Bully News - Midland Centre Caravan Club

Midland Centre
Bully News
Produced by
Doreen Sutherland
March 2014
Welcome to the March edition of the Bully News. I would like to thank Gordon for his help in
publishing this issue.
If anyone has any articles that they wish to be published in the next issue please email them to me
[email protected] or pass them on to me on the rally field and I will gladly add them for
you.
We have a winner!!
Congratulations to Graham Downs who won £10 for our best article in the December issue of the
Bully. Mike Downs received the money on his behalf at this years Dinner Dance flag ceremony.
There will be another £10 awarded for ‘Best Article’ in each Bulletin so please send in anything that
you would like to be included.
Amendments to the Rally Book
Rally 14
24th Apr – 7th May Porth Beach Holiday
Date should be 8th May not 7th May
Rally 31
26th July – 9th Aug Bank Farm Horton, Gower
Stewards Bob & Maz Eyland 52 Berwyn Close, Cheslyn Hay WS6 7DW
Jim Brothwood & Cath Forrester
Not Stewards Junior Committee
Rally 37
30th Aug – 13th Sept 2014 Hardwick Croft Holiday Rally
Address of Todds is 67 not 17 Clydesdale Road, Quinton, Birmingham
Rally 48
7th – 9th Nov 2014 Cutnall Green
Address of Todds is 67 not 17 Clydesdale Road, Quinton, Birmingham
Andrew Reynolds
A letter from Gerald Patterson
Hi,
May I congratulate you on your new and updated website; it makes me feel so proud to see my Dad
in the list of Past Chairman.
I have been connected with The Midland Centre since my parents David and Gwen first began their
caravan journey in 1965 and have been a member in my own right since 1979 although I can only
claim to have been out on a Rally a handful of times and of course I am still a member today, my wife
Pam goes back even further as her parents Alf and Elsie Bull were members in the late 50's/ early
60's
The Midland Centre was where we first met and married in 1977, so the centre has very fond
memories for us both in those early years. From 1965 up until 1971 I was a regular attendee at your
rallies and remember the football games we had on a Sunday, Dads and Lads all joining in together
and remember getting as far as the semi final in the 5 A side football tournament at a national rally at
Burghley House.
I know my Dad will be proud of the way the centre has moved forward since those early days and has
gone from strength to strength. We only use our caravan for possibly 4 or 5 times a year now but we
still really enjoy it.
If you Google our name Pam and Gerald Patterson you will see a lovely picture and article that was
written about us in June 2012 (our latest little lad is Riley not Ryan) as we have adopted 4 children
with Downs Syndrome over the past years. Just think it was The Midland Centre family that brought
us together and what a fabulous life we have had since, life is really great.
If my Mom and Dad had still been with us now, our family would have comprised of 4 children / 15
Grandchildren / 6 Great Grandchildren. So from those early days when the plaque in the window said
Gwen and David Patterson, Hazel, Gerald, Philip and Christine from Sutton Coldfield, it certainly
could be a little bit larger now.
For information my two sisters and brother are still members of the club it still is a family affair.
I do enjoy reading your Bully magazine now it is on line, do you think you will be putting the Rally
book as a PDF in due course as well? As the one thing I do miss is the Rally book and not having it
sent out.
May I wish your new Chairman Jason and Mandy and their family a fabulous year and I am confident
the Midland Centre will continue to flourish in the years ahead.
Take care
Gerald Patterson
Christmas and the New Year
Christmas Rally at Cookhill
We went to great lengths to attend the Christmas Rally this year, as due to ongoing problems
with our motorhome we were forced to hire a smaller model. However, it was worth it to
celebrate Christmas with our caravanning friends.
After a wet and windy journey we arrived safely on 23rd of December got settled in and joined
our friends in the hall for warm pasties and sausage rolls. Later we returned to the hall for a
Quiz and Bingo.
Christmas Eve dawned with the promise of a Sherry Reception followed by a delicious meal at
3.pm. In the evening Ivan Jones and Mix & Match provided superb entertainment. A buffet
supper was consumed during the evening and everyone danced the night away as we welcomed
in Christmas Day.
Our first port of call on Christmas Day was Chris Porter’s van as it is her birthday that day and
a cause for a double celebration.
Next we made our way (a matter of a couple of yards) to the hall for a champagne reception at
1.00pm followed by a traditional Christmas lunch in the company of good friends.
After lunch, despite his heavy schedule, Santa joined the party and brought presents for ‘boys
and girls’ of all ages.
At 7.30pm Martin Campbell supported by Mix & Match presented a talent contest. There were
so many act therefore I will mention just a few. Firstly a hilarious presentation by Midland and
South Staffs members about what they would like to be. Martin Campbell’s grandson proved to
be ‘a chip off the old block,’ and despite his age, a performer in his own right. Lin Wood and
John Shuttleworth performed a first class duet. Last, but by no means least, was a splendid
rendering of Elvis numbers by someone who it was rumoured was Big Bertha’s brother.
Whoever this apparition was the act was follower by rapturous applaud.
There was a buffet super for anyone who could still manage to eat another mouthful: and so to
bed well fed and entertained.
On Boxing Day we had to give the scheduled walk a miss as in our haste to join the
celebrations we left our wellies at home. We did our own walk with friends and 5 dogs. It was
a bright sunny morning and we returned to the gathering by 2pm for another champagne
reception followed by Boxing Day lunch.
That evening Justine joined Mix & Match to provide the entertainment. Yet another splendid
buffet was produced. During the evening the raffle was drawn by Carole Clarke and William.
William proved to be a true professional with the microphone as his voice was very clear and
audible.
The rally closed with flag on 27th – what a Christmas! Many of the revellers then journeyed
over to High Ercall to begin festivities all over again and celebrate the New Year in traditional
style; partying till dawn in the company of good friends.
Mick & Marilyn Stowe
Laird & Lady Campbell send
Congratulations and many thanks to
Derek & Lin Moseley, Mick & June Hale,
Brian & Jenny McGivney and Lin Wood,
our Christmas rally stewards. Huge thanks
also go to Sandra & Barry Hodgetts, who
weren’t ‘official’ stewards but played a very
big part in the success of this rally. We
know it isn’t always plain sailing behind the
scenes, but we appreciate the effort made
from everyone, including the ralliers. A
huge round of applause must also go to all
who contributed to the Christmas night
show. Because of you guys, others have
already come forward with their acts for
2014’s‘Talent Night’. WOW!
Wishing you all a very happy 2014 with
good health and pleasant weather to allow
us all to enjoy our mutual hobby, rallying!
Lynne & Martin.
Xxxx
Congratulations to the stewards
Terry & Lesley Probin,
Ian & Julie Cooper and
Andy & Jayne Reynolds
for taking on the New Year rally and making it so
successful. Thanks also to Martyn Reynolds for
the help he gave, along with fellow ralliers who
assisted when needed and Mick Hale for doing a
great job seeing us into 2014. It was such a
shame that we weren’t in the best of health to
make the most of all the dancing on offer! The
food and entertainment was very much
appreciated and enjoyed by Laird & Lady C.
Thanks for the effort you all put in to ensure we
had a brilliant Midland Centre New Year Rally.
Shame Lesley was the last to know she was
stewarding it! Lol.
Happy caravanning for 2014.
Lynne & Martin xxxx
New Year Rally
Dave and Lesley Palmer would like to gratefully thank Jason Rosamond, Martin Campbell, Keith Jones and
Mick Hale, who helped get our caravan out of the mud at High Ercall. Yes it really did take four tow cars in
tandem!!! Also thanks to Terry Probin for coordinating the effort and for getting us out of the mud at the start
off the rally also!
Our thanks also for a lovely New Year Rally. Lesley and Terry really excelled themselves with the food and
entertainment. The Buffet for New Year's Eve was truly spectacular! We had a great time.
Dave and Lesley xxx
How many Men does it take to tow a Caravan?
Answer
Loads…. One to tow the van, one to tow the car towing the van, one to tow the car
towing the car towing the van, one to tow the car towing the car towing the car towing the van, one to
co-ordinate the car towing the car towing the car towing the van and the rest to stand about laughing
and discussing how they would have towed it off differently.
How many Women does it take to tow a Caravan?
Answer
One…. Well done Doreen for being the last off the muddy field and showing all of the
macho men how to tow in muddy conditions safely trundling her car and caravan through the mud
which had only minutes earlier witnessed the combined brains of half of the midland centre male
members struggling to move Mr and Mrs Palmers van.
(Anon)
MIDLAND CENTRE CARAVAN CLUB
NEW YEAR RALLY
December 27th 2013 to January 1st 2014
Stewards
Terry and Lesley Probin, Curly and Julie Bullock, Andy and Jayne Reynolds and
Martyn Reynolds.
The Midland Centre New Year rally was held at High Ercall village hall, a new venue
for the club, and will perhaps be best remembered for the quality and quantity of
food provided plus the high level of entertainment. Forty vans in total attended
comprising made up from 36 Midland and 4 South Staffs.
The rally opened on 27th Dec. and early arrivals attended the opening flag at
7.30pm. This was followed by the customary game of bingo and a quiz. Buttered
toast and hot chocolate were later served as a fitting nightcap.
Saturday opened with a breakfast of bacon butty sandwiches. The theme for the
Saturday evening was a “Black Country” night and a competition was held for the
best dressed. Everybody was treated to a traditional plate of “Faggots and Peas”
followed by entertainment with the singer Gavin and stand-up comedienne Our
Trace. The Centre’s resident DJ Mick Hale provided music in his usual inimitable
way between acts and continued afterwards into the early hours.
On Sunday we were treated to a full English breakfast with a self catered social
in the evening. Entertainment was provided by the singer Lesley Ann Shaw and
once again “Mix ‘n’ Match”
Monday evening had a Mexican theme and competition for the best dressed. The
evening meal was baked potatoes, chilli, beans and cheese, and was enjoyed by all.
There followed entertainment by the four piece band Marches Court, a female
singer and once again “Mix ‘n’ Match”
New Years Eve festivities began in the hall at 7.30pm with Black Tie formal dress
and champagne reception. This was followed at 8.30pm by an excellent finger
buffet, much appreciated by all for the outstanding quality and variety on offer.
This in addition to the alcoholic drinks made available set the mood for the
evening and everyone partied and danced the night away to the music of “Mix ‘n’
Match”.
The New Year was welcomed in with the usual balloons, party poppers and
exchanges of good wishes between members. Dancing and partying continued
beyond midnight as the New Year continued to be celebrated.
The closing flag took place at 12 0’clock in the village hall with the usual
formalities, presentations, and thanks from Chairman Jason. Special
acknowledgment was given to the stewards for their hard work and dedication in
organising and providing such an enjoyable rally.
Mother Nature had not been kind over the preceding few days with strong winds
and heavy rain. The football field adjacent to the hall had been used as an
overflow to the hard standing car park. From the state of the field it was evident
that their eventual departures would be troublesome. The “early birds” near the
entrance managed to get away but the field soon churned up into a muddy
quagmire. Keith Jones and Jason with their 4x4 were linked in tandem and with
the help of the willing volunteers pushing managed to remove all but one remaining
van. The last van on the field was Dave Palmer’s and being furthest from the gate
had to negotiate a particularly bad patch of mud. After several attempts to
extricate it, it took four 4x4s and 6 tow ropes (Martin Campbell towing the
caravan, Jason linked to Martin, Keith linked to Jason and Mick on the car park
linked to Keith before finally being released from the mud onto terra firma.
The 2013 / 2014 New Year Rally will undoubtedly provide fond memories for the
future and once again many thanks must be given to the outstanding contribution
made by the stewards to a most successful event.
Wishing you all happy rallying in 2014,
John and Brenda.
NEW YEAR RALLY
December 27th 2013 to January 1st 2014
The rally started on the 27th. Unfortunately (or not?) I had to work that day and did not arrive
until 6:30 by which time Jayne and Martyn had done the decorating of the ceiling and walls
(including a very impressive painting of a canal, bridge and narrowboats which had been done
by Pete Kirby). The tables and chairs had also been laid out so there wasn’t much for me to do
that night except win a line on the bingo which Jim Brothwood did an excellent job of calling.
On the 28th we were served bacon and sausage butties for breakfast. The evening was Black
Country night with many people joining in by wearing fancy dress. The tables were decorated
with Black Country flags made by Jayne and Red, White and Black balloons. Lesley served up
faggots and peas which were excellent. This was followed by entertainment from a singer,
Gavin, and Our Trace, a stand up comedienne. Both were very good but Gavin in particular was
outstanding ending the evening with a brilliant performance of Nessun Dorma which, I think
will be remembered by all who heard it.
On the 29th we had a full breakfast followed on the evening by a self catered social with a
female singer, Lezley Ann Shaw, supported by Mix ‘n’ Match.
On the 30th we had a Mexican night fancy dress evening with Lesley providing Jacket Potatoes
with a choice of fillings (chilli, beans, cheese and coleslaw). The entertainment was provided by
Marches Court, a four piece band again supported by Mix and Match. The tables were
decorated with Mexican flags with Red, White and Green balloons.
New Years Eve was the big night with a magnificent buffet put on by Lesley ably assisted by
Julie and Curly (as she had been for the whole rally) with a Red and Cream theme for the tables
and balloons. The entertainment this evening, as is usual was from Mix and Match.
Finally on New Years Day we had closing flag at which Terry thanked all those who had
assisted in making the rally such an unqualified success. Julie and Curly for their hard work in
the kitchen, Jayne, Martyn and myself for the decorating and, of course, Lesley who provided
such excellent food. He also thanked all those who had helped when asked (sandwich making,
cleaning the hall and keeping the rally field holes filled). The only thing left then was to get
everyone off the field which had become very muddy. As we left on New Years Day we didn’t
witness the final van off (Dave and Lesley Palmer’s) being dragged off by Martin Campbell,
Jason Rosamond, Keith Jones and Mick Hale all connected one to the other.
I think that anyone who attended this rally will agree that this was well run and very enjoyable.
Thanks to all who helped but in particular Lesley and Terry who stepped in to run the rally.
And also Curly and Julie their very able assistants.
Also thanks to Jayne (who ably took over from Sir Norman) and Martyn who assisted with the
decorating in spite of the fact that he had paid his full rally money.
Thanks to all.
Andy Reynolds.
Message from our past Chairman
Hi Everyone, I thought you may like to know how Jennifer and I are
getting on in sunny Spain. I updated my TomTom as we all would for this
long journey, South Europe and three map updates in 12 months for
about £50.00. We were down by Tewkesbury before I found that my
TomTom only covered Southern Europe. No England cover at all, a
cracking start, where the bloody hell is Portsmouth. Well we arrived in
Bilbao after a 24hr crossing. It's worth a quick check on the internet to
find out which boat you are travelling on. Our boat was a small one in the
scheme of things which meant eating at the restaurant or up on the open
deck. The alternative was a microwave meal purchased in the tiny shop
on board.
The Bay of Biscay was more than a tad rough and we ended up in bed
early 9pm ish. We arrived in Bilbao at lunch time and then drove down to
Zaragoza, some 250miles, which was just about half way, for our first
night stop at a municipal site. We had already decided that we would
utilize the toll roads for our journey and I believe it was a good decision.
It cost us about €35.00 in tolls on the way down. The roads were pretty
much deserted and it seemed that about two hundred of the five
hundred mile journey was downhill. It could be a long haul back.
We arrived at Al Mafra near Benidorm mid-afternoon and were met by
Dave and Sheila Bennett who have been on site since early November.
Dave had scrounged me a Spanish gas bottle and some pipe work to fit to
the motorhome to keep it legal. We were all set up in an hour. The
Bennett’s took us up the bar early evening for a meal then a few drinks
after. A pint was €1.50, a red wine was €1.50, white wine was, you
guessed it, €1.50
The weather has been a reasonable ish the three weeks we have been
here, days of bright sun then a couple of blustery days, no rain though,
then a bit overcast. Nothing like you are getting at home. Dave and Sheila
lost there dome awning during one gusty night two weeks before we
came, anyway the weather has not kept us indoors. We have done a
couple of Benidorm Tapas runs since we arrived. A Tapa and a glass of
red wine for a euro.
For those that don't know, a Tapa is a small bite, i.e. a piece of bread with
an egg, a piece of bread with fish, with cheese, roast peppers & olives.
One of the bars we have been in offers about 35 different Tapa every
day. It's a hard life.
The Rally Stewards organised a walk into Benidorm to visit Tapas Alley.
We left at the universal walk start time of 11am and arrived back on site
at 9pm. We spent the next two days detoxing. It's definitely a Midland
Centre type of holiday location. Benidorm is a large city, not like I had
imagined or seen on TV. Lots of bars, lots of shops and a fabulous beach.
Very clean and tidy. We found the Hotel Sol Pelicanos which is where
they film the "Benidorm" show. It's very popular with the tourists. Then
nearby, there is the Palladium Bar where all the show offs who believe
they can sing come along and entertain you for free (karaoke). It was
packed when we went there. It's not everyone's cup of tea but it's cheap
as chips and I would recommend it for at least one afternoon’s
entertainment in the event you are in the area. I'm not sure if I would like
to be in Benidorm during the holiday season. There are bars here that
cater just for stag and hen parties then there is a street known as Sodam
and Gomorrah Street. Not sure what goes on down there but if that turns
you on, go for it.
This is all for now. We are moving on to La Manga in about ten days so
expect a further update around the end of Feb. love to you all.
Jenny and Brian. XXX
Dinner Dance at Drayton Manor
Friday 28th Feb
We arrived at 5 at Drayton Manor to witness a virtually full club site with electric being offered to those
who wanted it. Carole and Jim had arrived earlier and must have been busy getting everyone booked
in and sited from 4 O’clock? There were plenty of hard standing pitches which was lucky as most of
the surrounding area had suffered from the recent wet conditions and was quite soft underfoot.
There was a social in the Hotel on the night and everyone was able to take their own drinks with them
We went across just before it was due to start and the Drayton Manor Staff had prepared the room for
us, so there was little left to do.
Lee and Sarah Morgan-Bellamy arrived and had been asked to provide the quiz for tonight’s
entertainment and they distributed their picture sheets to each of the tables.
I did not get to see many of the sheets as our table was full of enthusiastic quizzers but the logo’s
Dog and Stadium pictures kept us guessing for most of the night. Doreen knew many of the dog
breeds but lacked the confidence to ensure we put her answers in. I recognised some of the stadiums
but most of them look different when they are empty.
It was a good quiz but quite testing and as Mr Clarke read out the answers I was surprised at how
many of the tables seemed to have most of them correct judging by the cheers going round the room
as he read out each one.
The rest of the night was spent chatting and catching up after a fairly inactive start to this year and we
were the last to leave after they closed the room around 12.30.
Saturday 1st March
After a good night last night I awoke feeling fragile and as we had a busy day I had to get over it fairly
quickly.
After a visit to the Hairdressers, for Doreen not myself, we then had to rush over to Great Bridge to
pick up our new car. Only a couple of eagle eyed ralliers had noticed our number plate had changed
last night. Mr Rosamond and Mr Hale amongst them so we returned back to the site with a gleaming
white Kia Sorrento. It won’t stay that way for long!
Lee and Sarah pulled up just as I was putting some stuff back in and as we chatted to them our two
pups decided to make a break for freedom and legged it across the site. We managed to round them
up fairly quickly but apologise to anyone who was offended and wondered why we had let them run
about off lead. I think the bigger one has learnt to pick door locks.
There was an early start to this year’s Dinner Dance and it meant we had to rush to get ready for the
Doors opening at 5 30.
The entrance room was full when we arrived shortly after that and it was great to see Walter Perks,
John Todd, Sharon Brice and Keith Jones all there as they have all been in Hospital recently so
hopefully they are all on the road to recovery.
Doreen and I managed to make it onto the Chairman’s table which had the benefit of getting waiter
service; not from the staff, but Jason did the honours for the ladies with the wine and water.
The food was served and I thoroughly enjoyed my soup and then the Beef followed by Apple Crumble
and Coffee to complete my meal. The staff did an excellent job serving so many people and I think
that nearly everyone enjoyed their meals and the service.
The background music was perfect and there was a good mixture with even Neil Young making
Mick’s playlist.
We were entertained by Man Made and they did a fine double set that seemed to have something for
everyone as the floor was full for much of the time. Mick filled in the gaps and played the sequences
and social favourites to ensure we all had a good night.
There was a lot of frivolity as the night wore on and it was great to see so many of our younger ralliers
helping to put some energy onto the dance floor for the more modern dances. Including the dancing
around shoes shuffle, sugar lump wrestle and the B52 bomber dance.
After the night had finished some of us went back to the hotel resident’s bar for a nightcap. There was
a slight mystery to be solved during this time as for some reason Mike decided to take the Chairman’s
lady’s shoes for a walk as Mandy changed into her trainers. By the time we had managed the fifteen
minute walk to the hotel bar he had lost all recall of where he had put them and went off to scour the
grounds but alas they were nowhere to be found.
Sunday 2nd March
We arose fairly early and took the dogs out for a walk before flag. There were a few fragile looking
folk at the ceremony, mostly blaming the water they had drank last night, but the mystery of Mandy’s
shoes had been solved. Mike had found them under his car when he went to put his and Beth’s
belongings back in, as they had to leave their room at 10. He could not understand why he thought
that would be a good place to store them; I suggested he was just trying to stock up ready for the next
Miss Midland competition although there was a suggestion that Mr Atkinson knew something that he
was not telling.
The flag ceremony was a fairly quiet event and everyone had their fill of tea coffee and biccies and
Jason performed his Chairman duties without a hitch.
Doreen announced the winner of the Bulletin Competition and Graham Downs won £10 for his article
in the December edition which Mike took to give to him. Probably the last person who we should have
trusted with the task. Look under his car Graham.
Finally our thanks must go to Carole and Jim for the organisation and smooth running of this year’s
event and they fully deserve any praise that comes their way.
So thanks to all who attended and made this Dinner Dance really enjoyable.
Ian Sutherland.
Pictures courtesy of Lee & Sarah Morgan-Bellamy
EATING 50/60 YEARS AGO -
BET YOU HAVE FORGOTTEN MOST OF THEM
For those who are old enough to remember – enjoy.
For the rest – It’s a history lesson……!!
Very surprising how time and memory has taken its toll.
Have things really changed this much in our time?
………………………………………………………………………
EATING IN THE UK IN THE FIFTIES
Pasta had not been invented.
Curry was a surname.
A takeaway was a mathematical problem.
A pizza was something to do with a leaning tower.
Bananas and oranges only appeared at Christmas time.
All crisps were plain; the only choice we had was whether to put salt on or
not.
A Chinese chippy was a foreign carpenter.
Rice was a milk pudding, and never, ever part of our dinner.
A Big Mac was what we wore when it was raining.
Brown bread was something only poor people ate.
Oil was for lubricating, fat was for cooking.
Tea was made in a teapot using tea leaves and never green.
Coffee was Camp, and came in a bottle.
Cubed sugar was regarded as posh.
Only Heinz made beans.
Fish didn’t have fingers in those days.
Eating raw fish was called poverty, not sushi.
None of us had ever heard of yoghurt.
Healthy food consisted of anything edible.
People who didn’t peel potatoes were regarded as lazy.
Indian restaurants were only found in India.
Cooking outside was called camping.
Seaweed was not a recognised food.
“Kebab” was not even a word never mind a food.
Sugar enjoyed a good press in those days, and was regarded as being white
gold.
Prunes were medicinal.
Surprisingly, muesli was readily available, it was called cattle feed.
Pineapples came in chunks in a tin; we had only ever seen a picture of a real
one.
Water came out of the tap, if someone had suggested bottling it and
charging more than petrol for it they would have become a laughing stock.
The one thing that we never ever had on out table in the fifties,
was elbows!
Derek Moseley
Murder Mystery Weekend
Jim and Chris Porter along with Don and Julie Meese ran this very popular rally at Astley Village Hall
and from what we have been told everyone enjoyed themselves immensely. It is events like these
which help to make our rally calendar diverse and interesting and we were sorry not to be able to
attend.
We have been supplied with some pictures, which are shown below. I would say that Monsieur Oily
Carte looked a wrong-un from the word go!
Bretford Saint Patrick’s Day Rally
Wow!! What a Rally! Packed with entertainment for all ages from start to finish.
The Bretford site had recovered well from the winter rain and was firm and dry when we arrived at 1
o’clock on Friday. There were already about a dozen vans and motorhomes on site and there were
26 booked on, a good turnout for this venue. There was a play park for the children and a pub nearby
for any adults who wanted a pie and a pint.
The sun was out for most of this rally, luck of the Irish, and of course, I had not packed the chairs, to
reduce the weight in the van, which Doreen reminded me of on several occasions. We chilled during
the afternoon and had a bite to eat with Mick and Marilyn before the evening social.
This started with tea, coffee and biscuits before the Irish Skittles began. The hall was packed and had
been decorated in all things Irish. Shamrocks, Flags, Leprechauns’ Guinness logos and a host of
other such paraphernalia adorned the walls and stage of this compact hall. The juniors were first to
have a go and did well hurling a couple of beanbags at some miniature skittles.
The time came for the adults to have a go and Mr Clarke moved the goalposts so to speak. Well the
throwing line to be exact which had been about five foot away for the juniors. It was now about a Mile
away, or so it seemed, for the adults. I could barely see the mini skittles when it came to my turn and
aimed at the one big skittle which appeared to be sat on the stage. I was disappointed when this
moved out of the way and had another go at it. Again it was on target but the skittle moved again. It
seemed to be holding a microphone and turned out to be the rally steward, Jason who was
compering the competition.
After a couple of goes, it was time for the killer game. I complained to Mandy and Jason that the
centre was not showing enough disability awareness and I should be allowed to move closer to the
skittles so that I could see them, but this plea fell on deaf ears. As expected I was out within three
shots, not quite first out though. Fortunately Miss Midlands threw like a big girl and was eliminated
before me. The competition was well contested and very entertaining. Mick Stowe turned out to be
the eventual winner after thinking he was out when he lost his first life.
We were treated to hot chocolate and toast along with some Irish jigs and tunes in the background
while we drank and chatted away the rest of the night.
Saturday
Our stewards must have been up early with the fairies and had been preparing a virtual banquet for
those of us who awoke at our leisure later in the morning. We were treated to a big Irish breakfast
with Sausage, Bacon, Black and White puddings’, Eggs, Tomatoes, Beans, Mushrooms, Toast and a
tableful of other tasty titbits along with a can of Guinness from our hosts Mandy, Jason, Carole and
Jim with help from Sarah Morgan-Bellamy. This helped to soak up some of last night’s excesses and
was very tasty and well appreciated.
Mick and Marilyn joined Doreen and I plus the four dogs on the morning ramble which was organised
and headed by Steve and Heather Lloyd. It was a pleasant walk through the surrounding countryside
and villages and was just over four miles. We had to make sure we kept up with Steve as we would
still have been looking for the Rally site now if he had left us, none of the rest of us knew where we
were.
The sun was out again and by the time we returned to the site everyone in our party needed a rest,
except Steve, Heather, Pilko and Brenda who walked on to the nearby pub and our dogs who have
far too much energy. The juniors were out on the field in the play park when we returned and others
played a mini football game which Lee Morgan-Bellamy had organised for them.
After a rest, we had some welcome sustenance provided by Mick and Marilyn and cooked by yours
truly. The caravan oven worked overtime and decided to go on a go slow. By the time we had eaten
the social was underway and we had to rush over to the hall to join the others.
The hall had been decorated further and was now full of fancy dressed revellers decked in Orange,
White, Green and Gold and one debateable costume. I thought it was the Milk Tray Man, Lee thought
it was a Black Puddin’ Jim thought he was a Polaroid negative and the owner of the costume referred
to himself as the Brierley Hill Ninja. It turned out that he was actually a pint of Guinness but as Mike
Downs has got less fat on him than a chip I think he must have been a tall glass rather than the
archetypal Guinness Glass.
The night was another great fun filled party night; Mick Hale played a mixed selection that kept the
floor filled even playing Erasure, eventually!! I thought it unusual to hear ‘Echo and the Bunnymen’ on
Mick’s Playlist. He blamed it on the CD being in alphabetical order. I was a tad concerned that he
played it in a segment including; Wham, Soft Cell and Bronski Beat. The floor was full of blokes at the
end of it. I was not sure if he was trying to tell us something but maybe we should all have been
wearing pink. Jim Clarke was doing his bit by wearing his Leprechaun beard in a George Michael
style Wham hairdo.
The visiting centre members from South Staffs, East Warwick’s and Leicester all joined in to provide a
fantastic atmosphere and the South Staffs led some sequence dancing to various tunes. Our
Chairman and Vice Chairman looked the part as Irish Leprechauns and along with Mandy and Carole
made the night a great success.
Who says they are joined at the hip.
Everyone seemed to have a great night and Mandy was extremely pleased to say the least when a
couple of proper Irish people arrived half way through the night. Her Mum and Dad had not expected
to be able to come but managed to get here for the celebrations and made their daughter’s night.
Sunday
Another bright and sunny day gave the perfect backdrop to this excellent rally.
The flag ceremony was conducted in the hall and the difficult Paddies quiz was won by Kelly Atkinson
with a remarkably high score starting rumours of internet access, I would give her the benefit of the
doubt but some were sceptical.
The stewards received well earned praise for their efforts and Mick for the music. Again, the centres
growing band of juniors behaved impeccably and were a credit to their parents.
Lee took on the roll as acting chair and performed admirably for his first effort. Thanking the stewards
and all attendees, running through the future rallies amongst other things and was clear and concise
throughout. The prizes were given out and Gaynor Hart was a deserved winner of the fancy dress.
After flag the vans slowly disappeared, I heard Mick Hale getting a hard time from June because he
had forgotten the chairs so they could not sit out in the warm sunshine. It is a man thing.
It was a pleasure to tow off from a dry field for a change and everyone got off easily as they departed
for home. There was one concern when a certain person who will remain anonymous but hails from
the Brierley Hill region of our centre emptied the remaining contents of his water barrel across the exit
path causing a mini flood just as an outfit was about to leave the site. I commented that it wouldn’t
look good if their car and van skidded on this large puddle and careered into the family sitting out
enjoying the warm sunshine and their caravan just opposite.
Ian Sutherland
What a team!!
Get Well Soon
Several members of the Centre have been ill since the New Year began and we wish all of those
members a speedy recovery. Walter Perks, Keith Jones and John Todd and any other members who
are unwell receive our best wishes on behalf of the Centre.
John and Lynn Todd would like to thank members for their concern and support for John after his
operation. He is making good progress and we hope to be able to rally again in the spring.
Lynn Todd.
Nicky and I would like to say a big thank you to all who sent me get well cards and messages, after
my recent unwanted stay in hospital. Also a big thank you to Martyn Reynolds, Ron Osbourne, Fay &
Kim New and Joan Herbert who all visited me while I was in hospital. I am slowly on the mend but it's
going to be a long and slow road back to full recovery. I'm really looking forward to being back out in
the van, but I think it will be Easter hopefully (with Nicky doing all the work and driving) before that
happens.
All the best, Keith Jones Mccc.
Sad News
3rd Jan 2014
Hi All,
It is with sad regret I have to advise you of the death of another one of our older members.
Mike Pilkington phoned today to say that PHYLIS WOOLEY had passed away.
I have no other details at the moment but will try to keep you informed.
4th March 2014
Hi All,
I have received news that Pat Appleton's son Stevie passed away this morning.
We know he has been ill a long time. I am sure along with Lin and myself you will forward your condolences
Derek Moseley
Secretary
Thank You
I would like to thank everyone for all the Birthday Cards and Presents for my recent 50th Birthday.
Also my thanks to everyone who attended the rally at Nether Whitacre and helped with the
celebration. I hope everyone enjoyed the weekend, I know I did.
Thanks
Gordon.
A Word from Your Rally Secretary
We are currently looking for entries for the 2015 rally book cover photo competition.
The theme this year is “Castles, Churches and Stately Homes”. Details are on the
MCCC Notice board on the website, portrait format only please. There’s plenty of
scope (e.g. Belvoir Castle and Arley Hall) and time for you to get your entries in and
the winning photo will be on the front of the 2015 rally book.
Entry closes at the Stewards meet 28th September.
Andy Reynolds, Rally Secretary.
Another word from your Rally Secretary
It has been decided by your committee that at the next
Stewards Meet the rules governing the allocation of rallies will
be changed slightly. Below is a copy of the new wording which
will take effect.
1. No rallies can be taken by members prior to the Stewards Meeting
2. Prior to the meeting any member can put his/her name forward for as many
rallies a he/she may wish to take, to either the Rally Secretary, Assistant Rally
Secretary or Chairman.
3. Attendees have first choice, first time round one rally per member. If more
than one member wants the same rally then a cut of the cards will take
place, ace high low takes. Members who cannot attend the meeting may put
their names forward to the Rally Secretary for consideration in the second
round when all members may take as many rallies as they would like.
4. Members who cannot attend the meeting but have put their names forward
shall have their cards cut by the Chairman or myself.
5. The only exception to the above is for new sites where the member putting
the site forward has first choice to steward the rally.
6. MCCC Junior and Senior committee will also receive priority on the rallies
they wish to run before any member.
Andy Reynolds, Rally Secretary.
Senior Committee
Chairman
-
Jason Rosamond
Vice Chairman
-
Jim Clarke
Social Committee
-
Jim Clarke
Field Equipment Officer
-
Jim Clarke
Secretary
-
Derek Moseley
Treasurer
-
Mick Hale
Rally Secretary
-
Andy Reynolds
Assistant Rally Secretary
-
Dave Palmer
Website Officer
-
Gordon Mitchell
Plaque Officer
-
Brian McGivney
Regional Rep
-
Jason Rosamond
Regional Rep
-
Martyn Reynolds
Social Secretary
-
Carole Clarke
Junior Liaison
-
Carole Clarke
Bulletin Editor
-
Doreen Sutherland
Social Committee
-
Doreen Sutherland
Sports Officer
-
Lee Morgan-Bellamy
Social Committee
-
Craig Silver
Regalia
-
Jayne Reynolds
Junior Committee
Chairperson
-
Andrew
Vice Chairperson
-
Patrick
Secretary
-
Emily
Treasurer
-
Daniel B
Committee
-
Millie, Daniel M, William
Forthcoming Rallies
9
10
11
12
Mar 21 - 23
Mar 28 - 30
Apr 4 - 6
Apr 11 - 13
Lenches Lakes, Evesham, WR11 4VB
TBA
Lickhill Manor, Stourport, DY13 8RL
Junior Charity Fund Raising Rally
Cookhill Village Hall, B49 5JT
Brenda's Special Birthday Celebrations
Willows Farm, Warton, B79 0HS
Craig and Kerry's Stag / Hen Weekend
Ukranian Centre, South Derby, DE72
13 Apr 17 - 22
Easter Rally and Chairman's Forum
2BU
Apr 24 14
Porth Beach, Newquay, TR7 3NH
Holiday Rally
May 8
15 Apr 25 - 27 The Riddings, Atherstone, CV9 2PE
Free and Easy, Fishing adjacent to site
Riverside Caravan Park, Bridgenorth,
16 May 2 - 5
Bank Holiday Rally
WV15 6BY
Bretford Village Hall, Bretford, CV23 Please note the change of Venue, due to a double
17 May 9 - 11
0JZ
booking.
18 May 15 - 18 Monks Barn Farm, Stratford, CV37 8NA Free and Easy. (Extended Weekend)
19 May 23 - 26 Eastnor Castle, Ledbury, HR8 1RL
Bank Holiday Rally
20 May 23 - 27 Arley Hall and Gardens, CW9 6NA
Caravan Club National Rally
May 30 21
5 Way Fishery, Wolvey, LE10 3HF
Free and Easy, Fishing available on Site
Jun 1
22 Jun 6 - 8
Great Comberton, Pershore, WR10 3DY Golf Competition
Warcombe Farm Hol Park, Morthoe,
23 Jun 7 - 21
Holiday Rally
EX34 7EJ
24 Jun 13 - 15 The Gate Inn, Nether Whitacre, B46 2DS Local Pub
25 Jun 20 - 22 Mayalls Farm, Nr Malvern, WR14 4JX
Stewards Required
Jun 20 - Jul
25A
Le Guilvinec, South Brittany, France
Holiday Rally
4
The Old Stables, Romsley, Nr.
26 Jun 27 - 29
Free and easy, possible games on the field
Bromsgrove, B62 0NU
For Details of all of these Rallies please check the Midland Centre Website or 2014 Rally Book
Tote Winners
Venue
Cookhill
High Ercall
Astley Burf
Dinner Dance
Nether Whitacre
Bretford
Winner
Karen Berry
Graham Bird
John Bird
Peter Freeman
Lesley Palmer
John Todd
Number
291
248
10
264
24
49
Amount
£35
£32
£25
£36.50
£25
£26
Sales
For Sale
Isabella Minor Blue, fibreglass poles. 220cms between roof poles, 2 metres deep. Fix on clips.
£100.
Isabella Ventra Atlantic, blue full awning size 1000. Fibre poles. Used about 10 times £200
Both sales due to not fitting new van!
Chris Smith Tel: 01952 501440 Email: [email protected]
For Sale
Microwave oven, size 44cm x 22cm x 36cm deep. Silver. Hardly used, removed from caravan. Ideal for same
use or camping, or in flat/bedsit. £25.00. Tel: 01905 451584 or Email: [email protected].
For Sale
Kia Sorento XE 2006
John Stevens Tel: 07769696418
For Sale
Bailey Unicorn Cadiz Touring caravan for sale in Clwyd
£16500
Caravan for sale due to bereavement. Bought March 2013, used only once. Further accessories available.
*4 berth
*2013
*MTPLM 1498kg
*Ex.Length 24ft 1in
*End Washroom
*Twin Rear Single Beds
*Motor Mover
*Vertical Sunroof
*LED-lit Surround
*Granite-finished Kitchen Work Surfaces
*Thetford oven, grill and a dual-fuel hob
*Alde Central Heating System
Please contact Sarah Harris 01978841365/07708873606
For Sale
1.
Ventura Freestanding Motorhome Awning – High - Steel Frame
2.
Isabella 261 Universal Caravan Porch Awning
Steel Frame
£120.00
£100.00
In green, but looks like:
3.
2 fold up bikes
£140 for the two.
4.
Isabella Awning XL frame, should fit approximately 12 ft caravan. £50.00.
Contact: Colin and Pat Wood Tel evening: 0121 559 1473 or email: [email protected] Ideally goods to be
collected.
Thanks also to everyone who contributed to this edition of the Bulletin and please
keep sending in your rally reports and special announcements.