November and December 2012

Well, I am long overdue to write here but that's not my fault! At long last, BT have restored a proper Internet service for me so that I can actually do something - and, of course, catch up with the backlog of work that arose!

So, a brief summary of what has been happening.

Planning permission for the improvements to the exterior of the Barn has been granted. Work continues on the interior and it is slowly but surely taking shape.

Work has proceeded apace on both Page Mountain and the Raffle layout ready for our exhibition.

On the Show front, Aldingbourne Central has been giving sterling service on its regular trip to Manor Nurseries and in November Paul Hopkins took one of his layouts to Portsmouth. He received some very positive feedback from visitors with particular comment about the reliable running but also, and this is very relevant to our members, about the wide age range of those operating it "properly".  Since this included some of our members both Junior and Senior this was very pleasing. As for the running quality, we would expect nothing less from Paul but this still remains the standard we should look for on all our layouts.

With Christmas close upon us and, indeed, both Christmas Day and New Year's Day falling on a Tuesday, this week's meeting (18th) was the last of the year - and, indeed, we all had a good time with ample refreshments. But, this does mean there are three very important messages.

Firstly, I hope that all our readers who are not members will come to join us at our exhibition on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th January. We have a good number of great layouts with strong trade support and you will be made very welcome. See http://brmrc.co.uk/exhibition.php for more information.

Secondly, an important message for our members. Our exhibition is very close to us. So, remember, the exhibition is both for us and by us so, please, every member try to come and help on at least one of the three days (including preparation on Friday evening) and preferably all of them. Paul Hopkins will be contacting every member over the next few days and setting up a rota based on what people can do. Bring friends and relatives to help! It's a big exhibition that needs a lot of work - so come along and help. Don't forget, Friday evening 11th January through to Sunday 13th January.

Finally, on behalf of the Committee, and, indeed, the entire membership, may I wish all of our readers a

Very Merry Christmas

and a 

Happy and Prosperous New Year.