16 February 2013, Narrow Gauge South West, Shepton Mallet

3^rd Saturday in February, easterly wind and chill factor makes it seem freezing, but the sun is shining brightly – must be NG South West! The annual Small & Delightful “do” at Shepton Mallet is a reminder that winter is nearly over and it is time for a big get together, enjoy some super modelling, enjoy the friendly company of like-minded boys and girls and eat lots of cake! Once again, Howard Martin and his team of “jolly helpers” put turkey farming, tractors and cider drinking to one side and pulled together to provide a memorable day out in Somerset for the nearly 600 paying visitors who joined the 100 or so already inside who were participating one way or another. I very much enjoyed the day, I always do, and everyone I spoke to shared the same opinion. It was, in short, a fantastic, friendly, informal and hugely inspiring experience.

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27 January 2013, Beds & Bucks NG Modellers Open Day, Barton Le Clay

For the 8^th Beds & Bucks NG Modellers open day at Barton Le Clay, just north of Luton, Mark Howe and his colleagues pulled out all the stops to create a real mega-fest of narrow gauge modelling with a total of no less than 18 layouts large and small plus another 4 in a pizza layout  display. 22 layouts in total, a good representation from specialist traders, the 009 Society members sales and of course, splendid refreshments provided by the 4 very hard working ladies who persevered cheerfully throughout the day keeping everyone fed and watered. 5 stars plus golden mustard spoon for the catering!

A splendid turnout of some 185 paying visitors joined the 50 or so who were participating or posing and once again, top grade congratulations to the Beds and Bucks team for laying on what everyone agreed was their best one yet!

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12 January 2013, SWOONS Members Open Day, Ilton, Somerset

Another start to another year as Brian Ellsmore and myself splashed our way to the village of Ilton in Somerset with a van full of the 009 Society sales stock for the SWOONS (South West group 009 Society) and their 7th Members Open Day. Is it a year since the last one? Doesn’t time fly! A splendid way to kick the new year into life despite the weather as around 100 enthusiasts converged on this very wet rural location, some travelling considerable distances to be there. Matt and Maria Cicquel provided 5 star beverages and food including some splendid hot “oggies” whilst everyone enjoyed the usual informal, relaxed and friendly gathering amidst some superb layouts and models. All who attended agreed a very big “well done” to the SWOONS team for another truly excellent day.

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