First, apologies for my tardiness in getting this together, It has been a busy few days here in Clevedon. I expect you are all equally busy.
Second, WOW what a meeting. With 51 drivers and 17 spectators this was the busiest meeting that we have had so far. I know a couple of people could not attend due to illness, but it was good to see new people and old friends again.
It being the Christmas meet we did want to do something to mark the occasion, last year we had a raffle but it took so much time it did detract form the driving and chatting experience. Happily we kept the food and Lin Claire and Mandy worked wonders keeping people fed and watered. Huge thanks to them and not forgetting that they do this month in month out. So thank you team.
With that many people Nicola was kept busy as well, without her it would be really difficult for us to run any meetings. She is hugely organised! Very many thanks to Nicola as well.
With so many drivers there were bound to be a lot of trucks, I did do a quick count in the early afternoon and there were 83 trucks on the layout, many running. Also a fair few on the tables so I think we had over 100 trucks. I think the quality of the trucks and rolling stock takes a step up every meet. It is also really nice to see so many trailers and what a variety of both those and loads.
This month also saw the most yards booked as well and I am glad to say that the Quarry area was well used this meeting. Feel free to use it as you please, all welcome, wheel loaders, dozers and diggers. The quality of the yards is also going up, I think it may be time to have a featured yard or two.
A couple of people have asked about the bridge, it has been absent. We have not put it up recently as it does cut the layout in half and restricts access. We are trying a few different things though so please bear with us and do let us have your feedback.
These meetings are the success they are due to the people that arrive and drive, thats YOU. So much of the feedback we get is around it being such a friendly and inclusive meeting, so thank you all for coming.
Well I guess on to the pictures.
Wishing you all a very merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous new year. See you in January.