Winter Gathering 2015

Briarfield near Cheltenham, the site chosen for our Winter Meet this year, had all the essential elements to help make the winter  event successful.  Easy access, hardstanding, beautifully heated facilities, a bus stop by the gate with  a regular bus service to help you visit the local attractions, a pub in easy walking distance and forty cheerful IH campers.  Thank you to Lyn and Neville for choosing such an excellent location and organising the event for members.

After rain during the first morning we were fortunate to have dry weather and although a little chilly on some days it didn't prevent groups gathering outside to welcome new members and hear the  news of members'  travels and experiences.

Most members took advantage of the frequent bus service and travelled into Gloucester where a large Christmas market was being held near to the docks. A theatre group was wandering the market and adding to the Victorian theme. The cathedral and the museums were an added attraction for some members.

Cheltenham provided further opportunities, with its museum, grand architecture and enough shops to satisfy even ardent shopaholics.

A short distance from the campsite was the Jet Age museum, some walked, some rode their bikes and some used the bus to get there. The main attraction was an authentic cockpit section of a Vulcan bomber  which we were allowed to climb inside and be amazed at the complexity of the controls.

Although the site did not have its own meeting room we were able to meet together in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the local pub. The staff made us very welcome and provided us a private dining area where we enjoyed a good meal. We were pleased  that Pam & Chris, who have now retired from motorhoming and live locally, were able to join us.  Ray and Judy had provided an intriguing quiz and Margaret and Horace scooped the first prize and Kath and Lance were a couple of points behind so had second prize.

Unfortunately numbers were limited for this meet and a few members who would have liked to attend were unable to do so. So make sure you book your place early for the 2016 Spring Gathering. which is being organised by Ray and Judy.