This year’s Regional Rally
was held in Essex at The Battlesbridge
Antiques Centre just of the A130 Southend
road. Just fewer than 200 caravans
attended. The weather was forecast for
heavy rain and thunder storms but, luckily,
the storms missed this rally venue and the
weather all went to Glastonbury.
We arrived on site just after
5pm and were shown to our pitches by members
of our host centre, North Essex. No saving
of pitches here as you went in you were
pitched all in line then it was time to get
to know your neighbour , still it did get
us all talking together. After setting up
the van it was time to sample the hotdogs
and burgers that were cooked being cooked at
the main marquee.
At 6pm the bar opened (another excuse to
have a pint). The evening’s entertainment
was a disco by Ginge Simon’s Roadshow. I
understand from a reliable source that Bob
and Jill Mains dancing was a joy,
unfortunately Jill pulled something and had
to have another drink to correct things. At
11.30pm the site was in silence (or so I was
told).
Saturday came with a cooked
breakfast for those who had purchased a
ticket. Then during the cloudy day there was
an assortment of entertainment to satisfy
all. A dog display team, Hadleigh Marching
Band had feet a tapping and the Stagecoach
Drama /Dance Group.
There were cream teas and then at 3pm the
bar closed (sob). But joy for all - the
Children’s Party took place and they were
given an afternoon of entertainment with
magic and jokes from Mr Happy.
But of course the morning also started for
the sports minded with Lawn darts, Pentanque,
netball and football. The North Essex Sports
rep, Greg Potter, had his work cut out to
sort this lot out but, after a shaky start,
all ran smoothly once he got a loud speaker.
The sports minded for Suffolk were organised
by Bob & Rosanna Waterson, I think that
everyone was entered in something or other.
Suffolk took part in Netball, Football,
Volleyball, Pentanque, Lawn Darts and Tug of
War.
By late Saturday everyone was feeling tired
and was glad of an evening of relaxation. We
took the opportunity to visit Lee and Julie
Wardley`s awning to join in the celebration
of Lee`s 49th birthday. Being that grand
old age he was presented with a card a pair
of slippers , a genuine cardigan (once worn
by Val Doonican) a trilby hat, a specially
shortened walking stick (for a little old
man) and other useful little gifts. Wait for
the big old 50th Lee and see what that
brings!
Sunday saw the Fun Run at 9am. Many people
turned out for this with a large entry by
Suffolk (what a hardened crew we are). A
mile and a half course was set out and we
were all led off by Greg on his bike. Adam
Waterson was doing very well and he lapped
me but he was just pipped at the post and
came in a creditable 2nd. Well done Adam,
and well done to all who took part.
The Battlebridge
Suffolk Centre Team
Rally News
Alternative to the
National Rally The Anglia Region
Committee have released details of two alternative Jubilee
rallies for you to enjoy. Click the links for details...
Fleet, Spalding Rally
and
Lyndon Top, Rutland Water Rally
The National Rally
Cancelled More information to be
found on The Caravan Club
web site. The 2013 National Rally will be held at Belvoir
Castle, Grantham, Lincolnshire... more>>
Spaces Available
At the forthcoming rallies:
Wenhaston 18 - 20 May
Stonham 24 - 27 May
Campsea 21 - 24 June
Brightlingsea 15 - 17 June
Haughley 28 June-01 July
Henham
Steam Online Booking
Camping and event tickets are now available online and you can
save time and money by booking in advance...
more>>
Lowestoft Air Show
Why not include a visit to the show while you enjoy the rally at
Fritton Lake
or
Campsea Ashe on 22 - 24 June. A
few spaces are still available.
Hooks &
Hotdogs Rally Cancelled
It is with regret that the Rattlesden Rally on 06-08 July has
been cancelled.
Ladies
Day Rally
This rally has a change of dates. The rally will now be held on
13 - 17 July 2012... more>>
Target
Bowls moves to Blaxhall
As the Clopton Rally was cancelled, the Target Bowls Challenge
has been moved to the Free & Easy Rally 17 - 19 August... more>>
2012
Christmas Celebration Rally
This rally has a change of dates. The rally will now be held on 14 - 16 Dec 2012... more>>
Need
Rally Slips ?
Print your own rally slips...
more>>
Other News
Newsletter
The Jubilee Edition of the Suffolk Lines Newsletter is due in
late May so please pass
your items to us asap...more>> Follow Us in
2012
on FACEBOOK search for "Suffolk Centre Caravan Club" and
TWITTER "@suffolkcentre"
Well
Behaved Pet Owners
Please remember owners must keep their dogs (and cats) on a lead
at all times on the rally field. Leads must not exceed 3m (ten
feet) in length. Dogs must be kept under control and exercised
off the rally field. Thank you.
Walking
Pace
We remind members every year but it is so easy to forget in the
excitement of the moment as you arrive on the rally field.
Please keep your speed to WALKING PACE at all times,
thank you.
