Rally Reports

Baines Hall {Elland CC} Dinner Dance.
January 2010

Once again Baines Hall proved to be an excellent venue for our 25th Dinner and Dance. It was a sell out too with over 50 caravans and a few couples booked in to the local hotel again. All the Northern Region Centres were represented accept for Cumbria and Northumberland, whilst we again welcomed a large contingent from Bedfordshire. Despite the snow, ice and rain since the cold spell the grass again proved to be sound for those people with 4 X 4s whilst the car owners were directed to the hard standing space. It was good to see Geoff on his feet after his recent enforced hospitalisation although he had to take things easy. We had to call on the help of people from other centres and thanks must go to Bob Briscoe, Nigel Turner, Dave Moran and Gordon Alston who all gave great support.

The CC and the members who were in the clubhouse on Friday evening again made us most welcome. A splendid meat [steak] pie and peas was served for supper and thus the weekend got off to a good start. Thanks to the East Yorkshire group who won the quiz and donated their prize to the centre charity – very kind indeed!

On Saturday the weather was very cold but the Sun came out and gave us great views across the valley due to the clear air. Whilst the ralliers took part in a variety of activities the organisers were in the hall decorating, setting up tables and filling helium balloons and yes one or two escaped into the ceiling. Gladys Gee completed her table settings and we thank her and Alan for the kind gesture in sponsoring these again. When it was all completed the silver and maroon looked absolutely super and very fitting for the start of our 25th year!! A good meal, some humorous speeches, great music by Pop Art and dancing into the early hours all combined to make the main event of the weekend a great success. Malcolm Grooves our guest, recountered how he had attended ALL the venues used by Pennine for the Dinner and Dance, gave us a short run down on “Club” activities and punctuated these with the customary jokes. After all the planning and preparation the event is gone in a flash but we must remember all the hard work and some stress that goes into these events. There is a sub–committee but the lion share of the organisation is undertaken by David, Hazel, Elaine and Geoff and so it was we presented them with their plaques in recognition of their efforts on Sunday morning.

The bookings for 2011 are already flowing so do not hang around if you want to come.

David Neve

BURNS RALLY - OLD SYNDALE VILLAGE HALL
January 2010

Was this a completely new venture for the centre? I do not recall a Burn’s Rally in the time since I joined the centre in 1988.

An interesting aspect of this venue is the fact that if you are among the later arrivals you get to practice your reversing skills IN THE DARK! Although Ian was on hand to ensure you did not reverse through the neighbour’s wall or demolish the Village Hall. [Lesley please note I am not taking the van to rallies in dark anymore – quite unnecessary when one is retired].

Friday evening was a bit of “chilling out” in the village hall, a chance for DEB to check that all the entertainment was in place for Saturday evening and arrange the rehearsals for Saturday pm.

On Saturday the Regional Council got in the way of a much-needed lie-in; as we had to get to Harrogate for 1030. On our return we joined the rehearsal programme and Dave did his bit of encouragement and tweaking of the music keys to suit the choice of songs. Having left the “Toast to The Haggis” at home Lesley had managed to get the Nidd Hotel Receptionist to download it from the internet while we were at the hotel in the morning. Phew!! And so at 7.30 we assembled [some in traditional outfits] in the hall for the Toasting of Haggis, which was hastily followed by a super feast of haggis, neaps and tatties, followed by a tasty fruit crumble. There was an alternative of meat pies for those who did not fancy eating sheep…. Whatevers !! Everyone had a noggin with which to do the toast to the Lassies and the Laddies too. Once the meal was complete the entertainment took over with EVERYONE doing their bit, singing, playing musical instruments, reading poems, telling jokes or doing a sketch. A real TEAM effort, which resulted in a most enjoyable evening.

We thanked our marshals Dave and Janice and Ian and Steph at ‘flag’ as there needs to be organisers for such an event. However, this really was a great team effort in terms of the entertainment AND the provision of food. It wqs also about time the Edwards Brown’s ran a rally even if it fell smack in the middle of their busy time at work. This rally will have TAXED their efforts on top of work, although we understand that Ian and Steph did sterling work to support them!!

A wonderful start to the year!

Mac Neve

2009 Rally Reports

38^th Northern Centres Rally

Beckfoot Park, Kirby Lonsdale
August Bank Holiday 2009

After last years Northern Centres rally being called off due to the site being waterlogged, we were looking forward to this years 'Barbeque Summer' dry and warm 'Northern'. We decided to make the most and set off Thursday evening to stay at CL just outside Settle, we arrived after going via the wrong CL and spent the night listening to the wind and rain on the caravan roof, not a good sign! The morning after we travelled up to Kirby Lonsdale and arrived at the Northern Centres sited in Beckfoot Park, a super venue surrounded by hills and boarded by an impressive river. We were welcomed by David Smith and pointed in the 'right direction' Dave Neves showed us to 'a' peg and we set up. The weather was ok and we managed to BBQ our brunch. We did the usual explore of the rally, do have to admit there appeared to be fewer traders than in previous years, however Campbell's Caravans accessories stand was doing it's usually roaring trade, helped by an extra 10% off to celebrate their 40th anniversary. We met up with our friends from the North Wales Centre who were visitors on the Pennine lines. Of course we sampled the beer tent and checked we had our tickets for the Saturday and Sunday nights entertainment. A bit more socialising with the North Wales gang and we BBQ'd our tea. Pennine's opening flag was held at 8pm and Malcolm and Gillian supplied the teas and coffee. Very soon all the ladies were disappearing off down the field, leaving the gents to 'chew the fat' at flag.

Daz cooking up the tea

Wey Hay, despite the conditions everybody enjoyed the entertainment

One of the innovations this year was the large marquee and this is were the ladies were to be found, playing Bingo, some more successful than others. Back to the beer tent then another night of listening to the rain.

Saturday morning the weather was fine, the team captains were running around trying to find willing participants. Some of us had a ride into Kirby Lonsdale others had a ride up to Kendal. In the afternoon we called into the big marquee for the Tea dance, a reasonable turn out was made all the more amusing by sequence dancing and waltzing in wellies and walking boots. We left at the serving of the tea and went to watch the sports with an ice-cream. As usual a good display from the sports team, although little success for Pennine.

Saturday evening the rain started to fall as we made our way down to the entertainment marquee, the ground was starting to get very 'soft'. We queued for a short time with tickets in hand to make sure we had a good seat. Fantastic entertainment from a comedy show-band, The Space Cadets, very funny 1st spot and an excellent dance spot. Again everybody was dancing, on a very full dance floor, in boots and wellies.

Sunday the rain came down all day on and off, however the sports continued and Pennine had some success in the fun-run with Steve Clay coming second in his class.

At lunch time we found ourselves in big marquee for a concert from the Caravan Club band, this was the first time we had seen a full show from the band and we really enjoyed it, the highlight being the Pipe solo from our mate Don, from the North Wales centre. The rest of the audience enjoyed his part too because he received a standing ovation. The band finished Amarillo and the conductor had us all marching around the 'tent'. The rain got heavier in the evening as we made our way back to the Marquee for the Sunday nights entertainment, no centre line socials this year. and again another fantastic nights entertainment this time form a great Soul and Motown group, Atlantic Connections. Special thanks must go to Tim Webb from the South Yorkshire centre who got the party going and kept it going during the interval. Whilst everybody was strutting their stuff on the dance floor, young Luke was earning a small fortune in tips by going round the marquee collecting bottles and cans to take to the recycling bins which were situated outside in the rain. At the end of the evening we left the marquee to be greeted with a sea of mud.

Monday morning and more rain to assist while decamping. The rain stopped in time for flag at 11. The thanks were made by Malcolm, he himself and his team were thanked for their efforts during

The marquee was welcomed for the entertainment

The North Wales gang

the weekend, especially on Friday for the van arrivals, a task which lasted until after 10:30pm. Ferdie gave the committee thanks and welcomed visitors from Scotland and North Wales to the Pennine lines. He also had the task of welcoming three new ralliers and presenting their first rally plaques, what a baptism of fire [or should read rain] Then came the time to leave I thought there would have been bigger problems getting off site, however things seem to go well. We chose to leave by the back entrance which soon had us clear of the site and on our way.

On behalf of all the attendees I would like to thank the organisers for a super rally in very difficult conditions and all those that gave up their rally to organise and run the various events and the more mundane tasks of empting the bins in the rain. On a personal note I liked the new innovations at this years NC, especially the overdue recycling facilities (take note Caravan Club for the National) and the big Marquee for the entertainment.

Sandy & Kay

38^th Northern Centres Rally

Beckfoot Park, Kirby Lonsdale
August Bank Holiday 2009

A very wet start to this years Northern Centreshad had the same weather but this did not stop them working to provide us with a perfect site and its thanks to them and out working perty concisted of; David &Pauline Smith, Geoff & Elaine Teece, Malcolm & Gill Clay, David & Lesley Neve, Roger & Jenny Thornton and Billy & Marion Emes and they all did a superb job under very difficult conditions .

There was two nights of entertainment in the marquee which a lot of our members attended and even if there had been centre socials they would not have run because of the heavy rain on the Sunday night and with people not taking any notice of the yellow flag it made it very muddy on the edges of our lines but we still had green grass round our vans.

On the sports side Kevin Ogden and David Neve attended the sports meeting on our behalf and Kevin acted as sports officer and we did enter a team in the ladies lawn darts and thanks to the team of Hazel, Elaine, Lesley, Cheryl, Susan, Caroline and new rallier Jill.

David Neve played quoits for East Yorkshire and Lesley for South Yorkshire, Same Ogden played football for east Yorkshire and Kevin Ogden and Steven Clay played for East Yorkshire in the over 35s football we also had a football referee in Chris Lockwood and Pauline Smith acted asone of the judges in the baking competition so thanks to them all and also the one adult and three children who entered the fun run or should I say the mud run and Steven Clay came second in his class and 18th overall, Sam Ogden came 6th in his class and 28th overall and Lauren Clay came 75th and Frankie Wild came 76th.

We did better in the dog show with three prizes, in the prettiest bitch Cheryl Clays dog, Mollie, came 3rd, in the best rescue dog Margaret Parsons dog Tilly came 4th and she also came 6th in the prettiest bitch, and Hazel Ferdinands dog, Barney, came 4th in the veteran class.

We also had two new ralliers, I hope the wet weather has not put them off, in Mr & Mrs Sweeny from Halifax and Mr & Mrs Geater from Morley, we aslo had three vans from North wales and one from Cheshire on our lines making 22 vans in all attending and the only down side was that we had to borrow a young lady from South lancs to act as our flag girl so thanks to her and everybody who took part or helpen in any way also our two reps David Smith and Elaine Teece who attend the Northern Centres meetings all year round and our first time Block Marshals Malcolm and Gill Clay who did a superb job under very difficult weather conditions and Malcolm did not have much hair to start with but he's even less now thanks to you all.

David Ferdinand

HOLLAND HOLIDAY RALLY Koningshoff, Rinjsberg July/August 2009 Only a small rally of 10 vans, including visitors from South Wales, Cheshire and East Yorkshire centres, but a great holiday in a beautiful area of Holland close to the historic town of Leiden and only three miles from stunning sandy beaches. The overnight sailing from Hull to Rotterdam on a lily pond of a North Sea got the rally off to a great start, with live entertainment on board before retiring to comfortable en-suite cabins. Early Sunday morning we docked at Rotterdam, and then just a short drive to our site, Koningshoff in the village of Rinjsberg. From leaving home to arriving on site a total of 127 miles and just a quarter of a tank of diesel! The site is well known to Pennine members, and our host Flipp reminisced about previous visitors from our centre. It’s a lovely site, with tree-lined bays of not more than 10 vans in each, a bar, restaurant, indoor and outdoor pool, kids club, shop and immaculate toilet & shower blocks.
	After setting up in surprisingly hot conditions, most ralliers headed off to explore their surroundings before heading back for the opening flag with cheese and wine, followed by a quick Karoke to break the ice. Monday brought another fine and hot day, and yours truly decided to take the family on a gentle bike ride to the local village and back. Several hours and many miles later we found our way back to the site! My excuse? Too many cycle paths in Holland! Monday evening was spent resting our sore saddles, and playing Pictionary with fellow ralliers. A group of ralliers headed to Amsterdam on Tuesday, taking the 40 minute train journey, whilst others waited till the site-organised coach trip on Wednesday which included a visit to a clog factory and cheese factory. The site owners had organised a meal for everyone in the cosy restaurant on Thursday evening, and those who attended spoke highly of the quality and quantity of the hot buffet.
Aside from the organised events, the area offered plenty of options for all ages. Hiring a self-drive motorboat for a gentle sail around the canals of Leiden was a popular choice, whilst three theme parks within an hour’s drive catered for the thrill-seekers. The popular beach resorts of Noordwijk and Katwijk were just 10 minutes away, both offering miles of clean sand, boardwalk cafes and promenade shopping. A highlight was the International Air Sea Rescue event, a full day of helicopter and lifeboat displays, whilst a beach volleyball tournament provided for the more energetic. Venturing further afield, we enjoyed a day trip to Gouda, calling at The Hague and its neighbouring seaside town of Scheveningen on the return. All too soon Saturday evening’s closing flag loomed, but a lucky few stayed beyond the Sunday morning departure for another week, enjoying terrific hot and sunny weather. Well done and thanks to Sandy & Kay, Gavin & Sam for organising a small but enjoyable rally in a superb location. We’re already planning a repeat visit! Graham & Caroline Clay

Cawthorne
Australian Christmas
24^th to 26^th July 2009

As we drove on to the rally field we were surprised to see icicles hanging from Graham and Jacqui’s canopy, no it was not a turn in the weather, it was to fit in with the theme of Australian Christmas. Then other decorations started to appear on many of the other vans with Santa’s and Reindeer everywhere. Flag was in the barn and we were served with punch and nibbles. Throughout the night Ken took each lady in turn down to his van… they all came back smiling. The men were intrigued as to what was going on, we could hear the ladies talking about flashing…. Well, he’d been showing them his new lights, of course!

Saturday was free to do as you pleased, it was a lovely day and many went in to the grounds of Cannon Hall for a walk and an ice cream. The Beanland’s dog, Sofie was up to no good having been left at the van. The evening social was in the barn with quizzes and charades (more strange pub names from Ian). As it was the weekend before mine and Martins 50^th birthday we laid on a little buffet for everyone. Thanks Steph and Jean for the birthday cakes. Later we had a visit from two very large Santa’s he must eat mince pies all year round. They handed out the pressies that everyone had donated. Then it was back to more fun and laughter with charades. A great evening.

Sunday it was back to the barn for flag. Fellowships were presented to George & Babs, Harry & Vera and Me & Julie. And time to thank our marshals for all their hard work in providing us with another great weekend.

Thank you Steph & Ian, Jean & Les and their helpers.

Paul & Julie.

STRAWBERRY PICKING
ASKAM BRYAN
June 2009

This was an excellent follow-on to the week we had just spent with seven friends at Holme Valley Caravan and Camping Site, two of whom had also made the journey to Askam and arrived just before us. Arriving early at rallies on Friday is become infectious and certainly one of the benefits of becoming pensioned off!! I am really looking forward to ones that open on Wednesday!!

Having been welcomed and hosted on to our pitch, as is the custom at this rally, we assembled around the marshal’s vans on Friday evening for wine and nibbles and enjoyed the atmosphere until quite late. I was introduced to new ralliers who had not been sent their rally books owing to the lack of membership update from East Grinstead since March 23rd.

We awoke on Saturday following some heavy rain over night, which had made our pitch quite soggy and the sound of Ken’s car alarm, which unfortunately developed a fault and resulted in mechanics be called out and eventual recovery of the Range Rover on Sunday. Whilst breakfast was on the BBQ the landowner came to chat and check the ground. Having agreed with others that the pasty shop in York was a must, we ventured to the “park and ride” and headed for the City of York, which I need no excuse to visit really, as I love the place. Pasties duly found, purchased and consumed the party split up to do their own thing before meeting up again for some refreshments; to be honest we left York quite late on.

Saturday evening was spent in the on-site social hall where the George was MC, Ian DJ and Babs and Steph providing excellent support as usual. A variety of fun and games and George’s Play Your Cards Right all combined to make this a very enjoyable evening. We did manage to get the new CD players working following a small technical hitch [didn’t we Ian?] The new ralliers were welcomed whilst I went off to the caravan to get some plaques and as is customary now, one team of “ex Dales” members do not know when to go home!! “A reet good neet” it was too [after 33 years in Yorkshire I am learning the language]!

A short committee meeting was held on Sunday [at the flag] to decide who would do the thanks with the Hon Rally Sec, nominating the Hon Sec. And so it was that I was able to thank George and Babs and Harry and Vera for another excellent job well done. On behalf of all who attended this very good rally. Oops!! Ian and Steph were really the co- marshals and thanks to George, I did it get it right in the end.

With this ‘team’ so many people help and contribute to the enjoyment it is no wonder we sometimes get confused. Well that is my excuse anyway. Thanks to George and Babs, Ian and Steph and ALL their team for another great weekend. Lesley and I felt we made the right choice by doing this rally rather than the alternatives on offer that weekend.

DN.

Kelington Manor
May 2009

Back to normal, we were one of the last to arrive. We said we would help out if needed as Derek & Jeanette were unable to attend as Derek had a severe dose of Chicken Pox. As we were setting up we heard a commotion and looked up to see Vera running across the field trying to fly a kite, it tried a few times but as soon as she stopped running it fell to the ground. This may have been due to the fact that the string was only 6’ long. Kids these days!

As the time for Flag came so did the rain, so it was a quick cuppa under the Parasols and a quick Hello to everyone. Later some of us popped over to the Manor for a drink or two. Martin was on the Sagres and after a while is mouth stopped working. Saturday most people did the Treasure Hunt, this time we had to drive to the surrounding villages and look for the answers to the cryptic clues. Most people got the name of the donkey as the owner couldn’t wait to assist and was also keen to help out on any other clues you were struggling on. As usual you had to spend a certain sum in the village shop to buy something that you could use on a rally. The evening social was in the conservatory, with a few quizzes and a Pie and Pea supper. We had background music throughout the evening but this was drowned by the VERY LOUD shirt that Martin was wearing.

Sunday it was Flag and the winner of the treasure was announced, well done George & Babs. The prize was all the goodies that had been bought from the village shop, look’s like they’ll be eating biscuits for a while! Most of the work for this rally was done in planning the rally and setting the treasure hunt and quizzes so although D&J were not present they had done all the hard work.

A big thank you to Martin & Karen, Derek and Jeanette.

Paul & Julie

BRIDLINGTON
MAY 2009

Yet again what a brilliant rally from Friday to Monday the sun shone well most of the time but what do we expect from the British weather at this time of the year. Friday we all got set up and then had a walk into Brid for a stroll on the prom and an ice cream, ok a beer or two, then back for some tea before the evening entertainment began in the marquee, cheese and wine some games or just having a natter with friends and having a good old laugh.

Saturday Trevor Sue George and Janet went for a walk whilst Graham and Jacqui took the easy way out and drove to Brid did they deserve a beer I will let you all decide, well we all got back in the afternoon and fired up a barbie then got ready for the evening entertainment again the Caribbean night well what a do FABULAS I will attempt to down load some photo’s.

Sunday much of the same for us lot but back for the do in the marquee with live entertainment form an excellent entertainer Dave Hill what a good all round entertainer even

Trevor managed a dance with Sue but what was Wendy Biggs and Jacqui Beanland doing with poor old Dobbin, well a few found their way back to the Lund’s caravan but Trevor had to go to bed sorry for being a party pooper or for an noise caused hope were forgiven.

Flag on Monday and then the usual pack up for the trip home sad, sad. So we would like to say thank you to Kay, Sandy, Gav, Sam, and I know they weren’t official marshals but to Daz and Wendy.

Trevor,Sue,Graham,Jacqui,George,Janet

The Matalan Shirt Rally
[Alias Brid May 2009]

Where do you start with a rally like this? The marshals put an amazing amount of effort in with two socials, wine and nibbles, live music, sea fishing trip, golf, donkey derby, hot dogs for lunch, Matthew’s disco for the youngsters and enough fun and games to keep everyone entertained. We had visitors from as far a field as Cheshire and North Wales [noisy lot!!] as well as MWY and Dales. Clearly someone had used the prayer mat to secure decent weather until Monday, although it was dry but very windy for the ‘flag’.

Arriving at this very good hill top venue on Thursday was a bonus; being able to secure a fantastic view of Brid Bay from the front window and then watch as Sandy and Gav tried to “fit a quart into a pint pot”, which they did really well [Getting so many caravans into a small area]. The marquees were quickly erected and three caravans positioned around them strategically to provide room for us all to get in.

No one told me the fishing trip was a competition between the morning crew and afternoon crew; otherwise I would have tried harder to catch the sub aqua diver who was swimming in our spot. We had a very enjoyable three hour sea trip whilst the ‘girls’ went to find Val’s relation who runs a café in Brid. On our return we needed to get the fancy dress out for the Caribbean evening, including a limbo pole, Dobbin and a great night of merriment. The fancy dress competition for the men was cancelled as most of them came in the same shirts, purchased from Matalan. It also took two hours to find Graham Bealand under his massive wig. Whilst the decoration in the marquees was exceptionally good, with palm trees and beach scenes a plenty.

More on Sunday with face painting for the youngsters, thanks to Nicola, followed by the hot dogs, donkey derby and big golf. These activities were not well supported as the fine weather had persuaded many people to visit the area markets and tourist attractions. The cliff walks at Flambourgh being a popular choice, judging by the photographs on “Facebook”. Then we assembled for the evening entertainment led by Dave King who sang, joked, quizzed and generally made sure everyone had a great evening. Roger joined in a duet with Dave and then signed several autographs and despite his popularity Roger will not be singing on Rally Radio at the national.

On behalf of all those attending this rally I must again thank Sandy, Kay, Gav, Sam, Daz, Wendy and all their team [their families gave great support] for a great week end on the East Coast. Book early for 2010!!

Easter Rally 2009
Alkborough

Arrived Thurs evening, most of the Ralliers had arrived by then, some arriving on Good Friday.
Opening Flag was held Friday morning, tea & coffee and eggstremely nice biscuits. These Marshals do treat us! Friday afternoon there was an organised walk with Anna & Sarah, the wardens of the Wetlands Project. They loaned us binoculars and took us on an interesting walk, telling us about the management of the site. Friday night was spent in the Club House, we had a few quizzes & supper was provided. An enjoyable evening was had by all.
Saturday night was spent in the barn, there were games and dancing. Beef Slice and peas for supper followed by eggceedingly good homemade cakes – far better than Mr Kipling’s!
Sunday morning we were all in the farm yard for the egg rolling competition. Lots of entries from both the children and adults gave everyone lots of entertainment. Watch out for the egg-hay an maize sarnis (think about it!) on the faith supper tonight. Eggcellent Easter bonnets created for the Easter bonnet parade. There was an egg hunt for the children and then we were served soup and roll for lunch. The rest of the day was free to do as you pleased. Sunday evening was back in the club. We had quizzes, a game of Irish Bingo with playing cards. We then enjoyed the Faith Supper which we shared with the regulars. “What a lovely spread you put on” I was told by the Barmaid. Later we had a game of Charades with Steph’s pub names, yes they are real names although with some it’s hard to believe. The next time we play this I must remember to stop guessing so much – I had quite a few turns and so did George. Another great evening’s entertainment!
Easter Monday – The rally marshals were up early preparing breakfast for everyone. We brought chairs and tables to the barn where we enjoyed a full English, the sausages were cooked eggstremely well by the male marshals whilst their other halves were busy making sure everything was running smoothly in the barn. Prizes were given to the competition winners and a gift was given to the ralliers. Vera had been busy again knitting chicks that covered a cream egg, these were given to all the kids. Thank you Vera! The raffle was drawn and it raised £100 for the Wakefield Hospice. The closing flag followed where thanks were given by Les to the other marshals and their helpers – Harry & Vera, Ron & Wendy. Paul then presented the marshals with their plaques & thanked them on behalf of the ralliers for the hard work they had put in preparing for the rally & throughout the weekend. Almost all the ralliers left on Monday leaving just a few of us to stay until Tuesday.

Thanks again for a very enjoyable rally.
Julie.

Easter 2009
Hutton-le-Hole

A tea dance was held on the Saturday afternoon in the village hall and attended by approximately 30 enthusiastic dancers. Albert put on a wide variety of dances and managed to teach the East Yorkshire Centre participants some new ones. He also managed to teach and make the afternoon of a young East Yorkshire lady who came to visit her parents attending the rally and who enjoyed taking part. Thank you Albert for helping to make her visit enjoyable. There was a magnificent selection of cheese & biscuits, scones, cakes and buns brought by the participants and enjoyed by everyone. Thank you to Albert, Pam and Ian for a very enjoyable afternoon. Saturday night was the first of two socials, again held in the village hall. A good selection of novelty dances, games for the children and bingo made the evening go with a swing. The second social was on the Monday night and again a very good selection of games for everyone, dances and bingo. Two excellent evenings arranged by Steve, Katrina, Louisa and Albert. Thank you for all your efforts.

Sandra & Tony Martin
East Yorkshire Centre

Winners of the Easter Bonnet Parade
Ladies: Val Poole from East Yorkshire Centre
Gents: Alastair McDonald from Cumbria Centre
Girls: Abigail from Mid West Yorkshire Centre

Knaresbrough Lido Rally
27th to 29th March

A warm and sunny afternoon welcomed us to this new venue found by Graham but it does help if you work there and all the other park staff were very friendly. We were met by Trevor and Jackie, as Sue and Graham were working, and shown to our peg by Trevor on the front row and time to stroll round the very big site and even looked at the river and then back to our own field. Tea and coffee was served at 8pm and people stopped and chatted till the very late hours and kept Graham up and he had to be up to open the gate at 8am but it was nearer 9am must have been tired. Saturday and time to stroll round Knaresbrough in between the very heavy showers and back to the shopping park just across the road from the rally field so there was plenty to do but we had to be back so L and B fridge repairs could look at my fridge and fit me a new thermal coupling, thanks Graham and Trevor and with Trevor being with us Sue had to empty the elsan and fetch the water with grandson Jack.

Thank you to Mr Scarrott (Mid-west Centre) for the photographs

At night it was time to go to the club on site no need to take the car, although one lady got lost on the way back to her van and had to be rescued by the marshals, how much had she had to drink, there was bingo and a female singer and I have a good authority some members did stop very late. On Sunday it was time for the flag in brilliant sunshine and the proceeds of the raffle were donated to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance thanks to all who bought tickets. Time to thank our marshals who proved you can work and run rallies at the same time because there are members who will go early and open the rally for you till you get there and poor Trevor worked all weekend with a bad back, the shrapnel moved in his old war wound picked up while he was for many years a soldier of the Queen and Graham pushed him into doing the flag but true to good rally marshals he delegated the job to graham and he did a good job but he forgot to thank the ladies. So we will thank them for all the work they did all weekend so thanks Jackie and Sue who were very ably hindered by Graham and Trevor but they all did a good job and they have said they will run it again next year so if you were one of the 50 vans booked in you will have to get your slips in early so thanks again from us all

David L Ferdinand

Kirkburton Cricket club
27th February – 1st March 2009

Rally opened at 12 noon. Lovely venue with nice flat field and views of Emley moor.
It was into the club house Friday evening for quizzes and a game of ‘Micks Bingo’ with music and a chat with friends. Saturday was a good day for shopping in Huddersfield and we spent a pleasant afternoon at Cannon Hall, lots to see here.
Saturday night in the club house for more games for the adults and for the children who thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Nice to see so many children on the rally. Music and karaoke rounded off an excellent evening with an impromptu performance of Greek dancing by Steven Clay (what a good sport) a great time had by all.
Sunday dawned bright and sunny we visited Shelly garden centre then all too soon it was time to go home.
Thanks to Mick, Cath and Callum, Colin, Mavis, Jason, Nicola and Brittany for a super rally

Malcolm and Gillian Clay

Todmorden
Valentines Rally
February 2009

The rally opened at 11:55am, it was legs down and a relaxing afternoon. Friday evening saw us in the club house for a chat and a drink or two or three! Saturday a nice fine dry day and a short walk into the town centre with a look around the excellent outdoor and indoor markets and other shops.
Saturday evening we were in the club house at 6:15pm for a superb four course meal prepared and cooked by our rally marshals and their helpers, followed by entertainment by tremendous girl duo larger than life.
The whole evening was first class and thanks must go to our marshals Val and Sue Jaques and their assistants Dave and Chris and Paul and Julie Wilkinson for all their effort and hard work.

Malcolm and Gillian Clay

New Year's Rally
December 2008
Old Snydale

Sunday 28th
First night was Allo Allo night with lots of French Waitresses, German Soldiers and Engleesh Airmen and of course Grandma (Vera) I’m sure she was in the show. Fish and Chips for supper was a great start.

After some dancing we did the Hat Game which, as usual went on forever, there are so many cheats in Pennine! As is tradition the ‘Nevesy’ was presented, the fortunate recipients have to perform some form of entertainment on the last night. So, the Wilkinson’s Ball’s and Mannering’s were the lucky ones.

The Marshals then performed a musical sketch to the song ‘I can sing a rainbow’. Unfortunately there never seemed to be enough tune for Les to get in on the act, Poor Les argh! This gave us all a good laugh and set the scene for things to come.

Monday 29th
11.00 it was BBQ time to prepare the Bruch, as usual the Whiskey was needed to keep the chaps going.

In the evening it was Gav and Sandy’s Orange night, not sure what this was for but it may be something to do with a certain holiday rally in July. They said they would not mention the rally and they were true to their word. We just had a continuous screen projection advertising it all night.

In between the music and dancing. Harry & Vera did a funny little sketch about their bedroom antics in their younger days. Then it was the T Shirt game, teams of three, all you had to do was unfold it and then each team member had to put it on and then take it off. The trouble is if it’s wet and has been in the freezer for a day, it’s not that easy. We were then entertained by the whistling bellies, alias Harry, Trevor and Graham. Which gave us all a good laugh.

Tuesday 30th
In the hall for 11.00 for Full English Breakfast a great start to the day.

After the days activities it was in to the hall for Scottish night. Every body really made an effort and there was tartan from every clan in Scotland the most represented was McCar-rug. The main entertainment was from Dave Hill who provided an excellent mix of singing and comedy much of which was ad-lib from the banter from the audience. He got Gavin up to do a duet and with the support of the ralliers, arms waving and torches glowing he did really well. Later it was striptease time with three unwitting volunteers (Jean, Mick and George). Has Jean done this before (she gave a very professional performance)?

Then it was Caber tossing with the Lunds and Beanlands and they went on to give us a visit from Nessy, with narration from Harry. The evening ended with highland flings and disco. What a night!

Wednesday 31st
New Year’s Eve was a Masquerade Ball we were treated to an excellent meal of Soup followed by Meat or Cheese ploughman’s with Cream Cakes for afters. We then had a couple of rounds of Family Fortunes with question master George, human computer Les providing the scores and answers and not forgetting Ian as the buzzer. The Marshals then presented their B.B.Q. sketch. Obviously well rehearsed but didn’t Ken know about the rehearsals?

I then gave the thanks to our Marshals and the other helpers on behalf of the Centre and presented each Marshal with a gift from the Ralliers.

The ‘Nevesy’ act was next, we performed a funny skit written by David where various members of the Centre give advice on running a rally, finishing with a yokel land owner advising how to deal with the Sh**. We then gave our version of ‘I can sing a rainbow’ thanking the marshals for the rally. We asked them to step forward each time they heard their name and you’ve guessed it, Les was left behind there just wasn’t enough tune! But he did get his own line at the end..

Then we were dancing and before you knew it the bells were chiming for the New Year. After Auld Lang Syne and kisses and handshakes all round, it was back to the dancing and merry making in to the early hours.

Thursday 1st
Closing flag, A cuppa and cake, Fellowships were presented to Ian and Steph, George and Babs Gavin and Sam, Sandy and Kay. The Marshals then presented gifts to all the ralliers. A special thank you to David Edward Brown, who despite not being on the rally due to the rest of the family being ill, he still turned up on the first and last nights to play the music for the sketches. Many thanks to our Marshals who again did a fantastic job of entertaining and feeding us throughout the rally.

LES and Jean, George and Babs, Ken and Tina and Ian & Steph.

We really do appreciate the time and effort that you put in to give us a wonderful rally.

2008 Rally Reports

Ingbirchworth
Sept 20

This rally was put on at the last minute because the one published in the brochure had been cancelled. Paul and Julie Wilkinson organised it all in a week and with Martin and Karen Mannering as assistants set about doing all the things you do as a rally marshal in a double quick time. Friday started with wine and nibbles in the Marshals awning and nearly every body attended and most stayed and enjoyed them selves. Thanks to George and Babs Biggs who provided the wine.

On Saturday a walk was organised by Paul and Martin and a good time was had by all and then at night it was back in the awning and Julie provided plenty of quizzes to keep every body happy but they do watch some funny television programmes in South Yorkshire.

Sunday and this time it started out dull un like the other days when it was brilliant sunshine and it was back in the awning for tea and cake but not just ordinary cake but courgette and chocolate cake was enjoyed by all so if you want the recipe see Julie, then it was time to thank the marshals for a lovely weekend all done at short notice, bur they did a smashing job so thank you to Paul, Julie, Karen and Martin for doing all the work on our behalf and it just shows you can put on a rally on at quick notice and members will attend and enjoy it, thanks again.

Report David Ferdinand

Shepley
Sept 2008

I think this was the first really warm and sunny weekend we have had this year and of course this being a competition and challenge rally it started when you went through the gate having to stop on a cross but to confuse us it had to be at the back of the van, then you had to level up your van by eye and they came and measured it all and if you were near the peg you got extra points. All points were added up all over the weekend.

Saturday and a lovely sunny day dawned so you could laze about, go shopping or go on the treasure hunt that had been set for us, Dave and Chris had to go round the course to see that nothing had been moved, that was the excuse they gave us anyway. At night a quiz with a difference because the cricket club had been double booked but no matter the quiz was done in your own van and you needed a runner to return it to Chris and Dave stood in the middle of the field, so no need to get cold or damp, and some of the challenges they gave I am surprised they could stand at the end of the night but a good time was had by all.

Sunday and another warm and sunny day and for the first time this year we could all sit out at the flag which made a great change and then what we had all been waiting for who had won the competitions and the challenges, the one who came last was Sandy Sanderson, because he moved the peg to the back of the van, that gave him a lot of marks but the one with the lowest marks and the highest in the competitions was Clarke and Lyne Turton from the Yorkshire Dales so all the bribing that went on did not work but well done to them and next year they are thinking of having an auction again but it is only a thought at the moment. Then it was time to thank our marshal's who did out a lot of time and work into this rally and that is why people like it so much so to Val, Suzanne, Dave and Chris a very big thank you from all of us for making our weekend such a good one in warm and glorious sunny weather, Thank you.

Report David Ferdinand

Six Star Rally
Elvington
September 2008

Only seven or so vans attended the Six Star rally from the Yorkshire Pennine Centre this year and for once we were all on hard standing and after the dreaded rain on the Friday the rest of the weekend was warm and sunny and no mud. Geoff Teece and I went on the Thursday to help peg or should I say chalk out and to site cans on the Friday and Geoff went to put all the electrics in the marquee and as marquee manager he generally looked after the marquee all weekend. Another member who did a lot of work was Stuart Allen who cut the grass so they could play Lawndarts and the dance floor in the marquee, it weekend strange to see Stuart not taking part but he did marshal all weekend so on behalf of the centre thanks to Stuart and Geoff. We did have one winner in James Metcalf who won the teenage Kick Start, well done to him and thanks to all the others who took part. There was entertainment in the marquee on the Saturday night and a table top sale on the Sunday but only two tables and of course Mrs Frisby to keep you well fed. Thanks to all those who attended and lets hope we have a few more Pennine vans next year if you don’t like track testing you can always go into York and shop or sightseeing .

Report David Ferdinand.

30th Bristol Balloon Fiesta August Avon centre Yorkshire Pennine were well represented at this Avon Centre rally held in Ashton Park school grounds. This was an ideal location to visit the balloon fiesta site. The Yorkshire Pennine contingent arrived from all different parts of the country, taking advantage to visit the fiesta by tagging the rally on to a 'summer road trip' some were on their way home others like ourselves were just starting our trip. We arrived on a damp Thursday morning and were greeted by a number of Avon Centre committee members, we were shown to our peg by a man on a bike the rally field was that big he needed his bike and I bet he did a few miles that day.
I can't see any balloons Martin, can you?	We were disappointed the planned evening launch of balloons was cancelled due to the weather conditions, however after a short walk up to the fiesta in the evening we were very impressed with the 'night glow' the balloons fired their burns lighting their canopy up in time to music. On the walk back to the rally field the night sky was lit up with a firework display. Friday morning we set our alarm clocks for 6am to watch the dawn mass balloon launch, after about half an hour we realised this wasn't going to happen and I went back to bed, Kay never got up in the first place and the teenagers in the pup tents didn't wake up at all. We later found out he launch was cancelled due the wind blowing in the direction of the airport. We spent most of the Friday at the fiesta, the weather was kind and the sun shone for a while. The teenagers took advantage of the 200+ traders and displays, coming back with arms full of freebies from Yogurts to wii socks. Gav and I enjoyed the beer tents. We went back to the rally field late afternoon hoping to watch another planned mass launch at 6pm. By 6:45 we thought we were going to be disappointed again, then we heard a canon got off and the balloons started to rise up from the fiesta site. For more than an hour the balloons kept floating over our heads there must have been the best part of 150. Martin and Karen had been at the fiesta site for the launch and remarked how the balloonists were fighting for space to get their balloons launched.
There was another 6am launch due the next morning but I thought better of it and didn't set my alarm. We were woken up by a tapping on the bed room window at 6 by a smiling Ian telling us the balloons were going up, I jumped up and found most of the Yorkshire Pennine gang already enjoying the early morning launch on a beautiful Saturday morning. Not as many as the evening before but still a spectacular sight.
I still went back to bed though, waking back up to a complete change in the weather. With the rain set in for the day we ventured into Bristol on the bus for the day. The rain did come down all day and unfortunately most of the planned events at Fiesta were cancelled including another night glow. Sunday morning we packed up on a damp morning and headed off to Cornwall for a very wet fortnight. Five of the Pennine vans headed off in the Weston Super Mare direction to continue their holiday and others went home back to Yorkshire Pennine land. The weather was very disappointing for the event however everybody made the most of a fantastic event. Thanks to the Avon Centre Sandy Our other disappointment was we were finishing our road trip at Northern Centres, cancelled due to the wet weather. What a great Summer!

Northern Centres Sutton Park

This year it was a great disappointment that the Northern Centres at Sutton Park near York had to be cancelled due to the ground being water logged after heavy rain. But the working party did arrive, and many of them give up their holidays just to work on our behalf, so on behalf of the centre I would like to thank each and every one of you for giving up your holidays, working on our behalf and then having to dismantle it all before you came home. I would also like to thank our tow reps Geoff and Elaine , David Smith, the Northern Centres Brochure Coordinator who worked all year to provide us with a rally and then for it to be cancelled at the last minute, all the members who took all the equipment and then had to bring it all home again and this year arrangements had been made to take all the sports kit, only for that to be brought home again and put away back in lofts and spare rooms. So once again from every body who were booked to attend Thank you.

David Ferdinand

Hello Hello Rally,
Woolley
July 2008

A wet start to this rally but as forecast it did not last all weekend because the sun shone all day Saturday and Sunday. It was nice to see Tina back on the rally field after her health problems and Les Evans after another knee joint and they both looked very well. Friday and a get together in the barn with a punch and nibbles and some people stayed to talk while late.

On Saturday the team got together to start to roast the pig but it had been cut into pieces before it came to the rally, then it was wrapped in tin foil and put on big BBQ’s specially made for the occasion by Ian and his son. A lot of people helped with the roasting, looking after the fires, fetching wood and making the Stuffing and apple sauce and making sure the meat did not burn. At the social we were greeted by Heir Flick or was it Con Small Housen and the Rene’s were like busses you missed the first one and few came along and there was Officer Crabtree, the old onion seller, Rene’s mother-in-law complete with nightwear a few heir flicks and of course Michelle in the back room and Rene’s waitresses, also some odd looking airmen bur they were accompanied by two beautiful German Secretaries complete with stockings with seams and they have promised to wear their uniforms at all committee meeting in the future. Also at the social Gemma Shorters was presented with the Harry Downing trophy she won at our sports. The winners of the fancy dress were Graham Beanland as the old onion seller and Vera Pearson as Rene’s mother-in-law. It’s thanks to a lot of people for this rally first all the friends who helped to cook, make the sandwiches serve them and clear up after but the biggest thanks go to co-marshalls Ken and Tina and to the ones who make it all come together Ian and Stephanie, thanks to you all and can we have more of the same next year.

David Ferdinand

Woolley
July 2008

It was raining when we arrived on the site but were greeted warmly by Steph who directed us to our peg, which was also being pointed out by Trev who had braved the elements with his brolly. After we set up Sue had made us a welcoming cup of Brandy coffee, but then it turned into a rather impromptu party as we were joined by Chris Jaques who partook in a coffee a la Brandy and then Suzanne arrived so it was back to boiling the kettle and more chit chat. Well done Sue. After we had tea it was time to hit the barn for a glass of wine or two and few quiz’s thanks to George. George also provided games for the kids, which is always good to see. Saturday morning dawned and after breakfast we got ready for our walk. As we left for our walk the gents were cooking the hog roast for supper we had a small chat with them then off we went. George Cawood was the map reader which made a change from Trev. But alas George wasn’t any better than Trev because the walks led us to a bridge across the railway and guess what? The bridge had been demolished in 1968 we were only 40 years too late, but amazingly it was still on the map so we couldn’t blame George too much. Well we did a bit of back tracking which isn’t unusual. As Graham says Every day is and adventure. Another surprise was that we didn’t pass a pub so it turned out a very cheap walk. When we arrived back on the field, the gents were still cooking the hog roast, but by this time they had a beer, nice one. We had our BBQ then went in to shower and get ready for the Allo Allo fancy dress. What a brilliant turn out for the evening, there was everything from Rene to the German military. We are still not sure who Mick Boyle was supposed to be but we had a great time. We were served our roast supper by the lovely French maids and Vera who was dressed up as the mother, but luckily she was up out of bed and fit as a fiddle. We had another quiz which Pat and Ken Lowes won, well done to them. There was plenty of music and dancing going on throughout the night. Well all good things have to come to and end, so it was back to the vans and into bed.

Sunday arrived and the weather was fine and luckily the gateway started drying out, we had flag in the barn, Vera son the ladies fancy dress and Graham won the gents (we think he bribed the judge with a beer) Another excellent weekend with big thanks to Ian & Step and Ken & Tina also thanks to George & Babs Les & Jean and Harry & Vera for all the work they put into assisting, This is how rallying should be,

Thanks again Graham & Jackie Beanland

Cawthorne
July 2008

Well what can I say, what a fantastic weekend again by the crew that ran it, Friday evening was a beautiful summers evening and every body arrived safely and then to the open barn for a few drinks to unwind after a stressful week at work, this was short lived as there was an almighty crack of thunder and instant rain and I have never seen so many people run for cover in to the barn and so many run out again as they remembered that all the windows and roof lights were open, I think we should all enter the running at Northern centres.

Saturday was a please your self day but what a nice day to do it the sun was shining again. And then back to the barn for a few more drinks and a bit of supper and a quiz I am sure some people were cheating (I can’t spell cheating the Barnsley way).

Sunday well what a beautiful day again for flag, Ho yes that flag were my self and Graham Beanland acted as vice, vice chairman and vice, vice, vice chairman, to do thanks on your behalf and what a privilege it was as well, we couldn’t have picked a hotter day to do it sweat was rolling off the both of us, but we both enjoyed doing it. I’m sure the marshals ran flag a little longer as they knew we were suffering ha ha ha. Well after flag I think most people went to Cannon hall to see the vintage car rally this was a good afternoon out and well worth the visit

So I would like to say on be of all those who rallied a big think you to the crew, Ian & Stephanie Goddard, Les & Jean Evans, and all the other helpers who put on such a good weekend. THANK YOU.

By the way I think that was our summer over that weekend

Trevor & Sue Lund Graham & Jacquie Beanland

Joint Yorkshire Sports
Rufforth
July 2008

Very hot sunshine on the Friday to start the rally off but on the Saturday and the Sunday down came the rain but all the sports and team games did get finished in the end with every body looking like drowned rats. It was a very disappointing turn out from our centre but the small band that were there put their heart and souls into making it a success on our behalf and if it had not been for the weather everything would have gone to plan. We did enter teams in the Lawndarts and the boules and three of our quoits players David and Lesley Neve and Dave Smith played for the Dales and won. We had no children in the sports but we did have two teenagers in Adam Biggs and Louisa Long who went and played for other teams and Louisa did run in the sports and win medals so thanks to them both, then Louisa Steve and Katrina entered the fun run on the Sunday Morning.

Thanks must go to the following people, Rally Marshals Dave and Pauline Smith and Geoff and Elaine Teece, Elaine also ran the Boules and ran the sports officers meeting on our behalf. And if it had not been for Pauline Smith Hazel and I would have had malnutrition, she kept us fed and watered all day, Announcer David Neve and David ran the quoits competition, Scorer and the one who collates all the points Lesley Neve, David Neve and Malcolm Clay who took over the siting of the vans, Steve Long who cane and along with two others marked out all the sports pitches and then remarked them again when the rain washed away the lines, Paul and Julie Wilkinson who ran the tuck shop all the weekend and even took park in the team games and all the others who took part or helped in any way thank you and we must thank members of other centres who came along and pegged out, sited vans, marked out all the sports pitches and Joan Teale who stood in to take the scores with Lesley because Juanita Allen could not come through illness, from the Pennine Centre thanks to you all, also to all those who played, scored refereed in very wet weather conditions.

I must also thank my wife who stood all day on the Saturday and Sunday to present the winners of each team games with their plaques and once again to you all thank you

David Ferdinand

Children’s Sports & Go Kart Grand-prix
Pontefract
June 2008

After a couple of years lapse the children’s sports was resurrected by the two Jaques families and this was coupled with the Go-Kart Grand-prix Tea, coffee and biscuits opened the rally on the Friday night and Suzanne gave the running order for the Go-karts and the children’s sports on the Saturday morning.

The go-karts kicked everything off with judging for the best kart and the winner was Jack 1 (BMW) and Jack 1 also won in the races after some very spectacular crashes and the Beanmachine having to be put back together on more than one occasion. At 2pm the sports commenced and Sue had put together some very interesting races and its thanks to her and Lesley and Val who sorted out the placings and kept the scores David Neve who was the announcer, Julie and Paul Wilkinson who handed out the sweets to the little and big kids after each race. Val once again provided the plastic sheets for everybody to slide down after it had been covered in water and washing up liquid and I think the kids had more liquid on them than the slide and if the mums wanted to wash up it was easier to squeeze the kids than the washing up liquid bottle.

At night a social with Chas and Dave (sorry Chris and Dave) with music and games and George Biggs did a couple and one was his famous hat game which he did mange to finish this time so thanks George and to everybody else who ran games or took part. A cheque for £1000 was then presented to the Bluebell Hospice by Julie Wilkinson and a photo was taken of all the children and Julie presenting the cheque, well done to all who raised the money it has gone to a good cause. Then it was time to present the winners plaques and these were presented by the Chairman’s Lady, Hazel and Lesley left it till last to announce that Gemma Shorters had won the Harry Downing trophy. The chairman then presented the Lawn darts Challenge trophy to Captain Chris Haigh and all his team for beating South Yorkshire at Wintersett. A babies first rally plaque was presented to little Emily Smith, granddaughter of Sue and Trevor Lund and great granddaughter of Harry and Vera Pearson by the Chairman.

Sunday and time to thank our marshals for all their hard work not only for the sports but the go-kart Grand-prix and the social and they did attract a lot more vans and children to the sports rally and with their efforts and with the help of other members attending, which I would like to thank, it made the sports a huge success and was enjoyed by all who attended and lets hope we can have more of the same next year, and thanks again to all those who helped in any way or took part and I am sure you would all like to join me in thanking Sue, Val, Chris and Dave for doing their part in making it such a success, Thank you

Report David Ferdinand

Children’s Sports & Go Kart Grand-prix Report 2
Pontefract
June 2008

We arrived on Friday, a little bit windy but blue sky above. But before I continue let me warn you don’t ever follow Dave Smith, after spotting him in Pontefract we followed him thinking he knew the way we soon realised he didn’t, when he took us down a cul-de-sac it’s a good thing we can reverse in tight spaces, best thing was George & Babs followed us. Anyway back to the rally the go cart was hidden in the boot ready for the Saturday morning unveiling up went the awning and we got settled in for a good weekend. Jack went off playing with Adam & Luke and we had a drink with family & friends. Opening flag gave us instructions for a full day of fun for everyone on Saturday.11:00 out come the go carts for the official judging then let the races begin it was run to perfection or so they say, by our race masters Dave & Chris .We stopped for lunch. At about 1:00 I said to Jacqui .what’s all the noise? We wandered to the front of the vans and there we saw the kids having some great fun a water slide had been made out of rolls of plastic, washing up liquid and water it was brilliant and even an adult had to have a go didn’t they Wendy, they played on until time for the sports to begin and lots more fun with that. In the evening we had a social in the club house with lots more fun and games for the kids and adults to join in.Prises and plaques where given out and a really good weekend was had by all.So the moral of this story is come on dad’s granddads big brothers you have 12 months to build your own go cart and join in all the fun next year.That just leaves me to say well done and a great big thank you to Suzanne, Val, Chris, Dave and also Paul and Julie

Sue, Trevor, Jack & Emily.

On Yer Bike" Rally
Wintersett
invitation from South Yorkshire Centre
6-8 June 2008.

At the annual South Yorkshire/Yorkshire Pennine lawn darts challenge rally the following attended from the Pennine centre and played in the lawn darts challenge on Saturday afternoon in glorious sunshine:-
Alan and Gladys Gee
Chris and Julie Haigh
Phil and Mel Linney
Steve and Katrina Long.
The above 4 couples were triumphant in the annual challenge, having to play several times each, winning 16:5 (no South Yorkshire member played for Pennine). It was keenly contested and played in very good spirit (beer, whiskey etc flowing).
This was followed by an informal social on the field which was attended by all and they even served sandwiches and punch.
Darren, the South Yorkshire sports' officer, has promised a stronger team next year!
Thanks to all the rally marshals - they did a great job all weekend, especially getting everyone off site safely (due to a boggy gateway).
Steve Long

Askam Bryan
June

We arrived at this idyllic venue in very good summer conditions and in time to get set up ready for the wine and cheese which the rally marshals had arranged for us. This turned out to be a very pleasant event, which ran on quite late as we enjoyed the late day light on the longest day. Unfortunately we also learned of the death of Gordon Marsh’s new budgie [a Father’s day present], which had accidentally drowned in the caravan that afternoon. It was really nice being situated in this gladded site as it made a nice change from being in the straight lines we associate with many rallies.

The venue is only about a mile and half from the Askam Bar Park and Ride into York and therefore plenty of people made the most of this to travel into York on Saturday, whilst others [including us] nipped around the corner to the Outlet Centre. We arrived back at the site in time for the strawberry tea, which was held in the ‘barn’ owing to the wet weather, which had arrived during Saturday. Then it was back in the barn for the evening of games and dancing, where £70 was raised for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance from the raffle and two games of “Deal or No Deal”.

Sunday morning arrived with very strong winds and some hasty action dismantling canopies and awnings that were getting a bit of a battering in the gale before we assembled for the ‘flag’ in the barn to thank the ‘team’ who had put in a considerable amount for our enjoyment.

Thanks to George and Babs, Ian and Steph and all their helpers for a very good weekend.

Asenby
June

This rally really deserves greater support being in a very nice location next to the River Swale whilst giving our centre the opportunity to rally in North Yorkshire country. Although there would have to be a re-think in terms of placing the caravans in a wagon train formation [a circle]. As it turned out there where enough caravans to make the week -end enjoyable and with visitors from Yorkshire Dales, East Yorkshire, North Yorkshire and even South West Scotland Centre it could be argued that this was a cosmopolitan do

No quoits or lawn darts as people seem to have lost interest in these activities, although we did 'get together' on Friday evening to learn that Martin was on his way to the rally following a disastrous break down with the Terrano gear box [ouch!]. On Saturday the marshals organised a local walk which took in a garden centre and the inevitable 'pub stop' for refreshments. Although Lesley and I missed the walk as we went to Hartlepool to visit Brian Mottram who was recuperating from his very nasty leg injury. Brian asked us to thank all those who had telephoned and sent their best wishes for a speedy recovery

In the evening the two marshal's awnings became the 'social venue' with quizzes and 'butties' to help pass the time in good company and prior to that the fine weather gave many ralliers the opportunity to get the BBQs out and enjoy a pleasant evening in the Sun

As is normal on Sunday we awoke in readiness for the flag and thanked our marshals who had run the rally under difficult circumstances having no tow car. Paul had graciously volunteered to do two round trips to get both his own caravan and Karen and Martin's back to South Yorkshire

Thanks to the Mannering's and the Wilkinson's for a a very pleasant weekend 'up country'

Hockham Hall Norfolk
National 2008

16 vans attend the national; we were welcomed by Hazel and David

Friday night tea and coffee round the block marshal van and we welcomed two new ralliers

Saturday off the ralliers went for the long walk to the arena; we had teams in the quiz and the darts five side foot ball and lawn darts The rest of the rally the ralliers did their own thing

Monday at the flag MR A Miller form the caravan club presented a cheque for£ 125 to the chairman for the centre being third in the hand book competition for 2008 Tea and coffee was also served to the ralliers

Thank you Hazel and David

Lost and confused !!

The 'all star' Pennine quiz team, tells us again Mick which solar system do we live in?!!

Virley House Touring Park
Croft – Skegness
25thMay -3rd June

We received a warm welcome on arrival by Les and Juanita, with an invite to go and have a cuppa when we had set up. Sat morning we all got together at the flag. A full programme of activities were planned for the week. Starting with Les’s birthday party on Sat night. We were treated to a lovely buffet.

Sun - In the evening got together for a Quiz and bingo.

Mon- Outing to the Banger Car and Caravan Destruction Derby at Skegness Stadium in the afternoon. Social cancelled in the evening because of the weather.

Tues- In the evening we were treated to cheese and wine. We had a couple of Quizzes.

Weds- A meal out was arranged at Poppies Restaurant. Which was well attended and everyone enjoyed themselves.

Thurs- Games in the rain. Most of us braved the weather and had a game of square boules.

Fri- Communal B.Q plus Buffet. Chicken throwing followed which was a laugh. This was followed by a quiz.

Sat- Closing flag 7-00pm, presentation’s. We then all had a Lawn Darts Competion.

Sun- Rally closed at 12-00 midday. Some out-fits stayed on the C.L for another week.

If there are any Anglers reading this I must tell you there is a good fishing lake on site as well. We have been on this rally for the last 3yrs. It is a lovely venue and very well maintained. I am sorry it wasn’t well supported by more outfits.

Again from those who did attend a big thank you to Les, Joyce, Stewart & Jaunita Allen. Who did a great job?

Les & Jeanette Hartley

Pickering
May

Arrived in glorious sunshine at this excellent new venue perfect for a short stroll in the town or to the station to catch the steam train to Goathland, Grosmont or Whitby, which we did on Saturday, having lunch at the Station Hotel in Grosmont is not to be missed. Good food at a good price. Unfortunately the rain came down on Sunday, but still a very enjoyable weekend

Thanks to Ian, Pam and Clare, Elaine and Geoff for the work put into the weekend and finding an excellent new venue

M Clay

Ripon
March 2008

A welcome return to this venue not for Dave Ferdi when i got onto the rally the weather was not too good rain was coming down in buckets full, never mind, the weather picked a bit later on, tea and biscuits round the marshals van on Friday night

Saturday off to a meeting both the Dave's went , most people off the rally went into Ripon The quiots and Lawn Darts was cancelled owing to the weather being so bad

Saturday night people did their own thing and just chilled out Sunday morning flag at 11 am tea/ coffee was served

Thanks to Hazel Elaine Geoff and David for a wet and windy weekend

D Smith