THE MOTOR CARAVANNERS' CLUB

Yes, you can see a caravan amongst the motor homes, - it is our entertainers! We are trying to talk them into a motor home,

Pepper provided the country disco on Friday & Saturday, while Dave, Vanessa’s husband filled the slot on Sunday.

Words & Photos by Lesley

The Country & Western Group had a successful rally in Chorley at the end of May in spite of a few set backs. Firstly, the “Motor Caravanner Magazine” printed a wrong date under the special rallies section, and four vans turned up. (If that was you we apologise on behalf of the editor, who put her hands up and said it was her fault). We also heard of a group of vans coming down from Scotland, who got caught up in the snow and traffic, and turned round for home. The venue was not all we had been lead to believe, but in spite of torrential rain, puddly forecourt, and small dance floor, we managed to have a good time. The rugby club looked after us well, and the Hotpot supper we all sat down to on Sunday night was delicious.

Our thanks to Ruth & Bryan Parkin, who traveled up from Cornwall to teach dancing on Friday and Saturday. And yes, we remembered it for Sunday after they had departed. Sunday night Margaret Gratton took over the teaching, - thank you Margaret and John McEvoy sang for us. A great end to a good weekend. We had lots of new members join us, and quite a few visitors too.

Words & Photos by Lesley

Our First National Rally

At the National rally, the Country & Western Group were very visible. The banner parade party were all dressed up in Line dance clothes as well as “Western” clothing. The rousing cheer we got on Friday night was amazing!
The banner was carried by Ann Chambers from Northern Ireland and Pat Clarke from West Country. Parading behind them were Val and Gordon Francis from S Wales, Ian & Sarah Cleverly from W Wessex, David & Brian, Ann & Pats’ husbands, and Jack & myself.

On Monday, Margaret Gratton taught the biggest dance class of her life. Over 86 couples turned up for lessons where Margaret taught us, Cowboy Stomp, Cowboy cha cha, The Barn Dance and Man in the Moon. Margaret was very nervous, but it did not show, and we thank you.

John McEvoy sang the music, including the “Motorcaravanner song” which he wrote. It gave a nicer atmosphere than CD’s would have. Thank you John. Later that night we were all up on the dance floor putting our lessons into practice.

For more photos see our most wanted page

Words & Photos By Lesley

Burford, Oxfordshire

Our rally at Burford School in June was not very well attended, due mainly to the magazine printing the date as July instead of June. Although they printed an apology, in the July magazine, the damage was already done. Never-the-less we had a great weekend. The venue was good, and coincided with the Burford's’ Ale festival. All members were spotted in town, although none owned up to attending the festival!

Sadly our dance teacher for the weekend went sick, so Lesley (who knows nothing) taught the Cowboy Charleston, the Barn Dance and Red Hot Salsa. (I’ll learn another one for next time we are left in trouble!)
We had two new members attend, Brian & Ann Dilley, they enjoyed them selves, and promised to return.

Words & Photos by Lesley

The weather put some people off from attending this rally, but we did well, as the camp site moved us up the site to drier pitches with electric. (Bonus!)
We had a free and easy week, and many of our ralliers went on day trips with their bus passes to the Eden Project, Truro & Padstow, to name but a few.
The tiny theatre behind Hendra was a hit too, especially as coffee was only 50p.

There was something for everyone with a combination of hard driving Bluegrass through to the traditional sounds to the more progressive style. There were also stalls selling jewellery, CD's, clothing and musical instruments.

Every where you looked there were little groups of musicians enjoying Jamming sessions or tutorials.

A Saturday afternoon square dance was hosted by the “Foggy Bottom String Band”, and there were a number and variety of workshops teaching guitar or banjo techniques.

There were also displays of Appalachian dancing by “Shuffle the Deck”.

On Sunday (& for me the highlight of this festival) was a moving Gospel session with well known favourites such as “this little light of mine”, “Michael row the boat ashore” & “May the circle be unbroken”. There was a delicious Pig Roast (compete with apple sauce), AND ........the weather stayed fine! What more could you ask for?

Words & Photos by Lesley

The Birthday bash and 1st AGM took place in September at Southend School, Rushden, and a jolly good weekend end it was too.

Bob Oakley started us off in great style on Friday night, singing some of the older country songs, which we joined in with and didn’t stop singing until 11.45pm!

On Saturday many of us walked into Rushden before having coffee (Some with a whiskey in it) and Birthday cake.

Ruth & Bryan Parkin taught us 2 line dances –“Cowboy Charleston” and, “1 step forward & 2 steps back”and 2 partner dances, “ Crystal Chandelier” and “Skaters Waltz”. Nearly everyone was dancing. It was great!

Saturday night  saw us singing, dancing and laughing to “Easy Rider”, who enlisted the help of Vanessa in singing a saucy farming song. It isn’t often Vanessa blushes!

We are surprised that his lens didn't’t crack while filming Vanessa dancing. The cowboys amongst us were sweating and wiping their spectacles! (Those of you who know Vanessa are familiar with her short skirts and fast dancing).

Words & Photos by Lesley