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This is where you will find the latest News, Information and Photos for West Wales Centre Members.
Urgent - Marshals Required for 2009

The following Rallies have vacancies for Rally Marshals, if you are interested in running one or more of these Rallies, please contact Julie Jones, Hon. Rally Secretary.

February 13th to 15th - New Lodge Social Club, Gorseinon, Swansea.
March 20th to 22nd - Bank Farm, Horton.
April 9th to 14th - Pontkemys Farm, Abergavenny - Easter Away Rally.
May 1st to 4th - Hampton House Farm, Warwick - May Day Away Rally.
August 21st to 27th - Pre-National Rally at Pembrey Country Park.
October 2nd to 4th - Rosedale, Llanrhidian - AGM Rally.
October 9th to 11th - Pencoed Comprehensive School, Pencoed, Bridgend.
November 27th to 29th - New Lodge Social Club, Gorseinon, Swansea.

New Year Gift Idea!!

Why not treat your partner to a WWCC Annual Dinner Dance ticket! Only a few tickets and rooms left. Hurry before they all go!!

Please click here for more information and contact details.

Also, a big thank you to everyone who has supported the Centre's Social Events this past year. Happy holidays, see you out and about next season in 2009.

John & Karen Crockett

Children's Xmas Party
6th December 2008 - Gorseinon
 

  

 

Noggin & Natter - Report

This was an evening to outline the needs and requirements for the Welsh National Caravan Rally 2009 at Pembrey Country Park, which the West Wales Centre is hosting.
There was a great response, with around 100 Members in attendance. A free Chilli or Curry was on the menu at Dunvant R.F.C., at the Centre's cost, as a 'thank you' for attending.
Ronnie John, WWCC Centre Chairman, showed a brief slide presentation to all gathered explaining the organisational structure and the way we will be running the event. Team Leaders then set themselves up ready to take names to form the various teams.
A great response was forthcoming. The Chairman went on to say that "those present would form the 'core' of Members that would make the event a success".
For those of you who could not make the evening there will be a second chance. The Pembrey Easter Rally will run a similar event (no food this time sorry!). It will give another opportunity for Members to volunteer their help
Plans are running well, although we are about 2 months behind, due to the deferred AGM.
If you would like more information, please call or e-mail the Chairman who will be happy to accept your services.
The Chairman said "There is great enthusiasm in the Centre. We have the potential to put together another memorable National Rally for all those who attend".

Ralliers & Friends Social
28th November - Gateway C.P.

A total of 47 Carvery excellent meals were served to those who attended this end of season social.

There was a small 'blip' prior to the evening, originally scheduled for Saturday night. Unfortunately at very late notice we were told we could only have the room on Friday! After some frantic telephone calls by John Crockett our Social Secretary, all who were going to attend were informed of the change.

The Rally also had problems with the original Marshal dropping out last minute (very inconsiderate). Fortunately, new Committee Member Joanne Stroud and Family volunteered to Marshal the Rally - thanks Joanne.

The entertainer for the evening, provided by Ken Strellie, the Park owner, was Tom Dooley. He was a little 'blue', but had most people laughing. He was preceded by our own Main Committee Raffle, my thanks to Committee Members who each contributed a bottle. Thanks also to the ticket sellers and organisers, who made the raffle such a success

Thanks once again to John Crockett, whose next big event will be our Annual Dinner & Dance in February. I am sure many Members will attend to support this excellent occasion in the New Year.

Ronnie John
WWCC Chairman

WWCC Officers & Main Committee 2008/9

(Left to right) John Crockett, Lee Coombes [Hon Treasurer], Martin Bevan, 
Mike Checker (Vice Chairman), Dave Lewis, Gareth Jones, Ronnie John (Chairman), 
Julie Jones [Hon Rally Secretary], Andrea Glew [Hon Secretary], Joanne Stroud, 
John Davies, Julia Doherty and Mike Small.
Provisional Rally Programme - 2009
Please click here.
Rallygoers & Friends Social Evening
Saturday 29th November 2008
Gateway C.P., Bynea

(N.B. Rally on site)
Starring singer/comedian
Jack Dollie
plus Good Food, Disco & Raffle
Tickets only £8.00 
from John Crockett
, WWCC Social Secretary
Tel: (01639) 870393
Mob: 07773 818007
e-mail: j.crockett@swancoll.ac.uk

or any Committee Member

REMINDER - Christmas Party for 0-5yrs
Saturday 6th December 2008
3pm until 5pm

This year's Christmas Party will be held at 3Cs Social Club, Blessed Sacriment Church, Alexandra Road, Gorseinon SA4 4NX. The hall is actually downstairs under the church and, for the adults, has a bar, lounge and snooker/pool area. There is parking at the rear of the building, and you can also access the building by foot off Park Road.

Please send your Christmas Party booking slips* off to any of the Ladies Sub-Committee - as soon as possible. (*See last page of online version of the Rally Handbook, please click here.)

Santa is looking forward to seeing you there!!

Ladies Sub-Committee

Children's Pantomime
10th January 2009

ROBINSON CRUSOE
at the
Pen-yr-Heol Theatre, Gorseinon
Book now!
(Special Booking Forms are at the back of the Rally Handbook)
Next Year's WWCC Dinner Dance
(Strictly over 18s only)
To be held on
Saturday February 2009
at the

Diplomat Hotel, Llanelli

Featuring Phil Doyle - Fabulous International Singer & Comedian



Special room booking rates have been organised for the Friday & Saturday,
for only £75.00* per night for double room, full cooked breakfast and use 
of the leisure spa for both nights.
(*Hotel room bookings can be made over 4 payments by arrangement.)

Rooms are going fast!!! - to avoid disappointment, please contact: 
John Crockett
WWCC Social Secretary
Tel: (01639) 870393   Mob: 07773 818007
e-mail: j.crockett@swancoll.ac.uk

Welsh National 2009 Bookings
Welsh National 2009 Booking Forms
are being received at a steady rate. 
All are requesting tickets
for the Max Boyce Show. 
If you want guaranteed tickets you are advised to book as early as possible.
Booking Forms are available 
from all Main Committee Members.
Caldicot Castle Rally
10th - 12th October
Some photos . . .

 

   

Harvest Supper - Fairwood Corner Farm
19th - 21st September 2008
This year's Harvest Supper Rally was once again held at Fairwood Corner Farm, the weather was glorious which only added to the enjoyment that was had by all. 

Saturday morning saw the trail of willing volunteers making their way up to the barn where various tasks were to be undertaken. The barn was again transformed into ‘Barbara’s Bistro’ with a swept floor, electric lighting, plumbing, four ovens, loads of tables and chairs all ‘set’ for dinner plus the disco equipment. 

While outside in the glorious sunshine the many veggie peelers were working extremely hard trying to achieve the set task of replicating the exact size of ‘Jayne's roast potato’, and very well done indeed, because that is never an easy task to achieve!! 

The evening started off with delicious vegetable soup and bread roll, followed by a hearty beef dinner, then finished off with strawberry or chocolate gateau and cream. All served by our Main Committee waiters/waitresses for the evening - all smartly dressed in black & white. Many thanks to them for their support.

Later we had our ‘Bottle Raffle’ which we must say was extremely well supported. Once again a huge thanks to everyone as all the money we (the Ladies Sub-Committee) collect is spent directly on the children/grandchildren of our Centre Members on various activities throughout the year. This was followed by D.J. Callum's disco music which kept us dancing throughout the evening. Well done Callum.

Once again many, many thanks to everyone who came up to lend a hand and their expertise. We really do appreciate your help you're all too numerous to mention by name, so all please accept a very big THANK YOU from us (the Ladies Committee) to you for making the weekend a great success and we hope to see you all again next year with peelers at the ready! If you haven’t got a peeler, then don’t worry, we’ll find you one in Barbara’s box of tricks or just come along and enjoy the event.

The Ladies Sub-Committee
New to Caravanning?
The National Caravan Council has launched a website for new caravanners and also those considering taking up caravanning. For buying, touring and practical advice, please click here.
Harvest Supper - Fairwood Corner Farm Rally
19th - 21st September 2008

Youth Trip to Clyne Muddy Assault Course
20th September 2008


To see some more photos of the event, please click here.

Rally Report - Gnoll Park 
12th - 14th September 2008
Friday and the weather was dry at last, we had 35 vans on site, some of which had to be sited by 4x4s as the ground was wet and we had to use the slope. 

Some of our kind, regular Rallygoers agreed to be sited on the wettest patches - our thanks to them, you know who you are!
 
Saturday and the sun was shining (yes sun!), a relaxing day at the Gnoll, some ralliers strolled to Neath Fair and the pubs, I believe for some refreshments!  A mellow night listening to the Cascades in the background.
 
Sunday and again we were graced with the big yellow thing in the sky!  Flag went without a hitch, I think, and the Sports Sub-Committee held a Raffle to raise funds.  Thanks to all who contributed with prizes and bought tickets
 
A great time was had by all and a rare treat of a dry weekend, weather-wise anyway!
 
Thanks to our Assistants Don, Karen, Richard, Louise, Josh and Leigh.
 
Hope to see you all out again soon. Thanks for your support.

Adrian, Jan, Luke and Keenan

Brecon R.F.C. - Rally Report
25th - 27th July 2008
Brecon R.F.C. - a superb new venue for our Centre. With 17 vans attending, a great time was had by all. 

Friday evening, when everyone arrived, was warm and balmy. This was followed by a "sunny" yes, you read it right, "sunny" Saturday!!! Everybody was invited to attend the Rugby Club in the afternoon for an impromptu game of Boules. The Club has a purpose-built Boules area and it was a chance to play it as they do in France. Many teams took part and many cold drinks were consumed. The winners of the afternoon were Jan & Ronnie John (Jan carrying Ron as usual).
Then back to the vans for a communal BBQ - do you remember these? When everybody brings their BBQ in the sun to a central point?? You're right, we haven't had much chance this year with our glorious (not) weather!

Sunday was also a clear and bright day. A car boot sale set itself up quietly in an adjacent field and presented an ideal chance for us all to do a little antique hunting - however, unfortunately there were no Clarice Cliff or Poole Pottery bargains to be found.

All in all, this was a great venue that we need to use again.

Dave & Gill Lewis

Chairman's Welsh National Rally Report
To see some photos from the event, please click here.
We were there in force yet again, with over 90 outfits supporting the Gwent Centre's premiere event at Crick. Opening Flag was well supported and gave Gary Glew and his Sports Sub-Committee the opportunity needed to raise teams for the many sporting competitions.
Cheese and wine was served as a 'thank you' from our Centre for supporting Members.
We entered as many 'under canvas' competitions as we could. Many Members were cooking and flower arranging, etc., etc. Rachael John won the Welsh National Bannerette design. The photographic competition saw 1st & 2nd with Lynne Davie and Jen Watts taking the honours respectively. Only one entry in the Concourse d'Elegance competition which left us with no competition!! Never mind, the Winner's Cup was presented to Mair and Peter Thomas, thanks to them for entering.
Jan John and her enormous team of helpers won the Decorated Car competition. We were also well represented in the Darts and Boules and Inter-Centre Quiz competitions. Owners improvements were also entered - better luck with those next year.
Onward to the Sports fields, where again young and old gave their hearts for our Centre. We did fantastically well, as the trophy table at closing Flag showed.
At closing Flag, the I thanked all those who had taken part in any competition and presented the precious 'Well Done' plaques. It is always great to see the younger Members receiving their first one. I hope it encourages them to go on to greater sporting moments in the future.

To see the Sports Competition Results, please click here.

Our special Trophy - the 'Maggs Jones Trophy' - is presented annually to the player deemed to have given a special input and to have played in a truly sportsmanlike way. The trophy this year was won by Debbie Davies. She had again given a terrific personal performance in the Ladies Netball competition.
All nearly done - I then reminded all in attendance that it was our turn to organise the Welsh National Rally 2009 which is to be held in Pembrey Country Park. Everyone was asked to come along to a 'Noggin & Natter', being held later this year at Dunvant Rugby Club, and offer their support for next year's event.

Once again, a big THANK YOU to everyone who attended the Rally and contributed to our success in winning the Inter-Centre Runners-Up Trophy.

Ronnie John
WWCC Chairman

Tug-of-War Contest - Ferryside

Above are some pictures of the West Wales boys doing Tug-of-War at a contest on St Ishmaels Beach, Ferryside whilst attending our Pembrey Country Park Holiday Rally in August.

You will see a few new recruits, namely Jordon Summers and Ceri Lewis (top photo) who were competing in their first Tug-of-War competition. The team entered as ‘The Caravanners’, won the contest and were awarded a Cup. This was the inaugural contest which is hoped will become an annual event. ‘The Caravanners’ have been challenged to return next year and the locals claim they will be better trained and will look to secure the Cup at the re-match.

Regrettably the new recruits were not old enough to compete at this year's Welsh National Rally, but possibly if they continue training they may feature at our Welsh National next year in Pembrey.

Diane & Nia Lewis

Fairview Farm, Pinged - Rally Report 
18th-20th July 2008
A total of 25 caravans attended this lovely venue, all from the West Wales Centre. The weather was dry but windy, but plenty of fun.  A special thanks to Landowner Mr Nick Peters, who kindly provided us with a Marquee to use for the weekend. 
Friday Night - we somehow managed to provide Rallygoers with Bingo, albeit a bit back to basics with paper numbers, but well worth it!  Afterwards we followed with a game of Give us a Clue!  Much fun unfolded at everyone's expense! 
Saturday saw a brighter day with Flag held with Cheese & Wine, which Members enjoyed.  We then held an eagerly awaited 'Chinese Auction' which was a roaring success, on a few occasions we thought we may have had some fighting (only joking) but great fun was had by all!  More Bingo followed and an enjoyable weekend was had by all!  I would like to thank all the Rallygoers for their support and especially Don & Karen Trussler our Assistants.  

Hope to see you all out again soon!
 
Adrian, Jan, Luke and Keenan

Carway Football & Cricket Club - Rally Report
4th - 6th July 2008

Again the weather had an affect on the number of outfits enjoying the Rally. We had started the weekend with 32 caravans booked in but by Friday evening that number had halved to just 16 actually attending the Rally.

A fabulous welcome was given to us by the Club Steward, Roy and his wife Tracey and a good Friday evening socialising in the Clubhouse was enjoyed by all who ventured out in the rain (some Rallygoers not leaving until the early hours!).

Saturday morning saw a little bit of the big yellow thing in the sky (i.e. the sun, for those of us who can’t remember what the sun looks like), but in the afternoon the rain returned with a vengeance. However, we enjoyed a great afternoon in the Clubhouse where the Darts Competition was taking place, with both children and adults taking part. The winning partnership was Don Trussler and Dina. Runners- up Dean Otten and Leigh Davies. Highest scores:  Adults - Don Trussler 140, Children - Liam 118 and Luke Whittle was the only one to score a Bullseye! Well done to you all.

The Owners Improvement Competition also took place during the weekend and the winners were Don and Karen Trussler – a good weekend in the Trussler camp!

Saturday evening the Clubhouse decided to bring a bit of summer sunshine into the weekend by holding an Hawaiian Fancy Dress evening with many of the Ralliers entering into the spirit (or Guinness – Dean!) of things.



  

  

  

Due to the weather, Roy very kindly allowed Sunday's Flag to take place in the Clubhouse and wouldn’t you just believe it - that was when the sun decided to make an appearance!! Never mind, it meant that the boys were able to put in a quick game of football before another successful Rally at Carway came to a close.

Thanks to all for participating and special thanks to Don, Karen, Rachael, Louise and Richard for helping organize the Darts Competition.

Gary Glew
Sports Chairman & the Sports Sub-Committee

Bank Farm, Horton - Children's Treat
Bank Holiday Rally (See full Report further down page)

For more photos, please click here.

Happy Valley C.P. - Rally Report
20th - 22nd June 2008
A total of 26 caravans attended the Rally at this scenic venue. The weather was not very kind to us but we still managed to enjoy a fun weekend. Saturday we had 'Pirates at Happy Valley' where with the assistance of Pirate Captains and children both of the big and small variety, we tracked down Captain Blackbeard's Hidden Treasure and guess what - the treasure chest was filled with sweets!

The Marshals thank everyone for attending and for joining in the fun. A special thank you also to Dick & Marion Checker for their assistance during the weekend.

Gary & Karen Richards
Oakwood Park - Youth Rally Report
13th - 15th June 2008

For more photos, please click here.

The Youth Rally this year was held within the grounds of Oakwood Park. On Friday evening the vans arrived and members of the Youth Sub-Committee welcomed Ralliers and attended to Rally fees. Help was provided from adults to actually site the vans.

Later in the night all the Youth met up and made plans for the rides they would visit the next day.

Everyone was very excited, they were up early and the Youth Group was the first to enter the Park on Saturday morning.

Popular rides were Bounce, Speed and the Megafobia Rollercoaster. The more adventurous were hoisted high in the air on Vertigo, after pulling the rip cord hurtled to the ground in a freefall – the ultimate skydiver extreme flight experience! In the afternoon the Hydro Ride opened and those brave enough to climb aboard were taken 100ft up into the air and then sped back down at 88mph into a splash pool where everyone got soaked. There was also plenty to do for the more faint hearted and everyone, including many parents and younger children, thoroughly enjoyed their day out.

In the evening, the Youth arranged a get together in their Gazebo, all the Youth on the Rally were invited to bring along some food and an informal party was held.

The Oakwood Park staff agreed that the Youth could use the onsite football pitch and most of the boys joined in on Saturday evening. On Sunday after Flag the boys played more football, whilst the girls sat around on the sidelines chatting and catching up on their suntans.

The weather over the weekend was glorious, ideal for sunbathing, BBQs, a game of boules or just relaxing.

The Youth Sub-Committee organised Flag on Sunday morning and it was well attended. The Youth held their Raffle which was well supported by the Rallygoers. It was an excellent venue, the Staff at the Park were very accommodating and it proved to be a very successful weekend.

Nia Lewis

Broadway C.P., Laugharne - Rally Report
6th - 8th June 2008
I was the last outfit to arrive on site, and, although it was getting quite late, the sun was still shining after several pretty awful rainy days - was this a good omen? Indeed it was! The weather couldn't have been better for the whole weekend, it was barbeques out and suntan cream on!

There were 15 vans in total attending this annual Chairman's Rally, including one from the Avon Centre (for Avon read Skewen!). 

Saturday was another gloriously sunny day and after breakfast most of my fellow Ralliers ventured into Laugharne to look around the castle and explore the bay area, visit Dylan Thomas' boathouse or just amble around the shops relaxing. Rugby enthusiasts, like myself, ended up in the local Rugby Club to watch South Africa turn over Wales in the first Test Match, much to everybody's dismay. After the game, we enjoyed a late fish and chip lunch outside the pub.

Later, back on site, everyone attending the Rally gathered around Ronnie & Jan's caravan for a Cheese & Wine evening - an invitation courtesy of Ronnie our Chairman. Following the 'do' I organised a general knowledge quiz for everyone who were, by now, braving the much cooler air as the sun had dropped behind the trees. Of course there were the usual moans and groans from the Saga Louts - aka Noel, Brian and Dave - about how hard the questions were! However, everyone who took part seemed to enjoy the quiz and friendly banter between the Teams.

The night sky during the whole weekend was extremely clear, providing excellent satellite spotting conditions. In fact Ronnie and myself witnessed a couple of satellites passing directly overhead on our way back from a (very) late 'mothing' excursion - or was it the drink affecting our eyesight? I can't be sure.

Once more the sun greeted us on Sunday morning, and everyone was up and about quite early to make the most of the good weather. During Flag there was an excellent turnout for the Centre's Photographic Competition. The winner. with a great Black and White composition, was Jen Watts (photo to follow soon). The theme was 'Rural Still Life' which is the same theme chosen for this year's Welsh National. So, all you budding photographers, get clicking and submit your entries when you attend the National in Gwent this August Bank Holiday.

There was just enough time after my barbequed lunch to fit in a few games of Boules. It was a 'challenge' match, men versus women, outside the Bevans' van. I won't mention the final result, to save embarrassment from the women's side!

This was our third year at this excellent venue and hopefully we can visit it again.

Finally, I would like to personally thank Ronnie & Jan and their Assistants, Dave and Gill Lewis for a fantastic weekend, everyone on the Rally was extremely great company. It was yet another successful WWCC Rally.

Steve McAllister

Bank Farm, Horton - Rally Report
Spring Bank Holiday Home Rally

23rd May - 1st June 2008
During the first weekend, 78 caravans arrived on site with visitors from 6 Centres. There were four First-time Ralliers attending this excellent Rally for Members' families. On the Sunday we managed to get a rest from the terrific winds and rain and in the evening, Bingo was enjoyed in the Centre's Marquees and this was quickly followed by our special night's entertainment, vocalist Janine, who proved extremely popular with everyone who attended.

Monday morning came and the decision was quickly made to take down the Marquees because of the horrendous winds.

Mid-week was quiet as the Marquees were still down and there weren't many Members left on site. Those who stayed enjoyed the local area and ventured for walks down the beach or visited the site Clubhouse and Swimming Pool.

By the second weekend there were 65 vans on site. The weather had improved and the Marquees were re-erected on Friday ready for the Children's Treat on Saturday. There was a great turn-out of the under 5s for the hard working Ladies Sub-Committee and their helpers to amuse. Even the 'Junior' Tug-of-War was enjoyed with bucket-loads loads of enthusiasm from everyone who took part in the event. There were a lot of potential 'Mini-Tuggers' both male and female! In the evening there was Bingo again followed by our act who was Ian Stroud - a fabulous guitar player/vocalist and one-time member of the pop group "Mud". The evening started off slowly, but the crowd soon arrived to thoroughly enjoy the evening

Finally, I would like to thank Dave & Gill Lewis for Marshalling the Rally and all Committee Members who supported the event. I also extend thanks to the Members for continually helping with dismantling the Marquees in appalling conditions and re-erecting them several times over!

Ronnie & Jan John

Petruth Paddocks, Cheddar - Rally Report
Spring Bank Holiday Away Rally
22nd - 27th May 2008
This was a new venue for the West Wales Centre, and, although the weather was not kind to us with the wind and rain, there was plenty to see and do around the area with places to visit, such as the Cheddar Gorge, Wookey Hole and Wells. There was also a large car boot sale a short walk from site. 

A good time was had by all, although there was an 'incident' whereby one of our past Chairmen, Mr. Bryan Harris, was shown dance moves in his caravan which resulted in him being 'attacked' and his trousers torn by a female member of the West Wales Centre!! 

There were 25 caravans on site from various other Centres, 16 from the West Wales Centre, there was also one New Rallygoer.

Gareth & Julie Jones

LLANSAINT WELFARE HALL - RALLY REPORT
2nd -5th May 2008

What a fantastic new venue - 32 vans on site - all from the West Wales Centre!

Not much happened on Friday, everyone just soaking up the breathtaking views over the Gower and Tenby coastline, although a bit windy it was warm about 18 degrees.

Then Saturday came and at one point the Rally Field looked like WOODSTOCK with people coming down in brightly coloured hippy clothes and that was just the start. After a bit of bingo (all in fancy dress) the fun began with nothing but 60s music all night. Most of the night the dance floor was full. It was indeed a 'Groovy time man'!! Prizes were given for the best dressed adult and best dressed child.

Sunday was much the same, but this time it was for the kids with Alison Summers help we had statues and musical chairs followed with FETCH ME, a game which had all the kids getting items and bringing them back to us. There was some cheating going on (Mrs Glew!) bringing in items of clothing - TUT! TUT! Every time they came back, the kids were given sweets. Towards the end we were throwing the sweets on the dance floor for them to collect. I have never seen the kids so happy which, of course, was the aim for this weekend.

Big thanks to Gary & Karen for their help doing the bingo. Massive thanks to Simon, Alison, Lois and Jordan for helping with everything. Also to Judith, Amber, Megan and Amy who without their help the Rally wouldn’t have been the success it was.

But most of all thanks to the Rallygoers for their support. We hope to do it all again next year.

Neil Barson

Fairwood Corner Farm - Rally Report
25th - 27th April 2008

With 14 vans in total, we had a reasonably good weather weekend at Fairwood Corner Farm. Saturday afternoon was fine and some Members attending even caught the sun! The Chairman and Vice- Chairman missed the sun as they attended the first 'Welsh Division' meeting in Pembrey. Flag was on Saturday evening at 6.00p.m. 

During the weekend we were able to watch some parachutists dropping over the airport. There was also some air acrobatics by a stunt plane and some brightly coloured planes doing some formation flying

Everybody managed to get off site under their own steam and hopefully had a safe tow home.

Thanks to everyone who attended.

Ronnie & Jan John

'From Sunshine Mountain to Kilimanjaro'



A Charity Walk with a difference!

Report from our own intrepid explorer Martin Bevan - please click here.
Folly Farm - Rally Report
4th - 6th April 2008

It was great to be back at such a popular venue for the children we had 29 vans in total all from The West Wales Centre and in excess of 60 children on the Rally with 26 of them being 0–5s.

All Members made good use of Folly Farm, especially with the concessions kindly given to us by Chris and the Management Team.

The Youth Sub-Committee held their Raffle which was well supported by Members and also held a Tuck Shop at Flag.

The weather was variable, but did not stop the enjoyment with children visiting the park on Saturday and having snowball fights on the Sunday morning before venturing back into the park for the rest of the day.

We had one little mishap our Social Secretary, John Crockett slipped and badly sprained his ankle, so I would like to wish him a speedy recovery.

Once again, many thanks to Trevor, Marci, Dan, Josie & Zac for assisting and to those Members who attended the Rally. It is much appreciated and I look forward to seeing you all again soon.

Thanks.
Mike Louise Emily                                    
Hollie & Rhys

*** Important Notice ***
Our Vice-Chairman, Mike Checker's mobile number as printed in the current Rally Handbook is no longer in use. The correct number is 07528 343994 as per the Contacts Page on this website.
Easter Rally at Pembrey - Rally Report
21st - 30th March 2008

The Easter Home Rally did not get off to the best of starts with the Marquees being blown over by very strong winds in the early hours of Friday morning. However, the show went on and the vans rolled in all day on Friday and the happy children received their Easter Eggs.

After Sunday morning Flag there was a very successful Easter Bonnet Parade. Once again, the Easter Bunny turned up to present prizes to the Competition winners. On Monday, the weather improved enough to re-erect the Marquees. After a social evening on the Monday, a well-attended Cheese & Wine Evening was organised on Wednesday. On Thursday there was Bingo and Play Your Cards Right. After Bingo on the Friday evening we were well entertained by the Super Simons Disco Show.

The weather turned bad on the final Saturday and the Marquees were taken down soon after closing Flag. Needless to say, that Sunday was glorious with blue skies and sunshine! However, we cannot win them all, but we did enjoy most of it.

Thanks to everyone who braved the elements and supported this popular annual Rally at a fantastic venue.

Rally Marshals

Easter Rally at Pembrey - Youth Report
21st - 30th March 2008

This was the first Rally of 2008 that the new Youth Sub-Committee held a BBQ and Tuck Shop. Lots of new Members have joined this year. All thirteen members were in attendance and everyone joined in with the preparation, cooking and serving.

The first BBQ of the week was held on Easter Sunday which was a very wet and windy day. Despite the weather, the Youth Gazebo was erected and with the addition of extra tie downs remained in place throughout the BBQ.  The BBQ proved to be a huge success in spite of the bad weather with a complete sell out of Burgers and Hot Dogs.

The Tuck Shop was held daily with all Youth Members taking a turn to sell sweets.

The second BBQ was held the following Friday and once again the heavens opened and the rain fell.  The Rally Marshals kindly agreed that food could be sold from inside the  Marquee and, once again, business was brisk.

Thank you to everyone who helped support both the BBQ and Tuck Shop.

Youth Members have recently purchased new hooded tops with their names printed on the back.  See the photos below of some of the Youth wearing their new tops.

   

   

Nia Lewis
Youth Chairperson

Longleat Safari Park - Easter Rally Report
20th - 25th March 2008
There was a very good response to the Away Easter Rally, 52 caravans braved the weather to come to the lovely venue at Longleat Safari Park, we had 15 visiting Centres ranging from Cumbria, Devon, Cornwall and Mid-Anglia, to name but a few, plus 17 West Wales Centre Members - including one new rallygoer. All children who attended the Rally were given an Easter egg on their arrival, there was also a good response to our Easter Bonnet Parade. A good time was had by all who attended the rally.

The weather was not very kind to us, but everyone MUCKED IN as caravanners do. 

The Marshals were a bit concerned because one of their Assistants 'Breakdown Brian' had more use of their vehicle than they did themselves! 'Breakdown Brian' sat at the entrance with his tow rope on one shoulder and the keys in his hand, ready to tow anyone on to the site due to the very bad weather conditions. 'Breakdown Brian' was more than willing to play with the Marshal's car again to tow people out, but alas, due to improved weather conditions, most people got off the Rally Field themselves, with the exception of 'Breakdown Brian' who had to tow himself off the field!

All Ralliers took advantage of the discount price to obtain their Passport Tickets to visit the attractions at Longleat, however, one West Wales Centre Member's vehicle did come out of the Monkey Enclosure a BIT LIGHTER - thanks to the monkeys!

Julie, Gareth, Cindy, Chris, Anita and Brian
Match your Outfit!
Maybe you're looking for another towcar or a heavier caravan or you want to compare your outfit with another? All the information you need is free on-line. Possible top speeds include wind effects and road gradients. Predictions for successful hill starts and outfit acceleration are also provided. For safe towing you can check the outfit weight ratio.
For the web link, please click here
Traffic Wales Website
For up-to-the-minute traffic and roadworks information around Wales
provided by the Welsh Assembly Government.
Please click here.

Do you have a dual-fuel towcar? Not sure where to re-fuel?

Then have a look at this website.
The Caravan Channel
The Caravan TV Channel is broadcast on Sky Channel 167 
at 7pm on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
A rapidly-developing website accompanying the TV show features both professional and amateur video reviews of new and old caravans, motorhomes and popular touring sites throughout the UK and abroad, coupled with plenty of news, forum discussions, etc., plus loads of caravan-related weblinks for you to browse.
Please click here to link to the Caravan Channel Website.

Also, some other weblinks for you to try out:
Caravan Sitefinder
Touring & Camping
UK Motorhomes.net
Amperor Direct - Electricals on the mov

Thinking of buying a secondhand motorhome? Have a look at this video report . . .

DINNER DANCE 2008
The North Gower Hotel - 2nd February

This was our fifth visit to the North Gower Hotel. But, where were you all? Numbers attending were well down, from over 90 last year to just 67 this year. 

Never mind, those who were there had a great time, and for those who didn't come to enjoy the event, it was their loss. A superb vocalist, who went down very well indeed, was booked by our Social Secretary, John Crockett. With the usual good food provided, courtesy of Giles the Hotel Manager, and his excellent staff.

Speeches were given, firstly by Grahame Payne Chairman of the Gwent Centre, he proposed a Toast - "The Caravan Club coupled with the West Wales Centre". This was responded to by our own Chairman, Ronnie John. Our Vice Chairman, Mike Checker, went on to introduce our Top Table Guests. This was responded to by Barry Jones Chairman of the North Wales Centre.

We were then entertained by our vocalist during his first set. Then on to the Raffle - with several superb prizes worth over £100. Well done to the lucky winners.

Ronnie thanked our Invited Guests for the evening who were from Ennis Caravans and Carafit. He spoke to them later and they both said "they had received a great welcome and had thoroughly enjoyed themselves".

The evening went a little flat when the singer finished his second set. From 12 until 1 we should have had some music organised by The North Gower. This, unfortunately, was not the case, so we had to talk to each other for the rest of the evening - my goodness, whatever next?

Ronnie finally thanked all the Committee present and explained to all those attending the hard work involved in setting up such an event.

Watch this space!!! A new venue is planned for 2009, but you will have to wait with baited breath. Our Social Secretary will be announcing the venue very soon. Watch out for the stampede for tickets!!

Please Note: Correction to published Rally Handbook
The contact numbers for Hon. Treasurer - Louise Davies should read as follows:
Tel: 01792 518305
Mob: 07795 411478
New Year Rally - Princess Gwenllian Centre
Please click here to see some photos.
New Year Rally - Felindre
Please click here to see some photos.

Rally Plaques
Rally Marshals should order Rally Plaques from BayPress 
using the special Order Form in their Rally Marshal Packs.
To view the Baypress Plaque Catalogue
[Adobe pdf version] for motif designs, 
please click here.

***NEW***
RALLY SITE LOCATIONS

Please click here for Rally Site Postcodes (for in-car Sat-Nav Equipment
and Web-links to on-line Maps.

BAILEY CARAVAN MANUFACTURE VIDEO

In 2006, The Caravan Club ordered a brand new fleet of caravans from Bailey of Bristol to use on their nationwide Practical Caravanning & Caravan Manoeuvering Courses. The 38 custom-built Bailey Discovery caravans are now being used by Members and Non-members to gain practical driving experience 
and to develop outfit manoeuvering skills.

The total manufacturing process was filmed using time-lapse photography to give 
an idea of what it takes to manufacture caravans.

The video condenses approximately two and a half hours production time into 
just 2 minutes 18 seconds. Please click here to visit the site.
[Please note you require QuickTime Player version 7.0 to view the video.]

RALLY REPORTS
Rally Marshals are invited to submit a report about their Rallies. Photos and 
New Site Reviews
are especially welcome.
If you have anything you think will be of interest to other WWCC Members
please contact the Webmaster.

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