News and Views Winter 2013 Edition 79

The magazine of theThe magazine of theThe magazine of the

INTERNATIONAL CARAVANNING INTERNATIONAL CARAVANNING INTERNATIONAL CARAVANNING

FELLOWSHIP OF ROTARIANS FELLOWSHIP OF ROTARIANS FELLOWSHIP OF ROTARIANS FOUNDED BY ROBERT SUTCLIFFE IN 1967FOUNDED BY ROBERT SUTCLIFFE IN 1967FOUNDED BY ROBERT SUTCLIFFE IN 1967

www.rotarianscaravanning.org.ukwww.rotarianscaravanning.org.ukwww.rotarianscaravanning.org.uk

NewsNews andand

ViewsViews Winter 2013Winter 2013 Edition 79Edition 79

Chester AGM RallyChester AGM RallyChester AGM Rally

Chester RacecourseChester RacecourseChester Racecourse

on the Kennet and Avon Canal.on the Kennet and Avon Canal.on the Kennet and Avon Canal.

Photo by Colin Bradford Photo by Colin Bradford Photo by Colin Bradford

Return to Contents Page

Page 1 www.rotarianscaravanning.org.uk


In this Edition

Adverts in News and Views Includes a link on ICFR website as sponsor

Rates: Full Page £200 per Edition (297mm x 210mm) Half Page £110 per Edition (135mm x 190mm)

Quarter Page £120 for two Editions (135mm x 95mm)

Eighth Page £80 for two Editions (135mm x 47.5mm)

Adverts will be in colour, artwork must be supplied in

jpeg or pdf format. Payment due with order.

Enquiries/Adverts to: John Hackney,

Editor, News and Views,

Closing Date - copy and adverts

31 March 2014

The Winter 2013 edition of News

and Views is full of the usual

eclectic mix of reports, news,

views and trivia.

As well as the 2014 Rally

Programme and Christmas

Greetings from fellow members,

we have reports from Officers,

problems with caravans, news

about MOTs and Arthur's secret.

Oh and, of course, reports from

rallies near and far. In the centre of the magazine you can

book for the AGM at Banham and we even have a tease

about the AF for 2014. To show how things have changed I

have included the front page of what was then just

‘Fellowship News’ of 25 years ago.

Well, this is the last of my six editions. The three years have

flown and I have thoroughly enjoyed learning so much

about producing a magazine and about ICFR. I hope you

have enjoyed my efforts. I was very grateful to our

Secretary Derrick who was kind enough to pass on an email

from RI which is included on the Letters Page.

I could not have done it without a lot of help. Chiefly, of

course, Christine, who has not only helped with proof

reading and editorial advice, but who has also put up with

essential home jobs being delayed.

My good friends John and Diana Lomax have been stalwarts

as proof readers and have also occasionally given editorial

advice, but only when asked! Over the last couple of days

John and I have spent more than two hours on the phone as

John patiently corrects all those spelling, punctuation and

grammatical errors which have got past me (not difficult).

We try to allow correspondents to speak with their own

voice but we correct where we feel it essential.

But none of that team would have anything to work with

unless items have been sent for inclusion and I am very

grateful for all the Officers, rally correspondents and

photographers who have sent items for inclusion, as well as

the many who have provided fillers and articles.

Of special mention as photographers are Colin Bradford,

Martyn Griffiths, John Hackney and Don Howard who have

each regularly supplied such superb photographs that the

problem has been deciding which to leave out.

My regular correspondents have also been wonderful. In

addition to the Officers’ reports I should particularly

mention Diana Lomax for her cookery page, Archivists,

initially Derrick Sanders and latterly John Hackney and last

but not least Daisy for their pieces. Only one gets any

reward and that is only dog biscuits. It has also been nice to

receive a smallish but important number of letters and

similar for inclusion.

I now pass on the mantle of Editor to John Hackney. His

excellence as a Bulletin Editor for his club has been marked

by the award of a Paul Harris Fellowship. I am sure that I

leave our magazine in very capable hands and I wish him all

success. Can I encourage you all to provide him with copy

and photos in a timely manner to enable him to produce a

quality magazine.

Gerard Turley, ICFR Editor (retiring!!)

Views expressed in the articles in News

and Views are those of the contributors

and not necessarily those of ICFR or of the

Editor.

When following any advice or instructions

given in News and Views you should apply

common sense and not attempt any action

which could put you or others in danger.

From the Editor 1

President’s Report 2

Rally Programme 2014 3

Secretary’s Report 5

Vice President’s Report 6

Past President’s Report 6

Membership Secretary’s Report 6

Programme Secretary’s Report 7

International Liaison Report 7

Equipment Officer’s Report 7

From the Archives 8

Christmas Greetings 9

Rally Reports 2013 12

AGM Notice and Minutes 22

AGM 2014 Booking Form 24

Rally Reports continued 27

Tails of the Dog 39

Letters to the Editor 40

Congratulations 41

Caravan Problems and MOT 42

ICFR Fallout SA continues 43

Member to Member 44

Fellowship News 28, Summer 1988 45

Diana’s Cookery Page 46

Adverts

Coast Insurance 11

AGM2014 & AF2014 29

From the Editor


Page 2 News and Views Winter 2013


Hello everyone,

You will be reading this in early

December when it is likely to be cold

and many of you will have wrapped

up your caravan/motorhome for the

winter and thinking about Christmas

or possibly about finding some winter

sun or cruising. Well I am writing this

on the last day of September and the

sun is shining and I am still walking

about in shorts and short sleeve shirts

and hoping this will continue for a

little longer.

I would like to tell about my summer and the rallies

(reports in N&V) we attended in reverse order because it

was warmer this month September than in April. Did

you get to Brean? We did and so did 80+ units with us, it

was organised by Tony and Ann Rawlings everyone had a

great time on Northam Farm. Many joined us for the

Saturday meeting when I had the honour to present Life

Membership of ICFR to Don and Paula Howard who have

both served ICFR so well over the years in various

capacities. I got a tremendous thrill when Arthur and

Mavis Marrow received from me the Robert & Mildred

Sutcliffe Memorial Tray, as my ‘ICFR Couple’ of 2013.

Previous to this rally Sylvia and I joined Cliff & Rosemary

at Witney where we attended this ‘active’ district’s

autumn meeting. Have you seen the Fewing’s new van

yet? You might need to book an appointment!

August we took our granddaughters to the Family Rally.

If you have not experienced this rally then you don’t

know what a thrill it is to ‘let the children go mad’, we

also took the girls to Millau to see the bridge and then we

went on to Spain, ‘a family Trip’. July, we attended the

Holt Rally and we actually had lots of sunshine, high

temperatures and great fellowship. June, we should

have attended the Steeple Rally, but a broken Alko hitch

that could easily have separated from the car, but didn’t,

meant that this and Gainsborough Experience could only

be treated as an ‘evening event’ as the caravan was with

the repairers. However we had a repairer who managed

to get the caravan roadworthy enough for us to attend

the Welsh Tour. Whoever said "it always rains in Wales!"

not me. We had a great time at all 3 but please forgive

me for finding the Swansea Rally with its night out with

the Orpheus Choir the highlight, as it linked with the

2011 South African Tour we were on. May, we managed

three, Bridlington, Gelderwood and Chester AGM. I had a

great time and have continued to thank those

responsible for a super rally. Last in my list is April but

of course this was the start for our rally season. We

attended the RIBI Convention at Harrogate then off to Bo

-Peep in Oxford followed by our own rally at Aldeburgh.

Each one had very changeable weather but we are

pleased we made the trip.

That covers the best part of our year and I continually

praise all those Rally Marshals and their Assistants who

create the Fun & Fellowship that always shines through.

Whether rallies are large or small in numbers we have

always enjoyed ourselves. If you weren’t there then you

are the missing ingredients from my rally programme. So

please try to meet up with us next year when we hope to

have similar journeys.

2014 will include the AGM Rally at Banham in Norfolk

(booking form on page 24) and a return visit to Bridport

in Dorset, please see the Rally Programme and put the

dates in your diary. We say goodbye to four Officers at

the end of this month, David Cooper as Treasurer, Tim

Hadrill as Programme Secretary, John Lomax as

International Liaison and our brilliant Editor Gerard

Turley, they have all performed their duties exceedingly

well and I thank them all on your behalf.

Peter Skerratt, ICFR President

President’s Report

Robert & Mildred Sutcliffe Memorial Tray Mavis and I would like to thank President Peter and ICFR

for the delightful presentation as "Members of the Year

2013". It was such a complete surprise to us, we have

always enjoyed the fellowship and friendship of ICFR that

it has always been a joy to contribute to the organisation

as much as possible.

We joined before the AGM at Reading in the 1990s with

our folding caravan which caused amusement to many

during the erection, both when we arrived and departed.

Jim Hancocks and I had to mend the bed of Jack Leyland

and his wife after it collapsed in their new caravan.

We have a board in our caravan with over 60 plaques on

it, one day I will list them all (the caravan is in store at

the moment). We have attended four world conventions

at Glasgow, Barcelona, Copenhagen and Birmingham. We

have been Rally Marshals on 9 occasions since our pep-

talk with George and Marjorie Locke - with afternoon tea

from a china tea service. Four of our rallies have been

abroad the latest, Province Revisited, was for 9 units and

the membership really gelled making a moot into a hoot.

Although we are both in our 80s - we do not want to give

up caravanning just yet!! and have started planning for

2014. We have been requested to run another French

Rally but we are still recovering from the past year; but

still thinking about

it. If you are

interested let

us know.

I am 'Mr

P a n c a k e

Man' at the

F a m i l y

Rally which

we have

attended since

number eight; last

year was number 26. I

have a secret recipe which has never been published (Ed

are you interested) [Ed yes see page 41]. Gill Rogers and

Derek have joined the team for the last five years. The

excitement and delights of the children is our reward we

make nearly 100 pancakes at each session.

At district level, we have served on the committee for 14

years and as officers - Chairman for two years before

Mavis's spinal problems, and now as District Treasurer

for two years.

Thank you everyone for your congratulations we really

appreciated all your good wishes.

Arthur and Mavis




FOREIGN RALLIES

Tue 3 to Sun 22 JuneTue 3 to Sun 22 June

Lakes in Italy and Lakes in Italy and

SwitzerlandSwitzerland Using ACSI sites starting on the Southern shore of Lake Garda, Italy where you can take a boat ride round the lake and also have the opportunity to visit Venice and Verona. Then on to Baveno, alongside Lake Maggiore, with its many

attractions. Finishing at Lake Thun, Interlaken, Switzerland where you can take a funicular or mountain railway. Enjoy 19 days of outstanding scenery and the chance to explore the surroundings of these lakes. Max 10

RM: Derrick & Sheila Sanders and Don & Paula Howard

Tue 3 to Tue 10 JuneTue 3 to Tue 10 June

DD--Day+70Day+70 Benouville Normandy

Rally is held over the period of the 70th Anniversary of the D -Day landings in 1944. It is the last time

organised celebrations will be held. The site is 500 metres from "The Pegasus Bridge" where the first landings were made by glider on that momentous day. Max 15 RM: Eric Matkins & Mo Morrison

Follow on from D-Day+70


Loire ValleyLoire Valley The first site is about 160 miles from

Caen at Brissac-Quince in the Angers area. It will be followed by a site at Ballan-Mire near Tours. Chateau and pretty wine villages abound. This rally is intended as a follow on to the Normandy Rally and the programmes

will be integrated Max 15 RM: Terry & Carole Cooke

UK RALLIES

Wed 19 to Tue 25 March (6 nights)

Skelwith FoldSkelwith Fold Popular 6 day rally. New programme for 2014. All hard standing pitches. Book early to avoid disappointment. Max. 30

RM: Ted Walmsley

Mon 7 to Sat 12 AprilMon 7 to Sat 12 April

Ride A Cock HorseRide A Cock Horse Come to the popular Ride a Cock

Horse Rally near Banbury. Good dog walking facilities, toilets, showers. Close to Cotswolds, Blenheim, Oxford. Excellent site Max 20

RM: Brian Key

BO: Brian Tonkin

Tue 8 to Mon 14 April Tue 8 to Mon 14 April (6 nights)

AldeburghAldeburgh Regularly held rally close to beach offers fresh air, walks, fish and chips.

Places to visit in Suffolk and Essex. Organised walk and invitation to Rotary Club of Saxmundham's Club

Night. Golf morning. Use of Church Hall venue for speaker, games, self-entertainment. Superb dinner at Thorpeness Golf Club on last night. Max 25

RM: Peter & Sylvia Skerratt

Thu 8 to Wed 14 May Thu 8 to Wed 14 May (6 nights)

All Things Wight & BeautifulAll Things Wight & Beautiful 5 star site Appuldurcombe Gardens,

Wroxall, Isle of Wight. Function room, bar, shop excellent facilities, All serviced hard standing pitches. Opportunities for walks, wine tasting, National Trust, English Heritage and much more.

Max. 15 RM: John & Jenny Rice

Thu 8 to Tue 13 MayThu 8 to Tue 13 May

Discover BridlingtonDiscover Bridlington A private walled paddock for 20 vans in an excellent commercial site near Bridlington on the Yorkshire coast. Visit Sledmere House, view sea birds nesting at RSPB Bempton and visit

Filey and Scarborough. A lovely coastal area. Max 20 RM: Tony Wakefield & David Smith

Fri 9 to Wed 14 MayFri 9 to Wed 14 May

Usk ValleyUsk Valley This peaceful, well run site is in the

River Usk valley, part of the beautiful South Wales countryside between Usk and Abergavenny. Come and see why

this rally is so popular. Full facilities, Wi-Fi, Golf nearby. 2 extra nights at rally rate to make 7 nights if wanted. Max 20

RM: Gerard & Christine Turley

Thu 15 to Tue 20 MayThu 15 to Tue 20 May

AGM2014 Banham AGM2014 Banham Applewood Caravan and Camping

Park, Banham, Norfolk Return to South Norfolk for the Annual General Meeting.

The site provides good facilities for socialising as well as for the AGM No Max

RM: Gwyn Weallans

BO: Mike Segon

Follow on from AGM

Tue 20 to Sun 25 MayTue 20 to Sun 25 May

On to ObyOn to Oby (35mls ENE of Banham)

Tranquil spacious site close to river Bure. Full facilities. Fishing, slipway, heated outdoor pool.10 minute walk to Thurne for pub, restaurant and shop. Visit traditional vintage sailing boatyard and Broads museum. Enjoy

a paddle steamer or electric boat trip and fellowship with IYFR Max 19

RM: Jacquie Greenfield

BO: Ken Chapman

Thu 5th to Tue 10 JuneThu 5th to Tue 10 June

Crystal Palace CC SiteCrystal Palace CC Site See London from within Paxton's Park with trains and buses nearby. We

hope to offer; guided walk in the City, a show, visit to Eltham Palace, The Royal Blackheath Golf Club Museum, and raid a Rotary Club! Max 12

RM: John & Carole Dickinson


Dolgellau AgainDolgellau Again Relax at Cefn Maelan in Southern Snowdonia, a site with splendid views

of Cader Idris. Climb a mountain, ride a narrow gauge railway, visit a slate mine or just chill out. Max 12

RM: John & Ann Hackney Follow on to Snowdonia


Kings LynnKings Lynn A new site for ICFR with full facilities and just a mile outside Kings Lynn. A

full programme is planned with opportunities to visit Norfolk's West Coast, Sandringham etc. Max 20

RM: Michael & Barbara Segon Follow on to Woodhall Spa Lincolnshire

Follow on from Dolgellau Again

Sun 15 to Fri 20 JuneSun 15 to Fri 20 June

SnowdoniaSnowdonia Riverside Caravan Park in Caernarfon is

described as " a hidden gem in the heart of

Snowdonia". Castles, Bridges, Puffin Spotting, dinner aboard the Welsh Highland Railway and amazing National Trust Properties. 4 Star site with cafe/restaurant, mountains, beaches and free WiFi. Max 15

RM: Robert & Eirian Jones

Look for updates on the website

Rally Programme 2014

RM and BO Contact Details

Now only

available from ICFR Directory




Follow on from Kings Lynn


Woodhall Spa LincolnshireWoodhall Spa Lincolnshire First visit to this modern new park in E d w a r d i a n W o o d h a l l S p a (petwoodcaravanpark.co.uk). Full rally programme - historic 617 Squadron Officers Mess, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Museum, Kinema in the Woods,

Cottage Museum, Rhododendrons, walks, antiques etc. Max 15

RM: Keven & Barbara Roberts


Middle England Golf Non golfers welcome at Meriden. Easy access to Coventry, Birmingham and many local tourist attractions. Golf in the mornings leaving rest of day free.Max 10

RM: Bruce & Sue Liddle

Sat 12 to Thu 17 JulySat 12 to Thu 17 July

Rosehill, Market DraytonRosehill, Market Drayton A relaxed rally in the garden of a Market Drayton Rotarian in a picturesque part of North Shropshire.

Basic facilities. Use of large room in inclement weather. Battery charging Max 12 No Electrics

RM: John Walgrove BO: Paul Quinlan

Sun 13 to Fri 18 July Sun 13 to Fri 18 July

Rother Valley, East SussexRother Valley, East Sussex We aim to provide a place of peace

and quiet. Close to the East Sussex Railway and river trips on the River Rother. Close to Rye (Cinque Port)

and numerous NT Properties.Max 15 RM: David Cooper BO: Don Jeffrey

Fri 25 July to Fri 1 AugFri 25 July to Fri 1 Aug (7 nights)

Family RallyFamily Rally Fun for all the family - swimming,

sports, sandcastles, food and fe l l owsh ip i n t he beaut i f u l surroundings of Sexey's School Max 30 No Electrics RM: Judy Maynard & Clive Little

Fri 8 to Thu 14 Aug Fri 8 to Thu 14 Aug (6 nights)

Frome ShowfieldFrome Showfield Level site, electrics. Walking distance

to Longleat, short drive to Stourhead (NT). Full programme: coffee, walks, visits, last night meal at local hostelry. Bring boules, BBQs. Max 20 No toilets or showers

RM: Philip & Rosalind Cary BO: David & Jane Mack

Fri 15 to Wed 20 AugustFri 15 to Wed 20 August

AshbourneAshbourne Long established rally. Green field site. Scenery, walks, cycle trails. Places to visit: Chatsworth, Kedleston hall, Caulke Abbey, Sudbury and Chrich Tram Museum. Max 30 No Electrics

RM: David Huxley

Wed 3 to Tue 9 Sept Wed 3 to Tue 9 Sept (6 nights)

Coast and CastlesCoast and Castles North Northumberland is sometimes called "The Secret Kingdom ".This welcome return to Bamburgh gives

you the opportunity to discover and share the delights of this beautiful

part of Britain. Max 35 RM: Colin & Kathleen Bradford

pre AF2014

Sat 13 to Thu 18 SeptemberSat 13 to Thu 18 September

Hurley Riverside ParkHurley Riverside Park Site is in the heart of the Home Counties on the South side of the Thames within easy reach of the village of Hurley which pre dates the

Norman Conquest. Situated near the thriving towns of Henley and Marlow with many shops, restaurants and pubs, as well as the famous Henley rowing museum. Max 20

RM: Cliff Dorling Follow on to AF2014, Bridport

pre AF2014

Sat 13 to Thu 18 SeptemberSat 13 to Thu 18 September

Second Heart of WiltshireSecond Heart of Wiltshire Return to site adjacent to Caen Hill Flight of Locks on Kennet & Avon Canal.

Full and varied interesting programme for those returning and first timers. Bath, Devizes, Avebury, Stonehenge, Lacock Marlborough all short drive or bus distance away. Come and enjoy

Rotary fellowship in a beautiful spot. Battery charging Max 25 No Electrics

RM: Alan & Nita Martin BO: Derek & Gill Rogers

Follow on to AF2014, Bridport

Thu 18 to Tue 23 SeptemberThu 18 to Tue 23 September

AF2014 BridportAF2014 Bridport Once again to be held at Freshwater Beach Holiday Park,

Bridport a beautiful part of the Heritage Coast. Remember AF2011; full programme on similar lines. Look forward to seeing you all there. No Max

RM: Peter Jennings

BO: David Mack

Thu 2 to Tue 7 OctoberThu 2 to Tue 7 October

Stonham BarnsStonham Barns Situated in stunning Suffolk countryside, but with good access to Ipswich, Stowmarket, Bury St E d m u n d s , W o o d b r i d g e a n d Framlingham. Max 20

RM: Gwyn Weallans


Wonders of WellsWonders of Wells On the Cheddar Road, within walking distance of historic Wells with its Cathedral, Bishop’s Palace, Gardens,

Market and variety of shops. The well maintained site has good facilities and

welcomes dogs. Easy access to Mendips and Somerset Wetlands Max 12

RM: Bob & Carole Wright

Fri 10 to Thu 16 Oct Fri 10 to Thu 16 Oct (6 nights)

ChippingChipping On the edge of Chipping Village; all level hard pitches; under floor heating in toilet block; modern Village

Hall for our events; free bowling

green; great views. Max 15 RM: Malcolm and Kath Ward

Follow on to Autumn Tints

Follow on from Chipping


Autumn TintsAutumn Tints This beautiful site is located in South Lakeland at Staveley. So come and join us and see the Lake District at its

best in full Autumn splendour. Rally programme affords lots of time to enjoy fun food and fellowship.Max 25

RM: Duncan Dearden

Thu 27 Nov to Tue 2 DecThu 27 Nov to Tue 2 Dec

Thursford Christmas Thursford Christmas

SpectacularSpectacular We shall again enjoy the full facilities (electrics, hardstandings, clubroom, laundry, toilets / showers etc. ) at the Old Brick Kilns, Barney. A full programme will include Thursford Christmas Spectacular Show; a cast

of over 100, music, dancing, singing

and humour, all of West End quality. Max 28

RM: Michael & Barbara Segon

New Year 2015 RallyNew Year 2015 Rally We are investigating a New Year Rally. Read Summer 2015 News and Views for further details

To obtain Booking Forms

1.Download from ICFR website www.rotarianscaravanning.org.uk — Bookings

2.Request by email. RM & BO email addresses from ICFR Directory

3.Request by post but include SAE, RM & BO addresses from ICFR Directory

Rally Programme continued

For any other 2014

rallies or for updates

look on the Website

or contact the Rally

Programme Secretary

TERRY COOKE




Nomination & election of Officers for 2014 All Officers (except IPP) require to be elected annually under the Constitution Rule 10 and the Secretary has received completed nomination forms for these Officers by the deadline of 31 October 2013. No elections were necessary and the

following were elected at the AGM 2013 for 2014

Officers 2014

Trustees for 2014

Officer Nominations for 2015 Nominations for Officers have been received as required by 31st October 2013 for appointment at the 2014 AGM, for office beginning on 1st January 2015:

Elected Members of the Executive Committee for 2014 will be:

Nominations for Election to the Executive Committee for 2015 One nomination has been received before the 31st October 2013 for membership of the Executive Committee for 2015-17 from John Walgrove, District 1060/1210.

Co-opted appointments to the Executive Committee Under Constitution Rule 12(d) the Executive Committee again co-opted:

Report from the Executive Meeting 20th September 2013

I reported to the committee that our Public Liability Insurance with Grove Insurance had been renewed for the period 1st August 2013 to 31st July 2014. Indemnity limit - £5m. Cost £451.52 – no increase.

Also the Trustees Insurance with Martin Kemp Insurance Services had been renewed from 30th September 2013 to 29th September 2014. Cost £ 481.48 – no increase.

Association of Caravanning and Camping Exempted Organizations (ACCEO)

I offered ICFR’s apologies for ACCEO’s AGM held from 2nd to 7th October at Towcester Racecourse. ACCEO is the link organisation between Defra, Natural England (a department of Defra), and other bodies concerned with the legal requirements for caravanning. Its recent magazine states that there is no progress or information to report on the European Parliament’s consideration of the introduction of some testing for the roadworthiness of caravans.

Individual membership costs £5. This helps to support this important body. Members receive ACCEO’s magazine AM (ACCEO Matters) twice yearly. This organisation is well worth supporting, you may wish to join by visiting www.acceo.co.uk.

Natural England (NE)

Our Exemption Certificate under Paragraph 4 & 6 of the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960 from Natural England, the Scottish Government & Welsh Assembly are valid until November 2014. A reminder that our Certificate is for caravans only; the only exception being Children’s Pup Tents as part the main unit.

Rotary Fellowships

The annual report of our activities has been sent to RI, including an extract of the AGM minutes. I have had confirmation that these have been received with the added complement that this is the best fellowship magazine and there will be encouragement from RI Fellowships Coordinators for other fellowships to try and emulate this production.

RI - MYGROUP

RI changed its website format on 26th August and at the same time introduced MYGROUP. This provides for any groups within RI to register as a group (MYGROUP) which will allow it to communicate with any other MYGROUP in RI. Fellowships are encouraged to set up their own MYGROUP, thus allowing them to communicate with any other group in the system. It’s limited to sole use within the context of Rotary. ICFR has joined as ‘Caravanning Fellowship’

This is an unknown area and we cannot envisage what benefits may follow for ICFR however it is believed we have to see what it may bring. Consequently all members are encouraged to add their names to the group by registering on the RI website then going to MYGROUP > Caravan Fellowship> adding their contact details. It will be interesting to see what, if any, benefits this brings.

Derrick Sanders, ICFR Secretary, October 2013

President Peter Skerratt

Vice President Gerard Turley

Secretary Derrick Sanders

Treasurer Paul Quinlan

Programme Secretary Terry Cooke

Membership Secretary Gwyn Weallans

Editor John Hackney

International Liaison Bob Wright

(Immediate Past President Don Howard)

President Peter Skerratt

Secretary Derrick Sanders



President Gerard Turley

Vice President Gwyn Weallans

Secretary Ted Walmsley



Membership Secretary Derek Rogers

Editor John Hackney

International Liaison Bob Wright

Philip Cary Brian Key Richard Swainston Geoff Fewings John Stone Ted Walmsley

David Shaw (IT Secretary) Maureen Morrison (Equipment & Sales)

Honorary Secretary’s Report




Vice President My additional role as Editor will be over in about a month

and I will be able to spend more time on the important

role of VP of ICFR, including publicity. I have already

been investigating the cost of including adverts in the

caravan and Rotary press and will be seeking guidance

from other Officers on the cost/benefit.

In these two years I must also plan for the upcoming

AGM and AF rallies and a heartfelt thank-you to those

who are already working on these rallies for my years as

President, and to the Districts who will host them.

This year Christine and I (and of course Daisy) ran the

Usk Rally at which we had our District AGM and then

attended the AGM Rally at Chester which was excellent,

in a wonderful position, and very convenient for the city

of Chester and the location was superb. I hope that a

further rally will be held here in the future.

Christine and I were assistants at the Pembroke Rally

and the Swansea Bay Rally. My congratulations to both

sets of Rally Marshals for two excellent rallies.

The Family Rally was again the success we have come to

expect. The way almost everybody gets involved with

helping with jobs, as well as helping each other look after

the little ones. It is fellowship at its best, and again thank

you all for looking after Freddie, our grandson, when he

made his various unreported trips to other caravans, and

to those who helped find him afterwards! The

tremendous planning which Judy and Clive put into this

rally makes it so enjoyable for the little people (and the

big people).

We had to cancel a couple of rallies this year and I

apologise to the Rally Marshals. I know

how annoying it is even when, as for

us, it is unavoidable. We did make the

AF at Brean, a new site which had

excellent facilities and at which we

were made very welcome. We were

also at the 1150 District Autumn Lunch

which was well attended and I was very

pleased that our District agreed to run AF 2015,

appointing Roger Howells as Rally Marshal. The dates

have been chosen to include the popular Tup Sale again!

We round off the year at Tallington Lakes New Year Rally.

Can I ask Chairmen and Secretaries of Districts at any

get togethers to raise with the meetings the need to

publicise ICFR in their District and to look at how they

can involve more, the many members who are not

currently active in the fellowship but who could be.

We all enjoy the fun and fellowship of ICFR because a

number of the members put themselves out to run

rallies. We can never say too often how much the effort

put in by that hard working band of Rally Marshals and

their assistants is appreciated. Having said that, there is

lots of help around if you want to try your hand at

running a rally. Is there a location anywhere near you, or

where you have stayed before, which would be suitable

to run a rally? Give it a go! If you do not know an

experienced rally marshal who will guide you, let our new

Programme Secretary Terry Cooke know—he will find

someone to help. Your Fellowship needs YOU.

Gerard Turley, Vice President ICFR.

Past President

I hope everyone has enjoyed their

caravanning this year as much as Paula

and I. Hopefully you have been able to

attend all the rallies you wished to.

I do see one (may be the only one) of my

functions is to provide some continuity

with the President maintaining the best of

the past while helping to move on to the

21st century, to look and improve where

we can for the benefit of all.

You all will be only too aware of Rotary’s decrease in

numbers, making us as a Fellowship vulnerable to a

decline in numbers, so we will have to promote ourselves

even more to counteract this.

Lastly please do support your District as they are the

heart of ICFR, putting forward offers of rallies to maintain

our programme. Thus enabling us all to carry on enjoying

what ICFR is all about, caravanning and great fellowship.

Paula and I very much hope to meet you on a field in

2014.

Don Howard, Immediate Past President

Membership Secretary

Can I start by please saying a big

thank you to all those who have

helped to keep the directory up to

date by providing me with updates to

addresses, changes of clubs,

telephone numbers and e-mails.

Please keep it going, I would like to

hand over an up to date Directory to

my successor next year. It has been

great to receive all your messages and keep in touch with

you all. Some news has not been so good it is true. But it

is still better to pass the news so that we can avoid

embarrassing moments for friends.

Along with the News and Views you are reading you will

have received the 2014 Directory, please check your

entries are correct and advise me if they are not. So

please keep me updated with all the news and I will pass

it on where necessary. Look forward to seeing you on the

Rally fields.

Gwyn Weallans, Membership Secretary

Deaths reported since last News and Views

Gina Mayall D1050

Rutger Prinz Netherlands

Olive Lockwood D1040 Margaret Gibbons D1120 John Allen D1060 Margaret Bryden D1230 Shirley Stephenson D1210 John Heller 1080/1240




Programme Secretary 2013 has been a good year with well

over thirty rallies available for

members. One had to be cancelled

through lack of numbers but there is

a strong possibility that Middle

England Golf will be resurrected in

2014 or 2015.

As my successor will find out, the

Autumn is the busiest time for

Programme Secretary. Trying to get Rally Marshal’s

offers in for the Editor’s 31st October deadline so that

their rallies can be advertised in the Winter News and

Views is challenging. Rally Packs have then to be

dispatched to all Rally Marshals before the end of

December.

I have thoroughly enjoyed the last three years and wish

Terry Cooke all the best for his three year term.

Tim Hadrill, Programme Secretary

Equipment Officer

It was decided at the Executive

Committee Meeting at Brean to have a

sale to reduce the equipment held in

stock and the following is now available

by downloading an order form on the

members’ website and sending it to me

with your cheque. My details are on the

inside cover of the directory.

Unfortunately, the bottle bags have all

been sold however, we still have the ties and scarves on

offer @ only £1 each in the sale (can you believe it!)

The sale of the ‘Herbie Hats’ in either colour (natural or

navy blue) are still very good value at only £10. (just

check M&S prices to see that these are very good value)

These are 50+ quality sun screen and due to the

number of our members who are lacking in the hirsute

area of the top of the head, will (I imagine) find them

very useful when venturing into the sunlight!!! We also

still have some red bowls/golf towels embroidered with

the logo at £7 which, incidentally, look very nice

hanging on the towel hook just inside your caravan!.

The car stickers at £2 and oval metal badges at £2.50

are still available with an order. Also on order are the

sweatshirts and polo shirts which are sent out direct

from embroiderers to reach you in 7 to 10 days.

Merry Christmas to all the members of ICFR and have a

very Happy New Year. Regards,

Maureen Morrison, Equipment Officer

Ps. Happy Caravanning & Motor Homing and hope to

see you next year.

International Liaison The weather during the 2013 summer

period has been typically varied. It is

always a talking point in the UK. But

what about elsewhere!! The following

tales from two of our overseas

c o n t r i b u t o r s p u t t h i ng s i n t o

international perspective:

Gil Cooper, our regular reporter from

New Zealand, has forwarded a

newsletter describing a rally where strong winds and

pelting rain upset the programme resulting in a

proposed trip to a local island being “mercifully”

cancelled. Sounds vaguely familiar. In an earlier

communication Gil described the surprise of one of their

members returning from a rally in strong winds when he

was overtaken by a wheelie bin!

David Werrett, the ICFR Member living in Canada, near

Calgary, sent photos of houses where flooding in part of

Calgary had caused all electricity and natural gas to be

cut off. He and his wife, Sharon, helped Rotarian friends

to tear out drywall partitions and insulation, removing

cabinets, hardwood flooring, carpets, etc. The flood

waters had filled the basement with muddy water (about

8 or 9 feet deep) and up to 15 inches on the main floor.

Arrangements continue for the Muster associated with

the Rotary International Convention, Sydney 2014. A

substantial contingent from the Recreational Vehicle

Fellowship of Rotarians (North America) are interested in

attending. There have also been a number of enquiries

from ICFR members. The Lane Cove National Park has

been booked from 28th May to 6th June 2014 with 80

sites, 23 cabins plus 5 single cabins. The stay in Sydney

will be followed by a tour of about 10 days finishing up

in Brisbane.

Congratulations have been sent to Richard Ward who

has been appointed President of the Recreational

Fellowship of Rotarians (North America). He has taken

over from Bob Craig.

Regular newsletters and rally reports are received from

New Zealand, Australia and North America and are

available on the ICFR website. Contact is also

established with ILOs in the Dutch and French

equivalents to ICFR. Addresses are available for

members arranging rallies in those countries wishing to

make local contacts.

This is my final report as ILO. Bob Wright will be the

new ILO with effect from 1st January 2014. I wish him

well in that position and hope he enjoys the role as

much as I have.

John Lomax, International Liaison Officer




From the Archives I left off in the last edition with

December 1987 number 27 when

the editor was John Waddington.

For the next edition it was all

change. Peter Jeffries took over

and made big changes. Peter

started off writing out his reports

long hand until the executive

approved the purchase of an early

letter writing machine. For his first

edition he was asked to include a column for members’

birthdays, a column for each of the ICFR officers, details

of forthcoming rallies and reports on previous rallies. Not

only all this but also to include articles of general

interest to caravanners. The quest for advertising was

also ongoing at this time. (Peter has written an amusing

account of his time as editor which I hope to include in a

future “From the Archives”).

So No. 28, summer 1988, looked quite different from all

previous issues. [Ed a facsimile of the front page is

included later in this edition] Of interest in this issue was

a report entitled “Galley on the Three Rivers” a rally

organised by Trevor Galley to Sarlat-la-Caneda, Souillac

and St Georges-de-Didonne. A photograph shows a

youthful Edna Swainston winning the 1988 Boule

Championship.

Peter’s first edition ended with a crossword and a little

filler called “Final Edition” which said “If you are

wondering whether or not you can spare the time to get

away for an ICFR rally next weekend, just remember

that the only person who got all his work done by Friday

was Robinson Crusoe.”

No’s 29 and 30 were produced in the same way but

issues 31 to 37 were produced in A5 format.

These were packed with easy to read information and

made a very interesting read. No. 33 had articles by

outgoing Chairman, Charles Lynham, and incoming

Chairman, Ken Halliwel; George and Marjorie Locke were

congratulated on their golden wedding anniversary. In

order that those who can only rally for a short weekend

(the workers that is!) Rally Officers were asked to

consider starting rallies on a Friday, so that everyone

could arrive and start the rally on the same day. They

could still run for five nights for those who didn’t have to

go to work on Monday mornings. Peter certainly took our

magazine to new heights with lots of innovation, We

have now reached winter 1992 and No. 37 was the last

by Peter Jeffries. He signed off with:

So, to this new editor called Jacks

It’s to him you send all the facts,

Don’t send them to me,

Or you’ll be up a gum tree

‘Cos me, I’m just making tracks.

After five years as editor Peter Jeffries handed over the

reins to Edwin Jacks.

John Hackney, Archivist

The Awning Erector’s Wife

An awning erector’s wife is not the happiest of souls On site she suffers most whilst he is playing with his poles

She knows from past experience his ego needs a prop “He’d never hold his head up if his canvas were to drop”

The monster is uncoiled from its mundane canvas bag, And her muscles bulge like footballs to sustain the channel drag

“It’s out, it’s in, push harder, pull the damn thing through Why don’t other people have the trouble that we do!”

“Now stand just where I tell you” he commands through gritted teeth As she supports the awning while he pushes poles beneath

As arms complain and shoulders strain, he bellows “don’t let go” As she tries to stop the poles descending – to the earth below

Smothered by the canvas in the missionary position. She wonders who will be the first to have a heart condition

Her ordeal isn’t over, though the awning’s on its legs, The poles have to be tightened, it needs curtains, guys and pegs

Temper gone, good cheer restored, he smiles benevolently, “I’ve made a smashing job of that, I need a cup of tea”

You think the drama’s ended, but he thinks he’s spotted rain! He hates to get his awning wet so he takes it down again

Should you want a quiet, placid, normal married life Never volunteer to be an awning erector’s wife.

Poem located by Alan Robinson, Submitted by Diana Lomax




President Peter and Sylvia SkerrattPresident Peter and Sylvia SkerrattPresident Peter and Sylvia Skerratt Happy Christmas to Happy Christmas to Happy Christmas to all ICFR membersall ICFR membersall ICFR members Geoff and Maddy BellGeoff and Maddy BellGeoff and Maddy Bell

Wish all their friends Wish all their friends Wish all their friends in ICFR a very Happy in ICFR a very Happy in ICFR a very Happy Christmas and lots of Christmas and lots of Christmas and lots of

caravanning fun in 2014caravanning fun in 2014caravanning fun in 2014

Tom and Barbara CryerTom and Barbara CryerTom and Barbara Cryer Wish all their friends Wish all their friends Wish all their friends

in ICFR a Happy and in ICFR a Happy and in ICFR a Happy and

Healthy Christmas Healthy Christmas Healthy Christmas

and New Yearand New Yearand New Year

Geoffrey FryGeoffrey FryGeoffrey Fry Wishing all my Wishing all my Wishing all my

caravanning friends a caravanning friends a caravanning friends a

Merry Christmas & look Merry Christmas & look Merry Christmas & look

forward to the futureforward to the futureforward to the future

Len and Marilyn BoudierLen and Marilyn BoudierLen and Marilyn Boudier Happy Christmas Happy Christmas Happy Christmas and a Peaceful and a Peaceful and a Peaceful New New New YYYear to all ear to all ear to all

in ICFRin ICFRin ICFR

Duncan and Ivy DeardenDuncan and Ivy DeardenDuncan and Ivy Dearden Happy Christmas Happy Christmas Happy Christmas

with love and with love and with love and Warmest Wishes Warmest Wishes Warmest Wishes for the New Yearfor the New Yearfor the New Year

Roberta and Frank GrayRoberta and Frank GrayRoberta and Frank Gray Wish our friends in Wish our friends in Wish our friends in ICFR a very Happy ICFR a very Happy ICFR a very Happy

Christmas, and great Christmas, and great Christmas, and great rallying in 2014rallying in 2014rallying in 2014

Jill and Bob BradleyJill and Bob BradleyJill and Bob Bradley Wish all their friends a Wish all their friends a Wish all their friends a very Merry Christmas very Merry Christmas very Merry Christmas and a Healthy, Happy and a Healthy, Happy and a Healthy, Happy

and and and Prosperous New YearProsperous New YearProsperous New Year

Ray and Jenny DixonRay and Jenny DixonRay and Jenny Dixon Happy Christmas and Happy Christmas and Happy Christmas and a Healthy New Year a Healthy New Year a Healthy New Year to our ICFR friends to our ICFR friends to our ICFR friends in fields everywhere in fields everywhere in fields everywhere

Tom and Christine GreenTom and Christine GreenTom and Christine Green All best wishes for All best wishes for All best wishes for Christmas and the Christmas and the Christmas and the New Year. See you New Year. See you New Year. See you on a Rally in 2014on a Rally in 2014on a Rally in 2014

Pauline and Roger BrownPauline and Roger BrownPauline and Roger Brown wish all friends they wish all friends they wish all friends they have made in ICFR a have made in ICFR a have made in ICFR a

Joyous Christmas and a Joyous Christmas and a Joyous Christmas and a Happy and Healthy 2014Happy and Healthy 2014Happy and Healthy 2014

Rosemary and Cliff DorlingRosemary and Cliff DorlingRosemary and Cliff Dorling wish our many friends wish our many friends wish our many friends in ICFR a very Merry in ICFR a very Merry in ICFR a very Merry

Christmas and a Happy Christmas and a Happy Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Yearand Healthy New Yearand Healthy New Year

Bryan and Liz GriffithsBryan and Liz GriffithsBryan and Liz Griffiths Wish their ICFR friends Wish their ICFR friends Wish their ICFR friends a Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas, and

Happy and Healthy Happy and Healthy Happy and Healthy caravanning in 2014caravanning in 2014caravanning in 2014

John and June BumfreyJohn and June BumfreyJohn and June Bumfrey Greetings from across the Greetings from across the Greetings from across the pond, spending Christmas in pond, spending Christmas in pond, spending Christmas in USA. Happy Christmas and USA. Happy Christmas and USA. Happy Christmas and

Happy New Year to everyoneHappy New Year to everyoneHappy New Year to everyone

Malcolm & Maureen DungworthMalcolm & Maureen DungworthMalcolm & Maureen Dungworth Have a Happy Have a Happy Have a Happy Christmas and Christmas and Christmas and a great ICFR a great ICFR a great ICFR

New YearNew YearNew Year

Ann a John HackneyAnn a John HackneyAnn a John Hackney. . . Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn

Newydd Dda i bawb yn ICFRNewydd Dda i bawb yn ICFRNewydd Dda i bawb yn ICFR Merry Christmas & Happy Merry Christmas & Happy Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all in ICFRNew Year to all in ICFRNew Year to all in ICFR

Bob and Una CantlayBob and Una CantlayBob and Una Cantlay Wishing Wishing Wishing

everyone a very everyone a very everyone a very Merry Christmas Merry Christmas Merry Christmas

and New Yearand New Yearand New Year

John and Dot EdwardsJohn and Dot EdwardsJohn and Dot Edwards Wishing you all a very Wishing you all a very Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and Happy Christmas and Happy Christmas and

lots of fun and lots of fun and lots of fun and fellowship in 2014fellowship in 2014fellowship in 2014

Tim and Shirley HadrillTim and Shirley HadrillTim and Shirley Hadrill Wish all their ICFR Wish all their ICFR Wish all their ICFR

fellow members a very fellow members a very fellow members a very Merry Christmas and a Merry Christmas and a Merry Christmas and a

Happy, Healthy New YearHappy, Healthy New YearHappy, Healthy New Year

Phil and Ros CaryPhil and Ros CaryPhil and Ros Cary Wish all ICFR Wish all ICFR Wish all ICFR caravanners a caravanners a caravanners a very Happy very Happy very Happy ChristmasChristmasChristmas

Pauline EverdellPauline EverdellPauline Everdell A very Happy and Merry A very Happy and Merry A very Happy and Merry Christmas and to all my Christmas and to all my Christmas and to all my wonderful friends. Hope wonderful friends. Hope wonderful friends. Hope to see you all next yearto see you all next yearto see you all next year

Jim HancockJim HancockJim Hancock wishes all his friends in wishes all his friends in wishes all his friends in

ICFR a Merry, ICFR a Merry, ICFR a Merry, Peaceful Christmas and Peaceful Christmas and Peaceful Christmas and a Happy, Healthy 2014a Happy, Healthy 2014a Happy, Healthy 2014

David and Ann CooperDavid and Ann CooperDavid and Ann Cooper Best wishes to all Best wishes to all Best wishes to all members of ICFR members of ICFR members of ICFR

for Christmas for Christmas for Christmas and the New Yearand the New Yearand the New Year

Geoff and Brenda FewingsGeoff and Brenda FewingsGeoff and Brenda Fewings Wish their ICFR friends Wish their ICFR friends Wish their ICFR friends a Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas, and


David and Winifred HatherallDavid and Winifred HatherallDavid and Winifred Hatherall Happy Happy Happy

Christmas to Christmas to Christmas to all our friends all our friends all our friends


Christmas Greetings




Tom and Denise HobsonTom and Denise HobsonTom and Denise Hobson Warmest Greetings Warmest Greetings Warmest Greetings

to all our friends to all our friends to all our friends for Christmas and for Christmas and for Christmas and

the New Yearthe New Yearthe New Year

Roz and Martin ParrottRoz and Martin ParrottRoz and Martin Parrott The Parrott House The Parrott House The Parrott House send greetings to send greetings to send greetings to all our friends in all our friends in all our friends in

ICFRICFRICFR

Lynn and John StoneLynn and John StoneLynn and John Stone Wish everyone Wish everyone Wish everyone

in ICFR a Merry in ICFR a Merry in ICFR a Merry Christmas and Christmas and Christmas and

Happy New YearHappy New YearHappy New Year

John and Margaret HorlerJohn and Margaret HorlerJohn and Margaret Horler Wish all their friends Wish all their friends Wish all their friends

in ICFR a Merry in ICFR a Merry in ICFR a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Christmas and a Happy, Christmas and a Happy,

Healthy New YearHealthy New YearHealthy New Year

Jean PowellJean PowellJean Powell All Good Wishes All Good Wishes All Good Wishes

for Christmas and for Christmas and for Christmas and the New Year to all the New Year to all the New Year to all my friends in ICFRmy friends in ICFRmy friends in ICFR

Jill StorerJill StorerJill Storer All Good Wishes All Good Wishes All Good Wishes for Christmas & for Christmas & for Christmas &

the New Year to all the New Year to all the New Year to all my friends in ICFRmy friends in ICFRmy friends in ICFR

Don and Paula HowardDon and Paula HowardDon and Paula Howard Wishing all in the Wishing all in the Wishing all in the

Fellowship Christmas Fellowship Christmas Fellowship Christmas Greetings and a Happy Greetings and a Happy Greetings and a Happy and Healthy New Yearand Healthy New Yearand Healthy New Year

Paul and Chris QuinlanPaul and Chris QuinlanPaul and Chris Quinlan Wish all their friends Wish all their friends Wish all their friends

a very Merry a very Merry a very Merry Christmas and a Happy Christmas and a Happy Christmas and a Happy Caravanning New YearCaravanning New YearCaravanning New Year

Richard and Dorothy SwainstonRichard and Dorothy SwainstonRichard and Dorothy Swainston Christmas Christmas Christmas

Greetings to Greetings to Greetings to all our friends all our friends all our friends


Peter and Margaret JenningsPeter and Margaret JenningsPeter and Margaret Jennings Wish their ICFR friends Wish their ICFR friends Wish their ICFR friends a Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas, and


Graham and Angela RobertsGraham and Angela RobertsGraham and Angela Roberts... Wishing all our friends in Wishing all our friends in Wishing all our friends in

ICFR a very Happy Christmas ICFR a very Happy Christmas ICFR a very Happy Christmas and a Healthy and Prosperous and a Healthy and Prosperous and a Healthy and Prosperous 2014 with plenty of Rallying2014 with plenty of Rallying2014 with plenty of Rallying

Gerard and Christine TurleyGerard and Christine TurleyGerard and Christine Turley Wish to all a Merry Wish to all a Merry Wish to all a Merry

Christmas and a Christmas and a Christmas and a very Happy and very Happy and very Happy and


Robert and Eirian JonesRobert and Eirian JonesRobert and Eirian Jones Nadolig Llawen a Nadolig Llawen a Nadolig Llawen a

Blwyddyn Newydd Blwyddyn Newydd Blwyddyn Newydd dda dda dda --- a Happy a Happy a Happy

Christmas to you allChristmas to you allChristmas to you all

Gill and Derek RogersGill and Derek RogersGill and Derek Rogers A very Happy Christmas A very Happy Christmas A very Happy Christmas to all our ICFR Friends. to all our ICFR Friends. to all our ICFR Friends.

Hope to see you on Hope to see you on Hope to see you on various ralliesvarious ralliesvarious rallies

Ted and Ann WalmsleyTed and Ann WalmsleyTed and Ann Walmsley Best Wishes Best Wishes Best Wishes

to all our to all our to all our friends at this friends at this friends at this Christmas timeChristmas timeChristmas time

Diana and John LomaxDiana and John LomaxDiana and John Lomax With all Good With all Good With all Good Wishes for Wishes for Wishes for

Christmas and Christmas and Christmas and the New Yearthe New Yearthe New Year

Sheila & Derrick SandersSheila & Derrick SandersSheila & Derrick Sanders Happy Christmas Happy Christmas Happy Christmas and a Peaceful and a Peaceful and a Peaceful and Healthy and Healthy and Healthy New YearNew YearNew Year

Gwyn and Eileen WeallansGwyn and Eileen WeallansGwyn and Eileen Weallans Wish you all a Wish you all a Wish you all a

Happy (Good News) Happy (Good News) Happy (Good News) Christmas. Sad Christmas. Sad Christmas. Sad News will followNews will followNews will follow

David and Jane MackDavid and Jane MackDavid and Jane Mack Wish all their ICFR friends Wish all their ICFR friends Wish all their ICFR friends

a very Happy Christmas, a very Happy Christmas, a very Happy Christmas, good health and a successful good health and a successful good health and a successful

rally season in 2014rally season in 2014rally season in 2014

Mike and Barbara SegonMike and Barbara SegonMike and Barbara Segon Wish all their Wish all their Wish all their

friends in ICFR a friends in ICFR a friends in ICFR a Merry Christmas and Merry Christmas and Merry Christmas and

a Happy New Yeara Happy New Yeara Happy New Year

Bob and Carole WrightBob and Carole WrightBob and Carole Wright Wish all their friends Wish all their friends Wish all their friends

in ICFR a Happy in ICFR a Happy in ICFR a Happy Christmas followed Christmas followed Christmas followed

by a great 2014by a great 2014by a great 2014

Arthur and Mavis MarrowArthur and Mavis MarrowArthur and Mavis Marrow We wish all our We wish all our We wish all our

friends in ICFR a friends in ICFR a friends in ICFR a very Happy and very Happy and very Happy and

Peaceful New YearPeaceful New YearPeaceful New Year

David and Jeanne ShawDavid and Jeanne ShawDavid and Jeanne Shaw Merry Christmas Merry Christmas Merry Christmas

to everyone in to everyone in to everyone in ICFR. See you in a ICFR. See you in a ICFR. See you in a field somewherefield somewherefield somewhere

Robert and Doreen YoungRobert and Doreen YoungRobert and Doreen Young Wish their ICFR friends Wish their ICFR friends Wish their ICFR friends a Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas, and


Maureen and Eric MatkinsMaureen and Eric MatkinsMaureen and Eric Matkins Merry Christmas and Merry Christmas and Merry Christmas and

a very Happy New a very Happy New a very Happy New Year to all our ICFR Year to all our ICFR Year to all our ICFR

fellow membersfellow membersfellow members

Mike and Janice SpencerMike and Janice SpencerMike and Janice Spencer Wish to all a Wish to all a Wish to all a

Merry Christmas Merry Christmas Merry Christmas and a Happy and and a Happy and and a Happy and


The Editor and his The Editor and his The Editor and his staff wish all our staff wish all our staff wish all our

readers a readers a readers a MerryMerryMerry Christmas and Christmas and Christmas and a Happy New Yeara Happy New Yeara Happy New Year

Christmas Greetings







Mon 15 to Sat 20 April

Ride A Cock Horse

Twenty one of the twenty two vans booked in arrived on

Monday to a fine but breezy start and enjoyed an evening

get together with a welcome cheese and wine party in the

Party Tent City

Rainbow over Bo-Peep Rally, Photo by Alan Robinson

Following a warm welcome from Rally Marshals Brian and

Shirley Key, also present was ICFR President Peter who

presented an ICFR Banner to our guest for the evening

District Governor 1090 Judith Diment Rotary Club of

Windsor St George, DG Judith said she was delighted to

visit us once again on our rally at Bo Peep.

On Tuesday Cliff and Rosemary Dorling arrived to make up

the twenty two, the wind however was blowing stronger

and morning coffee was enjoyed in the still standing party

tents. In the evening two sessions of hospitality in vans

provided another opportunity to enjoy Fellowship in our

vans.

The party tents again provided shelter from the ever

increasing wind on Wednesday morning and in the

afternoon we enjoyed a group visit to the nearby Sulgrave

Manor, the Ancestral Home of George Washington, the

only piece of joint Anglo-American property in the UK.

We enjoyed an excellent guided tour which included many

explanations of the English language, particularly for those

who like to have their feet “Under the Board”. The tour was

followed by a delicious cream tea with scones and cakes.

Sadly on arrival back at the site, we were greeted with a

bare field as the party tents had been swept away in the

gale. Luckily the few who had remained on site managed

to rescue the split coverings and bent poles.

The following day a large group enjoyed a walk via

Adderbury Lakes to the Red Lion for lunch and a further

stroll around the village.

The one remaining caravan full awning was requisitioned to

provide shelter for the last two coffee mornings and on the

Friday President Peter made a small presentation and

thanked Rally Marshals Brian and Shirley and their District

for all their hard work and once again for putting on a most

enjoyable rally.

The last night supper was held just down the road at the

Pickled Ploughman and it was nice to see Geoff and Brenda

Fewings with us for the evening and we were all pleased to

hear that they will be continuing to caravan with us again

very soon.

Many thanks from us all to Brian and Shirley and their

helpers for once again putting on a most enjoyable rally on

this delightful site which promises to provide even better

facilities in the future.

Margaret Warrack

Tue 23 to Mon 29 April

Aldeburgh

The rally opened with the usual welcome of hot drinks

and cakes followed by the evening get together of Soup

and Christmas Pud! and a hilarious rehearsal of 'St.

George and the Dragon' - later to be performed at

Saxmundham Rotary Club dinner.

Wednesday saw 'Summer' visit us for our walk with Rob

Geator around Minsmeer reserve followed by lunch at he

Twelve Churches Restaurant and a visit to Rob's Nursery.

Thursday the sun shone again. Golfers played, the Red

Team walked and many local sights and hostelries were

enjoyed. The day ended with dinner at Saxmundham

where our Rotary 'Mummers' entertainment of 'St

George' was performed and much appreciated.......they

did think they might upgrade to Broadway......still

wondering when they will get paid!

Friday the sun still shone but with a bitter cold wind and

once again to the village hall for a welcome hot Fish and

Chip Supper and an interesting talk by Toni Watkins-

Burton on an 'Unusual Journey'.

Saturday saw us being served a delicious supper by the

'Staff' followed by entertainment by the 'Two Ronnies'

aka Bob W. and Ted W. with a 'Truth and Myths' team

game by John W. Weird facts were the answers.

The final night saw us enjoying dinner at the local Golf

Club - thank yous and goodbyes were said.

So thank you Peter. Super King Entertaining Royal

Rollicking Aldeburgh Theatre Troup---not to forget the

suffering STAFF, Sylvia, Paula and the poor butcher of

Catford!

Jenny Rice

Thu 9 to Tue 14 May

Discover Bridlington

After setting up the marquee in the Paddock area of

Thorpe Hall Caravan Site, Rudston on the Wednesday

evening with Rally Marshalls Tony Wakefield, Dave

Smith, their wife’s and friends the rally was all set to get

under way on Thursday 9th May

Rally Reports 2013




Day 1 of the rally saw all the fellow Rotarians and their

units arrive in good if gusty weather. A cheese and wine

evening followed giving us a foretaste of the days to

come.

Day 2 saw us all assemble outside the Harbourmasters

office for a walk around the harbour, followed by a most

informative talk about the history of Bridlington Harbour.

His knowledge of the harbour and its histories was very

interesting and enjoyable.

That evening saw the Rotarians enjoying Hospitality

welcoming each other into their caravans. Enjoying good

company whilst learning a few things about each other.

Some were later to bed than others!

On the 3rd day we were all invited to Rudston Village Hall

for a Supper and Film Quiz. Tony, David and their wives

Elizabeth and Maureen really did us proud at this event.

The hall was made to look as if we were entering a

cinema and we were greeted at the door by the cinema

Manager (David), the Projectionist (Tony) and two

usherette’s (Elizabeth & Maureen) who showed us to our

seats. A competitive evening with food and good

company.

Day 4. We visited Burton Agnes Hall for a Guided Tour of

the hall with access to the beautiful grounds and a classic

car rally that was also being held there. The evening saw

us sharing each other’s company at a friendly BBQ and

competitive games of Mexican Trains!

Day 5. That evening our final rally meal was held at the

Bridlington Links Golf Course a great place to close the

rally. The final presentation of the rally was the Oscars,

when a statue was awarded to the Film Quiz winning

team led by Rtn. Peter Skerratt.

Well done to our Rally Marshals and see you next year.

Peter Pimperton

Fri 10 to Thu 16 May

Usk Valley pre AGM

As in previous years the pre AGM rally was held at the

excellent Pont Kemys Caravan site on the banks of the

River Usk between the towns of Usk and Abergavenny.

Arrivals day for the 18 units was Friday and in the

evening following a welcome from Rally Marshals Gerard

and Christine Turley, the fish and chip supper arrived, a

bit too chilly to eat outside so small groups set

themselves up in various awnings.

Saturday was a free day to explore this beautiful corner

of Wales and the traditional caravan "hostilities" were

enjoyed in the evening.

On Sunday following the commendably short District

1150 AGM there was a carvery lunch at the nearby Alice

Springs Golf Club.

Monday afternoon saw us at the Penderyn Whiskey

Distillery where we enjoyed a witty and informative tour

from guide Alan with an opportunity to smell and taste

the product during its various stages from malted barley

to fine single malt whiskey.

The quality of the product was a revelation with most

ralliers taking the opportunity to purchase a bottle or

two. Any light headiness from the tasting was soon put

to rights by an appetising welsh cream tea at the nearby

Ty Newydd Hotel before driving back to the site.

Tuesday was the day of the torrential rainstorm, several

braved the delights of Abergavenny Market but

unfortunately the planned evening barbecue was never

going to be an option.

Thankfully Wednesday dawned bright and sunny and

many enjoyed a good day out. In the evening we

returned to Alice Springs for the farewell dinner with

prize giving for the quizzes organised by Dot Edwards.

On Thursday morning the rally finished with many units

travelling on to the AGM at Chester.

Martyn Griffiths

Rally Reports continued




Thu 16 to Tue 21 May

AGM Chester Racecourse

I have only been to a horse race meeting once. That race

was a ‘point to point’ way up in the hills above the

market town of Hexham in Northumberland. I chose a

grey horse so that I could see it all the way round.

The chosen venue for the ICFR AGM rally was Chester

Racecourse and I have rarely been to a better place.

Opulence is probably an apt description.

We had the run of the premises and eighty nine vans

were carefully and spaciously parked inside the race

track adjacent to the course buildings and the lovely

gardens where the horses parade and race goers watch

and relax. I know that Duncan and Ivy Dearden wanted

a venue which would make an impact and this was it.

Well done!

Organising this AGM was complex and lengthy, ranging

from sorting field electrics for everyone and financial

negotiations with the racecourse owners. None of these

without problems but all eventually concluded

satisfactorily. We were parked on the field which had

been the Roman port for Chester so all fingers were

crossed for a “dry” period.

The AGM itself was well organised and positive with the

perennial problem of membership numbers being the

only downside to a series of heartening and well

delivered reports. Us Northerners in a Northern venue

might have had some difficulty with the cockney/

Tottenham dialect but well done President Peter.

Members were also

delighted to see Past

P r e s i d e n t P e t e r

Jefferies at the meeting

and a warm welcome

was extended to him

by everyone in the hall.

We all enjoyed the

environs of Chester

which is rich in history

and deserves a visit of

more than a few days.

My highlights were the

canal cruise with a

meal, and the bustling

centre of the town only 500 metres away. The

organisation was completed with meals in the complex.

Once again the planning was perfect with good food and

excellent entertainment provided by David Mitchell the

Town Crier for the City of Chester who is a past National

Champion Town Crier, and Celtic Clare a lovely singer

and Irish dancer who exposed parts of President Peter

that he didn’t know existed and certainly couldn’t touch!

There was also David Morris who is currently the World

Champion Whistler with extraordinary talent who amazed

and surprised us all.

Songs of Praise on Sunday morning consisted of personal

choices by members which were enjoyed and sung with

great enthusiasm and vigour to the music of Wrexham

Citadel Salvation Army Band

The rally was a tribute to Duncan and Ivy and all the

team, and a few days of fellowship and friendship with

like-minded people never to be forgotten. The AGM of

our organisation deserves to be well attended and it was.

We were reminded that there are still spaces on some

rallies and that all future activity and membership is

dependent on support and enthusiasm.

It was all bright and happy with absolutely no grey.

Alex Swailes





Photos from Chester AGM by Colin BradfordPhotos from Chester AGM by Colin Bradford




Wed 22 to Mon 27 May

Gelderwood

Gelderwood Country Park Site was an ideal location for

the treats our Rally Marshals, Tom & Denise Hobson and

Duncan & Ivy Dearden had arranged for us.

Day one saw us all arrive to a true Rotarian Fellowship

welcome and a much needed cup of coffee. An informal

meeting in the gazebo in the evening informed us of the

forthcoming events.

Day two saw us have an excellent evening of fellowship

when we visited the Chadderton Failsworth RC and their

guest speaker a local Magistrates Clerk. The Crompton &

Royton Golf Club is an excellent setting with a delightful

meal provided. This was Duncan’s home Rotary Club.

Day three was to be a great day of music attending the

Whit Friday Marches. The morning saw many of us attend

Uppermill to see the “Walk of Witness” procession in

awful weather. Lunch at “The Kingfisher” proved to be a

warming retreat and a great meal. Although the weather

managed to stay dry the marching bands contest began

in earnest at all the local villages. Angela and I

personally attended 4 venues, Lydgate, Upper Mossely,

Uppermill and Delph before returning to the warmth of

our van at about 11.30pm. If you have never been to the

Whit Friday Marches can I suggest you put it in your

calendar as it is truly an unforgettable experience?

Day three saw evening hospitality in fellow Rotarians’

vans with a late night for a few?

Day four was once again a free day with a chance to

catch up with friends locally. In the evening we all met in

a local hall for a delicious Meat & Potato Pie followed by a

10 piece brass band made up of some of Tom’s friends

from Whitworth Vale and Healy Band who at certain

points during their entertainment reverted to “Dicky

Milton and the Heidelbergers” when playing their

Oompah Music?

Leaving on Bank Holiday Monday was once again a

wrench but hopefully see you all at future rallies.

Peter Pimperton

Thu 30 May to Tue 4 June

Gainsborough's Elegance

Gwyn and Eileen Weallans were the excellent rally

marshals and they would have been assisted by Peter

and Sylvia Skerratt but unfortunately Peter lost a couple

of nuts and was unable to join us. We would all like to

take the opportunity of wishing Peter a full recovery (of

the caravan of course). Being mostly British the calamity

at the loss of Peter and Sylvia brought out the best and

Mike and Barbara Sagon stepped in to the breach ( they

carry a torque wrench and always check their nuts before

moving off ).

Never having personally checked my nuts I was grateful

to Gwyn showing me how to tighten them up. I can now

say that despite grey hair and trouble getting up

sometimes, all my nuts are fully operational. Pat, my

wife, is delighted to know my nuts are all ok now.

We had good weather and some sunshine and even had

a first time rally family. Paul King, Sarajane Edwards and

the children Billie, Tori, Jamie and Lucy. They were of

course presented with the coveted first time rally badge

by Gwyn.

The evenings included a welcome supper, some fantastic

fish and ships, an American bring a plate of food and





hope it all goes together, a DIY BBQ and of course a

farewell meal at the George in Cavendish a local pub of

repute. Peter and Sylvia also joined us. It was great to

see our President and his wife who drove without the

caravan just to spend the afternoon and evening with us

Clearly Gwyn and Eileen put a lot into the organisation,

and on behalf of the seven other vans that joined in, our

grateful thanks.

So for all ICFR members remember to check your nuts

before moving your caravan.

Bruce Wallace

Fri 31 May to Mon 3 June

Derbyshire Dales

The rally opened with a briefing in the lovely setting of

the Bakewell Camping and Caravanning Club campsite at

Youlgrave with 16 ICFR members attending. This was

followed in the evening with dinner at the Lathkil hotel in

Over Haddon; the view over the fields and dales was

spectacular, the food was good, and it was a pleasant

evening getting to know our fellow campers.

Saturday 1st. We woke up to sunshine though the air

was rather cool. After coffee, a group of us set off on a

delightful walk to Middleton village to view the ‘well

dressing’. This was done very artistically using various

coloured flower petals pressed into clay depicting a

country or religious theme. The walk back down Bradford

Dale was extremely pretty with new spring leaves on the

trees and the trout jumping in the river. We even found a

geocache as one of the group is a geocacher.

In the evening we had a wonderful concert and barn

dance at the village hall. The hall was packed as we were

joined by a big contingent from the Matlock Rotary Club.

It was a fun evening with tasty pies and peas and a full

bar. Keith Kendrick and Sylvia Needham entertained us

with traditional Derbyshire songs. The excellent caller

(Ian Carter) led the barn dancing and had most of us up

and dancing enthusiastically.

Sunday 2nd. was another fine day. After morning coffee

two groups of hikers set off, some for a short walk, the

more energetic of us for a longer walk through stunning

scenery getting back to camp mid-afternoon for a well-

earned rest in the sunshine. We had a final, farewell BBQ

and a communal supper in a large tent. This was a

superb ending to a splendid rally, as we were all off back

home in the morning. The only mystery is why there

were so few people at an interesting, varied and well-

organised rally. Thank you very much Anthony and

Joanna Johnson and Tony and Sandra Forsyth.

Ralph and Valja Roseman

Fri 31 May onwards

RI Convention in Lisbon

We left a pleasantly sunny UK on 31 May for a brisk four

day ride through France via Bordeaux and into Northern

Spain. The plan was to head for Santiago de Compostela

visiting towns along the coast as we went, and then on

into Portugal. San Sebastian was lovely, a great

sweeping bay of sandy beach, and a pleasant town, but

the plan changed when storms literally blew us south via

Salamanca to arrive in Portugal somewhat further south

than we had planned.

We arrived in Lisbon in blistering heat. The Municipal

Campsite in Lisbon was surprisingly good and well

situated with local bus services and an RI service to the

convention centre.

After a day of sightseeing in the attractive city we joined

300 RIBI colleagues for a very tasty lunchtime boat

cruise on the River Tejo organised by RIBI President John

Minhinick.

The opening plenary session featured a welcome from RI

President Sakuji Tanaka of Yashio, Japan. He explained





that his motto for the year had been ‘Peace Through

Service’ because of his experiences during the war as a

child in Japan. There was a very impressive flag

ceremony which ended with all the flags being raised to

an elevated position. The session concluded with

entertainment by none less than Il Divo.

The House of Friendship occupied two massive halls and

really demonstrated

what Rotary is all

a b o u t w i t h a n

exhaustive number of

excellent projects on

display. A beautiful

archway of flowers

made a spectacular

entrance way and

p e o p l e w e r e

encouraged to use it as

a backdrop for photos.

We listened to some

v e r y e l o q u e n t

presentations including a Nobel Peace Laureate and an

African Child Soldier, turned Peace Campaigner. In the

former Bull Ring we were treated to a ‘very Portugese

entertainment’, Fado music. This comprised a female

singer and three male guitarists performing what can

only be described as intense, sad songs. Interesting!

Understanding the words might have assisted the

comprehension more.

We weren't the only ICFR members who attended the

Convention. Rodney & Pam Spokes and Stewart & Eileen

Gilbert stayed on the same site as ourselves in Lisbon.

Stewart, who is a Rotary Public Image Coordinator, was a

moderator at a session on Thanks for Life—End Polio

Now. Ivan & Barbara Palmer stayed at Cascais (north of

Lisbon) with Eddie & Ishbel Gordon. Maddy also bumped

into Norman & Margaret Andrews at one of the events.

All too soon the Convention ended with the Lisbon Peace

Declaration and the introduction of the RI President-

Elect, Ron Burton of Alberta, Canada. We were then

treated to an excellent concert featuring the tenor

Fernando Varela (no, we hadn’t heard of him previously,

but he sang Nissen Dorma and Bohemian Rhapsody with

equal aplomb!) and Kiwi Hayley Westenra.

After eight days we left Lisbon and over a period of three

weeks made our leisurely way home via Spain and

France. Seven weeks, three thousand three hundred

miles and thirty-two campsites, and of course a lot of fun

and great memories.

Geoff & Maddy Bell

Tue 4 to Sun 9 June

Steeple

A second visit to this pristine farm gave us 5 days of

continuous sunshine with lots of fun and fellowship.

Newlands Farm is owned by Michael Pudney, a member

of the Rotary Club of Burnham on Crouch, who also

belongs to the International Fellowship of Flying

Rotarians and flew into the farm in his own plane.

We were warmly welcomed by Christine and Roger and

their Assistant David Shea who prepared an excellent

welcoming buffet, eaten watching a stunning sunset and

hares running across the beautifully mown field!

At our Fish and Chip supper and Race Night we welcomed

three members from the Burnham Rotary Club and

President Peter and Sylvia. The races were great fun with

human ‘jockeys’ winding in wooden horse heads, the

fastest jockey was Barbara Roberts! The ‘Tote’ was ably

run by John Allen and Roger who printed their own

‘money’!!

Roger arranged for a group to visit Stow Maries, a WW1

airfield in a time warp. Four ladies visited the smallest

church in the UK, St Peters on the Wall for a midweek

service in this small but beautiful and peaceful chapel

built from remains of a Roman fort by St Cedd in 654AD.

We enjoyed two rounds of hospitality on Thursday Then

on Friday morning we had Archery tuition from David and

his daughter Jo, an Archery coach, before a competition

that was won by Roger, a very consistent archer!

At the joint BBQ we were joined by the President of the

Burnham Club and his wife, Vera who are also members

of IFFR and John and Margaret who are members of the

International Yachting Fellowship. President Steve said

over coffee “This is what Rotary is all about”

For our farewell evening we were joined by Peter and

Sylvia and our hosts Michael and Jane for an excellent

dinner followed by a ‘Shea’ quiz!!

Well done to the Steeple team.

Fran Allen





Wed 5 to Thu 20 June

The Ardeche to the Tarn

After a long cold winter followed by a wet spring in the

UK, we were all looking forward to some warmth and

sunshine. Even our journey through France proved to be

rather damp and cold. The itinerary consisted of three

carefully selected sites each with its swimming pool. But

when we eventually found (don’t ask!), the first site in

Chauzon in deepest Ardeche, the weather had markedly

improved. On our first night we had a welcome buffet

supper with drinks. It was great to relax in pleasant

company (well, the wine did flow). The rally followed the

familiar Terry Cooke format with hospitality syndicates

(five in all), English breakfast with bubbly, continental

breakfast, many BBQ’s and fellowship of some kind every

night. There was also plenty of opportunity to soak up

the sun by the pool. The Ardeche region is famed for its

river, and shooting its rapids in canoes being a very

popular act ivity. One

enterprising rallier had

even brought his blow-

up canoe. Others

chose to explore the

area on dry land. The

Pont D’Arc (pictured)

and the Gorge de

Ardeche itself were

gorgeous(!) highlights.

Our stay at Chauzon concluded with the site owner

arranging an impromptu canapés and drinks farewell do.

Most enjoyable it proved to be, chiefly because the drink

was a potent cocktail of wine and a liqueur made from

sweet chestnuts. The final excitement of our stay at this

site was on our day of departure, when no less a person

than the rally marshal found himself literally bogged

down. Kindly moles had chosen to do some excavation

right under Terry’s van which caused the nearside wheel

to sink up to its axle. Further frantic digging was

involved, this time by humans and, with the aid of Don

Howard’s tow car, the van was finally released. One

rallier was heard to mutter ….‘making mountains out of

molehills’!

Derrick Sanders helping Terry and Carole out of the mole hole

The next site was at Le Val del ‘Arre in the Cevennes. Yet

more interesting and picturesque scenery. Another family

run site which made us very welcome. We were within a

good bike ride from the charming town of Le Vigan. Most

of us took the opportunity to explore this unspoilt and

beautiful area, one of the highlights of which was a drive

to a natural phenomenon called the Cirque de Navacelles,

which was created 1000s of years ago by the erosion of

the Vis river.

At this site, the boules tournament started in earnest and

the French themselves could have picked up a tip or two.

The winners were David Mack and Sheila Sanders.

Fellowship was much in evidence and our final night

supper at this site was our first excuse to celebrate a

birthday, that of David Pilgrim. Not only did the wine flow

but we finished the evening with a glass of bubbly. You

could say that this was in aid of Pilgrim’s Progress!

Our final site was at Millau, in the Gorge du Tarn. Nearby

is the world famous Millau Viaduct which spans the river

Tarn. It is the tallest bridge in the world, with the highest

point being 343 metres above the base. Designed by

Norman Foster, it is a truly impressive engineering

achievement. There was a very instructive visitor centre

sited at the base of the tallest column.

Millau Bridge photo by Don Howard

Also nearby was the centre for producing Roquefort

cheese, which many of us chose to visit. This is a unique

but understandably expensive cheese, quite delicious and

produced exclusively within naturally formed caves.

Roquefort Cheeses being matured photo by Don Howard

Birthdays were now coming thick and fast - two in a day

– Terry Cooke himself and Jane Mack, and this was

celebrated with a roast poulet main course followed by

French Tarts (the edible kind) and bubbly again. The last

night was a meal taken in the site restaurant where we

all said our goodbyes.

A most enjoyable rally with good company in a

spectacularly beautiful and still unspoilt part of France.

Many thanks are due to Terry and Carole Cooke ably

assisted by Derrick (when he wasn’t paddling his own

canoe!) and Sheila Sanders.

David Mack





Thu 6 to Tue 11 June

Duke of Wellington

The weather matched the warm welcome we received

from first-time Rally Marshals Paul & Christine Brunsch

and Michael & Freda Parkinson, who put on brave faces

when illness reduced units attending from 12 to 8, of

whom 4 were headed (debatable perhaps!) by Past

District Governors.

The Minnows site is about a mile from J27 of M5 and is

beside the Grand Western Canal near Sampford Peverell,

easily walkable from the site.

The full programme was outlined with drinks after dinner

priming us for Friday free morning and then afternoon

visit to NT Knightshayes Court Victorian Gothic House

and beautiful Garden offering views of Tiverton and the

Exe Valley, concluded with a Devon Cream Tea. Evening

brought a self-catering dinner in the Party Tent.

Saturday highlight was a visit to Sheppys Cider Museum

near Taunton with tour and tasting putting us in the

mood for the evening West Country Skittles and meal at

the Globe Inn.

Sunday morning we travelled to the incredible privately

owned Bakelite Museum at Williton rekindling childhood

memories of everyday items. Lunched in nearby Dunster.

Ploughman's Supper in Party Tent.

Monday morning Brunch was superb preparing us for a

guided tour of Tiverton Museum including the John

Heathcoat patent lace-making machine and mid Devon

history.

Final Dinner was at the Globe Inn, where we thanked and

congratulated our four hosts for an excellent maiden

Rally and hoping for more in the future!

Graham Roberts

Thu 13 to Tue 18 June

Severnvale

This most enjoyable rally was held at the Apple Tree

Caravan Park, where we enjoyed glorious views over the

Cotswold Vale and escarpment. It was superbly

organised by four ICFR District 1100 members, Derek &

Gill Rogers (RM) and Mike & Nan Shillitoe (ARM).

The welcome evening on the Thursday gave us all the

opportunity to renew friendships and make new ones.

On the Friday evening an American Supper with

fellowship in the hospitality tent was much enjoyed by

all; the inclement weather caused the evening to be

curtailed slightly, but most of us got together in our vans

for informal hospitality; all was not lost!

Members enjoyed a variety of visits during the free days,

visiting the WWT at Slimbridge, Chedworth Roman Villa

and Stroud Farmers Market to name just a few. The

excellent shopping facilities at Cribb’s Causeway,

Gloucester and Cheltenham gave opportunities to flex the

plastic.

On Saturday evening we had Supper and a Band Concert

in the Whitminster Village Hall. The Chalford Silver Band

under the direction of Steve Tubbs gave a sterling

performance to suit all tastes; we were joined by Graham

Furley (whom everyone congratulated on his well

deserved award of the BEM), District 1100 members Don

& Enid Lewis, Gloria Gunn, Brian & Jeanie Lowden and

several Stonehouse Rotarians and

wives, The Band called for two

“volunteer” soloists from the

audience, Rtn. Lawrie Anderson

an Australian who is a member of

Stonehouse Rotary (Cymbals)

and yours truly who excelled on

the Trombone (this was my first

attempt at playing a Brass

instrument!) I read the music and

followed the band Trombonist.

Sunday was Father’s Day which

most celebrated. During the

afternoon we visited “The Hidden

Gardens of Frampton on Severn”,

an annual event organised by

Stonehouse Rotary. This was a

most enjoyable event and it is

pleasing that approximately £1000 was raised.





During the evening we gathered in the tent for“ Games,

Relax and Chat”.

The feature of Monday was the most interesting walk

around Painswick led by Rtn. and ICFR member Bernard

Pearce, who explained why only 99 Yew trees exist in the

churchyard, should be 105, and of “the Clyppings

Festival” where the church is encircled by flower

bedecked parishioners who are addressed by the Bishop

of Gloucester. The evening finished with skittles at the

Tudor Arms with an excellent supper and prize giving to.

Doreen, Young Ladies Skittles, Lawrie Anderson, Gents

Skittles, and the Quiz Winners Mavis and Arthur Marrow

Arthur Marrow

Mon 17 to Sat 22 June

Pen y Fan

Beautiful scenery, Welsh hospitality and sunshine made

this the perfect rally. Pen-y-Fan Caravan Park located

high between the valleys, with fantastic views, was

ideally positioned for walking and touring. Excellent

directions brought us to the site with Mike and Jan

Spencer welcoming us on arrival, although one of our

number did manage to take out the gate bollard! With

ten units the twenty of us fitted perfectly into Richie and

Carole’s awning for the welcome get-together which was

billed as a light buffet but was anything but light. Soon

the drink and the conversation were flowing and the

scene was set for a great time. Sufficient free time had

been built into the programme which allowed for trips

into Cardiff with the new Cardiff Bay area and Big Pit,

one of many free museums in Wales. Here we were able

to descend 450 feet on a guided tour conducted by ex-

miners. Ralliers also visited local castles and walked in

the Brecons. Tuesday evening was Safari Hospitality and

members scurried furtively between vans seeking drinks

and nibbles making new, and catching up with old,

friends. Wednesday we all visited the “Guardian” a

spectacular and emotional monument equivalent to the

Angel of the North commemorating the Six Bells tragedy

and miners lost everywhere.

The more energetic of our number tried their hand at

Nordic walking; very impressive. The social evening in

the club house was an excellent meal and talk by local

Heritage Officer and TV personality Frank Oldring

covering 6000BC to 1066. We managed the BBQ but

again retreated to Richie’s awning where there seemed a

never ending supply of sausages. The farewell Dinner

came all too soon with thanks to our Rally Marshals from

President Peter on behalf of all of us.

Ray and Jenny Dixon

Thu 20 June to Wed 10 July

La Belle France

After several days of leisurely travel through northern

France, Anne and I were very pleased to arrive at

Chateau Martragny, near Bayeux, for the first leg of La

Belle France rally, organised by the Warracks and the

Carys. We were to be here for ten days, followed by a

further ten days at La Pointe near Chateaulin in Brittany.

Fifteen caravans were warmly welcomed by the leaders

who helped to make us comfortable under the trees on

both sides of the quiet private approach to the Chateau.

It was a pleasure to see many friends both old and new,

at the coffee welcome followed later by a mini tour of this

lovely Chateau, conducted in English by the current

owner. There followed superb cuisine in the Chateau

when we all got to know each other as the wine flowed!

We were sorry to hear that the Wolfenden’s car had to be

taken away for repair, after a serious malfunction of the

engine. It was away for five days!

The following day was a ‘settle in’ day followed by BBQ in

the evening.

On Saturday we all drove to a local Calvados producer,

where we had a lovely tour and taste. The rally was very

quiet in the afternoon. Much snoring was heard!

Sunday our hosts provided an English Cream Tea. It was

great to be reminded of this English tradition. Monday we

all took our cars to visit the infamous Pegasus Bridge and

museum. There was not much chatter, as we reminded

ourselves of the bravery of our predecessors…very

emotional! (Continued on page 27)





I C F R A Rotary Fellowship recognised by Rotary International

Founded in 1967 by Robert Sutcliffe

All members are invited to attend the

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

at Banham on Saturday 17th May 2014 at 10.30 am Within this leaflet are:

1. The agenda for the AGM at Banham (The conduct of the AGM shall be in accordance with Rule 4 of ICFR’s Rules & Regulations)

2. A summary of the Minutes from the previous AGM at Chester

NB Postal Voting is available to Full and Life Members for any changes to the Constitution and for the election of Officers and Executive should this be necessary. If Postal Voting becomes necessary your District Secretary will advise.

AGENDA

1. In Memoriam

2. Apologies for absence

3. Report from the Rally Marshal

4. Approval of Minutes from previous AGM

5. Matters arising from Minutes of previous AGM

6. Notice of any other business

7. Appointment of tellers, if necessary, for Election of Officers, Executive Members or proposed changes to the Constitution

8. Election of Officers and Members of the Executive Committee, if necessary

9. Reports from: a) President

b) Vice President c) Secretary including i) Reports from the preceding Executive Meeting ii) Constitutional Amendments - if any and

appropriate voting iii) Advise meeting of any changes to the Rules

iv) Reports from District Committees

v) ACCEO vi) Any other pertinent notes and general report d) Treasurer, including i) 2013 Accounts for approval and acceptance

ii) Recommend the subscription for 2015 iii) Ask Meeting to recommend and approve auditor

for 2015 e) Membership Secretary f) Editor g) International Liaison Officer h) Programme Secretary, including:

i) Future programme ii) RI, RIBI, ICFR AGM and Fellowship Rallies j) Equipment & Sales Executive

K) IT Secretary

10. Announcement of Officers and Executive elected for 2015 (if there has been an election)

11. Any other business as notified earlier

12. Vote of thanks by the Immediate Past President

13. Date, time and place of next AGM and Fellowship Meeting

Present: President Peter Skerratt and about 170 members.

In Memoriam: Members remembered the 17 members known to have

passed away since the last Autumn Fellowship.

Apologies: Were received from 26 members.

Report from the Rally Marshal: Duncan Dearden reported there were

85 vans and 170 on the rally. There were no first time ralliers.

Minutes of the 2012 AGM at Newark: These were approved and signed.

Matters Arising: None.

Notice of Any Other Business: None notified.

Appointment of Tellers: Four tellers were appointed for the proposed

Constitutional amendment.

REPORTS FROM THE OFFICERS

President Peter Skerratt. May I welcome you all to the meeting. 2012

was a good year for rallies, albeit the weather and the wet conditions made it quite challenging, especially for Rally Marshals. The theme

continues of members having fun and on-going fellowship. You will hear

from Gwyn how numbers have changed but I would remind all members

that we must take the lead by informing clubs we visit, about ICFR.

Thanks should go to those members who have actively promoted us by

taking a table or stand at Conferences with our most recent being the RIBI

Conference at Harrogate.

My thanks go to all the Officers for their support and advice and to the

members of the Executive Committee for giving their time to play a part in the necessary administration of ICFR.

Vice President Gerard Turley. These days there are not many people

who can claim to have been given a job by Elvis. But there I was in a large

tent at Bath Marina in the early moments of 2013 and Elvis was coming

towards me brandishing my badge of office, and I was trying to look like a

playing card (not easy, as few would describe me as thin.) Mind you Elvis himself had been anointed President only a minute earlier by a Pearly

King. Who says ICFR does not have a sense of humour.

Rallies for 2015/2016 The first challenge was handed to me very early in

the New Year by an apologetic Phil Cary. He felt that the New Year Rallies

in Bath, may have passed their sell-by date, he and David felt it was time

to give someone else a chance to organise New Year for the handover.

Therefore, it would be useful to hear member's thoughts, advice and offers on this. Given our timetable this will need finalising by the end of August

this year!

I have started asking Districts to host the major rallies during 2015-16 and

have had a good response. Possibly South Wales for the AF 2015 and

Dorset for the AF 2016, so probably the North and East should feature as

areas for the AGMs

Attendance at Rallies It has been disappointing to hear that the

attendance at rallies this year is lower. The Usk Rally has had a poorer

show than previously and as far as have all of the three South Wales.

The Derbyshire Dales and Middle England Golf have been "Cancelled due to lack of bookings". It seems a shame that rallies should be cancelled for

this reason, as smaller rallies are particularly friendly. We need to

encourage attendance at rallies and discourage cancellation?

Revitalising the membership District Officers and Committees have a

particularly important role in publicising ICFR around their districts and it

is encouraging that so many are now attending District Conferences to

spread the word. Many thanks to Eric Matkins & Maureen Morrison for their

often unsung role in leading this effort. I would like to be involved helping

Districts with this vital task, and in encouraging the dormant members of ICFR to become involved, and will be in touch to see what more I, and

they can do. I have decided to impose a talk on fellowships on my own

club. Clearly ICFR will feature heavily! Once I have experimented on them

I will be looking to reprise it in other clubs in the District. There is a

surprising and disappointing, amount of ignorance about Fellowships and

particularly 'Rotary's best kept secret', ICFR.

Secretary Derrick Sanders. Report from yesterday’s Executive Meeting

a) Agreed that refunds for those unable to attend rallies following their

cheques being presented would be a matter for the Rally Marshal but once

the cheque is paid in and expenses necessarily incurred, those costs can

be legitimately deducted from the funds to be returned. (Rally Marshal’s

Extract of the Minutes of the AGM at Chester on Saturday 18th May 2013




Guidelines to be updated to include this confirmation.)

(b) Once again the question of when rallies could be booked was discussed. It was agreed that News & Views would be with members by

1st December and our website was likely to have booking forms for many

rallies so members could book from then.

Constitution Amendments In accordance with Constitution 19(a) a

proposed change to the Constitution had been signed by 10 members of

District 1070 and received by 31 October 2012. A proposed amendment

had been received, as required, by 1 May and the proposed amendment

was accepted by yesterday’s Executive Meeting to be put to this meeting.

President Peter then presided over the process. In the absence of anyone from D1070 being available, Past President John Warrack presented the

amended proposal that “Any member of the Executive Committee who

fails to attend two (2) meeting during their three (3) year term, other

than through RI, RIBI business or illness, will be deemed to have

resigned from the committee.” Following a brief discussion voting by a

show of hands from members was recorded by the tellers as 68 for, 55

against & 4 abstentions. The proposal was defeated as there was less

than the requisite 2/3rds of members in favour’ as required in

Constitution 21 (b).

Trustees Our trustees for 2013 are President Peter Skerratt, Treasurer David Cooper, Programme Secretary Tim Hadrill and Secretary Derrick

Sanders.

ACCEO Our membership of ACCEO continues

District Reports Once again can I thank District Secretaries for letting me

have copies of the minutes from their meetings.

Nominations for Officers I have received nominations for those Officer’s

posts becoming vacant in 2014 and they will be announced later.

Nominations for the posts of Vice President, Secretary and Membership

Secretary and three elected members of the Executive Committee starting on 1st January 2015, need to be with me by 31st October this

year. If you hear that someone has been nominated for a position it

doesn’t mean you can’t apply.

Treasurer David Cooper. The accounts for 2012 have now been audited

and are enclosed with this edition of News and Views. Once again, with

care, we have a surplus, slightly smaller than 2011. The operational

surplus was £67 and after the net increase in the Party Tent fund and the

Bank interest of £124, leaving a net surplus of £485.

We have over 600 family members, some of our retired members still

give a donation to receive copies of News and Views.

On the expenditure side, the Summer and Winter editions of News and

Views cost the same as in 2011. The Printer of the Directories changed in

2012, with a saving of £400. Most of the other items remained almost the

same, with the exception of postage, for News and Views. Soon some will

be sent electronically, which will reduce the postage costs.

Copies of 1) How Subscription Spent; 2) 2012 Balance Sheet; 3)2012 Income & Expenditure; 4) Party Tent Funds; 5) Profit & Loss on

Merchandizing and 6) Summary of 2012 Rallies had been circulated to the

meeting.

Approval of the 2012 Accounts was Proposed by Duncan Dearden and

Seconded by Ted Walmsley.

Approval that Subscription remains at £10 was Proposed by Geoff Bell

and Seconded by Eric Matkins

Approval of the Audited Accounts was Proposed by Roger Restell and

Seconded by Peter Jennings.

Membership Secretary Gwyn Weallans. Membership now stands at

1,027 which is 138 less than I reported at the last Autumn Fellowship, 58

of which are due to non payment of annual subscriptions, others have

been members decisions to withdraw from caravanning. We have had 24

new members this year which is down on last years as well. There are a

lot of Rotarians out there with Caravans or Motor Homes that do not

know of ICFR, so I urge you all to talk to them and encourage them to join.

There are still a lot of changes in addresses, telephone numbers and e-

mail addresses that are only found out by accident, Please let me know so

that we may keep the directory up to date and keep you informed of any

changes or programme matters in ICFR. Some wives have been asking if

I can include them on the circulation list for the messages, as they

believe us men just do not pass on the information! Well if you want to be

included please let me know by e-mail what address you would like the

messages sent to and I will add them to the circulation lists. But Ladies please remember to let me know when you change them.

Editor Gerard Turley. Since my report at the Autumn Fellowship, two

editions of News and Views have been produced, circulated and offered

members the opportunity to have a paper copy rather than the default

electronic copy, as agreed at the last AGM. 215 members have opted to

continue to have a paper copy. This means that just less than 400 have not. In the mailing in December 2012 all members received a reply card.

In the May 2013 mailing those members who have asked for paper have

received an acknowledgement, those who have not have received another

reply card. The Executive Committee has approved that the full transition

will be completed during 2014.

Contributions from members are a little spasmodic. For December, where

I was short of space, lots of contributions arrived. This last edition where

there was space very few arrived. Please try and keep your contributions

coming, it’s your magazine to allow you to contribute to ICFR.

As the treasurer has noted in his report, the Christmas Greetings were particularly popular last year. Possibly another effect of the increase in

postal costs. I always struggle with adverts in News and Views, and I am

not really keen, or a good salesman, but they are a means to an end and

I believe that Christmas Greeting are much more in keeping with the

ethos of our fellowship.

International Liaison Officer John Lomax. RI Convention Sydney

2014 If anyone was thinking of attending the 2014 RI Convention in Sydney as the RVF of Australia was considering a Muster for the occasion.

Two or three couples from ICFR expressed interest but we await details.

The original proposal came from the RV Fellowship of North America but

this has now been taken over by the RVF of Australia. The Muster, which

will start in Sydney on 28thMay continues on to the Convention and then

carries on for about another three weeks. The organiser is looking for

feedback from interested travellers before finalising the programme.

Anyone considering the Muster should contact John Spath

([email protected]) Still in Australia information has been received from the Secretary of the Rotary e-Club of NextGen about its 2014

Australian Red Centre Safari. This is a 9,000 kilometre journey through

the remote South Australia; the Northern Territory, outback Queensland

and parts of New South Wales. Full details from

www.rotaryeclubnextgen.org.

Are e-Clubs becoming more popular? David Werrett, the only ICFR

member in Canada has notified me that he has transferred to the Rotary

E-Club of Canada One. His new Club is the first in Canada and the newest

of almost 100 E-Clubs scattered around the world. David invites ICFR

members to have a look at www.rotaryeclubcanada.ca and possibly "do a meeting" and receive a makeup credit for meeting attendance.

Newsletters from New Zealand, Australia and North America are

reproduced on the ICFR website. The latest versions are: New Zealand -

Wentworth Valley/Waihi Beach, January/February 2013; Australia RVF -

The Overlander 64, December 2012/February 2013; North America RVF -

The Caravanner, January 2013. Anyone without access to a computer

wishing to see any of these newsletters should contact the ILO who will

be pleased to provide hard copies.

Programme Secretary Tim Hadrill. At this stage we are hearing that

several rallies are down on bookings. Is this just the foul weather

preventing us from putting pen to paper and so causing rally marshals

anguish? I hope that this is the only reason.

At the Autumn Fellowship last year, there were only 22 rallies notified to

me. In the next six weeks another 16 came in. Brilliant and may thanks

to those rally marshals. However it would have been good for their details have been available for the Autumn Fellowship, to increase the

anticipation of those there as well as giving early promotion to these

rallies. For those looking to take the time and trouble to organize a rally

in 2014, I suggest getting details to me before the Autumn Fellowship will

be helpful to both of us as well as to the members.

Equipment & Sales Maureen Morrison Maureen had expressed her concern

over the amount of stock held at yesterday’s Executive Meeting. It was

then agreed there should be an immediate ‘Sale’ at the AGM with ties at

£5 so as to clear the stock as soon as possible. A few ties would be held

back against future possible need. New hats at £10 and golf towels at £7.50 were for sale after the meeting.

IT Secretary David Shaw. My main task is keeping the web site up to

date, this involves quite a lot of work at the beginning of the year when

the new rally programme is launched. After that mammoth task the main

function is to update the news letters from our international sister

organisations. I have tweaked the presentation of the site a little and removed many outdated rally pictures. I add new pictures to the site as

they are sent after rallies or events. This year I’ve added three new

pages, one special page for the AGM and a page which I called Splash

and Dash, this page is intended to emulate a foreign sites directory which

was published by ICFR a few years ago. I don't know if members use it

and only one member has responded to my request for suggested

convenient site for brief stops while travelling across France and Spain.

The third page is the News and views page where members can download

current and past editions of our newsletter.

Announcement of Officers & Executive for 2014. President Peter

announced that under the Constitution Rule 10 all Officers (except IPP)

are required to be elected annually, at the AGM. The Hon Secretary has

received completed nomination forms for these officers as follows:-

President - Peter Skerratt: Vice President - Gerard Turley : Secretary -

Derrick Sanders: Treasurer - Paul Quinlan: Programme Secretary - Terry

Cooke : Editor - John Hackney: Membership Secretary - Gwyn Weallans & International Liaison Officer - Bob Wright

Executive Committee for 2014. Philip Cary, Ted Walmsley, Brian Key,

John Stone, Geoff Fewings & Richard Swainston.

Any Other Business. None.

Vote of Thanks. Immediate Past President Don Howard said many

congratulations and best wishes to President Peter who was enthroned

and crowned "King" at a super change over at the Bath New Year Rally.

Best wishes also to all his team for the next two years with a warm

welcome to Brian Key in his first year on the executive.

Next a very huge thank you to all the Officers and committee members

who supported me in my two years as your President, not forgetting all

the rally marshals with a special thanks to those organizing my four

major rallies. Last but not least, thank you to all the membership who gave Paula and I such great support. Before I conclude I must thank John

Rogers, Duncan Dearden and Michael Stolton who have left the

committee having served their time!!!

Having been President I am now fully aware of the hard work and

commitment made by the Executive and the District Committees on your

behalf so PLEASE do support them.

I look forward, with Paula, to being involved in the support of the

Executive and the promotion of ICFR in general.










You’ll Be Welcome at the 2014 AGM

15-20 May 2014 Applewood, Camping Park, Banham, Norwich, Norfolk

Applewood is 13-acres of multi-award winning touring caravan park adjacent to Banham Zoo and is ideally placed as a base to

explore the Norfolk and Suffolk countryside and coast. One day’s entrance fee gives unlimited access to the Zoo whilst on the

campsite. Applewood has 200 pitches with 190 on level grass and ten on hardstanding; 120 have 10A electric hook-ups (We have

reserved 80 of these for the ICFR Rally). The large central area has unmarked pitches for those who do not need electricity. Other

pitches surrounding this area are in small groups separated by neat laurel hedges. Just four minutes walk from the park is a small

supermarket, a pub/restaurant, a fish and chip shop and gift shops.

This is the first time we have tried Banham in Spring, when the weather in East Anglia is better and drier.

Norfolk and Suffolk offer a wide variety of places to visit, including stately homes, steam railways, gardens, nature reserves and, of

course, the Broads, which become packed with visitors during summer. Small towns with local food and craft shops are good for a

morning or afternoon of gentle pottering – and, on a fine day, seal-watching boat trips are a great way to get a new perspective on

the coast and its wildlife. Some of these are detailed below.

There may also be trips to Greene King Brewery in Bury St Edmunds and the St Georges Whisky Distillery at Roudham, Norfolk.

There are the main resorts of Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft and Southwold. Blakeney Point (nationaltrust.org.uk/blakeney) is a bird

sanctuary, and home to common and grey seals, Contact Temples (sealtrips.co.uk),

Autumn Fellowship Bridport from Thursday 18 September to Tuesday 23 September

As you would expect Peter Jennings and the team are well in hand to welcome us to Bridport

for AF2014. A provisional programme full of fun and fellowship is planned, with a hot meal

on the Thursday night, entertainment on the Friday night and that traditional ICFR mixer,

hospitality, on the Saturday night. The uplifting Sunday Service from the Salvation Army will

be followed in the evening by more entertainment. All too soon we will arrive at the Monday

Farewell Dinner which will again feature entertainment. There will be a Golf Competition, and

a walk led by John who led the successful walk three years ago. Also to reprise the success of

2011 another visit to Palmer’s Brewery. For the foodies there will be a visit to Ashley Chase

Cheese factory where you will be able to taste and buy the famous Dorset Blue Vinny Cheese.

Freshwater Beach is a great site as you will remember from 2011 and we are again in the

very capable hands of Mike Smith the manager. The team have even put in a request for the

exceptional weather that we had in 2011 - see you there

and at the 2014 AF

http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blakeney

http://www.sealtrips.co.uk/




On Tuesday a coach was hired and we were taken on a

day tour of the WW11 landing Beaches. Annie, our Guide

was superb. She answered all our questions with

consummate ease. She certainly knew her subject. I

don’t get emotional, but I admit that I was quite upset as

we visited the immaculately kept military cemeteries…

They were all so young!

On Wednesday, Douglas Vaughan celebrated his very

senior birthday and provided

champagne for all, and

received a cake, and card

signed by everyone.

Over the next few days, we

individually toured the area,

including a visit to see the

world famous Bayeaux

tapestry. On the final evening

we were pleased to be on site to hear some excellent

singing from the visiting Stoneygate Senior School choir

who were on a short tour from Leicester. Wonderful!

We then broke camp and travelled 223 miles to our next

stop at Camping La Pointe. At this very pretty site, by a

river and near the old market town of Chateaulin, we

were warmly greeted by the British owners Julie and

Marcus. Here, we found the ambience to be very, very

relaxing. On our first evening Margaret had prepared us

a lovely buffet supper – thank you! On other occasions

we had an American supper, a Pimms reception followed

by a group BBQ and locally cooked crepes.

Ralliers also enjoyed visiting the lovely towns and

villages and beautiful coastline in this region

Our final most enjoyable dinner was at Le Chrismas Hotel

in Chateaulin which is run by a local Rotarian. Two

members of the RC of Chateaulin called in to wish us

well, and John had the pleasure of exchanging banners

with them. Thanks for a great rally was given by Alan

Martin. Our ‘goodbyes’ were then said prior to next

morning’s departure.

Anne and I were so comfortable that we stayed for a

further few days.

In conclusion, may I thank John, Margaret, Phil and Ros

for a great rally. We all look forward to your next epic!

Same great weather please!

John Walgrove

'Getting Off' or Wagons Roll from Martragny to Chateaulin

7.05am and Vaughans are off - had Douglas taken Margaret by surprise! Hey! what about the bread you ordered?

7.30am and the Jennings are away - quickly followed by the Martins who should have known better - didn't the Jennings nearly lead them astray getting here.

Ralph is out and packing. 8.10am The Horlers make their exit - and they said not before

8.30 - well, the race is on! and Ralph is packing. 8.30am Wolfy looking for bread - "It's not 'til 9am John". ("Well

I didn't know") - of course he didn't - we've only been here 10 days.

The Rawlings & Walgroves showing movement - could there be another spurt to the gate?

8.35am and the Hatheralls are all showered and packed. No sign of Jeanne - is she in make-up?

8.45am and Stuart is around and around his van threatening to wind up the legs, Oh! but not yet. NOW LINDA ASKING FOR BREAD.

8.50 am Tim back with his toilette cassette - can't see them very well, David H. car blocking the view. Are they still here!?

Is Ralph turning his van, under instruction from Pat? Where's the bread? Where's the bread? 9.00am Hadrills, Walgroves & Leylands hitching up - It's neck &

neck. ......... 9.02am and the Shaws do a grand exit with their TWIN AXLE. 9.04am Ann & Anne, Shirley & Pat & Linda ambush Phil with the

bag of bread. (Scary having that many ladies descend on you early morning).

9.05am Ralph & Pat are off and Wolfy has turned his van. The Rawlings are Off. Well when did Cliff & Rosemary go? 9.09am Walgroves are off down the track. Oh! no they're not -

what's up - quick inspection and back in the car and away. (I'm missing Ralph already) 9.12am the Wolfendens leave with their bread for lunch and a

rejuvenated car. Shirley H out watching Tim do all the necessary.

9.15am Stuart Cox winding up his legs, again? Tim's moved 10 yards, then out for further inspection and

they're off. 9.20am Coxes back from last visit to the ablutions. Didn't know you could get so much in the back of a Volvo.

Well done Joan and Stuart - it was fun watching and they leave at

9.31am with the Vaughan's bread - but that's another story! 9.36am The Carys (Tail Gunners) leave having rung John W to

warn him who to expect first in Chateaulin. Anon (name supplied but withheld at author’s request )

(Continued from page 21)





Sat 22 to Thu 27 June

Picturesque Pembroke

The rally was sited on an attractive family run site with

excellent amenities. After

our welcome with tea &

home-made welsh cakes

the first day ended with a

fish & chip supper.

The next day, from notes

provided, was a guided

drive of the stunning

Angle Peninsula with quiz

questions to answer along

the route. Two of the

highlights were the

Stackpole Nature Reserve with Barafundle beach (rated

in the top 10 beaches in the world) and near-by lilly

ponds in full flower.

That evening we had ‘pot luck’ hospitality which is always

very enjoyable although, through no fault of the

organisers, we did have 6 visitors to our van instead of

the expected 4!

We had 2 days to explore the local area and attractions

on our own or in small informal groups. There is certainly

plenty to see in the area with the beautiful beaches,

walks and St David’s peninsula with the Cathedral.

Monday evening we

all sat out together in

the warm sunshine

for a DIY barbecue.

On Tuesday, 25th,

many of us took the

opportunity of visiting

the very interesting

Pembroke Castle

before meeting with

the whole group for a

guided stroll around historic Pembroke. The last

organised event of the day was a superb cream tea

enjoyed in the garden courtyard of ‘The Haven’.

The final full day was another free day to explore before

we all gathered for the Farewell Dinner and presentation

of prizes at the Neyland Yacht Marina were we enjoyed

another excellent meal and evening of good fellowship.

Thank you John, Dot, Gerard & Christine for a very

enjoyable rally.

Peter Downham

Thu 27 June to Tue 2 July

Swansea Bay

You will all be familiar with the form of barometer

favoured by our grand-parents – a small house from

which the man or lady emerged, depending on the

weather. The Swansea Bay Rally worked on the same

principal in that John & Diana Lomax, and Gerard &

Christine Turley took it in turns to be in charge.

The first night was supper at a nearby hostelry, the

appropriately named “Welcome to Gower” Inn, along with

the usual chatter of what we had all been up to.

Unfortunately John and Diana had to attend a family

funeral on the following day and so had to leave the rally

immediately after the welcome supper. This also meant

they had to miss the “pot luck hospitality” on the

following evening when Gerard and Christine took over.

There were no fixed daytime visits but I suspect we all

visited the “National Botanic Garden of Wales” and were

very impressed. I thought it was better than the Eden

Project. The Gower Heritage Centre was also enjoyed.

Between Swansea City, Swansea Marina area, Swansea

Bay and the Gower Peninsula there was plenty to keep us

occupied both inside and out.

Rally members had the opportunity to attend on

Saturday evening a charity concert at St Mary’s Church,

Swansea organised by the local Rotary Club. The concert

which featured the Morriston Orpheus Choir and the

locally based Ariosa Singers was to raise money to assist

the work of a Rotary Club in Montagu, South Africa, a

Club which had been visited by an ICFR tour two years

previously. It was an excellent concert by two flawless

choirs and we hope that a healthy sum was raised.

Professor Sir David Hall from the Montagu Club attended

the concert with his wife Susan, another medical doctor.

He and Susan were staying with John and Diana which

was the reason Gerard and Christine ably covered the

rally at times.

John Lomax being congratulated on the concert by Swansea President





The last night celebration was a group visit to a meeting

of the RC of Swansea at Sketty Hall, where we were all

made very welcome and after dinner the Professor and

his wife gave an interesting presentation about the

Bonnie People Project, the work the Swansea Club is

supporting. [Ed see article on page 43]

All in all it was an interesting and very enjoyable rally.

John & Carole Dickinson

Thu 4 to Tue 9 July

Lichfield City

What a rally!! Lovely site, great Rally Officer organisation

with a super team, and five days of wall to wall sunshine,

only a mile from Lichfield town centre, a medieval

Cathedral City which was hosting an Arts Festival event

during our stay.

On arrival we were greeted with tea or coffee and a

choice of several homemade goodies in the Party Tent. A

very nice welcome supper was provided on the first

evening and a barbecue the following evening. Each

evening was a happy hour get together with various

quizzes etc including Ding Bats and Diminishing Whist.

During the Rally there was plenty of spare time to visit

the Cathedral, Cars in the Park and the other events

associated with the Arts Festival.

Probably the highlight of the Rally was the visit to the

National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas, and a tour

round the site in a “road train” before allowing plenty of

time to visit the various memorials in our own time.

The rally finished with a very good meal at nearby

restaurant, and Alan & Gillian and their team of helpers,

Robert & Doreen Young, Brian & Barbara Froggart and

Brian and Margaret Leverton must be thanked for

providing a wonderful time.

Frank Matthews

Tue 9 to Sun 14 July

Claverley

This was a rally of 'firsts' for us. Our first 'follow on' rally

(straight from Lichfield), our first rally where we had

already met everyone somewhere, our first dry rally (the

weather-not a comment about drinking habits!) our first

rally run by first class RM Derrick Sanders and Sheila,

and this is my first rally report.

Having negotiated the narrow lanes of Staffordshire/

Shropshire, and sorted out the electricity supply to

everyone's satisfaction, we settled down in our peaceful

hideaway, and enjoyed our welcome get-together. (Only

9 'vans, so it was easy to talk to everyone).

Despite a feeling of being in the middle of nowhere, there

was plenty to do in the area, and during coffee on

Wednesday, everyone studied the tourist information and

began their exploration of the area. A scrumptious cream

tea was greatly enjoyed, thanks to Sheila and Jackie.

Thursday and Friday were 'please yourself' days, and

visits were made to Ironbridge, with its wide variety of

museums, RAF Cosford for its amazing museum, David

Austin Roses, for the keen gardeners, the Severn Valley

Railway, for train enthusiasts, not forgetting Halfpenny

Green Vineyard for those whose supplies were

diminishing!

Friday evening's BBQ was followed by musical

entertainment provided by the Sanders' daughter Helen

and grand daughter Ellie. A lovely way to relax at the end

of the day.

And so to Saturday. A stunning flower festival in

Claverley Church, and local history exhibition in the





Village Hall, with lots of delicious homemade food

provided by the ladies of the village. Back to the Party

Tent for a BYOD Happy Hour, before retracing our steps

for a meal at 'The Plough'.

Sadly the end of the rally came all too soon, but many

thanks to Derrick and Sheila, ably supported by Paul and

Jackie Sharman, and to all attendees for a great 5 days

of fun and fellowship.

Pauline Brown

Thu 11 to Thu 18 July

Holt Rugby Club, Norfolk

What makes a good rally??? Venue? Weather? Facilities?

Programme? Members? Rally Marshalls?

At Holt we had it all!!!!

Venue, Holt Rugby Club Field and Clubhouse, is an ideal

spot for a rally enabling us to meet for optional coffee

each morning and then again in the evening for a meal

and fellowship.

Weather just got better and better each day with us

basking in glorious sunshine or looking for some shade –

we had the hottest day of the year while we were there.

Facilities – no electric hook-up but we certainly did not

need central heating this year!!!!

Programme offered plenty of possible visits each day on

this beautiful North Norfolk coast and opportunity to

meet together in the evenings for food, fun and

fellowship. The Cromer Pier Show on Tuesday evening

was excellent – last year the rally was too early and we

were not able to go. On Friday before it became too hot

we all enjoyed a beach/heath four mile walk from

Weybourne back to site.

Members were quality not quantity – we only had nine

units on site but the company was perfect and I feel

everyone fully enjoyed themselves.

Rally Marshalls were, as usual, their efficient selves –

nothing was too much trouble. newspapers were

delivered, coffee served, ideas for visits provided, often

using our bus passes and evening events organised.

We all enjoyed a cooked welcome meal, a full English

Sunday Breakfast and numerous other meals together.

Well done Barbara and Mike – thank you – we all look

forward to your next rally.

Barbara Roberts

Fri 26 July to Fri 2 August

Family Rally

After so many hot, dry days the forecast was for a

stormy week. However the grand children did not care as

our 6 hour tow was filled with excited anticipation “I can’t

wait to get in the pool” and “will Grace be there” and

Sophia wondering if she really would be able to cycle

without her stabilisers.

By mid-afternoon on Friday the pool was full of happy

children and smiling faces as friendships were renewed

while others enjoyed the freedom to cycle around the

fields and playground. We enjoyed a lovely warm

’Welcome’ evening outdoors where ‘Katy’ local cider was

definitely the most popular item.

Each morning many grand children reported for duty and

delivered papers and milk. Such enthusiasm so early in

the morning! Our two granddaughters were fast asleep

until 08.30, or later, so when we emerged into the

awning the deliveries had miraculously arrived!

One team of Paperboys & Papergirls

At Saturday morning’s coffee we were delighted to find

not only Caroline’s delicious cakes but also gingerbread

men for the children baked by Christine Green. Soon the

pool was packed again, but the clouds were gathering.

Bicycles, scooters and adults had to make a sudden dash

for awnings as it began to pour. In the strong gusts of

wind the marquee threatened to disappear. It tipped

water on the unwary from time to time as John and

Jenny organised children’s dominoes. Later our noble

cooks worked under umbrellas to cook our barbeque

supper and dashes were made back to units to eat under

cover as the rain continued.

Monday dawned fine and we were able to enjoy bacon

baps and coffee out of doors. Because of the forecast

Sports Day was brought forward. The sun shone as Gill

and Derek Rodgers organised more fun team games, this

year with a household theme. Inevitably, soaking

teenagers in ‘The Stocks’ was very popular and for Talia

(just 7) the highlights were wrapping grandmas with

toilet paper to look like mummies and dressing and





putting make up on granddads to make them look like

grandmas! Remarkably the sun still shone as we enjoyed

cream teas with Judy’s mother’s - lovely scones - and

Judy awarded prizes to all the children. Adult

competitions of boules and croquet (oh, the rules)

continued and adult dominoes were played.

Next day despite intermittent showers and more ominous

black clouds we went to Burnham-on-Sea for the

sandcastle competition. We wondered if the rising tide or

approaching storm would wash us out before judging,

but no. We all then hurried to the pier kiosk and some

cover. As Judy treated children to ice creams an almighty

thunderstorm broke. Soon many roads and pavements

were flooded the only beneficiaries being Asda and

Highbridge Caravans! Later the dry, windy afternoon was

excellent for kite flying and our competitions. In the

evening, Gill nobly spent 2 hours calling Bingo for

children while some members visited Yatton Rotary Club,

for a talk about “Tyntesfield”.

We woke to more rain so out came cards and board

games for a while until it was dry enough for more

cycling, scooting and even swimming. After early

afternoon rounders, Paula, Ann and Sylvia led crafts

making fabric flowers, brooches, banner flags and

painting models. Arthur’s teatime pancakes that were

eagerly wolfed down by the children followed this. The

evening turned warm as we tucked into a filling fish and

chip supper.

After mixed weather for the free day on Wednesday,

Thursday was forecast to be the hottest day of the year.

A brisk wind kept the temperature pleasant and also

dried yesterday’s damp awnings ready for them to be

packed away. The finals of the boules and croquet were

played and the pool was much in demand. A particularly

tender “Grand Pig Roast” was enjoyed on a final lovely

balmy evening. Then awards were made and our grateful

thanks were made to all those who led activities but

especially to Judy and Clive and the assistant rally

marshals.

Sophia (4) was very surprised when, after some

persuasion, she joined in

Bingo only to astound

everyone by winning the next

three prizes. We had to phone

her daddy so that she could

tell him that she “was almost

crying with happiness”

because she was so proud that

she could ride without

stabilisers straight away! She

was very impressed to get a

certificate marking this

milestone (a lovely idea by

Judy who has seen so many

pairs of stabilisers removed at

the rallies) Both Sophia and

Talia (just 7) really enjoy the

freedom that the large area of the rally affords

(something lacking in their urban lives) and are asking

about next year’s rally whenever we see them.

Jill & Rex Andrew

Thu 8 to Tue 13 August

Heart of the Fens

A return after 2 years to the Welland Yacht Club site at

Spalding saw fifteen outfits pitched on the side of the

river.

We were welcomed by Terry and Carole and Tony and

Meryl with a cuppa and home-made cakes followed by a

veritable feast classed as a "Welcome Buffet" at 7.00pm.

On Friday morning the battery-powered water taxi took

most members to Springfields to the outlet shopping and

Festival Gardens. They were seen off by the Rally

Marshals. Unfortunately the Band of the Royal Marines

were at Southampton on other duties! In the evening we

enjoyed fish and chips from Sheddys and quizzes - the

winners' prizes of sweets we all helped to eat.

Coffee on Saturday morning and afternoon tea of

sandwiches, home-made cakes and tea got us ready for

the visit to a concert on two organs - a Wurlitzer and a

Compton at Burtey Fen Collection. This privately- owned

music hall houses in addition to several organs, a vast

amount of entertainment memorabilia. It was a truly

splendid evening.

There was the District 1070 AGM after coffee on Sunday

morning, the meeting lasting half an hour before we went

off to The Ship at Pinchbeck for lunch enjoyed by all. A

snooze was felt to be coming on afterwards in readiness

for hospitality in vans in the evening.

It seemed that the last full day was upon us all too soon.

Unfortunately the programmed town walk in the morning

was cancelled due to a bout of vertigo experienced by

the leader. At 2pm we met at the Spalding Gentlemen's

Society founded in 1710 and whose past members

include Sir Isaac Newton and Lord Tennyson. This

building houses thousands of antiquities gathered over

generations. Finally we had sausage and mash and

pudding, and the Spalding Ukulele Orchestra gave us a

lovely musical evening to round off a great rally in a

lovely spot with superb food and dry, warm weather.

What more could we ask for. Many thanks to Terry and

Carole and Tony and Meryl.

Tim Hadrill

Fri 16 to Wed 21 August

Ashbourne

The Rally Report, that all important resume of five days

of fellowship and fun, but what of the content and make-

up of the Rally.

As the years pass by the development of ICFR rallies has

advanced - but the essential ingredients of yesteryear

are necessary and such has been the Ashbourne Rally for

the past 16-18 years. Nevertheless the basis of any Rally

is its venue, location - Mr and Mrs Peter Spencer at Tan

Mill Farm have provided for that with an idyllic setting,

yes, level field, traffic noise free, no electric hook-ups

and the all important weather.

This year 28 units enjoyed such a Rally and from the

welcoming party on Friday to the departing farewell on

Wednesday everyone enjoyed the five whole days of

Look Daddy no stabilisers!

Rally Reports continued Rally Reports continued








fellowship. Yes the risk assessment factor was conducted

by David Huxley, Rally Marshall, backed up by a superb

regular team who dovetailed their various duties quietly

and efficiently.

For five days; the start with coffee, briefing by the Rally

Marshall and then a whole pot-pourri of activities to

select from - the Ashbourne Show, a Rally walk from

Tissington, a town walk with historical overtones or

individual trips to local stately homes - Kedleston, Calke

Abbey and Chatsworth, or for the more discerning

shoppers a spending spree to David Napier at Alfreton.

The evenings were well

planned, including an

American Supper, BBQ

etc but after each

evening meal there was

a feast of home-grown

entertainment in the

party tent provided by a

miscellany of artists

including Peter and

Angela Pimperton, David

and Wendy Richardson

and Alec Swailes and

Colin Bradford, with the

odd original and risque

m o n o l o g u e f r o m

Elizabeth Wakefield. On

two evenings Alec and

Colin entertained us with

Northumbrian poetry,

folk songs and convivial

participation. It was this

originality and individual

composition that really

displayed the wealth of

t a l ent t ha t ICFR

possesses. A final lunch

at a completely new

venue proved a huge

success.

Our thanks must go to

David and Mary Huxley,

Rally Marshalls, Eric and

B a r b a r a S a w f o r d

(pictured), who initiated the Rally many years ago, Frank

and Gwen Matthews and David and Maureen Smith, a

total team whose individual input provided us all with a

superb Rally.

Tom Heyes

THE ASHBOURNE VAN

Inspired by the traditional folk song, the Derby Ram

As I was going to Derbyshire, on one fine August day,

I spied the biggest van, sir, that ever came this way.

This van it blocked the road, sir, and caused a traffic jam,

From Manchester to Derby and then down to Birmingham.

CHORUS - Men

Indeed, me lads. It’s true, me lads. I never was known to lie.

If you had been in Ashbourne you’d have seen the same as I.

CHORUS - Women

It’s a lie. It’s a lie. It’s a big fat lie.

Let me tell you it is just not true..

This van was wide behind, sir. This van was wide before.

From one side to the other was five metres, maybe more!

This van was also long, sir, much longer than a bus.

The rally marshal moaned and groaned and really made a fuss.

CHORUS - (Men then Women)

The awning on this van, sir, was long and it was wide.

Three pitches deep this awning stretched, and four from side to

side.

The man fixed up his awning tight, and pegged it well all ‘round.

But when his wife tripped on the guys she swore & cursed &

frowned.


This van was posh, as posh, sir, as ever posh could be,

With chintz and chrome and even, a porcelain lavat’ry.

No Elldis, Swift or Bailey, no Carlight or Van Royce,

Could offer to a buyer, a more up-market choice.


The folk inside this van, sir, liked very much to dine,

On fillet steak and pommes frites with a very good red wine.

We all hoped for an invite for hospitality.

So we could witness for ourselves, this height of luxury.


Just ponder now on why it is, a good Rotarian,

Should bring to rural Derbyshire, this monstrous Ashbourne van,

And why each year this man and wife, should come here from

afar.

They come of course to meet old friends, in our I C F R !

CHORUS - Men and Women together (in harmony!!)

Then... an additional Verse for the last night of the rally

The Huxleys and the Sawfords, the Matthews and the Smiths

Our gratitude is genuine. It’s not the stuff of myths.

To finish off this story I’ll tell you one last thing,

The good folk on this rally can really, really sing...

CHORUS - Men and Women together (in harmony!!)

Colin Bradford

Thu 22 August to Thu 5 Sept

A Real Taste of Holland

The Rally was held on a site near Hummelo a lovely and

very well kept village in Gelderland in the East of the

Netherlands. An area that, we were told frequently by

the locals, is not normally visited by the British.

The management of Camping Jena had reserved a

spacious field surrounded by trees for the exclusive use

of the 15 outfits that attended the Rally which was held

for two weeks at the same location. They had also

erected a large “Party Tent” in the centre of the field

which easily accommodated the 29 attendees.

Among the organised events in the party tent was a first

A trio of talent, L to R, Peter

Pimperton, Colin Bradford,& Rally

Marshall David Huxley





night typical Dutch meal with wonderful belly pork

cooked in different ways with the usual trimmings. It was

also used by Theo to talk about the hardship he and his

family had to undergo during the war. He also

entertained us another evening with his keyboard.

Visits were paid to markets at Doetinchem and Zutphen

two lovely Old Dutch towns where we all sampled the

delicacies, Kibberling, (small pieces of fried cod) together

with garlic and other dips. The braver members tried the

salted herring the Dutch way by swallowing them whole.

We had a guided tour of Doesburg a very old fortified

town with many medieval buildings which had escaped

relatively unscathed during the war.

One exception being the Church Tower which had been

blown up by the Germans two days before the war

ended. The town was also home to one of the four

“Lalique” Museums and a “Clog” Museum which were well

worth a visit.

Most of the group visited “Obelink”, the largest Camping

and Caravan store in Europe and bought accessories and

litres of toilet fluid as it was very cheap.

A visit was also arranged to Doesburg Church which as

stated earlier had been damaged during the war. The

visit had been arranged specifically to see and hear about

the wonderful Church Organ. It is one of the largest in

the world and it has over 5,000 pipes varying in size

from over 6 metres to 15 centimetres.

To me one of the highlights of the tour was to see Theo’s

face when he was invited

to play by the organist.

The church is cathedral

like in size and we had

been told the organ was

worth 26 million euros.

Theo gave a perfect

rendition of “When you

come home again to

Wales” which was applauded by visitors to the church. A

rather large step up from a keyboard in a tent!

Some of the more linguistically gifted members had a

real go at speaking and learning Dutch and by the

beginning of the second week they could understand

Eten en Drinken and could pronounce the name of the

nearest village and mispronounce the names of the two

nearest towns.

Many thanks are due to Theo, Pauline, Peter and

Margaret for all the hard work they put in running and organising this excellent Rally.

Jack Swainston

Thu 22 August to Tue 10 Sept

Provence Revisited

After leaving La Belle France rally in July and wandering

around France and Italy for six weeks, until the

beginning of the Marrow’s Provence Revisited rally it was

a change, to have assistant rally marshal Tom Green

pedal up to us at the gate and give us a very warm

greeting “in English”.

The Site Municipal was on the southern edge of Mornant

a town with Roman and Medieval roots and still retaining

lots of it’s medieval character. The site was small with

good sized level pitches, a reasonable shower block, and

a very friendly couple who managed it. Shade could be

found if you moved around a little during the day, the

temperatures still in the mid 30’s. The site held a folk

music night with the singer also playing a barrel organ,

they served wine at 1euro per plastic cup and ham and

cheese panini and chips, of course, Arthur had to

participate in the singing and I can’t remember what he

sang, I suspect he couldn’t either. Arthur was fit enough

to make us Bucks Fizz and bacon butties for breakfast on

26th a fine start to the day, and later he gave us a

demonstration of divining at the Roman aqueduct site

with some bent coat hangers. On the last night we all

when down to have a Chinese banquet in nearby Givers.

28th August and time to move on to Embrun, close to

the Italian border. At the navigator’s meeting we were

advised to avoid the infamous “Route Napoleon”, a few

adventurers decided to bite the bullet, only had to

change down to second gear once on a particularly steep

bit. The riverside site was again level with some shade

and had water, electric, grey water and chemical disposal

points on every pitch. It was within easy walking distance

to the town which had good shops and many fine

restaurants. Arthur organised one of his famous pancake

parties, a trip around the nearby lake and a whisky

tasting, we only got half way through the samples, to be

continued? Fabulous scenery in the Southern Alps and

many navigable passes up to 3,000 mtrs.

On the 30th we had the sad news that Mikes wife Shirley

who now lives in a care home had passed away during

the night. After considering several options, Mike decided

it would be best to get back as quickly as he could with

Dutch rally enjoying a drink after the forest walk at the campsite




his van, Jack and Barbara Bridge agreed to accompany

him on his return journey.

Our next stop would be Carpentras, another Municipal

site on the edge of town, it was showing its age a little, a

bit dark and dusty. However it was in a very good

location. We visited Le Pins vineyard organised by the

team, had a paella party, a lunch in Caromb (€13.50

including wine) and a last night supper in a very nice

restaurant in nearby Beaumes de Venise.

Very difficult to compress three weeks of wonderful

camping into 500 words. Well done Arthur, Mavis, Tom &

Christine.

David Shaw

Thu 29 Aug to Tue 3 Sept

Robin Hood

The sun welcomed us all to the Holme Pierrepont

Camping Site in Nottingham and so began 5 days of

fellowship.

Thursday evening saw all the ralliers attend an evening

buffet provided by our rally Marshalls Bruce & Sue Liddle

and Marylyn and Derrick Nurse. We had a large marquee

supplied by the site complete with disco lighting which

made the evening slightly different as you chased

numerous colours across the table.

Friday evening saw a Pie Mash & Peas evening with a

“Robin Hood” themed fancy dress thrown in as well. Our

Rally Marshalls looked resplendent as Robin and Maid

Marion with competition from Gwyn & Eileen Weallans.

A hearty meal was followed by a Music Quiz made all the

more interesting by the musical blunders from Bruce

Liddle (I think they were deliberate) and the winners

were Angela & Peter Pimperton.

Saturday evening saw everybody contributing to an

“American Supper” themed night. This was followed by a

great evening of Folk Music performed for us by John and

Joe who are both members of the Beeston Folk Group.

Some of the songs were new to us but we were also able

to join in the more memorable ones.

After a free day on Sunday our Rally Marshals arranged a

BYO Barbeque followed by a games evening which saw

us all competing against each other at Archery, Boules,

Shut the Box, Table Skittles and rounded off with a quiz.

Once all the scores had been totalled it was Nan Shillitoe

who ran out as the winner.

The Robin Hood Rally was concluded on Monday evening

by a visit to the Rotary Club of Beeston and a most

enjoyable meal with our fellow Rotarians.

Peter Pimperton (District 1220 Retford)

Thu 5 to Tue 10 September

Rosedale Park Wrexham

The beautiful countryside of the Welsh Marches put all

ralliers in the mood for a relaxing and sociable get

together. A cosy room, just right for 30 and with a carpet

and posh chandelier even, was our venue for the

evenings. We were treated to a lovely welcome supper

with our rally marshals spoiling us by waiting on us. Even

the rhubarb and blackberries for the jelly were home

grown. Delicious.

On barbecue night the weather did not comply but rally

marshal John set an example by declaring he was not a

wimp and soldiered on. The rest of us admired from afar.

Don and Anne Smith joined us for the evening and it was

a treat to see them.

The American Supper was as good as ICFR suppers

always are, everything consumed. The owner of the site

even made a large chocolate cake which was very much

appreciated. An excellent quiz, prompting much

discussion and laughter

followed. Paul Quinlan

bravely kept control of the

answer session most ably

and with good humour.

Sunday began with bacon

baps and ended with table

top games where true

c o m p e t i t i v e s t r e a k s

emerged.

There are lovely walks in this part of our country and

some ralliers took full advantage of them. The National

Trust properties of Erddig and Chirk Castle had their

visitor numbers boosted by our presence. Some of us

tried an oggie and will do so again now.

We had many impeccably behaved dogs with us who had

their own totally enclosed field to race around with each

other. The owners had cleared the field of sheep for them

so we could have had our very own Crufts.

For our final evening we went to the Boat Inn on the

edge of one of the many lakes in Ellesmere. Geoff and

Enid Travis were able to join us together with Don and

Anne. Another quiz sorted out those people with quirky

brains though they called it lateral thinking.

I'm sure these quizzes will be recycled in our own clubs

eventually.

Many, many thanks are due to rally marshals, John and

RMs, John and Anne Walgrove





Anne Walgrove and Paul and Christine Quinlan for their

hard work and careful planning.

Paul and Jackie Sharman


Jack & Jill

On behalf of John and Rosemary Barber, our excellent

rally marshals, assisted by John and Maggie Mold and

Eric and Maureen Matkins, - greetings. We were

delighted to receive a card from Peter and Silvia Skerratt

saying they were sorry not to be with us.

Instead of the usual morning tea and coffee we had

happy hour from six pm to about 7.30 and I can confirm

we all left very happy. John and Julie Adamson led a walk

on the Friday. He said it was about 2 miles but I made it

4283 steps.

Saturday was the day we were invited to visit the

Bluebell railway. This is an amazing line that runs from

Sheffield Park to East Grinstead and takes about 45

minutes. The stations are like stepping back 80 years

and are faithfully reproduced in every detail. There are

shops a museum and a restaurant to keep you

entertained while you wait for your steam driven engine

to arrive complete with carriages from the 1920’s again

faithfully restored. Being poor we could only afford 3rd

class but some of the toffs travelled 1st class. I know

some of the children complained there was no wifi on the

trains but we did try to explain that in Victorian times not

everyone had a mobile phone.

Sunday saw our 1250 /1140 ICFR AGM led by Eric and

kept in order by our secretary Maureen. The highlight

being our treasurer’s report from Derek Scrafton – the

one entry making the accounts much more difficult than

last year.

The weather then was wet and windy so no one managed

to get to the windmills (Jack and Jill) so everyone is

looking forward to next year.

Our thanks again to John and Rosemary especially.

Bruce Wallace (on behalf of the 12 units who attended)

Sat 14 to Thu 19 September

Hardwick Park Witney

We were warmly welcomed by Cliff, Rosemary and their

team to Hardwick Park a short drive from Witney and the

beautiful Cotswold area.

We had not visited this part of the country and were

keen to explore as were others on the Rally. Places

visited were Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Sir Winston

Churchill, Waddestone Manor, Bourton-on-the-Water,

Northleach and Witney. Some of us visited the Museum

of Mechanical Music, the Motor and Toy Museum,

Cotswold Pharmacy (for cologne), Park and Ride to

Oxford and a garden centre where hot water bottles in a

cashmere cover cost £98!!! We visited Adam’s Farm of

BBC’s Countryfile fame and saw Eric the Highland bull,

several of his ‘wives’ and 2 of his children! We met an 8

day old donkey called Clover and watched the sheep

show with Tyson the Texel being very cheeky.

The Museum of Mechanical Music was fascinating and

many of the items were

played including a 19th

century Juke Box which only

charged 1d.

Our farewell supper was at

The Rose Revived on the

banks of the Thames, where

a good time was had by all.

Not just that evening, but all

of the 5 days thanks to the

hard working team.

The word Cotswold comes

from the Old English of Cots

(sheep pen) and Wold (on the

hill).

Many anniversaries and

birthdays were celebrated so

Cliff announced that next

year he would also be arranging christenings,

barmitsvahs and weddings!! We can’t wait!

Fran Allen


Autumn Fellowship

ICFR’s return to Brean Sands and this attractive Holiday

Park with its excellent facilities, close to the beach was

met by a sudden spell of “Good West Country Weather”

and by late Thursday afternoon, 80 units had booked in

with one more to arrive on the Friday and also with two

couples staying in accommodation on the site.

All members on arrival were met by members of

President Peter’s Global Rally Committee with RMs Tony

and Ann Rawlings, the District 1200 Chairman Peter

Jennings and his District Team, extending a very warm

welcome and providing a cup of tea in the Party Tent.

In the evening in the nearby Scotty’s Bar, only 5

minutes’ walk from the site entrance, the scheduled

informal drinks and nibbles in the programme turned out

to be a help yourself Sandwich Buffet.

On Friday morning coffee, tea,

cake and biscuits were

provided in the party tent and

a free day was enjoyed by

those not engaged in the ICFR

Executive meeting. In the

evening it was back to Scotty’s

for an excellent Hog Roast,

followed by “Miss 60’s”, a most

accomplished singer and

entertainer reminding most

present of their younger days!





On Saturday Morning, an extremely well attended

Autumn Fellowship Meeting was held in The Seagull.

Before concluding the well run meeting by 12 noon,

President Peter presented a Life Membership Certificate

to Past President Don and Paula, a very warm welcome

with a First time Rally Plaque to Ray and Karen May-

Wilcox and also his thanks and a First time Rally Marshals

Plaque to Tony and Ann Rawlings.

In the evening on site “Pot Luck Hospitality” was enjoyed

by most as was arranged, although it was said that a few

had lost their way!

On Sunday the Service of Praise and Thanksgiving was

led again in The Seagull by Major Margaret Fozzard (Wife

of a Rotarian) of the Salvation Army who last led the

Service in 2009. All present enjoyed the Hymns,

Readings, Music and Prayers with the proceeds from the

collection (£320) being split between the Salvation Army

and Macmillan Nurses.

In the evening a generous Carvery was enjoyed by all

and followed by Nyla King, a TV singer and entertainer

with “A Tribute to Witney Houston”.

There was an early start for Golf for 11 players on

Monday morning and 57 others made a hair-raising

coach journey to enjoy Phil Cary’s arranged visit to the

spectacular Tyntesfield House and all returned safely to

enjoy a Farewell Evening Curry Meal at Scotty’s with

magical and mystical entertainment from Taffy Spencer.

The winner of the Golf “Leverton Cup” was Bob Wright

and June Jones won the Ladies prize.

President Peter was pleased to say that the £65 coach

surplus was added to the donation to Macmillan Nurses,

he also thanked Ben, the Catering Manager and his staff.

Finally congratulations to R M’s Tony and Ann Rawlings

(and Harry) who together with President Peter’s Global

Team, helped by ICFR District 1200 Chairman Peter

Jennings and his District Team for all their hard work and

organisation in putting on such an enjoyable programme

and running such an excellent Fellowship Rally.

Also a big thank you to the Scott Family, the site owners

and their staff for their most hospitable and generous

welcome to their very busy and well managed site with

its own nearby social facilities and meeting rooms and in

providing such excellent professional entertainment for

us all to enjoy.

John & Margaret Warrack

Thu 10 to Tue 15 October

Return to Stonham Barns

Stonham Barns is a leisure and retail village with

boutique-style shops, post office, golf course and

restaurant as well as facilities for caravans and camping

visitors.

The five of us were joined by three further units on

Friday making a very select group including the ICFR

President and Auditor. Tea and coffee on arrival was

followed by a substantial finger buffet in the evening.

Morning coffee was available daily, a good reason for a

chat.

Throughout, we were able to sit very comfortably in two

linked awnings with sufficient heating for a sauna! With

rain pounding the awnings from time to time I'm sure

that steam would have been rising from the roofs.

Wet Friday with fish and chips and apple crumble in the

evening meant that we were not short of food and

Michael saw that none was wasted! It was good to see

Florrie Heller, who called in for coffee. Saturday dawned

dry and bright and members dispersed to enjoy the

delights of Suffolk, returning for an American Supper in

the evening.

District 1080/1240 had their District Meeting to which we

were all invited prior to lunch, all taking place at the Park

Hotel, Diss on the Sunday morning. In the evening Ray

May-Wilcox, our newest caravanner, who is a Social Care

Practitioner, had us all doing stretching and rocking

exercises to rid us of the problems associated with

ageing limbs (and internals!) causing much hilarity.

After a free day on Monday, we went to the on-site

restaurant (Sweet and Savoury) for the final meal. This

was a lovely end to an excellent rally attributable to the

hard work put in by Roger and Christine Restell, not

forgetting the "rubbish lady", Jacquie. Many thanks to

you all.

Tim Hadrill


Cotswold Water Park

This Rally was organised, in part, to support the District

1200 Conference which was held close by. Philip Cary

was in charge, ably assisted by Bob Wright. My major

memory of Philip (apart from his organising skills) was

his rendering of "There was a young lady of Aberystwyth"

at a 10 o`clock coffee break.

Rotarian Stephen Seager gave us an excellent guided

tour of Westonbirt Arboretum and, on another day, his

wife led us on a learned guided tour of Cirencester

We, of course, had a (or is it an) hostilities evening,

plenty of `in van’ fellowship on wet windy evenings plus

a final evening dinner.

John Rice

Fri 11 to Thu 17 October

Return to Chipping

After a long and uneventful journey we arrived at sunny

Chipping to be greeted by the Rally Marshalls, David and

Jeanne Shaw, with the customary cuppa.

We had the most stylish rally tent - no roof and no

windows but very substantial breeze block walls! We

knew it as Dave’s Café. On the first night we were all





served with a hotpot supper, and where coffee was

served each day. It was in the process of being built, and

when the wind blew and the rain rained we were very

appreciative.

On the Saturday night it was the usual hostility evening,

three hourly sessions which were very enjoyable and

perfect for finding out how everybody was, and how we

had survived the last twelve months.

On Sunday we met in the stylish village hall for a very

substantial supper and games evening. These were the

kind of games we like - Connect Four, dominoes, bar

billiards and Jenga. The winners were Margaret Warrack

and Brenda Fewings.

On the Monday there was a short walk on Beacon Fell.

Tuesday was Culture Day. We went to a very smart tithe

barn where we had lunch which was most enjoyable, and

then onto Browsholme Hall which is a very majestic

home owned since 1507 by the Parker family. There is

very little heating in the property, it’s just in one corner

of the house where the family lives. I promise not to

complain again about a cold bedroom!

In the evening approximately 10 ralliers met at the Rally

Marshall’s Rotary Club of Great Harwood & Rishton where

we enjoyed supper, a good speaker plus fellowship.

On the final evening we went to the local hostelry,

namely The Dog & Partridge for an excellent “Last Night

Dinner”. At the end of the dinner there was a conker

competition for all the men, won by Geoff Fewings and

Malcolm Ward, obviously a sign of mis-spent youth!

It was a very good and enjoyable rally - good company,

entertainment and food, everything a rally should be.

Thank you David, Jeanne, Malcolm and Kath for a very

good rally.

Brenda Fewings


Autumn Tints

Once again the ever popular C&CC site at Ashes Lane,

Staveley, Kendal played host with lakeland sunshine

greeting on arrival, 27 of the 28 vans booked in.

Following a very warm welcome in their dry awning with

tea or coffee, cakes and biscuits, Rally Marshals Duncan

and Ivy Dearden later welcomed all to the onsite Pig &

Whistle and outlined a very full programme over the next

four days and introduced Bob Hamilton, the walk leader

for the next morning.

On Friday morning Bob once again led an enthusiastic

group for 5 miles through the woods and across the fields

to Staveley and back.

Saturday was a free day to explore the Lakes and nearby

Kendal and Windermere. In the evening at the Castle

Street Centre in Kendal, it was 007 time and following

the usual excellent lasagne supper, we were treated to

an evening from Miss Bond herself, 007 Keri Leigh from

Stockport, who sang not only the Bond themes and tunes

from the 60s, 70s and 80s to an audience of not only

look alike, Bonds, Odd Jobs and their delightful ladies,

but other old favourites in the style of Sandie Shaw and

Shirley Bassey.

Sunday was billed as a Sunset Tour on Lake Windermere

in the afternoon and although the morning started wet,

we were met at the Lakeside Pier with “Sunshine” and

the magnificent hundred year old Lake Steamer “Teal”

for a cruise up to Bowness and back.

This was followed by a short trip by car to the nearby

Lakeland Motor Museum’s Café Ambio, for a “Cumberland

Supper”- a large curly sausage with mash and cuppa tea,

to you and me!

Monday, last full day, was wet again. RM’s pitch was the

only one flooded! However we had the “Last Night

Dinner” at the Windermere Hydro Hotel to look forwarded

to and here again we dined in style and were right royally

entertained in “Lancashire Style” by Margaret Bradshaw

on the Electric Keyboard, followed by “Trombone” Tom

Hobson, accompanied by Northumbrian Composer Colin

“Squeeze Box” Bradford with a grand trio finale.

All our thanks for an excellent final evening and rally

were summed up by IPP Don Howard who thanked RMs

Duncan and Ivy for their tenth Autumn Tints and

arranging such an interesting rally programme of Food,

ICFR Fellowship and Fun.

Margaret and John Warrack





Dear Daisy

How long have I waited for this opportunity. You have been my idol ever

since my Mum read your caravanning exploits to me. I have tried and tried

to get her to write to you -as of course I can't write. Now that I have

finally met you out walking - Mum has no excuse.

My caravanning started at 3 months old when I was supposed to be

undergoing something called training. Mum was getting ready to take me

out late evening for you know what. Well the site was full of rabbits and I

couldn't resist the challenge and escaped (they have never made that

mistake again!)

Now this thing they call 'training' seems to work both ways, because now

I am 4, they are completely trained to my way.

The first Rally I went on was a bit of a trial and was told I wouldn't go

again. Not wanting to miss out on the fun and the occasional taste of wine

at hospitality, I persuaded them to take me again and now if they go, I go.

Every now and then I hear them talking about injections for something

called a 'passport' they never have,

can you tell me what 'abroad' is like, I

would love to go.

I look forward to meeting you again

and comparing doggy notes.

Lots of love Daisy

Your adoring Harry

(The Border Terrier)

Dictated to Ann Rawlings

Well I've just survived being showered

and brushed by the Woman. Why oh why

do humans expect me to smell nice!! I will

get my own back as soon as I go out for

my walk tomorrow and find a nice smelly

something or other to roll in - that will

teach her.

As my smelly fur is drying off I thought I

would put a few words down for my diary

as I have a few moments away from cat

chasing duties.

I've had a busy year and even received

my first fan letter from my new boyfriend Harry (see

below) the rather smart border terrier. It's been lovely

meeting up with you all on rallies. I have noticed lots of

people know my name but forget his and hers - quite

amusing.

I think I told you all I was excluded from their daughters

wedding but at least I have managed to keep with the

family for the rest of the year. My pet passport is looking

quite full, so much so it's had to have an extra page

attached. Don't worry Harry it's not that bad and I get to

go away a lot more. All I need is a microchip, my normal

annual boosters, a rabies jab every three years and of

course the dreaded vet’s visit before I return to the UK

where they give me a horrible worm tablet and take my

temperature—don’t ask about that. I try and spit out the

tablet but they're too good at noticing. Abroad is hot and

the dogs bark with a strange accent, but it is great fun

with all the new smells and I get to ride in the

motorhome on a train, in a tunnel, under water—cool.

We've done lots of rallies and I love

guarding the pitch and van. My last rally

was on a NO DOG pitch so I felt very

superior especially when they got told off

by a rather loud woman. I have got the

man to include a picture. Oh I have also

got him to include another photo taken by

one of my friends showing ‘a dog’s life’ on

a foreign rally—well it can get very hot

under our built in fur coat.

Chester was fun as I had loads of walks

around the city walls and twice I was

stopped and asked to have my photo taken, one to take

home to Japan and another to Brazil, all those lovely

buildings and they want to take a photo of me.

Hospitality is my favourite bit as often I get given treats

brought round just for me, then I have a snooze just to

show them what a good job I do guarding their van

whilst they are out. Goodness knows what they get up

to but I suspect red wine has a lot to do with it. I even

heard the man say one chilly night "the dog doesn't

need to go out before bedtime does she" for which he

got severely told off and sent out with me anyway.

Christmas is soon upon us and I will get ignored as

usual as the house will be full of grandchildren and their

toys, but hopefully Santa will remember me this year

and I will get a bit of turkey for my dinner.

Happy Christmas my doggie friends and see you next

year on a rally somewhere.

Dictated to the Woman AKA Christine Turley by Daisy

Tails of the Dog

by Daisy the Caravanning Cairn Terrier

http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&docid=4tYzdqaW8iiEHM&tbnid=BSWQif3SgRboaM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.zazzle.com%2Fsilly%2Bcats%2Bposters&ei=D-dnUryZFe6T0QWB6YD4DA&bvm=bv.55123115,d.d2k&psig=AFQjCNHmFuBMvX-OsYe_P




Letters to the Editor

Gerard,

It is our G

olden Wedding Annive

rsary on

December 14th th

is year, y

ou may wish to include

in N&V.

I have also attached a photo which might give

someone a smile, if

you have the sp

ace.

It seems g

rainy but when sq

ueezed to passport

size looks O

K.

(I was 22 at th

e time but lo

ok about 14)

Regards

Terry Cooke

To: 'Gerard Turley'

Subject: re Camping La Grappe Fleurie

Dear Gerard,

A number of ICFR m

embers have visited

the site at Fleurie in the past and may be

interested in the attached. A possible item

for News and Views?

Happy thoughts,

Derek Rimm

er.

Good Afternoon Derrick, Greetings from Evanston. Thank you for the timely submission of your 2013 Annual Report for the International Caravanning Fellowship of Rotarians. I will be sure to record and file this document appropriately. I was especially impressed with your Newsletter. It is undoubtedly one of the best I’ve seen yet, and I will be using it as a model for other Fellowships and Action Groups to emulate. ………. Thanks again for getting this to me so quickly. Much appreciated. Best Regards,

Jesse Jesse Davis

Program Coordinator, Rotary Service Connections

ROTARY INTERNATIONAL | One Rotary Center | 1560 Sherman Ave. | Evanston, IL 60201 USA

Subject: RE: News & Views, the Magazine of the International Caravanning Fellowship of

Date: Fri, 6 Sep 2013 16:06:31 -0500

From: Jesse Davis

To: Derrick Sanders

CC: Rotaryfellowships

Dear Edito

r

As I made my way home fro

m a rally

a deer

jumped the M

5 hard shoulder b

arrier s

traight i

nto

the motorh

ome making a hole in the fib

reglass

bodywork just

behind the passenger

door and

further d

amage along the side.

A split second earli

er and it

might have been

under th

e fro

nt wheel

with

even worse

consequences! A few weeks later

our gra

nd-

daughter in A

merica w

as not s

o lucky a

s her c

ar

was writ

ten off afte

r hitt

ing a deer head on. S

ince

then I

have heard of

numerous incidents with

deer so suggest w

e all eat V

enison.

Graham Roberts

Camping La Grappe

Fleurie The cam

psite has been taken over by a

private company called Viva Cam

p. This

company also controls six other cam

psites

mainly in south-eastern France.

About 25% of pitches are now occupied by

wooden chalets, and charges have increased

considerably. For example, the nightly

charge in August for caravan/2 people/10

amps electricity was 25 Euros.

The site is well-run and tidy and the new

owners appear to be trying to create a

holiday camp atm

osphere rather than a

caravan/camping venue.

The company w

ebsite is www.vivacamp.com.

http://www.vivacamp.com




Letters to the Editor continued

ICFR skip the Light Fantastic

Karen and I didn’t have a clue; we didn’t know what to do. We joined the ICFR, bought our first caravan and booked ourselves on to the Autumn Rally. We got to our

destination, reversed onto the plot – amazing! Still keeping very calm, we started to set up. What’s this for? Where does this go? With just a slight squeak in Karen’s voice, I barked back calmly ‘I ain’t got a clue’. Oh dear me, what do we do? We didn’t have to worry at all, soon

first to come to our aid was Maureen and Malcolm Dungworth with beaming welcoming smiles, and then

John Bumfrey arrived, followed by others, what a fantastic welcome!

The support from other ICFR Members was overwhelming, Karen and I felt so much a part of the family team, we soon had a skip in our stride.

I would say to anyone, if you have a caravan and you are

a Rotarian, join the ICFR and you can skip the light fantastic, Rotary Fellowship at its best.

Karen and Ray May-Wilcox

What is ACCEO The work of the Association of Caravan & Camping

Exempted Organisations covers many aspects of our

hobby. The Organisation of caravan rallying on

unlicensed land is controlled by “The caravan Sites and

Control of Development Act, 1960”. ICFR is a member

Club of ACCEO and all of the executive committee are

well versed in the legislation set out in the forgoing

document.

The Association holds regular meetings with the relevant

Government Department - Natural England, to discuss all

matters relating to caravanning and an excellent

relationship exists

Why is ICFR a Member of ACCEO?

The Association represents the interests of over 200

independent caravan clubs. One of the main incentives

for Member Clubs is the public liability and all risks

insurance policies. The premium for this cover is shared

by all member Clubs, additionally, the Association

provides indemnity to protect the ICFR executive from

similar claims.

All rallying caravanners are invited to become individual

members of the Association and receive the Magazine

“ACCEO Matters” upon payment of £5 p.a.

Alan E. King.

A TALE FROM THE PAST. Dear Gerard,

I attach a story from my memories of the past in ICFR. It

might fill in a little corner if you need something.

We enjoy reading News and Views even though it is

some time since we had a caravan. We have such good

memories of ICFR.

Very best wishes,

Frank Ashworth

There was an ICFR Treasurer who always used to tell a

story before he gave his report. The purpose of this was

to make sure that his audience was fully awake and able

to listen very carefully to the state of ICFR’s finances.

The following is an example.

The Treasurer’s Story.

A Rotarian decided to go for a long walk in the woods as

part of his regular exercise. He had walked deep into the

woods when it started to rain which became heavier and

heavier. As he was not wearing suitable clothing he

decided he must find shelter because by now his clothing

was completely saturated.

Nearby was a large, hollow oak tree and he squeezed

into the space. He was no longer getting wet as the

space was completely dry but, as he began to dry out he

began to swell. He realised that he was unable to get out

through the hole and that he was completely stuck. He

had not told anyone where he was going and nobody

knew where he was. He was going to die so he started to

go through all the things he had done and had not done

in his life.

Then he remembered he had not paid his subscription to

ICFR and this made him feel so small that he was able to

escape from the tree and walk home.

Arthur’s Secret (Pancake Recipe) 1.5 pounds Self Raising Flour

6 Eggs

6 dessert spoons Milk Powder

1/2 teaspoon Salt

2 dessert spoons Liquid Butter

2 dessert spoons Vegetable Oil

1/2 pint Water

1/4 pint Diet Lemonade

Whip all, leave for one

hour, whip before use.

Use more Lemonade if

required. Lightly oil the

pan or platters. Use

spatula to turn over.

Serve with Sugar and

Lemon.




More Caravan Problems Mary’s Noseweight

I have to tell, one cautionary tale

Before setting off for Derbyshire Dale Nose weight must be measured The critical balance reassured Released the jockeywheel—bolt snapped Poor fingers crushed and trapped So always support the A Frame So no good me passing the blame

Six hours to Bakewell with blasted blocks If onto Appletree don’t forget your chocks

I have to thank Allan for making a lever to lift the

caravan up, down to A&E and up to Tiddington for a new bracket all fitted with new bolt.

Mary and Allan Simmons

Cartoon ‘how not to check your noseweight’ by Michael Parkinson

John’s A frame

As I had heard that President Peter has had an A Frame problem, I rang him to find out more as I too have had a

problem on the way back from Ashbourne, which could have been serious if the caravan had become detached.

Hence the need for Caravan MOTs ?

My Caravan is a 2007 Nov, Bailey S6 Senator Indiana with ATC, an ALKO A frame plate with Jockey wheel. It has been serviced each year and no problems were found at service, although unless the A Frame top is removed with the 4 bolts, you cannot see the two cross bolts which hold

down the cover and towing shaft. The only sign of a problem is a loose shaft or worse a collapsed A frame with detached towing shaft.

When I arrived home on Wednesday afternoon from

Ashbourne, I checked the towbar as I had heard some noise which I thought was from the AKS and was able to lift it up about 1/8th inch. I noticed that the end ALKO

cable plate was fractured and removed it, I then found the end of the horizontal bolt with Alan Key head was missing with nut attached in the bottom of this plate. I rang Baileys who sent me another plate overnight but said the bolts came from ALKO. The broken bolt I would estimate to be 94 mm long. The head end would not appear to come out although loose until the 4 bolts holding down the

top plate which combines the Jockey Wheel fitting is lifted. When I took off the silver plastic cover with ATC Light,

through which the Jockey wheel handle and hand brake project, I could not see the rear (2nd) horizontal bolt but could feel from underneath that it was still there.

I am pleased to say that my service engineer has replaced

the two cross bolts and hopefully, it won’t happen again.

I will keep my eye on this. The only sign was some grating noise, possible the front of the van ( A frame and Jockey wheel was lower), but when hitching up on an uneven site, it is difficult to tell.

Any one with signs of vertical movement to the tow shaft and hitch fitting should see their caravan dealer/ service engineer immediately.

Kind regards, John Warrack

Front plate removed showing Alan Key end of broken bolt

UK Government opposed to EU

caravan roadworthiness test A European Union plan to introduce MOT-style testing for caravans is being resisted by the government.

The proposal would result in caravans weighing more than 750kg being required to undergo regular checks.

Caravan owners have warned that the move could damage the economy by cutting the number of people taking caravans on holiday in the UK.

The Department for Transport says it will "resist" the EU plan.

The measure would affect many of the estimated 510,000 caravans in current use in the UK, with only the smallest two-berth models excluded.

The Caravan Club, which represents 375,000 families across the UK, argues that its members often have young children and are highly likely to regularly service their caravans for safety reasons.

Practical challenges

No price has been set for the test but the Caravan Club has said the cost of establishing it would be huge, with caravan and trailer owners bearing much of the cost.

The government last year estimated that it would cost £239m to introduce a caravan and trailer registration scheme for the UK.

A Club spokeswoman said: "The club will always support practical and effective measures aimed at improving road safety.

"In this case, however, we believe the proposals are not supported by clear evidence that they will address a genuine concern, nor that the practical and economic challenges of implementing them have been sufficiently considered.

"It is therefore likely that the proposals would not deliver a desirable benefit to cost return against any of those criteria and instead could prove a strong disincentive to participate in caravanning, with consequent harm to the entire caravanning sector plus the associated tourism activities."

A Department for Transport spokesman said the move also faced opposition in a number of other European Union countries.

He said: "Member states have already agreed that they do not want to introduce roadworthiness testing for caravans - this includes the UK government and we will continue to resist it."

The caravan plans are part of proposals for a tougher vehicle testing regime which its supporters say "aims to increase road safety by introducing more harmonised rules and higher standards for vehicle roadworthiness testing".

Siim Kallas, vice president of the European Commission, said if vehicles - including caravans - cross European borders, EU countries "must have some kind of harmonised approach and rules concerning technical quality".

The roadworthiness regulations are due to be debated by the European Parliament this autumn.

The plan passed their first stage in the parliament last month, despite British MEPs speaking out against the idea.

From BBC News. 12 August 2013.

Cover removed towing shaft was loose

http://ec.europa.eu/transport/road_safety/pdf/road_worthiness_package/proposal_for_a_regulation_on_periodic_roadworthiness_tests_en.pdf

http://ec.europa.eu/transport/road_safety/pdf/road_worthiness_package/proposal_for_a_regulation_on_periodic_roadworthiness_tests_en.pdf




In his article in the Summer 2012 issue of News

and Views, “Funny things happen when you go

on an ICFR Rally overseas”, David Mack (RC of

Frome Selwood) clearly illustrated how a non-

fundraising fellowship such as ICFR can be a

powerful catalyst in persuading individual Rotary

Clubs to support a major fundraising project. In

his case, eight Clubs from the UK, Canada,

Australia, America and South Africa combined to

raise sufficient funds, which when match funded

by local Rotary Districts and the Rotary

Foundation, produced the grand total of over

$42,000 for the Lapdesk Project being promoted

by the RC of George, South Africa.

David’s article arose from what he referred to as

the fallout from the ICFR Springbok South African

Tour in the Spring of 2011. This report continues the

“fallout” in describing what happened in South Wales to

raise funds to support the work of the RC of Breede

River Winelands, Montagu, South Africa, one of the

Clubs visited during the ICFR Tour of South Africa. To

be precise the Club was not visited; the members of the

Club visited us on our camp site and provided a

m a g n i f i c e n t

e v e n i n g o f

fellowship, food

and wine. We

h a d s o m e

indication of

what was to

come as we

watched during

the day a whole

l amb be i ng

roasted on a

revolving spit.

I was impressed with the displays and descriptions of

the activities of this relatively young Club. This

impression was reinforced by discussion with the

President Elect of the Club, Professor Sir David Hall, who

had described what was being done to improve the lives

of squatter children in what was known as the “Bonnie

People Project”. The fact that David knew Swansea and

had been associated with its two major hospitals

clinched our relationship!

The RC of Swansea’s International Service and

Foundation Committee has put funds aside for a Rotary

Foundation Matching Grant project. The visit to South

Africa and the obvious need of support illustrated by the

Breede River Winelands Club provided a very

appropriate target. A figure of £3,000 was agreed by

the Swansea Club and thought had to be given to how

that level of finance could be raised for a matching

grant application before the deadline of 31st March

2013, when the Rotary rules for matching grants was to

be substantially changed.

A chance meeting on a cruise ship had a considerable

effect on the possibility of raising sufficient funds. We

shared a dinner table with a couple from South Wales.

The requirement of the Swansea Club to raise money for

this very worthwhile cause was mentioned. A fellow

diner, a chorister with the Morriston Orpheus Choir,

suggested a Charity Concert with the Choir.

To cut a long preparation short, on the 29th June 2013

a Charity Concert was held in St Mary’s Church in the

centre of Swansea at which the Morriston Orpheus Choir

and a local young choir, the Ariosa Singers, performed

to much acclaim. The Concert raised just over £3,500,

with net proceeds of £2,300 to go towards the Swansea

Club’s commitment. In the end the Swansea

commitment was reduced to just over £2,800 when

exchange rates between the £ and the $ were finalised.

A recent report from The Rotary Foundation (TRF) has

confirmed that through the multiplication factor of

match funding from the South Wales and South African

Districts together with match funding from TRF, the

funding available to the Bonnie People Project in South

Africa, which will be supervised on a regular basis by

both the Swansea Club and the Breede River Winelands

Club, will exceed $19,000.

As David Mack said in his article in News and Views

Summer 2012 – It shows that even from a recreational

fellowship, the Rotary motto of ‘Service above Self’ can

still apply.

John Lomax, Chairman, International Service and

Foundation Committee, Rotary Club of Swansea

ICFR Fallout SA continues




Member to Member Congratulations

Jean Bills 90th Birthday 27/11/13

Roberta and Frank Gray

Golden Wedding 8/6/13

Paul Harris Fellowships

Paul Quinlan (Treasurer Elect of ICFR)

Ralph Leyland

Both of RC Market Drayton presented by AG Richard Green for services to Rotary in general

and their club in particular.

Bryan Lowden

Of RC North Cotswolds “A great surprise but a great honour”

Mike Spencer (1150 District Chairman)

Of RC Abertillery & Blaina presented by District Governor David Curtis

APP: First Aid by British Red Cross

Apps can generally be categorised as ‘Useful or Fun’.

Rarely do you come across one which can genuinely

be described as ‘potentially life changing’ and

therefore I thought it worth sharing this with you in

News & Views.

The ‘First Aid by British Red Cross’ app gives clear

concise advice on what to do in 17 emergency

situations.

Touch the emergency triangle and a bullet point list

appears with information on Allergies, Asthma and

Bleeding etc.

I experimented by tapping ‘Burns’ and was presented

with a small video screen and brief instructions of

what action to take. Tap ‘learn more’ and get even

more details with diagrams and including a button for

999 should it be necessary.

All the details are within the app itself so you don’t

need an internet connection to use it. It might use a

large chunk (25mb) of your phone memory – but I am

sure it’s worth it as you never know when you could

be faced with an emergency situation.

Cliff Dorling 1090

HRH Marks Hykeham Sailability

Anniversary HRH The Princess Royal launches new

safety boat on 5th birthday

HRH The Princess Royal helped Hykeham Sailability

celebrate its fifth birthday in style as she officially

launched the group’s new safety boat funded by a

£6,500 donation from The Rotary Club of Sleaford.

Led by Sleaford businessman, Keven Roberts, who

is not even a sailor himself, the group has secured

many tens of thousands of pounds of funding,

inspired and trained numerous volunteers and

instructors and worked tirelessly to establish what

is now a thriving, vibrant Sailability club.

Up until now the club have had to borrow a support

boat to enable them to run their extensive and

wide-ranging programme of activities but the

addition of the new boat means the club is even

more self sufficient.

Keven said: “It’s great that we now have our own

support boat. Everyone is raring to have a go in it.

It will be well used. The Princess was so interested

in what we do and knowledgeable about boats and

people with disabilities, it was a brilliant day.

“For our disabled sailors the sport provides an

opportunity to be independent when so often they

are very dependent on others.

“When a sailor spends a large part of the week in

pain and in bed it is humbling to see them enjoying

a sail or the young blind man who goes out

independently in a boat leaving his guide dog

waiting for him on the shore. We have enjoyed an

incredible first five years and are looking forward

to what the future holds.”




Fellowship News 28, Summer 1988 Front Page




Diana’s Cookery Page With a pile of ideas for summer drinks, light salads, BBQ

feasts in front of me, and with a hot sun beating down

through the windows, this page is being written during

the hot days in the summer. However, these ideas will

not be much appreciated when this edition of N&W is

published in the winter. So, it is back to the drawing

board to search for recipes more appropriate to the

cooler days of early winter, and indeed, winter itself.

For Pimms think mulled wine! (watch out for a “mock”

Pimms recipe in the summer 2014 edition of N&V.)

Diana

Mushroom and Celery Stroganoff (serves 4) Large Onion 1 Celery Sticks 4 Mushrooms 12oz (350g) Butter or Margarine 2oz (50g) Flour (preferably wholemeal) 1 tablespoon (15ml) Water 1/4 pt (150ml) Yeast extract (marmite) 1 teaspoon (5ml) Thyme half teaspoon Soured cream or natural yogurt 1/4 pt (150ml) (or to

individual taste) Salt and pepper to taste Chopped parsley to garnish if desired. Slice onion, celery and mushrooms. Melt half the butter in a stir

fry pan or saucepan, and sauté onion and celery until the onion

is transparent. Add remaining butter and allow to melt, add

mushrooms and stir occasionally over medium heat for 2-3

minutes. Stir in the flour, then add the water, mixed with yeast

extract, and herbs. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer,

uncovered, for 2-3 minutes. Off the heat, stir in the soured cream

or yogurt and adjust seasoning to taste. Heat very gently to

serving temperature. Serve at once on a bed of freshly cooked

rice. Sprinkle with parsley (if available). To add a bit of colour you

could add half a chopped red pepper or for meat eaters, use less

mushrooms and stir fry some lean pork loin with the mixture.

Either way it is delicious.

Janice Spencer

Onion and cheese flan (serves 4) This is particularly good for a supper. Make it and freeze it in its

tin before a rally. It will defrost beautifully on the journey and be

just right with some peas or baked beans when you arrive.

Packet of short-crust pastry, or make your own,

A good knob of butter

6 medium sized white onions, finely sliced

1 tbsp. balsamic vinegar

1 teas. brown sugar

3 egg yolks

150ml double cream

150g mature cheddar grated.

Roll out the pastry and line a 25cm tart case. Chill it in the fridge

for about 20 mins. Heat the oven to 200C. Bake blind for 20

minutes or until the pastry is golden.

While the pastry is cooling heat the butter in a pan and cook the

onions over a lowish heat, stirring occasionally. Add the

balsamic vinegar and sugar and cook for a further 10 minutes

until they become sticky and golden. Make sure all the liquid has

evaporated. Let them cool. Beat the eggs and cream and add

the grated cheese and cooked onions. Season with salt and

pepper. Fill the tart case with filling and bake for 20/25 minutes

until just set and golden.

Home made Pesto

Heat a small frying pan over a medium heat and toast

30g pine nuts, or cashew nuts, until lightly golden,

stirring constantly. Peel and crush one or two garlic

cloves to a paste. Place with the nuts in a food

processor, add a handful of basil leaves (or parsley, or

rocket) and enough olive oil to whiz to a puree. Add 60g

freshly grated parmesan (or good cheddar) and some

salt and black pepper to taste and whizz again. This will

keep in the fridge for a few days, in a screw top jar

covered with a film of olive oil. Use with pasta, or just

spooned lightly over a tomato salad or drizzled over the

mini pizzas below.

Some quickies –

An Alternative Salad dressing – mix a good teaspoon

of either dry, or grain mustard, a teaspoonful of sugar,

salt and pepper to taste, in a small jug or cup. Add

about a tablespoonful of vinegar, white or malt, and mix

with other ingredients to a paste. Add about a

tablespoonful of milk. The original recipe called for “top

of the milk” but alas, it cannot be so these days with

regular milk. Taste and adjust seasoning.

No rolls to have with a salad? Take about six

tablespoonfuls of flour, either SR or plain, add a couple

of tablespoons of good quality oil and roughly mix. Add

cold water to make a soft but not sticky dough, gather

up all the bits and form into a ball. Cut into 4/6 pieces

and flatten these into rounds about 1cm thick. Have

ready a hot, heavy based frying pan and cook the

rounds on both sides until nicely brown and slightly

scorched – about five minutes per side. Keep them

warm until required wrapped in a tea towel.

Instant mini pizza! Alternately flatten the whole ball of

dough to about 1cm thick and cook as one piece. When

golden on both sides, cover with cooked chopped

tomatoes and chopped onions, some chopped ham or

chorizo and sprinkle with grated cheese and put under

the grill until the cheese has melted and is nicely brown.

For old Spices. Gather up all your seldom used half

empty (not herbs) spice jars. Put the contents into a

jam jar with a screw top and give it a good shake. Keep

this jar by the cooker and remember to use a pinch of

this mixture in savoury dishes. It will add new

interesting flavours and relieve the clutter of small jars

in the cupboard! The same can be done with all dried

herbs (even though they smell like hay!)

Stop Press!

Whilst on the Autumn Fellowship, two ladies told me

they had a recipe which could be included on this page.

So far nothing has arrived and as the deadline for copy

is coming up fast they might have to go in the next issue

of N&V. Please do send me your favourite recipes, and

short cuts. ([email protected]). John

Hackney will take over the Editorship of N&V from

Gerard Turley from 1st January and has very kindly

asked if I would continue with this recipe page. I am

delighted to do so but it would make putting it together

a little easier if ideas could be sent as and when they

come into your mind!

mailto:[email protected]

Documents

News and Views Winter 2013 Edition 79