Dear 'Catters,

At the hugely successful German Mudgathering in May this year (thanks again Wolfgang and everyone else involved!) it was agreed that we should repeat the exercise at the beginning of May 2002 to coincide with European public holidays at that time. There was also a general agreement that Brussels would be a good venue as it is fairly convenient for both "continental" and UK 'Catters.

I therefore very happily agreed to "play host" to the next "Mudcat EuroGathering" being a Brussels-based 'Catter.

The reason for this very early "heads up" is to find out peoples' preferences and to make some initial arrangements where necessary in good time.

Depending on the numbers involved, I may be able to accomodate the musical side of it at our home where I have more space available than we had in Muenster for playing. We would also be able to put a number of people up as we have a couple of spare beds, a reasonable amount of floor space, possibly room for a couple of tents and neighbours 5 minutes away would also be willing to similarly accomodate a number of people. If others would prefer B&Bs or small hotels, I could compile a list of those nearby.

The other thought I had, and which might involve some early planning on my part was to ask our local "commune", which has recently become rather "arty and cultural" whether they might be prepared to lend out one of their performing spaces for such a unique "international gathering" (which could well be a feather in their cap in Brussels). Rather than paying for such a facility, I thought that, in exchange, maybe a "Mudscratch Band" and individuals might be willing to put on a free concert/ceili for the local denizens. This idea resulted from the extremly high quality of music the "Scratch Band" and other performers were able to provide at this year's Yorkshire Gathering. I know a multilingual caller locally who might be prepared to help with the dances.

On the other hand, some people may prefer to keep the music "between ourselves" as we did in Muenster. I am personally easy either way and will go with the flow.

The idea of this thread is to:

- give some advance notice of the EuroGathering 2002
- maybe get an initial idea of interest in attending (some people have already confirmed to me!)
- get some idea of how interested 'Catters would like to have the weekend go so I can arrange things accordingly (especially those that need to be done well in advance)

Naturally all are welcome and, if numbers get high, we will find a solution. If any non-European 'Catters are able to make it over that would be fantastic as well!

I will refresh this thread from time to time as many people are now on holiday and others may not be able to make a decision at this early stage.

Very best regards to all,

mooman (TAFKA mcmoo)