Gallery pages have been update on the 30th November 2008
Reports
-----------------------------------------------
AGM 2008
We had 17 vans out over the weekend. On the Friday evening we had a get together in the hall. It usually relaxes people after traveling and gets them ready for the weekend.
On the saturday during the day it was a free day where most people went off into St Albans, as they have a very large market day and plenty of selection. In the evening social we had a friendly betting night. This consisted of videos of Sheep racing, Cheese racing etc. a good novelty evening. The committee laid on a ploughman's during the break with enough for people to go up for seconds if required.
On the Sunday morning we had the AGM as well as the members on the rally field others also turned up for the day. It was nice to see the presentations for all of the trophies to various members and no one person won more than one trophy. We look forward and wish the new committee all the best in there endeavors to carry the centre forward. We had a special presentation to Margaret Pallett for her services to the Centre. We also had two members who stood down this year from the committee both long standing members, Paul Kettle who had been on the Committee for 12 years during this time he has been Social Secretary, assisted as Rally Secretary and been on the HCIR committee representing North London. The second was Michael Hicks he had been on the committee for 18 years during this time he has covered all functions with the exception of Chairman and Treasurer. Mick was also on the HCIR committee and was also the Chairman for the HCIR representing North London. One of his other additional functions was to run the Web site for North London.
Both have earned a well deserved break and we hope to see them out on the rally field relaxing.
-----------------------------------------------
Oktoberfest 2008
North London had 13 vans out for this invite. The main bulk of the vans were in by the Thursday night and the remainder came in on the Friday. In total there were 308 vans out.
The main marquee was packed out for both the Friday and Saturday night. With good entertainment which was enjoyed by everyone.
To say the lease the weather was variable but everyone had a good time and was very good value for the money. This is a popular venue and suggests that booking slips are put in straight away to avoid disappointment.
-----------------------------------------------
Willington 2008
We had 15 vans out this weekend; we started by going over to the hall on the Friday evening to have a drink and a chat. We also used the hall for the Saturday evening where we had a games night and some food (jacket potatoes). It was decided that we would have the flagpole on the same evening. The Sunday was the last day for any nominations for the Committee
M Hicks had the nominations board out and the conclusion was we have enough members for a full committee.
One problem with the site it is limited and they normally they like to keep us at one end. Other thanks to the warden who was very understanding.
-----------------------------------------------
Emberton 2008
At last the ground was dry at Emberton Park, and the rally could go ahead. This time the marquee went straight up ready for the Friday Night get together. This was just for a natter and catch up, not forgetting a drink.
On Saturday the fishing competition took place on the lake. There were 6 plus Luke and Lauren that took part, and the weather was very hot. Maybe that is why not many fish were caught but all enjoyed themselves. The winner once again was Brian O’Sullivan, well done to him, and all who took part. The ones who not take part in the fishing either walked into Olney, or just sat around and enjoyed the great weather.
On Saturday night flag was held and a very competitive quiz took place, also a buffet supper to help soak up the beer and wine.
Once again on Sunday the weather was hot and sunny, and most did not leave until late afternoon.
-----------------------------------------------
Billericay 2008
Once again we have returned to this excellent venue and we were favoured with good weather. We had 22 vans out this weekend and I am sure that everyone had a brilliant time. Most people they spent their time at the Show both on the Saturday and Sunday and you can see from the Galley page on the Web Site some of the different things on offer. There was also evening entertainment at the show which was free for us to attend. Some of the members decided to venture out on the Sunday to the seaside while the weather was still nice and sunny.
It was nice to see Ray Ardle and Ray Hulland out on the rally. We look forward to seeing more of them in the future.
A thank you to our Rally officers who stepped in at short notice.
Viv & Graham and June & Mick
-----------------------------------------------
Capel Manor 2008
After everyone had arrived on the Friday we had a Fish & Chip supper in the awning. Saturday afternoon some of the men had a relaxing game of Boulee. The evening started with a joint evening meal, followed by a game of Bonanza which was enjoyed by all. It was nice to see Sid & Irene who came out for the afternoon and evening. Also Jim White who also came out for a couple of hours. Our thanks Paul Day who supplied the lights and generator for the evenings. Our thanks to our rally officers for putting on a good weekend.
-----------------------------------------------
Ashridge
This is another site that if you like walking or cycling is an ideal site, it has nice walks through the woods, it is a short stroll to the local villages and pubs, there are areas for the disabled where electric buggies can be used. The site also houses the main monument which you can climb and close by is a lovely little cafeteria. We had 11 vans out this weekend and held our annual dominoes competition. We put the club Marquee up to hold the event over the weekend. On the Friday after every one had arrived it was so nice out that we all sat outside and had a good chin wag until the early hours. Saturday was an excellent day weather wise. We managed to get the competition completed and held the final in the marquee in the evening which every one in attended. After flagpole saturday evening we decided to forget about the quizzes and games and had a jokes and funny stories evening.
-----------------------------------------------
Rutland Water
August Bank Holiday this year saw us rallying at Rutland Water which is a most beautiful area facilitating, walking, cycling, & sailing or for those lazier ones just sitting relaxing & admiring the views.
There were approximately 22/24 vans on this rally and to keep everyone amused Viv & Graham Rowley put on socials each night in the new centre marquee. We enjoyed an American Supper on Saturday evening plus a team picture quiz, Sunday we enjoyed tea & cakes during the afternoon and then a chatty get together where the 'dice' game was played - the winner Maureen O'Sullivan donating her prize to the Chairman's Charity.
Some of our ralliers cycled around the reservoir which is some 17 or so miles. It needs to be mentioned that Doo Dah Day set out to cycle the route but 'got lost' 3/4 of the way around so turned back and cycled back to the rally field ?? (well done DoDah) !! Mick & June Hubbocks walked around the course - no mean feat so congratulations to them. Our thanks must be directed to Viv & Graham however for running an excellent rally without the help of their co rally officers Julie & Billy who carried out a lot of the pre-rally preparation but were unable to attend due to illness.
-----------------------------------------------
Happisburgh, Norfolk
Happisburgh as many know sees some of the best and yet some of the worst weather along this coastline. Luckily this year we had a mixture of dry & wet weather but enough sun to keep all ralliers happy most getting the chance to top up their tans. During the course of the two week rally we had - cream teas, ploughman's and hot dogs, get together's plus bingo, quizzes, walks and an informative talk from the Coastal Action Group (CAG) explaining the reason for the cliff erosion in the area. As the Rally officers had to cancel out at the last moment all ralliers pulled together in helping the stand in R/O Sue Jefferys to run the rally. Thanks to all concerned.
-----------------------------------------------
Vinegar Farm.
When we arrived we were not to sure where we were to park and having the rain coming down we had a bit of fun and games. On the same site although not organised by us there was Riffle Shooting and Archery but these did not affect us when we had parked up.
Also we had electric in the field we were in and the grass had been cut the week before. The weather was not favourable but on the Saturday evening we had a get together with Hamburgers, Sausages, chips and beans.
-----------------------------------------------
Beechwood School.
This is an excellent site with only one problem it is limited to 10 vans only. The site managers were very helpful over the weekend; we had electrics, use of the swimming pool. On the Saturday evening everyone met up in Sue ’s awning and was treated to jacket potato with cheese and chilly and very nice it was too.
Our thanks to Sue for stepping in at short notice to run this rally.
-----------------------------------------------
Westmill Farm.
We had only 6 vans out for the weekend, we had brilliant weather and the marquee was put up. On the Friday we just had a general chat and a drink.
This rally hosted our biggest fish competition and this was won by Stephen Harris.
On the Saturday evening we all meet up in the marquee where nibbles were supplied and then followed by a BBQ. Flagpole was also held Saturday evening.
Other activities on the site at the weekend included Football, Frisbee flying and the Roller ball.
It was noted that the road to the rally field was getting bad.
-----------------------------------------------
Stoke Bruerne 2008
Every Rallier had arrived by 6.pm on Friday.
The Sky was a forbidding grey with heavy intermittent showers.
Saturday all the ralliers took part in the “Walking Quiz” which consisted of photographs that had been doctored by Sully or taken from an acute angle.This got everybody out to enjoy this beautiful area.
Saturday evening an awning social was held which went on to the early hours of Sunday morning.
Sunday was such a nice day that most of the ralliers were reluctant to leave the rally field to go home.
Our thanks to the Rally Officers Maureen & Sully , Debbie and Alan.
-----------------------------------------------
Bloxham Steam & Country Fair 2008
What an excellent weekend. This was the first time that North London had attended this venue and the main Steam and Country Fair. We had 23 vans booked in but ended up with 20 vans for those who cancelled it was there loss.
The rally started on the Thursday midday and went through to the Monday midday, and for the fixed fee price, this was very good value for the money.
Most people turned up on the Thursday and made the most of the long weekend. On the Friday people either went around the village of Bloxham and had a few jars and a meal or they went off to Banbury which was only 3 miles away. We decided to have the opening flagpole on the Friday late afternoon. There was entertainment in the evening in the main Beer marquee and most of the food stalls were also open. I must say that everyone was enjoying the evening that no one brought a torch to get back.
The main shows for Saturday and Sunday opened at 10.00am and closed when the last person went home. on both evenings entertainment was laid on in the main marquee. We had good weather over the weekend which added to the enjoyment of the show.
This show had everything you could ask for and more and really you need to come and see this for yourselves. To give you some examples take a look at the Gallery page for Bloxham and this will give you some idea.
North London has booked this up again for next year and it will be the last weekend in June so make a slot in your program now. It is also hoped that this will become an event for North London with other Centre's booking in with us.
Our thanks to Mick Hicks for finding this event and also running it.
-----------------------------------------------
Berkhamstead 2008
Again this is a lovely flat site where we had 22 vans out. This weekend we hosted both of the Boulee competitions. The weather was lovely and hot which meant most people were still sitting out late at night. On both Friday and Saturday evenings we were sitting outside having a good laugh and joke.
On the Saturday we had the Boulee competitions and I am please to say nearly every one took part, we also included all of the younger ones, so thank you to the adult for there patients. We had a slight drizzle during the one of the Finals but everyone persevered.
The winner for the Singles was Rodney Freeman.
The winners for the Mixed Doubles was Pat Canty & Tim Brady
Our thanks to those who helps the rally officers for doing the scoring and Mick and Ruth as the rally officers.
-----------------------------------------------
Turnpike Farm 2008
We had 9 vans out for the Games Rally at Turnpike - this is a real fun weekend run for adults, teenagers and children alike.
The games started at about mid-day on Saturday and after a break for tea and Elsie's delicious cakes and then a further meal break carried on until the wee small hours. Saturday remained warm and dry allowing all the outside games to be played - the rain starting just as we entered the marquee for the evening crib and dominoes.
Winners List was as follows: Brian - Dominoes, Vic -Crib, Lyn - Boule, Mick (G) - Men's Welly Wanging, Sue-Ladies Welly Wanging, Derek-Skittles & Netball, Mick (G) - Lawn Darts.
-----------------------------------------------
Marlow RFC 2008
This was a lovely quite weekend we had only 8 vans out but every one made the most of the excellent area. It was only as short walk into Marlow and Bourne End both along the footpaths by the Thames. There is another footpath which takes you of to a wild life reserve observing the Red Kites , Cranes etc plus 5 lakes in the area.
On the Friday we had an awning social which was very pleasant just chating away. The Saturday was a free day but we did have a practice match of Boules ready for next week. The rally officers then laid on Tea and Cakes and it was decided while that all was present we would have the Flagpole there and then leaving the Sunday another free day. Every one enjoyed the tea and cakes so much they decided that we will have them again Sunday morning.
The weather was excellent for the whole weekend and most people did not leave until quite late.
Out thanks go to Viv and Graham for looking after us over the weekend.
-----------------------------------------------
Willington 2008
After the big celebration rally at Cottenham bank holiday weekend we were down to 7 vans for the rally at Willington however it proved to be a very relaxing and sociable weekend for all that attended. On Friday we had a sit and chat evening in the awnings . On Saturday some went to the Bedford Kite Festival after which it was rounders for the children followed by adult plus children rounders. This was followed by a communal barbi which went down very well. On Saturday evening we all gathered in the awnings again to play a new game called 'card bingo' - after which the rally officers provided nibbles to go with the drink and chatter.
A most enjoyable rally. Thanks to Kay, Pat, Val, Luke and Lauren.
-----------------------------------------------
Cottenham 1500th 2008
North London celebrated there 1500th rally this weekend by having 45 vans out for the celebrations.This was a college and therefore the vans could not arrive before 4.00pm. On the site there was also available the use of the Swimming pool, Tennis Courts and the main Gym area.Considering the forecast for the weekend we were very lucky with only showers on the Sunday. The Saturday was a free day and most people took a drive out to Cambridge and the surrounding villages. In the evening we started with a bingo session and then had some fun and games raising funds for the Children,. Then a break for some food before we went into the main part of the evening which was a Disco. This was so good it was hard to get people to go home.
Sunday was a free day for people to do what ever, all though the weather was not to good. In the evening we started with another session of bingo. before going to the main evening entertainment. The main entertainment cancelled out on the Friday due to illness so at short notice we had another duo step in called Citation 11 these were so popular we were asked to see if they would stay on for another session.
On the Monday at flagpole the rally officers laid on tea, coffee and biscuits and also a piece of the North London cake.
This was a good weekend that everyone enjoyed. Our thanks go to Phil Canty for the Disco and Margaret Pallett for making another excellent cake (see photos).
Our thanks also go to the rally officers for all the work and effort put in over the weekend. Pete & Mandy, Mick & Ruth, Graham & Viv and Kay
-----------------------------------------------
Ferry Meadows 2008
This is a lovely site just outside of Peterborough. We had 22 vans out this weekend and what an excellent weekend we had. Most of us made the best of the good weather and arrived early Friday. The rally officers had put up the Marquees for the weekend and we had a relaxing chat night on the Friday evening. Saturday was a free day to do as you please. Some spent the day in Peterborough and other took advantage to travel on the Nene Valley Railway (Steam and Diesel trains.)
Some of the members were not so lucky to have a relaxing day they spent most of there day preparing for a surprise birthday party for one of our members which was to be held on the Saturday evening. As you can see from the Gallery page there was plenty of food and a good time was had by all. We had three birthdays over the weekend.
On the Sunday at the flagpole we remember our sad loses in the past 2 months with a minute silence.
Our thanks go to our Rally officers Sue, Jo and Paul and also to Jo and Paul's team for the food on the Saturday evening.
-----------------------------------------------
Royston 2008
12 vans attended the rally with 4 of them being regular visitors which was very nice to see. This rally site is
near Royston and yet close enough for a visit to Cambridge and its tourist attractions.
The weekend was very relaxed giving everyone time to do their own thing although on the Saturday evening a champagne buffet was held in the barn to celebrate Mick Hubbocks birthday plus Vic & Lyn's anniversary - this was followed by a round of the 'dice' game, the winner being Mick Hubbocks who added his winnings to the Chairman's Charity.
-----------------------------------------------
Easter 2008
Firstly our rally officers must be applauded for locating ( with only 3 days notice) a new venue after being told that our Easter Rally at Stratford Upon Avon had been cancelled due to flooding. The new rally site was at Heyford Fisheries just off Junction 16 of the M1. Over the holiday we endured wind, rain, snow and even a little sun but it all adds to the fun of rallying and we were fortunate enough to have a hall on site that was open all day for people to sit and chat with hot drinks on tap.
I do know that the rally officers had carried out so much work before the rally at Stratford in the form of walking quizzes etc and yet they managed to pull off a brilliant rally with plenty to do for all ages.
Over the weekend we had, Hot Cross Buns, Egg decorating competition for the children, feely bag competition for the adults, Easter hat competition, Easter egg hunt plus games, quizzes and music for all ages.
A local farmer also allowed everyone to take a trip to his farm to watch his sheep lambing and also showed us the finding from a Roman dig held on his farm - this was an extremely interesting visit for all that took up the kind offer. Well done and many many thanks from all the ralliers to the rally officers Graham & Viv and George & Margerette.
-----------------------------------------------
Broom 2008
This rally was our North London -v- Beds Quiz weekend which has become an annual event. Vans arrived on Friday and those lucky enough to be there early in the day spent a few hours sitting in the sun.
The Landlord/Lady of the Cock Inn are always very welcoming and some ralliers had a meal plus drink or two in the pub with them on Friday evening. The quiz was held in the village hall on Saturday evening with Vic carrying out the role of Quiz Master and teams from both centres hoping to win. During the interval we were served with a plowman's meal plus tea/coffee - there being plenty to go round more than once.
The Beds Centre held a raffle with profits going towards their children's fund - North London taking home quite a few of the prizes. The quiz was won by a North London team also so a good night for us !!! Flag on Sunday was held under the shelter of the pub's garage as once again we had to ensure heavy rain and winds throughout Saturday night / Sunday morning.
Many thanks to our rally officers - Brian Uff along with Vic & Lyn Harris
-----------------------------------------------
Icebreaker 2008
The icebreaker rally at Cardington this year was run by Kevin, Nicky & Bethany Rowe with the help of Kay Wesley.
As we couldn't use the hall on Friday evening most people took the time to go out for a meal or have a drink and chat with friends in each others vans. During the night we had gale force winds which were pretty frightening for most people and it seemed that very few got through the night without having to move cars to protect vans, take down awnings and generally keep a check on their vans. Saturday however was bright and sunny allowing ralliers to recover from the storm !!
-----------------------------------------------
Valentines 2008
Despite the cold weather 50 + vans turned out for the “Herts. Valentines Rally”.
The improvements to the School playground allowed the vans to be sited quite easily.
Friday: a social and quiz were held in the school dining room, with Herts. providing soup and bacon rolls half way through the evening.
Saturday: The ralliers had free time in the day to explore St.Albans and it’s wonderful market. In the evening we had the Valentines Dance and Buffet. Where Herts. Laid on a buffet meal and we were entertained by a group called Dyme, Dyme played an excellent variety of music that had everyone dancing. The Ladies looked excellent in their best evening wear with the gentlemen wearing evening suits or lounge suits.
Our thanks go to Herts. for the invite and to their Rally Officers for the wonderful work they did on our behalf.
-----------------------------------------------
Burns Night 2008
Well another success, every one who attended enthused how well organized the event was and how much they enjoyed the evening. It was so nice to see the Ladies sporting Tartan Sashes, The Men either in Traditional Scottish Dress or in dinner suits and Tartan Dickie Bows. The Piper was of course up to his best and set the flavour of the evening by piping in all visitors who were met by The Chairman and his Lady. Mick and June Hubbocks.
The Master of ceremonies Eddie Maguire set the evening off by asking the Chairman and his Lady to take part in the Piping in of the Haggis they were followed by Peter Smith and the two Scottish standards being held by Graham Rowley and George Pallet. The Piper carried out the Toast to the Haggis. The meal it's self was excellent and including the Haggis. The meal was followed by the Treasurer (P Smith) making the Immortal Address to Burns. Ex. Chairman Brian O'Sullivan making a Toast to the ladies, returned by Diane Slender making a Toast to the Gentlemen. The Chairman Mick Hubbocks then Toasted the visitors and at the same time welcoming the Various Chairman from other Centre's and the Region. Our entertainment was provided by the Duo called Steele who had everybody dancing.
Another successful Burn's Supper. With the rally officers taking bookings for next years occasion.
-----------------------------------------------
New Year 2007
What a great rally. Started off on Friday with most of the ralliers arriving and a few of the vans turning up on Saturday. An exceptional turn out of vans, which is not surprising as this rally is as usual a sought after event.
Saturday evening: the ralliers were given a four-course meal, this consisted of Pate and Toast, Cottage Pie, Apple Tart with Cream followed by Cheese, Biscuits and Coffee. We were entertained by the Pheasant Pluckers (Careful how you say that) a very versatile duet. They had us all singing and dancing.
Sunday: started with sausage or bacon rolls breakfast inc. tea or coffee, provided by the hard working rally officers
Saturday Afternoon: we again had tea or coffee in the hall and a session of Bingo, which was well attended.
Saturday evening was a general quiz that went down very well. A “Challenge Quiz” followed this between Tommy, Phil, Pam, and John verses Smudge, Betty, Kay and Talbot. This was a lighthearted affair, with the Smudgeroonies getting 4 out of 30
And the Slenderettes getting 3 out of 30.
This was followed by Jacket Spuds with various fillings.
Monday: Breakfast rolls again being provided by the rally officers.
In the afternoon another well attended Bingo session followed again by Tea, Coffee and cakes.
The evening of course being New Years Eve not only had the ralliers attending but a large number of their guests. The atmosphere was good and Paul Hayes again provided a great Disco if a little bit on the loud side for some of the older members. But none the less everyone enjoyed themselves dancing away into the New Year.
But this weekend does not run on it’s own it takes a lot of hard work and dedication by the rally officers to make it the success that it was and when I say success it was a brilliant Weekend.
So on behalf of all those who attended.
Well Done to.
-----------------------------------------------