wet windy evenings plus
a final evening dinner.
John Rice
Fri 11 to Thu 17 October
Return to Chipping
After a long and uneventful journey we arrived at sunny
Chipping to be greeted by the Rally Marshalls, David and
Jeanne Shaw, with the customary cuppa.
We had the most stylish rally tent - no roof and no
windows but very substantial breeze block walls! We
knew it as Dave’s Café. On the first night we were all
Rally Reports continued
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Page 38 News and Views Winter 2013
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served with a hotpot supper, and where coffee was
served each day. It was in the process of being built, and
when the wind blew and the rain rained we were very
appreciative.
On the Saturday night it was the usual hostility evening,
three hourly sessions which were very enjoyable and
perfect for finding out how everybody was, and how we
had survived the last twelve months.
On Sunday we met in the stylish village hall for a very
substantial supper and games evening. These were the
kind of games we like - Connect Four, dominoes, bar
billiards and Jenga. The winners were Margaret Warrack
and Brenda Fewings.
On the Monday there was a short walk on Beacon Fell.
Tuesday was Culture Day. We went to a very smart tithe
barn where we had lunch which was most enjoyable, and
then onto Browsholme Hall which is a very majestic
home owned since 1507 by the Parker family. There is
very little heating in the property, it’s just in one corner
of the house where the family lives. I promise not to
complain again about a cold bedroom!
In the evening approximately 10 ralliers met at the Rally
Marshall’s Rotary Club of Great Harwood & Rishton where
we enjoyed supper, a good speaker plus fellowship.
On the final evening we went to the local hostelry,
namely The Dog & Partridge for an excellent “Last Night
Dinner”. At the end of the dinner there was a conker
competition for all the men, won by Geoff Fewings and
Malcolm Ward, obviously a sign of mis-spent youth!
It was a very good and enjoyable rally - good company,
entertainment and food, everything a rally should be.
Thank you David, Jeanne, Malcolm and Kath for a very
good rally.
Brenda Fewings
Thu 17 to Tue 22 October
Autumn Tints
Once again the ever popular C&CC site at Ashes Lane,
Staveley, Kendal played host with lakeland sunshine
greeting on arrival, 27 of the 28 vans booked in.
Following a very warm welcome in their dry awning with
tea or coffee, cakes and biscuits, Rally Marshals Duncan
and Ivy Dearden later welcomed all to the onsite Pig &
Whistle and outlined a very full programme over the next
four days and introduced Bob Hamilton, the walk leader
for the next morning.
On Friday morning Bob once again led an enthusiastic
group for 5 miles through the woods and across the fields
to Staveley and back.
Saturday was a free day to explore the Lakes and nearby
Kendal and Windermere. In the evening at the Castle
Street Centre in Kendal, it was 007 time and following
the usual excellent lasagne supper, we were treated to
an evening from Miss Bond herself, 007 Keri Leigh from
Stockport, who sang not only the Bond themes and tunes
from the 60s, 70s and 80s to an audience of not only
look alike, Bonds, Odd Jobs and their delightful ladies,
but other old favourites in the style of Sandie Shaw and
Shirley Bassey.
Sunday was billed as a Sunset Tour on Lake Windermere
in the afternoon and although the morning started wet,
we were met at the Lakeside Pier with “Sunshine” and
the magnificent hundred year old Lake Steamer “Teal”
for a cruise up to Bowness and back.
This was followed by a short trip by car to the nearby
Lakeland Motor Museum’s Café Ambio, for a “Cumberland
Supper”- a large curly sausage with mash and cuppa tea,
to you and me!
Monday, last full day, was wet again. RM’s pitch was the
only one flooded! However we had the “Last Night
Dinner” at the Windermere Hydro Hotel to look forwarded
to and here again we dined in style and were right royally
entertained in “Lancashire Style” by Margaret Bradshaw
on the Electric Keyboard, followed by “Trombone” Tom
Hobson, accompanied by Northumbrian Composer Colin
“Squeeze Box” Bradford with a grand trio finale.
All our thanks for an excellent final evening and rally
were summed up by IPP Don Howard who thanked RMs
Duncan and Ivy for their tenth Autumn Tints and
arranging such an interesting rally programme of Food,
ICFR Fellowship and Fun.
Margaret and John Warrack
Rally Reports continued
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Page 39 www.rotarianscaravanning.org.uk
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Dear Daisy
How long have I waited for this opportunity. You have been my idol ever
since my Mum read your caravanning exploits to me. I have tried and tried
to get her to write to you -as of course I can't write. Now that I have
finally met you out walking - Mum has no excuse.
My caravanning started at 3 months old when I was supposed to be
undergoing something called training. Mum was getting ready to take me
out late evening for you know what. Well the site was full of rabbits and I
couldn't resist the challenge and escaped (they have never made that
mistake again!)
Now this thing they call 'training' seems to work both ways, because now
I am 4, they are completely trained to my way.
The first Rally I went on was a bit of a trial and was told I wouldn't go
again. Not wanting to miss out on the fun and the occasional taste of wine
at hospitality, I persuaded them to take me again and now if they go, I go.
Every now and then I hear them talking about injections for something
called a 'passport' they never have,
can you tell me what 'abroad' is like, I
would love to go.
I look forward to meeting you again
and comparing doggy notes.
Lots of love Daisy
Your adoring Harry
(The Border Terrier)
Dictated to Ann Rawlings
Well I've just survived being showered
and brushed by the Woman. Why oh why
do humans expect me to smell nice!! I will
get my own back as soon as I go out for
my walk tomorrow and find a nice smelly
something or other to roll in - that will
teach her.
As my smelly fur is drying off I thought I
would put a few words down for my diary
as I have a few moments away from cat
chasing duties.
I've had a busy year and even received
my first fan letter from my new boyfriend Harry (see
below) the rather smart border terrier. It's been lovely
meeting up with you all on rallies. I have noticed lots of
people know my name but forget his and hers - quite
amusing.
I think I told you all I was excluded from their daughters
wedding but at least I have managed to keep with the
family for the rest of the year. My pet passport is looking
quite full, so much so it's had to have an extra page
attached. Don't worry Harry it's not that bad and I get to
go away a lot more. All I need is a microchip, my normal
annual boosters, a rabies jab every three years and of
course the dreaded vet’s visit before I return to the UK
where they give me a horrible worm tablet and take my
temperature—don’t ask about that. I try and spit out the
tablet but they're too good at noticing. Abroad is hot and
the dogs bark with a strange accent, but it is great fun
with all the new smells and I get to ride in the
motorhome on a train, in a tunnel, under water—cool.
We've done lots of rallies and I love
guarding the pitch and van. My last rally
was on a NO DOG pitch so I felt very
superior especially when they got told off
by a rather loud woman. I have got the
man to include a picture. Oh I have also
got him to include another photo taken by
one of my friends showing ‘a dog’s life’ on
a foreign rally—well it can get very hot
under our built in fur coat.
Chester was fun as I had loads of walks
around the city walls and twice I was
stopped and asked to have my photo taken, one to take
home to Japan and another to Brazil, all those lovely
buildings and they want to take a photo of me.
Hospitality is my favourite bit as often I get given treats
brought round just for me, then I have a snooze just to
show them what a good job I do guarding their van
whilst they are out. Goodness knows what they get up
to but I suspect red wine has a lot to do with it. I even
heard the man say one chilly night "the dog doesn't
need to go out before bedtime does she" for which he
got severely told off and sent out with me anyway.
Christmas is soon upon us and I will get ignored as
usual as the house will be full of grandchildren and their
toys, but hopefully Santa will remember me this year
and I will get a bit of turkey for my dinner.
Happy Christmas my doggie friends and see you next
year on a rally somewhere.
Dictated to the Woman AKA Christine Turley by Daisy
Tails of the Dog
by Daisy the Caravanning Cairn Terrier
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Page 40 News and Views Winter 2013
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Letters to the Editor
Gerard,
It is our G
olden Wedding Annive
rsary on
December 14th th
is year, y
ou may wish to include
in N&V.
I have also attached a photo which might give
someone a smile, if
you have the sp
ace.
It seems g
rainy but when sq
ueezed to passport
size looks O
K.
(I was 22 at th
e time but lo
ok about 14)
Regards
Terry Cooke
To: 'Gerard Turley'
Subject: re Camping La Grappe Fleurie
Dear Gerard,
A number of ICFR m
embers have visited
the site at Fleurie in the past and may be
interested in the attached. A possible item
for News and Views?
Happy thoughts,
Derek Rimm
er.
Good Afternoon Derrick, Greetings from Evanston. Thank you for the timely submission of your 2013 Annual Report for the International Caravanning Fellowship of Rotarians. I will be sure to record and file this document appropriately. I was especially impressed with your Newsletter. It is undoubtedly one of the best I’ve seen yet, and I will be using it as a model for other Fellowships and Action Groups to emulate. ………. Thanks again for getting this to me so quickly. Much appreciated. Best Regards,
Jesse Jesse Davis
Program Coordinator, Rotary Service Connections
ROTARY INTERNATIONAL | One Rotary Center | 1560 Sherman Ave. | Evanston, IL 60201 USA
Subject: RE: News & Views, the Magazine of the International Caravanning Fellowship of
Date: Fri, 6 Sep 2013 16:06:31 -0500
From: Jesse Davis
To: Derrick Sanders
CC: Rotaryfellowships
Dear Edito
r
As I made my way home fro
m a rally
a deer
jumped the M
5 hard shoulder b
arrier s
traight i
nto
the motorh
ome making a hole in the fib
reglass
bodywork just
behind the passenger
door and
further d
amage along the side.
A split second earli
er and it
might have been
under th
e fro
nt wheel
with
even worse
consequences! A few weeks later
our gra
nd-
daughter in A
merica w
as not s
o lucky a
s her c
ar
was writ
ten off afte
r hitt
ing a deer head on. S
ince
then I
have heard of
numerous incidents with
deer so suggest w
e all eat V
enison.
Graham Roberts
Camping La Grappe
Fleurie The cam
psite has been taken over by a
private company called Viva Cam
p. This
company also controls six other cam
psites
mainly in south-eastern France.
About 25% of pitches are now occupied by
wooden chalets, and charges have increased
considerably. For example, the nightly
charge in August for caravan/2 people/10
amps electricity was 25 Euros.
The site is well-run and tidy and the new
owners appear to be trying to create a
holiday camp atm
osphere rather than a
caravan/camping venue.
The company w
ebsite is www.vivacamp.com.
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Page 41 www.rotarianscaravanning.org.uk
Return to Contents Page
Letters to the Editor continued
ICFR skip the Light Fantastic
Karen and I didn’t have a clue; we didn’t know what to do. We joined the ICFR, bought our first caravan and booked ourselves on to the Autumn Rally. We got to our
destination, reversed onto the plot – amazing! Still keeping very calm, we started to set up. What’s this for? Where does this go? With just a slight squeak in Karen’s voice, I barked back calmly ‘I ain’t got a clue’. Oh dear me, what do we do? We didn’t have to worry at all, soon
first to come to our aid was Maureen and Malcolm Dungworth with beaming welcoming smiles, and then
John Bumfrey arrived, followed by others, what a fantastic welcome!
The support from other ICFR Members was overwhelming, Karen and I felt so much a part of the family team, we soon had a skip in our stride.
I would say to anyone, if you have a caravan and you are
a Rotarian, join the ICFR and you can skip the light fantastic, Rotary Fellowship at its best.
Karen and Ray May-Wilcox
What is ACCEO The work of the Association of Caravan & Camping
Exempted Organisations covers many aspects of our
hobby. The Organisation of caravan rallying on
unlicensed land is controlled by “The caravan Sites and
Control of Development Act, 1960”. ICFR is a member
Club of ACCEO and all of the executive committee are
well versed in the legislation set out in the forgoing
document.
The Association holds regular meetings with the relevant
Government Department - Natural England, to discuss all
matters relating to caravanning and an excellent
relationship exists
Why is ICFR a Member of ACCEO?
The Association represents the interests of over 200
independent caravan clubs. One of the main incentives
for Member Clubs is the public liability and all risks
insurance policies. The premium for this cover is shared
by all member Clubs, additionally, the Association
provides indemnity to protect the ICFR executive from
similar claims.
All rallying caravanners are invited to become individual
members of the Association and receive the Magazine
“ACCEO Matters” upon payment of £5 p.a.
Alan E. King.
A TALE FROM THE PAST. Dear Gerard,
I attach a story from my memories of the past in ICFR. It
might fill in a little corner if you need something.
We enjoy reading News and Views even though it is
some time since we had a caravan. We have such good
memories of ICFR.
Very best wishes,
Frank Ashworth
There was an ICFR Treasurer who always used to tell a
story before he gave his report. The purpose of this was
to make sure that his audience was fully awake and able
to listen very carefully to the state of ICFR’s finances.
The following is an example.
The Treasurer’s Story.
A Rotarian decided to go for a long walk in the woods as
part of his regular exercise. He had walked deep into the
woods when it started to rain which became heavier and
heavier. As he was not wearing suitable clothing he
decided he must find shelter because by now his clothing
was completely saturated.
Nearby was a large, hollow oak tree and he squeezed
into the space. He was no longer getting wet as the
space was completely dry but, as he began to dry out he
began to swell. He realised that he was unable to get out
through the hole and that he was completely stuck. He
had not told anyone where he was going and nobody
knew where he was. He was going to die so he started to
go through all the things he had done and had not done
in his life.
Then he remembered he had not paid his subscription to
ICFR and this made him feel so small that he was able to
escape from the tree and walk home.
Arthur’s Secret (Pancake Recipe) 1.5 pounds Self Raising Flour
6 Eggs
6 dessert spoons Milk Powder
1/2 teaspoon Salt
2 dessert spoons Liquid Butter
2 dessert spoons Vegetable Oil
1/2 pint Water
1/4 pint Diet Lemonade
Whip all, leave for one
hour, whip before use.
Use more Lemonade if
required. Lightly oil the
pan or platters. Use
spatula to turn over.
Serve with Sugar and
Lemon.
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Page 42 News and Views Winter 2013
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More Caravan Problems Mary’s Noseweight
I have to tell, one cautionary tale
Before setting off for Derbyshire Dale Nose weight must be measured The critical balance reassured Released the jockeywheel—bolt snapped Poor fingers crushed and trapped So always support the A Frame So no good me passing the blame
Six hours to Bakewell with blasted blocks If onto Appletree don’t forget your chocks
I have to thank Allan for making a lever to lift the
caravan up, down to A&E and up to Tiddington for a new bracket all fitted with new bolt.
Mary and Allan Simmons
Cartoon ‘how not to check your noseweight’ by Michael Parkinson
John’s A frame
As I had heard that President Peter has had an A Frame problem, I rang him to find out more as I too have had a
problem on the way back from Ashbourne, which could have been serious if the caravan had become detached.
Hence the need for Caravan MOTs ?
My Caravan is a 2007 Nov, Bailey S6 Senator Indiana with ATC, an ALKO A frame plate with Jockey wheel. It has been serviced each year and no problems were found at service, although unless the A Frame top is removed with the 4 bolts, you cannot see the two cross bolts which hold
down the cover and towing shaft. The only sign of a problem is a loose shaft or worse a collapsed A frame with detached towing shaft.
When I arrived home on Wednesday afternoon from
Ashbourne, I checked the towbar as I had heard some noise which I thought was from the AKS and was able to lift it up about 1/8th inch. I noticed that the end ALKO
cable plate was fractured and removed it, I then found the end of the horizontal bolt with Alan Key head was missing with nut attached in the bottom of this plate. I rang Baileys who sent me another plate overnight but said the bolts came from ALKO. The broken bolt I would estimate to be 94 mm long. The head end would not appear to come out although loose until the 4 bolts holding down the
top plate which combines the Jockey Wheel fitting is lifted. When I took off the silver plastic cover with ATC Light,
through which the Jockey wheel handle and hand brake project, I could not see the rear (2nd) horizontal bolt but could feel from underneath that it was still there.
I am pleased to say that my service engineer has replaced
the two cross bolts and hopefully, it won’t happen again.
I will keep my eye on this. The only sign was some grating noise, possible the front of the van ( A frame and Jockey wheel was lower), but when hitching up on an uneven site, it is difficult to tell.
Any one with signs of vertical movement to the tow shaft and hitch fitting should see their caravan dealer/ service engineer immediately.
Kind regards, John Warrack
Front plate removed showing Alan Key end of broken bolt
UK Government opposed to EU
caravan roadworthiness test A European Union plan to introduce MOT-style testing for caravans is being resisted by the government.
The proposal would result in caravans weighing more than 750kg being required to undergo regular checks.
Caravan owners have warned that the move could damage the economy by cutting the number of people taking caravans on holiday in the UK.
The Department for Transport says it will "resist" the EU plan.
The measure would affect many of the estimated 510,000 caravans in current use in the UK, with only the smallest two-berth models excluded.
The Caravan Club, which represents 375,000 families across the UK, argues that its members often have young children and are highly likely to regularly service their caravans for safety reasons.
Practical challenges
No price has been set for the test but the Caravan Club has said the cost of establishing it would be huge, with caravan and trailer owners bearing much of the cost.
The government last year estimated that it would cost £239m to introduce a caravan and trailer registration scheme for the UK.
A Club spokeswoman said: "The club will always support practical and effective measures aimed at improving road safety.
"In this case, however, we believe the proposals are not supported by clear evidence that they will address a genuine concern, nor that the practical and economic challenges of implementing them have been sufficiently considered.
"It is therefore likely that the proposals would not deliver a desirable benefit to cost return against any of those criteria and instead could prove a strong disincentive to participate in caravanning, with consequent harm to the entire caravanning sector plus the associated tourism activities."
A Department for Transport spokesman said the move also faced opposition in a number of other European Union countries.
He said: "Member states have already agreed that they do not want to introduce roadworthiness testing for caravans - this includes the UK government and we will continue to resist it."
The caravan plans are part of proposals for a tougher vehicle testing regime which its supporters say "aims to increase road safety by introducing more harmonised rules and higher standards for vehicle roadworthiness testing".
Siim Kallas, vice president of the European Commission, said if vehicles - including caravans - cross European borders, EU countries "must have some kind of harmonised approach and rules concerning technical quality".
The roadworthiness regulations are due to be debated by the European Parliament this autumn.
The plan passed their first stage in the parliament last month, despite British MEPs speaking out against the idea.
From BBC News. 12 August 2013.
Cover removed towing shaft was loose
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Page 43 www.rotarianscaravanning.org.uk
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In his article in the Summer 2012 issue of News
and Views, “Funny things happen when you go
on an ICFR Rally overseas”, David Mack (RC of
Frome Selwood) clearly illustrated how a non-
fundraising fellowship such as ICFR can be a
powerful catalyst in persuading individual Rotary
Clubs to support a major fundraising project. In
his case, eight Clubs from the UK, Canada,
Australia, America and South Africa combined to
raise sufficient funds, which when match funded
by local Rotary Districts and the Rotary
Foundation, produced the grand total of over
$42,000 for the Lapdesk Project being promoted
by the RC of George, South Africa.
David’s article arose from what he referred to as
the fallout from the ICFR Springbok South African
Tour in the Spring of 2011. This report continues the
“fallout” in describing what happened in South Wales to
raise funds to support the work of the RC of Breede
River Winelands, Montagu, South Africa, one of the
Clubs visited during the ICFR Tour of South Africa. To
be precise the Club was not visited; the members of the
Club visited us on our camp site and provided a
m a g n i f i c e n t
e v e n i n g o f
fellowship, food
and wine. We
h a d s o m e
indication of
what was to
come as we
watched during
the day a whole
l amb be i ng
roasted on a
revolving spit.
I was impressed with the displays and descriptions of
the activities of this relatively young Club. This
impression was reinforced by discussion with the
President Elect of the Club, Professor Sir David Hall, who
had described what was being done to improve the lives
of squatter children in what was known as the “Bonnie
People Project”. The fact that David knew Swansea and
had been associated with its two major hospitals
clinched our relationship!
The RC of Swansea’s International Service and
Foundation Committee has put funds aside for a Rotary
Foundation Matching Grant project. The visit to South
Africa and the obvious need of support illustrated by the
Breede River Winelands Club provided a very
appropriate target. A figure of £3,000 was agreed by
the Swansea Club and thought had to be given to how
that level of finance could be raised for a matching
grant application before the deadline of 31st March
2013, when the Rotary rules for matching grants was to
be substantially changed.
A chance meeting on a cruise ship had a considerable
effect on the possibility of raising sufficient funds. We
shared a dinner table with a couple from South Wales.
The requirement of the Swansea Club to raise money for
this very worthwhile cause was mentioned. A fellow
diner, a chorister with the Morriston Orpheus Choir,
suggested a Charity Concert with the Choir.
To cut a long preparation short, on the 29th June 2013
a Charity Concert was held in St Mary’s Church in the
centre of Swansea at which the Morriston Orpheus Choir
and a local young choir, the Ariosa Singers, performed
to much acclaim. The Concert raised just over £3,500,
with net proceeds of £2,300 to go towards the Swansea
Club’s commitment. In the end the Swansea
commitment was reduced to just over £2,800 when
exchange rates between the £ and the $ were finalised.
A recent report from The Rotary Foundation (TRF) has
confirmed that through the multiplication factor of
match funding from the South Wales and South African
Districts together with match funding from TRF, the
funding available to the Bonnie People Project in South
Africa, which will be supervised on a regular basis by
both the Swansea Club and the Breede River Winelands
Club, will exceed $19,000.
As David Mack said in his article in News and Views
Summer 2012 – It shows that even from a recreational
fellowship, the Rotary motto of ‘Service above Self’ can
still apply.
John Lomax, Chairman, International Service and
Foundation Committee, Rotary Club of Swansea
ICFR Fallout SA continues
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Page 44 News and Views Winter 2013
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Member to Member Congratulations
Jean Bills 90th Birthday 27/11/13
Roberta and Frank Gray
Golden Wedding 8/6/13
Paul Harris Fellowships
Paul Quinlan (Treasurer Elect of ICFR)
Ralph Leyland
Both of RC Market Drayton presented by AG Richard Green for services to Rotary in general
and their club in particular.
Bryan Lowden
Of RC North Cotswolds “A great surprise but a great honour”
Mike Spencer (1150 District Chairman)
Of RC Abertillery & Blaina presented by District Governor David Curtis
APP: First Aid by British Red Cross
Apps can generally be categorised as ‘Useful or Fun’.
Rarely do you come across one which can genuinely
be described as ‘potentially life changing’ and
therefore I thought it worth sharing this with you in
News & Views.
The ‘First Aid by British Red Cross’ app gives clear
concise advice on what to do in 17 emergency
situations.
Touch the emergency triangle and a bullet point list
appears with information on Allergies, Asthma and
Bleeding etc.
I experimented by tapping ‘Burns’ and was presented
with a small video screen and brief instructions of
what action to take. Tap ‘learn more’ and get even
more details with diagrams and including a button for
999 should it be necessary.
All the details are within the app itself so you don’t
need an internet connection to use it. It might use a
large chunk (25mb) of your phone memory – but I am
sure it’s worth it as you never know when you could
be faced with an emergency situation.
Cliff Dorling 1090
HRH Marks Hykeham Sailability
Anniversary HRH The Princess Royal launches new
safety boat on 5th birthday
HRH The Princess Royal helped Hykeham Sailability
celebrate its fifth birthday in style as she officially
launched the group’s new safety boat funded by a
£6,500 donation from The Rotary Club of Sleaford.
Led by Sleaford businessman, Keven Roberts, who
is not even a sailor himself, the group has secured
many tens of thousands of pounds of funding,
inspired and trained numerous volunteers and
instructors and worked tirelessly to establish what
is now a thriving, vibrant Sailability club.
Up until now the club have had to borrow a support
boat to enable them to run their extensive and
wide-ranging programme of activities but the
addition of the new boat means the club is even
more self sufficient.
Keven said: “It’s great that we now have our own
support boat. Everyone is raring to have a go in it.
It will be well used. The Princess was so interested
in what we do and knowledgeable about boats and
people with disabilities, it was a brilliant day.
“For our disabled sailors the sport provides an
opportunity to be independent when so often they
are very dependent on others.
“When a sailor spends a large part of the week in
pain and in bed it is humbling to see them enjoying
a sail or the young blind man who goes out
independently in a boat leaving his guide dog
waiting for him on the shore. We have enjoyed an
incredible first five years and are looking forward
to what the future holds.”
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Page 45 www.rotarianscaravanning.org.uk
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Fellowship News 28, Summer 1988 Front Page
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Page 46 News and Views Winter 2013
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Diana’s Cookery Page With a pile of ideas for summer drinks, light salads, BBQ
feasts in front of me, and with a hot sun beating down
through the windows, this page is being written during
the hot days in the summer. However, these ideas will
not be much appreciated when this edition of N&W is
published in the winter. So, it is back to the drawing
board to search for recipes more appropriate to the
cooler days of early winter, and indeed, winter itself.
For Pimms think mulled wine! (watch out for a “mock”
Pimms recipe in the summer 2014 edition of N&V.)
Diana
Mushroom and Celery Stroganoff (serves 4) Large Onion 1 Celery Sticks 4 Mushrooms 12oz (350g) Butter or Margarine 2oz (50g) Flour (preferably wholemeal) 1 tablespoon (15ml) Water 1/4 pt (150ml) Yeast extract (marmite) 1 teaspoon (5ml) Thyme half teaspoon Soured cream or natural yogurt 1/4 pt (150ml) (or to
individual taste) Salt and pepper to taste Chopped parsley to garnish if desired. Slice onion, celery and mushrooms. Melt half the butter in a stir
fry pan or saucepan, and sauté onion and celery until the onion
is transparent. Add remaining butter and allow to melt, add
mushrooms and stir occasionally over medium heat for 2-3
minutes. Stir in the flour, then add the water, mixed with yeast
extract, and herbs. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer,
uncovered, for 2-3 minutes. Off the heat, stir in the soured cream
or yogurt and adjust seasoning to taste. Heat very gently to
serving temperature. Serve at once on a bed of freshly cooked
rice. Sprinkle with parsley (if available). To add a bit of colour you
could add half a chopped red pepper or for meat eaters, use less
mushrooms and stir fry some lean pork loin with the mixture.
Either way it is delicious.
Janice Spencer
Onion and cheese flan (serves 4) This is particularly good for a supper. Make it and freeze it in its
tin before a rally. It will defrost beautifully on the journey and be
just right with some peas or baked beans when you arrive.
Packet of short-crust pastry, or make your own,
A good knob of butter
6 medium sized white onions, finely sliced
1 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
1 teas. brown sugar
3 egg yolks
150ml double cream
150g mature cheddar grated.
Roll out the pastry and line a 25cm tart case. Chill it in the fridge
for about 20 mins. Heat the oven to 200C. Bake blind for 20
minutes or until the pastry is golden.
While the pastry is cooling heat the butter in a pan and cook the
onions over a lowish heat, stirring occasionally. Add the
balsamic vinegar and sugar and cook for a further 10 minutes
until they become sticky and golden. Make sure all the liquid has
evaporated. Let them cool. Beat the eggs and cream and add
the grated cheese and cooked onions. Season with salt and
pepper. Fill the tart case with filling and bake for 20/25 minutes
until just set and golden.
Home made Pesto
Heat a small frying pan over a medium heat and toast
30g pine nuts, or cashew nuts, until lightly golden,
stirring constantly. Peel and crush one or two garlic
cloves to a paste. Place with the nuts in a food
processor, add a handful of basil leaves (or parsley, or
rocket) and enough olive oil to whiz to a puree. Add 60g
freshly grated parmesan (or good cheddar) and some
salt and black pepper to taste and whizz again. This will
keep in the fridge for a few days, in a screw top jar
covered with a film of olive oil. Use with pasta, or just
spooned lightly over a tomato salad or drizzled over the
mini pizzas below.
Some quickies –
An Alternative Salad dressing – mix a good teaspoon
of either dry, or grain mustard, a teaspoonful of sugar,
salt and pepper to taste, in a small jug or cup. Add
about a tablespoonful of vinegar, white or malt, and mix
with other ingredients to a paste. Add about a
tablespoonful of milk. The original recipe called for “top
of the milk” but alas, it cannot be so these days with
regular milk. Taste and adjust seasoning.
No rolls to have with a salad? Take about six
tablespoonfuls of flour, either SR or plain, add a couple
of tablespoons of good quality oil and roughly mix. Add
cold water to make a soft but not sticky dough, gather
up all the bits and form into a ball. Cut into 4/6 pieces
and flatten these into rounds about 1cm thick. Have
ready a hot, heavy based frying pan and cook the
rounds on both sides until nicely brown and slightly
scorched – about five minutes per side. Keep them
warm until required wrapped in a tea towel.
Instant mini pizza! Alternately flatten the whole ball of
dough to about 1cm thick and cook as one piece. When
golden on both sides, cover with cooked chopped
tomatoes and chopped onions, some chopped ham or
chorizo and sprinkle with grated cheese and put under
the grill until the cheese has melted and is nicely brown.
For old Spices. Gather up all your seldom used half
empty (not herbs) spice jars. Put the contents into a
jam jar with a screw top and give it a good shake. Keep
this jar by the cooker and remember to use a pinch of
this mixture in savoury dishes. It will add new
interesting flavours and relieve the clutter of small jars
in the cupboard! The same can be done with all dried
herbs (even though they smell like hay!)
Stop Press!
Whilst on the Autumn Fellowship, two ladies told me
they had a recipe which could be included on this page.
So far nothing has arrived and as the deadline for copy
is coming up fast they might have to go in the next issue
of N&V. Please do send me your favourite recipes, and
short cuts. ([email protected]). John
Hackney will take over the Editorship of N&V from
Gerard Turley from 1st January and has very kindly
asked if I would continue with this recipe page. I am
delighted to do so but it would make putting it together
a little easier if ideas could be sent as and when they
come into your mind!