New Years Meet, 29th Dec 2004

Thank you to everyone who attended the New Years Meet at Dudsbury it was a fantastic weekend.

We arrived Wednesday at around 11.00am to be greeted by Russ, Dianne’s brother- in-law, who showed us around the site, where the water was (where?? behind that prickle Jayne, oh yes) the waste, how to lock up etc. So fully prepared we set up camp.

First to arrive was Dawn and Mike, closely followed by Chris and Lyn, who only lived five minutes down the road, and brought their van out early.

After setting up I went into the kitchen, Dianne said she had bought everything for us as Mick and I were working up until the last minute. Well she thought of all but the Oil (we won’t let her forget that one) we were indeed well catered for, right down to the Marigolds. Thank you Dianne.

Wednesday night we decorated the hall, there were people buzzing everywhere with a bit of sparkle, Xmas trees, baubles, lights. The final effect was superb, thank you to everyone who helped.

Thursday evening we had a fish and chip supper and then Gordon came out to entertain us, Anne was not very well and so they couldn’t camp. We had a few songs and then the Mummers Tale, which was excellent. We all had a very enjoyable evening thank you Gordon. Hope Anne gets well soon.

Friday lunchtime some of us went to the Owls Nest for lunch and we were thinking of going there New years day but they couldn’t accommodate us, nor could the Angel, they were full. Anyhow when we got back from lunch we started preparing the hall for New Years Eve, putting tables out and putting up balloons, where were we going to hang the net, no, net too big, black sacks filled with balloons, held together with pegs, hanging from the ceiling should work. We thought they would get pulled down far before midnight but miraculously they didn’t.

When I walked into the hall that evening, I thought I’d walked into a hospital ward as everyone had their pyjamas on!!! The men were dressed as mothers, wives, Andy Pandy?, mother Xmas’s, pink bombshells, Phil at this time had his pyjama top and sports trousers on. Then came the music, “I want to break free” by Queen and in came Phil Cope with his red baby doll nightie, hold up stockings and not a lot else, except a “Hoover”. It was really funny, well done Phil. Please see Dorset Diary for photos.

Everyone turned out in fancy dress and it was great fun, the best thing was we didn’t have to change to go to bed!

Midnight arrived and down came the balloons, poppers etc, we partied on until 2am and got to bed at around 3am. Thank you Mother Xmas, (Jerry) for doing the disco, as usual it was FANTASTIC.

Next morning the pub walk was rained off, only Stuart and Alan were brave enough to walk but we had the lunch at the Curlew, good food, well recommended, and not too expensive.

That evening we had an Italian meal, Pizza, baked potato and salad. The girls put the potatoes in the oven, but SOMEONE turned the oven down and they were not cooked in time. We are still investigating who turned the oven down Jean said it was her but we reckon she was covering for, yes you’ve got it Old Father Time. Anyhow due to the potatoes not being ready and the pizza’s not even being put in the oven, the people arriving for dinner had to wait. Well I was shoved through the kitchen door and told to entertain the troops and in good old fashioned manner started to try and sing pub songs, but couldn’t remember the words, let alone the tune (what I don’t do for this DA). I gave up when Sue came in with napkins in her ears, but it was a bit of a laugh. I tried to get back in the kitchen but wasn’t allowed, I thought about going round the outside but thought again (they would probably lock me out) so I insisted I went back in the kitchen and eventually they let me in. Dinner was eventually served, and very nice it was too, lovely pizzas.

Then we had a game of (yes me again) Pictionary. Well this didn’t go down too well at first, then the game became a bit competitive and it was a race to the finish. Some pictures were a bit obscure Dawn? to say the least.

The next day we had brunch, organised by Brenda, we had sausage, bacon, egg, toast, beans, and waffles, well done Brenda, we know whom to come to now for catering assistance (are you free Valentines?). After that all we could do was sit around the fire and chat. Bob, Sue, Sandra, Stuart all went for a walk with the dogs, taking Poppy with them who disgraced herself by rolling in the unmentionable, so she had to have a bath when she got back.

During the evening we had sandwiches, left over pizza crisps etc. and played celebrity Taboo. This proved to be even more exciting than Pictionary and Mike (Roy Rogers) had us in fits, he couldn’t make up his mind what he was meant to be explaining, was it The Wizard of Oz or was it Alice through the Looking Glass?? When his team did guess the answer it was the wrong one and he thought it was right. We all got lost on that one Mike, but you are a good sport and it’s nice to see you looking so well again.

Thank you to everyone who helped, sweep, tidy, lay the fire, clean the kitchen, toilets, cook, wash up, put up tables, lay tables, etc etc. Everyone pitched in and did their bit it was a great way to start 2005, Happy New Year to one and all. Dudsbury is a lovely venue and has a great atmosphere what with the open fire and quiet surroundings (except when the Dorset’s are there). Mick and Jayne Cooper

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AGM Meet, Warmwell 29-31 October 2004

Due to a last minute change of venue, we held our AGM meet at Warmwell Country Touring Park, which for some of us was, just like the old times. As we had 28 units attend, we had to split up into two separate groups, but this didn’t dampen our spirits. The new wardens, Rob and Julie, made us most welcome and opened up the bar for us on Friday evening so that we could have a get-together (I think the bar made a good profit that night). Towards the end of the evening we heard great shrieks of excitement coming from the far end of the bar ---- all because a game of “little boys darts” that was going on.

Weather-wise, Saturday was a good day and most people disappeared from the site but made sure they were back in time to spruce up in readiness for the evening entertainment. The evening got off to a good start with music from the band Evergreen. They played a wide variety of music; we even had a barn dance. I think they are the best band we have had in a while; hopefully we will have them again. During the evening there was a free raffle and two birthdays to celebrate, one was for Gordon who was 83 years (and still camping) and I didn’t quite catch the name of the other one!! We had beer, white and red wine and punch, -- compliments of the Dorset DA – for which we thank you. The evening went with a swing and had a lovely party atmosphere, enjoyed by all.

Sunday morning we all had a lie in as the clocks went back. Our AGM was held at Crossways Village hall at 11am. Many members who had not camped at the weekend came along to give their support. The standing committee was duly elected back in.

At this meet we had three new members joining our DA, so I would like to say a warm welcome to Sue and Keith and William (Bill) and Lucky.

See you all again soon.

Ray and Myra Lacey

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Halloween 5 Nov 2004

Yet again another great weekend enjoyed by 22 Dorsets, 3 Avon, 2 New Forest, 2 Waterside and 1 Sarum. On Friday evening we all gathered in the hall to decorate up for Halloween. As usual it ended up as a happy family gathering & a chance to welcome our visitors. We had 19 children come along & I think the excitement was beginning to brew up. On Saturday morning Dianne ran a workshop where the children made Halloween masks & puppets. The pumpkin lanterns were made by the children in their own free time. Even though the weather was a bit drizzly in the afternoon it didn’t dampen their spirits because they had great fun out in the play area and on their bikes.

Come darkness it got a bit scary when the witches, monsters, skeletons etc, carrying lanterns, torches and flashing lights came creeping across the field on route to the hall. Hot mulled wine (Jims speciality) was on tap as we arrived and it made a super "body warmer". Thank you Jim, it was greatly appreciated by us all. Carina & Marianne ran a quiz and a group from Avon D.A. ran a couple of houses of Bingo. By this time our supper was ready so off we trotted into the witches cavern, through the mist and out into the witches kitchen. Here we got our bowl of stew with eyeballs (dumplings).

Time now to display and judge the results of the workshop and the lanterns. The exhibits were extremely good which made it hard for the judges to decide. After this Shaun started up the disco, (he had a trial run a bit earlier) and did very well. Keep it up Shaun and maybe you could give Jerry a break occasionally. Judging of the fancy dress was held during a disco break. This was very well supported and good fun. It was then on with the disco until we dropped.

It was a lovely evening, especially for the children (and we are all "kids" at heart). No lie-in on Sunday morning as it was flagpole as usual at 11am. We had coffee morning in the hall when the bonus ball winner was given his £25. The remaining £24 was given to Mick to start his Chairman’s Charity for 2005: Tenovus Diamond Appeal, The Cancer Ward, Bournemouth Hospital.

Dorset D.A. extend a warm welcome to new members

Mandy, Colin & family
Dean, Julie & family
Paul, Sharon & family
we hope you will enjoy your camping with us.

The last 3 weeks have been a wonderful way to end our camping year. I am sure that 2005 will start & continue in the same way.

Ray & Myra

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DAFOL - Frogham - 8-10 October 2004

Twenty-seven units --20 Dorsets & 7 New Forest-- turned out for a good weekend and they were not disappointed. Although the weather was not very good, (it was rather windy) it did stay dry.

On Saturday evening we had the displays & lighting up of the units. Marianne won the junior section with a cut-out display of characters from Eastenders. The Cooper/Sharpe gang had the prize for the best window display with "Bubbles". Anne & Gordon received the prize for the best awning display with a mock up of the bar in "The Rovers Return", complete with a busker singing for his supper.

After this we all went across to the village hall to enjoy the rest of the evening. The D.A. gave us, beer for the men & a punch (not a bunch of fives) for the ladies. Once we had all settled down Bob & Sue ran a quiz, which was won by Sue B. & co.

By this time we had quenched our thirst---- a little bit anyway-- but were feeling a bit peckish, so Sandra bounced in with our Fish & Chip supper & we all tucked in. As this was Jerry’s proper birthday (he celebrated one last week as well) Mavis made him a lovely birthday cake & we had a little celebration with him. Next came the fancy dress parade & only three brave souls came forward, Kit & Brian as Alfie Moon & Kat from Eastenders & Shirley as the most glamorous Viv from Emmerdale (nice pair of pins there Shirley). Kit & Brian--1st & Shirley--2nd. The disco was running & the rest of the evening went with a swing---not surprised, as the beer & punch containers were empty.

The weekend was most enjoyable, & I would like to say, on behalf of all who attended the meet, a BIG THANK YOU to Dorset D.A. for treating us to our liquid refreshments & our Fish & Chip supper.

Ray & Myra

Blackmore Vale 1 Oct 2004

Well what an eventful meet this was. Arrived nice and early Friday morning set up, Baz arrived first then a steady flow during the day. What a nice surprise to have 27 units on site for Shaftesbury Carnival (or so I thought).

The weather was cloudy and showery, around teatime most people on site left for the carnival. I was not going because my daughters were taking myself and Val for a nice meal for my birthday( 9th Oct). We were picked up at 8.15 taken into Gillingham where we arrived at the football club, a strange place for a steak meal. When inside doors opened and what a surprise. A hall full of family and friends, food, Disco and me with a red face.

Val and my daughters Nisa and Tammy had stitched me up big time.
I'm not sure how many of the Dorsets seen the carnival because they were all at the football club. It was a very nice surprise and the lager flowed. I'm still waiting for that 8oz steak.

Sunday saw flagpole with me and a aching head and a lot of party food. But it was great. The heavens opened as we closed but what a weekend.

Jerry and Val.

Bagwell Farm 17-19 Sept 04

I got to Bagwell on Thursday, nice and sunny with no wind.

As I started to put the tent up the wind came, I was doing my Mary Poppins bit, holding me tent down, got it up in the end, cup of coffee in one hand, thinking that’s ok.

On Friday – misty rain. 12 o’clock came and out of the mist a tin tent came rolling up, one of Robin Hood’s men from Nottingham, then Sam rolled in, then New Forest. By 5pm I had to forget the 20ft rule!

Saturday a Dorset came in, then we all did our own thing. Sam and I had a nice meal in the Turks Head, seafood, it was ok. Sunday we all packed up and went.

I had nearly as many tin tents as the NFOL.

Baz

Well done Baz, I’ve heard of shed draggers but that’s a new one tin tents.

Kingston Maurward – Dorchester Show 2-7 Sept 04

We arrived on site four hours early on Thursday so that we could put up the awning and have lunch before the deluge of campers. I had just got the legs down when the first van arrived, and totalled six before the site opened. Ron and Di arrived with the steward’s kit “Thanks for bringing it” and we started putting up signs and Pennons.

As we were in competition with the NFOL and 18 Dorset Units had gone there, we anticipated a low turnout – estimate 25 units. By Thursday evening with Ray and Myra’s help we had pitched 25 units, and as we had been on our feet for 10 hours had an “early night”. Friday saw a lot more vans arrive with a grand total of 65 units. Friday evening we had a DWT (Dorset Wine Tasting ) evening where we had some commercial wines and home brew wines to share.

We had a good turnout and sat under the stars ‘til 11.00- (ish). Saturday saw many people off to the show and the gardens, in temperatures of up to 28C.

A communal BBQ was held around the Stewards area followed by Saturday night flagpole (we don’t do it Sunday as the show must go on!!). We learned, to our delight that the DA members at the NFOL had won the Small Group entry Mardi-Gras Prize. The DA is certainly on a high – and we continued to celebrate, with a few more glasses of wine. Next the bonus squirrel was drawn – more good news for the NFOL party – Terry won FIRST PRIZE – and is now the proud foster parent of the DA Squirrel (and £25.00 better off). Val Martin got a squirrel Nutkin book to read to her grandson Joel, Daniel got a fluffy Squirrel. Thanks to all who took part.

Sunday Ray and Myra looked after the site whilst Anne and I went to the Show! While we were away Ray and Myra took their stewarding seriously and organised a boat trip to Jersey on the Condor. Sunday evening the site thinned out and we were back to an easy 25 units. We had a relaxed day on site Monday, followed by Tales of Jersey from Myra on Tuesday, after which I collected all the site signs, Pennon, Urn and bits and pieces, dog, bicycle, tortoise hutch, two buckets of flowers (leftover from our son’s wedding). Must bring two cars next time!!

Thanks to all members attending.

Ann and Gordon

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Goesmere Gardens - 6 Aug

Goesmere Gardens, along with Exbury ranks as probably one of our favorite sites. We have spent happy hours at Goesmere with both the D.A. meets and privately.

This was our first attempt at stewarding and it was consequently tinged with sadness to hear that Mr Read was seriously ill , and that this will be the last D.A. meet to be held at Goesmere Gardens, as in all probability the C.L. site will also have to close.

Michael arrived at 11.30 am with Olivia and Scott (our Grandchildren) shortly after, having of course making a detour via the shops. There were 6 units on site, 3 Dorsets, 2 New Forest, although one New Forest Lynne and John had been Dorset members years ago but have returned to camping now that their children have grown up, and 1 Oxford who to our delight were first time D.A. campers.

Ellenor and Roo and Lucy, their 7 year old daughter, have camped at Damerham on the C.L. site and so their visit was also tinged with sadness .

Saturday evening Ann and Gordon arranged a communal B.B.Q. and kindly wrote a poem which is

" For -ever and ever "
For ever and ever our hearts will be true,
To the mouth smell-from the B.B.Q.,
succulent, tasty, Chicken-is such yummy delight,
along with a beefy-just perfects the night,
crisp, porky, thick sausage, straight from the pan,
so quickly devoured by "Dorsets own Ann"!,
The serenading Gordon- applauded by Baz,
we all loved the music right down to Jazz,
such a lovely way to end our day,
so here’s to the Dorsets,
what more can we say !

Ellenor and Roo being the last to leave .Michael and I enjoyed our first attempt at stewarding. It was made all the more enjoyable as we had lovely people attend.

Anne and Michael

Chettle House - 16-18th July

We arrived at Chettle about 10.30 and were delighted to find such a beautiful place. Baz arrived, we had a chat and coffee, and he helped us erect the pennon.

Gordon and Anne arrived shortly after, and throughout the day 14 units rolled in. Gordon and Anne kindly invited us to share the coals of their BBQ with Sandra and Baz. Unfortunately Sally was taken ill with dreaded "Bug" in the early hours of Saturday and had to be taken home ( a good thing it was not too far)! Everyone was very supportive and weather kind enough to allow sitting out in the sun.

A lovely get together on Saturday evening with BBQ and Boules Tournament. With a truly French flavour enjoying French wine and cheese.

The weekend continued in the friendly relaxed atmosphere and although I can't remember all the names I have to say we came not knowing anyone and I have to thank everyone for giving me the support they did after Sally had to leave. Making our first time of stewarding a pleasure.

Thanks again everyone

Sally and Monty

Swanage 2-4th July

A very busy weekend again. I was worked to a frazzle with the huge turn-out. It was a bit windy on site, but nice and sheltered in Swanage itself and sunny. A good afternoon was spent at Langton Matravers at the village fete in the vicarage, we picked up some good ideas for the penny fare.

The local bakery served us well with the usual treacle tarts and cakes.

Baz and I had three visitors and had a good weekend. Are you all fair weather campers? We've had such excellent numbers out this season it was a bit disappointing, but we enjoyed it.

Sam

Teddy Bears Picnic 25 June 04

Yes we found it Sandra!!!

For once I was on site before anyone else.

Well it was Thursday lunchtime, the field looked great so peaceful I sat by the stream eating lunch, watching Kingfisher’s and Voles, must be getting sad!! Woke up with the arrival of Myra & Ray and Anne & Gordon. We enjoyed the rest of the day in the sunshine and finished the evening with a BBQ, we needed the rest, as it was all hands to the decks, making jellies, putting up the large gazebo, nets to block off the river and getting everything organised. We had a very good turnout, over 40 units.

We were lucky with the weather we had rain in the night, it managed to stay dry for the important bits of the day. Dianne was busy with all the children in the workshop, decorating their cups and plates for the picnic, then the afternoon making their floats.

We sent Myra and Ray off for Fish and chip lunch (OAP specials). After lunch the kids were eager to get their floats in the water there was a few going the wrong way some doing the Titanic, but the majority made it to the bridge, well done to the winner. Sandwiches crisps sausage, fruit and cake. Jelly and ice cream all disappeared with enough left over for the adults, a communal BBQ was enjoyed.

The time for the adults floats. Bobs QE3!!! won. 2 year’s running for the Hamptons, you are banned for next year!!

The usual duck race made for a lot of cheering and shouting, with some lucky winners. All the candle-lit floats went back in the river and all looked really good, none caught fire thank goodness. Then all back to the Gazebo for a good ole sing song and free wine to help lubricate the vocals, a really successful day and night, thanks to everyone for all their help.

The highlight of the evening was the 3 stooges and Queron who were brave enough (or stupid) to enter the male ring race. Mick, Ray, Stewart and Queron. I don’t think anyone really won, there was a lot of pushing and shoving and some the wrong way up, who grounded on rocks, very painful!! to a certain part of the anatomy! It was a good laugh, but hot showers were needed after.

Sunday was a lovely hot day for coffee and packing up and lazing around. Everyone enjoyed their weekend thanks for all the support and help without you it wouldn’t have been so much FUN.

SAM (Apologies from the Chairman Sam, he has just found this report in his Box!!!)

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Green Man - 11-13 June 2004

Hi

Arrived 10.30 am to find grass quite long but not too bad.

Anne and Gordon arrived soon after, by mid-afternoon there were 21 units on site and I was thinking that we may have to use the car park as well.

What a great turn out this meet is getting very popular. 15 Dorsets, 2 Forests, 1 Wilts, 1 Solent, 1 Surrey and 1 Somerset made up the units. Saturday was a hot sunny day so lazed about. Saturday evening we had skittles match, 38 people played. Thanks to Alan, Mike, Rod and Andrew for sticking up.

Highest score for the ladies was Di, 32 pins, highest for the mens' was yours truly 37 pins. £19 was raised for the Chairman's Charity.

Sunday was again sunny and very hot, 33 of us went for Sunday lunch in the pub before departing.

I think a nice weekend was had by all.

Gerry and Val

Great Barrow - Ferndown - 7-9 May 2004

A nice secluded site, was enjoyed by all the campers and some decent weather, plenty of doggy walds on the heath. We all enjoyed a fish and chip supper Friday night, made a change from cooking.

Flagpole Sunday followed by BBQ made a nice end to a good weekend.

SAM (Sandra)

Longleat - May Bank Holiday

We arrived on Thursday morning under a cloud of rain, erected the awning and waited for Sam, Jerry and Val to arrive. Then Anne and Gordon joined us and later on came Jayne and Mick, Dianne and Terry. We all got together and had a nice relaxing evening and an EARLY night in readiness for the anticipated onslaught on the Friday morning and we were not disappointed.

The weather was awful, but it did not deter the punters, they started to arrive early. As the day progressed the entrance to the site became a mud bath - great fun - even the 4x4's were in trouble. Although we had tea and coffee brewing in the gazebo, there were not many "takers".

On Saturday the weather cleared and it was a good day. Most people took advantage of the "Longleat Passport" Tickets, and enjoyed their day's activities, only to continue with them again on the Sunday, which was a glorious day. There were never many people on site during the day as there was plenty to do in and around Longleat House. The children had plenty of space to play and they made the most of it.

On Monday the weather changed again and it was back to normal - wet and miserable. Most of the vans were towed out by the vehicles provided by Longleat. The grounds staff were most helpful and obliging and a great big thank you went to them for their assistance.

Despite the weather it was a great weekend - it must have been because we had no compalints, not even about the weather. Everyone remained in continual good spirits and said how much they had enjoyed themselves.

We would like to thank San, Jerry and Val and all who "helped out", believe me they all worked damned hard and tirelessly.

We had 80 units in all.

Myra and Ray

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Oakhampton - Fox and Hounds - Easter - 8 - 13 April

We had a very good turnout of 57 units, a lovely site surrounded by Dartmoor and behind a pub, what more could you want! The Landlord made us very welcome and the use of the skittle alley for 4 nights meant we could all get together. Some very good entries for decorated eggs and trees were judged.

We all tried to keep fit or wish we were fitter, walking the two nearby tors (or just falling in the mud by the river!!) was exercise enough. Nearby Lydford Gorge was a scenic if a bit strenuous in places, walk around and the good old steam train from Buckfastleigh to Totnes with a small steam exhibition and open top bus tour around Buckfastleigh was a nice trip out as well. We needed the Monks tonic wine at the Abbey to regain our strength!

Thanks to Diane for colouring competition.

Ann and John for Quiz

Mick and Terry for Skittles

Myra and Ray helping with the Stewarding

Folk Group entertained us on guitar with wife for good old sing-song.

SAM

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Birchwood - New Members Meet - 2-4 April 04

A nice dry and warm day to get everyone sited and to get the chairs outside for a welcome cuppa. Baz helped steward when he'd got his tent up!

By Saturday evening it had started to rain, so the barn came in handy for a get-together with Music and cheese and wine. Being inside we'd missed the worst of the storms, which flattened Nikki's tent forcing her to go back home. It was a rough and windy night but luckily dry Sunday for Flag Pole and getting packed up.

SAM