Knockholt September 2011

Subject: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 17 Aug 11 - 11:46 PM

https://sites.google.com/site/folkmobonline/the-knockholt-festival


Note new charging structure.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 18 Aug 11 - 12:58 PM

We shall be there Friday evening forward, weather and my health permitting.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 18 Aug 11 - 01:32 PM

I will probably arrive and pitch van on Thurs but then come home owing to lack of dogsitter that evening/night.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 18 Aug 11 - 10:31 AM

Forecast does not appear to presage the need to fell the cedars of Lebanon and muster the beasts of the field - not too wet, but not too hot either so far.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Girl Friday
Date: 18 Aug 11 - 12:26 PM

T D L have very much enjoyed camping at Knockholt in past years, though it's increasing popularity, due in most part to all of us inviting friends did bring extra costs to bear on Folkmob's resources. I appreciate that a financial contribution from campers towards running costs is neccessary .

However, paying £15.00 per night to camp in a field 10 miles from home with basic facilities isn't on for us. For those of you who live further afield, that's a different matter. How does The Committee plan to charge the people who drop in for a few hours ? There's a fair few who do, purely on spec. if it's a nice evening. They are using the loos, and the wood, are they not? Bet they leave rubbish there too.

It's often a struggle to keep warm around the fire when you have to move out every time another few people arrive, even with extra layers of clothing. In the end, you give up and go to bed. And that's just the summer camp!

Then there was the year of on and off heavy showers. We were not allowed to stay in the shelter of the marquee, and were called back and forth to the fire. Our old bones can't handle that.

Consequently, we retired to the caravan.

By the way, even if the old price structure was in place, we would not have come to the September camp. The van has been closed down until next spring.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Essex Girl
Date: 19 Aug 11 - 12:15 PM

We can't manage September Knockholt owing to previous engagements on the Friday and Sunday but will try to make it for the Saturday (without caravan, but it's already in the diary for next June!

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: GUEST,Woodsie
Date: 20 Aug 11 - 04:52 AM

Sorry but can't make it to Knockout anymore,

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 20 Aug 11 - 06:46 AM

Funny, I'm sure I posted here by way of explanation.

There will be an honesty collection for day trippers and evening trippers - formal gate control would be more hassle than worth.

The summer one cost over £700 to mount of which £236 was the cost of the field. We are trimming some of those costs (reduction in bog numbers and I will be removing the rubbish in builders bags) and if we have been overprudent the cost next year will go down.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 21 Aug 11 - 05:28 PM

Wevva now seems to be settling down as forecast cool but hardly wet at all.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: GUEST,big pat
Date: 22 Aug 11 - 10:59 AM

Hi all, looking forward to Knockholt, and we will be there (Deb and I) on Wednesday, as allways. I would like to reply to Girl Friday's comment. Sue no one has made you go around the fire or stay in the marque, or vice versa, no one is made to go anywhere. if you wished to stay in the marque, you are quite welcome to. it was as you said just due to the rain.
anyway see all you other merry campers, in a couple of weeks.
Pat.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: GUEST
Date: 23 Aug 11 - 08:10 AM

Complete rip off. Won't be coming

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: GUEST, Richard Bridge
Date: 23 Aug 11 - 08:22 AM

If, guest, you are a regular folkmobber or previous Knockholt attender, I am sure the committee would be happy to share the costings - and you could offer your opinion whether it was better to:

(a) have fewer lavatories - not nice;
(b) have no campfire - it would rip the heart out of the event;
(c) not repair the marquee as necessary - soggy if there is rain;
(d) not pay the farmer - that would go down well, no?;
(e) leave the organisers at risk of taking a loss;
(f) leave the rubbish in the field.

Nobody is making a profit. If there is a surplus it will carry forward to next year. If there is a loss there is an offer to underwrite some of it but it will almost certainly be the end of the event, which would be very sad.

My suspicion is that you are a wind-up. If you aren't, tell us who you are.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Girl Friday
Date: 24 Aug 11 - 10:42 AM

Hi all. Thanks for the comments. Sorry, Pat, but that was the case. 2 years ago we had an engagement at Leigh Festival, and returned, somewhat knackered. It was tiring, just taking our chairs to the fire, so when it rained we sat in the marquee, so we could listen, but Jim insisted we go out to the fire. There were lots of toing and froing every time it rained.

Yes, Richard did make the point before -sorry - but if we come up for a few hours we'd like to be able to make a contribution to the funds.

I don't think it fair that the campers bear all the costs.

Richard has a good idea about raising money via his winter sings.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 24 Aug 11 - 12:53 PM

Day trippers and night (well, evening, although at times Trevor does look a bit like Dr John) trippers will be invited to put something in a bucket. So if people's consciences are up to snuff all attendees will contribute.

I am sure that all contributions, in cash or kind will be gratefully received. For this purpose I think Lady Raffles or Mick is bagperson.

I have just stocked up on nice new bolts and nuts for the marquee (and two long allen keys to cut down so they fit in battery electric drills) so the marquee frame ought now to go zippety-zip. The wonderful Gravesend Screw (now sadly renamed "Versatile Fasteners") cost me all of a fiver including the allen keys - another few quid saved.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 24 Aug 11 - 01:04 PM

Looking forward to it. Cost seems reasonable to us. This might not be so when we are retired and on fixed income.

For now, we love Knockholt. The chance to chat with people, the music, the bonfire, lovely scenery, the group meal (when we can participate).

@ Essex Girl - I have copy of That Precious Legacy (songs collected from Essex by R. Vaughn Williams) for you. Since you are not attending Knockholt, maybe the Wassail at GI?

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 24 Aug 11 - 03:37 PM

Ah yes. Must try out new burners for van oven - and buy pounds and pounds of scotch bonnets and make harissa paste in advance. I have found butcher (seemingly Arabian, although hidden at the back of an Indian market - at least I heard him exchange greetings of "Salaam alekhum" with friends) to do goat meat, so I can take one step closer to an authentic recipe for tagine.

I am inclined to think that I could make a very Knockholt tagine dish (cooking utensil) with a large enough lorry or tractor brake drum, an offcut of a halfshaft to plug the hole in the middle, and a very domed hubcap to put on the top.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Kampervan
Date: 25 Aug 11 - 12:36 AM

Something like this maybe?


Giant tagine - like this?

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Lady Raffles
Date: 25 Aug 11 - 04:43 AM

Shall I bring the big Le creuset just in case Richard? - although the brake drum, halfshaft and hubcap sound a lot more fun. I want to have a go at making gridle cakes on the fire at some stage so I'm looking for a large flat stone.

Debs is going to be taking the money on Saturday afternoon between 2 - 6pm from her pitch.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 25 Aug 11 - 04:46 AM

Oh, yes please Sue. I have some paving slabs, although they are concrete. Would one of those do?

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 25 Aug 11 - 04:47 AM

K - not quite as big as that!

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Lady Raffles
Date: 25 Aug 11 - 06:33 AM

Thanks Richard - I don't know if concrete would crack in extreme heat but we can give it a try.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Kampervan
Date: 25 Aug 11 - 06:46 AM

No! Don't heat concrete - it can explode if it has trapped moisture or air pockets in it. Firebrick, clay or most natural stone is ok, but not concrete.

K/van

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Lady Raffles
Date: 25 Aug 11 - 07:22 AM

Ok, thanks - back to looking for big stones then.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 25 Aug 11 - 09:26 AM

Big stones I have. Big flat shallow stones I have not...

Is half an aluminium beer barrel any good?

Or a manhole cover?

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Kampervan
Date: 25 Aug 11 - 01:38 PM

The manhole cover would be perfect.

Err,,,, as long as the council don't find out. ;-)

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: GUEST,Woodsie
Date: 26 Aug 11 - 12:59 PM

Will try and get there for Saturday (daytime only)

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 26 Aug 11 - 03:45 PM

We will look forward to that. Are you better? You looked quite unwell at the 7 stars on Monday.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 27 Aug 11 - 04:15 AM

Forecast currently cool, windy(from the south), but not a lot of rain (none Thurs or Sat).

Vaguely promising.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Dipsodeb
Date: 27 Aug 11 - 07:59 AM

Glad to see that most of the comments on the thread are positive. I'm sure it will all work out fine and be as good as an event as usual.
Happy to take round a contribution bucket if necessary on saturday.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 28 Aug 11 - 08:17 AM

What about a slate patio tile for cooking on? Make a little oven with some red brick put slate tile on top.

We might be there a bit earlier on Friday afternoon, than fist thought. Bringing Crow sister with us.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Dipsodeb
Date: 28 Aug 11 - 01:38 PM

I have a cast griddle to go on the fire it also has a handle it's especially made for making flat breads I will bring it with me.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 29 Aug 11 - 10:11 AM

The weather gods seem to have smiled: forecast very wet earlier in the week and after we have gone home - but OK for us (so long as the timing holds). Cool but not too wet.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: morning wood
Date: 29 Aug 11 - 10:21 AM

Going by my last forecast I'll refrain from suggesting it'll be cracking the flags then!

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Lady Raffles
Date: 30 Aug 11 - 02:01 AM

Slate, bricks and griddle sound good - not sure about manhole cover!
But it would probably work.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 30 Aug 11 - 03:15 AM

Wevva holding steady as tolerable Fri and Sat.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Mick Woods
Date: 30 Aug 11 - 10:53 AM

The Folkmob site says September What date?

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 30 Aug 11 - 01:09 PM

9-11

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 30 Aug 11 - 04:28 PM

Wevva changed - Sat and Sun now reasonable.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 01 Sep 11 - 03:07 AM

Well, looking promising: still forecast cool, but almost dry from noon Friday, dry Sat, and dry Sun for packing up and going home. But there is forecast a lot of rain earlier in the week so the ground will be soggy.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 03 Sep 11 - 08:22 PM

Frikcking wevva. In, out, shake it all about...

We ahd a spell of LOVERLY forecsts - now back to OK-is (at least most of the rain is at night).

Bugger it, I'm still going up early. Take laptop and if all turns to wormwood work on the pub's WiFi.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 03 Sep 11 - 09:11 PM

I will be there early friday morn and Rachel coming late Friday night.

"Danger" dont use concrete it explodes "kampervan is right" dampness within causes fractures and they fill with boiling gases and go BANG SOME STONES GO BANG TOO. One of my cookers exploded and took off like a bloody UFO. dont use pebbles it causes a blunderbus effect.

an old cooking oil drum from a Kebab shop makes a ideal cooker but drill a hole in the top and stick a copper pipe in it to vent. cut one end off and reseal once meat in side with thick flour and water paste. Dont put stones in it. stick a iron bar through the middle and hang meat off it so meat dont touch side of tin. A jig saw with a metal blade is ideal to cut one end off. Drill a larhe hole so one vcan get the blade in to start you off then just jig saw rounf the top whre the pouring hole is. Simples/

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 04 Sep 11 - 08:30 AM

Wevva still OK - touch wood.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 04 Sep 11 - 10:03 AM

IS IT CORERECT ?
I believe we are having two Porta loos I think one would suffice considering the folk who have there own loos ie caravan and trailers.
This would keep the cost down. After all we do not all go to the toilet at the same time do we?

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 04 Sep 11 - 11:23 AM

We are having two. If we get a good turnout on a fine evening one will be distinctly marginal. And if we do get a good turnout on a fine evening that is exactly when there will be lots of people needing to de-beer at the same time.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 05 Sep 11 - 03:14 AM

last year the toilets arrived at 10.30 on the Thursday Morn. Those there on the Wednesday had nothing to go on? I dug a hole in the flint pit and sat there quite contented. I cant come till friday morn so if the toilets are coming Wednesday i hope there is someone on the field to let them in and show them where to place them> Like wise the wood pile. both arrive early.

There is also the problem of how to open the gate Re key. The farmer hides it are folk aware of where too find it? I hope they do not dump the wood at the gate? These are my main concerns usually I would be there for such folk but work this time prevents me so I show concern. Pat and Deb do not usually get there till mid day so if the toilets arrive at 10.30 no bugger re bogs and wood will be able to get on the field.

They dumped the toilets off at the gate a few years back bloody Palaver that was had to drag them into position using a sodding car and a lot of human effort pushing we had to build sledges out of wood to move the bogs? and tow them across the field. If they drop the logs off at the gate then that will be a nightmare.
These concerns are genuine.
Kind regards Pierre Le Chapeau.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 05 Sep 11 - 03:22 AM

I hope to be on the field by ten Friday morn? Im bringing tent and 12 string guitar Rachel is bringing rest of our stuff in the Car friday evening.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 05 Sep 11 - 03:27 AM

Richard and Ian may be coming from Brighton they have been coming now for the last three years they know nothing of the knockholt changes re Folkmob withdrawal and the price increases. Both have little money. Please let them on the field to pitch and I will sort them out when I arrive. They are both Knockholt mates of mine. Hold me true to this ?

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 05 Sep 11 - 03:30 AM

If Richard is who I think he is he is aware of the discussions last year

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 05 Sep 11 - 03:33 AM

I am not organising either wood or bogs. I believe bogs are usual suppliers so will know at least roughly where to put them (and how to get in). Wood is again as the last few years so should know. If there is megaproblem I will have to go home to get trailer. Don't panic Mr Mannering.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 05 Sep 11 - 08:11 AM

Thanks Richard.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 05 Sep 11 - 01:20 PM

I do not mind throwing logs on the fire during the evening sing around session friday and Saturday night. I have done it for the last ten years without complaint or injury. I also do not throw logs on in front of folk who are playing there slot showering them and there instruments in a sea of sparks has I recall happened last year when a newbie jumped on the band wagon and started throwing logs on directly in front of performers? and quite rightly got told to sit down .

I wont be there to erect the Marquee' but I will be more then happy to help take it down.

I really hope this Knockers will be a successful event though turn out concerns me.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: GUEST,Wooden Z
Date: 05 Sep 11 - 03:12 PM

You should have designated fire wardens and nobody else chucking logs. Myself and Graham Atwood did it for 8 years and Richard Phipps has done the honours for about 4 years now. THis is best for all concerned and dare I say it Health & Safety - remember the close shave Jim had!

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Abdul The Bul Bul
Date: 05 Sep 11 - 06:38 PM

Well it looks as though it will be wet so I'm bringing me big tent.
Al

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 05 Sep 11 - 07:40 PM

I think it is not going to be very wet.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 05 Sep 11 - 08:03 PM

Overnight Fri/Sat looking a bit soggy, but the rest not bad at all, and in fact the forecasts are in and out like a fiddler's elbow. Late last week it was forecast like the dogs' Baleriacs (they are very hot islands) and I booked extra dogsitter and am going up Weds (barring disaster)

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 02:55 AM

I have heard of Dogs Bollocks but not dogs' Baleriacs??//
anyway.
I have just this second gone to BBC weather check and Friday is forecast 'White Cloud & Saturday light rain. Tomorrow it will be White Rain and light cloud.

Unfortunately the Fire Wardens we have had in the past at Knockers sadly no longer come to Knockers.

The fact that jim was 100% Rummed up to the eye balls on that occasion the truth is he is a very lucky man. He simply rolled on and rolled out and apart from a smokey jacket he came off non the worst

Dont throw logs on fires when your off your tits on Rum. or anything else for that matter?Your likely to follow them onto the fire in drink fueled momentum. Emily told me all about it years ago.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 03:08 AM

Thats how I fell off a footpath into the sea in Cornwall years ago exactly the same thing' Drink fuel momentum. It turned in to a very traumatic experience which I have only recently talked about through counseling. Hence my terrible fear of heights>

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 04:47 AM

Met-check is currently showing Thursday evening and Saturday evening no rain at all - but it has been very variable and it might still go back to the predictions of 4 days ago - glorious sun.

Anyway, I'm OK with white cloud, or indeed some light rain, so long as it's not white lightning (at least the UK variant).

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 05:57 AM

Im fine with all weather we have the Marquee. Weather at Knockholt has never been a problem with me if one cold wear thermals two layers if you wish I do and if its wet wear a waterproof coat and hat.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Abdul The Bul Bul
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 06:52 AM

Yep but being wet in a small 2 man tent isn't good so my bigger 'stand up' one will be better.
Al

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: morning wood
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 08:25 AM

Is this the tent that's so large it's got east and west wings? I'll take my freebie floral one.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Abdul The Bul Bul
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 08:30 AM

Don't call em wings, I lost my last tent when it took off.
Al

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 09:10 AM

Wind is up today in Lower Stoke

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: GUEST,Woodsie
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 09:14 AM

As Knockholt is no longer under the control of folkmob why not look at having it at a sensible time of year - then the thread wouldn't get clogged up with weather forcasts ... if there is such a thing as a sensible time - I would say mid july would be a good bet at least if it does rain - it should still be fairly warm.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 09:55 AM

A point to consider I'm sure. But what's wrong with wevva forecasts?

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Abdul The Bul Bul
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 12:06 PM

always a lottery any time of the bleedin year English weather. Better than constant hot sun though but.
Al

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 12:18 PM

Please can we have some constant hot sun?

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Dipsodeb
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 01:08 PM

Hiya all

I can understand your concerns pierre but the wood was delivered yesterday and Daniel knows exactly where we have it so that's fine.


Can't say about the loos though, we shall see what happens we will try and get there as early as possible. The loo people and the wood man both know about the key and where it is so should be ok.

Debsx

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 01:20 PM

Yes we could change the dates to warmer times it was lovely back in April and May I have a Tan to prove it.

I am coming by bus from Orpington Friday and hope to be on site by 10 oclock. all I hope is the R5 is quicker then the 286 which I caught today at the top of Eltham high street after having a towel shave in the barbers shop.

Clean shaven I got on the 286 what with sheer volume of traffic, Traffic lights changing every two seconds. Parlarvering about changing sodding drivers, Idiotic school kids ringing the bell by the time I got too my stop I had grown a ucking beard. Nearly a hour to get home from the very top of Eltham high street to the Rochester way?

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: melodeonboy
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 01:56 PM

So, another close shave then! (See previous post of Wooden Z!) :)

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Lady Raffles
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 04:31 PM

Mick has just got back from delivering marque to Knockholt and reports that 2 toilets & fire wood are all present and correct....also the skip we hired in June is still there! it's got a few bits and pieces that the farmer's put in but probably has enough room for another 8 black bin liners.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 06 Sep 11 - 05:54 PM

That's 'andy 'arry.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 07 Sep 11 - 03:41 AM

The skips still there from June. I think folk mob ought to have phoned them up to have got it collected?/or they have tried to collect it and cant because the gates locked. there again if such the case the skip company should have phoned/contacted the person who arranged the hire in the first place or they have simply forgotten about it.
bewildering or what?

I do not clearly know the contract law on skip hire but when the skip company does get the skip back then Folkmob may have to pay for the time it has sat on the field exceeding the contract hire rules? I assume?

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 07 Sep 11 - 03:47 AM

And on the wevva front, having looked at Met Office, BBC, and Met-check, currently a good bit of rain is forecast for Sunday morning, all the other days from Weds through Sat have dry patches and no major inundation is predicted, and even the winds do not look horrendous (apart from the obvious Metcheck programming error predicting winds of about 250mph some of the time).

I now need to pick up my reclining plants, get some hooks for hanging baskets, hang up the fallen hanging baskets, get Scotch bonnets and other supplies, make harissa paste, pack car and van not forgetting the late extras, modify the allen keys for the marquee and boogie off.

I think I will leave gettng the meat for the tagine until Sat - meat in a caravan for 4 days could be less nice by then. Bit of a nuisance as I have found a place in Gravesend that sells goat, and I don't know anywhere near Knockers I can get either that or real mutton as distinct from lamb.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Girl Friday
Date: 07 Sep 11 - 08:41 AM

And there's all that mutton just running around next door!!

Glad to see it is at least dry this morning. It's been quite windy here in the upper part of Orpington, so hope you get that marquee tied down very securely. Hot sun would be wonderful. Have a good time all of you.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 08 Sep 11 - 09:36 AM

Sister crow going to be a no show. Given rheumy pain of late and the not so promising weather, we might be absent as well.   Sigh.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Lady Raffles
Date: 08 Sep 11 - 11:02 AM

Oh what a shame, we'll miss you all. Hope you feel better soon.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 08 Sep 11 - 11:03 AM

You Chris and crow sis will be missed, Tam may see you at the Gi later this month.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: GUEST,Michael Fish
Date: 08 Sep 11 - 02:44 PM

A lady from kent phoned me earlier today and asked if there was a storm brewing - I said "rest easy madam I'm off to Knockholt"

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: GUEST,John Ketley and Frank bough
Date: 09 Sep 11 - 03:47 AM

Were are off to knockers too see that man they call Noah?

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 09 Sep 11 - 10:28 AM

It is decided... Chris has too much work and I have too much pain. I'd have been taking codydramol and would not be able to drink at all. No fun.

As it is 40 miles away from us, maybe spend a few hours with you guys tomorrow afternoon / evening if weather and other factors are right.

Hugs...

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Lady Raffles
Date: 09 Sep 11 - 11:55 AM

Never mind Tam, tonight when you're cosy in your bed and the wind is howling outside - spare a thought for that far off Kentish hill top and the soggy mad people huddled around a fire in the driving rain.....singing! - then turn over and go back to sleep. Have I made you feel better about not coming?

If you don't make it tomorrow we'll see you next year x

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 09 Sep 11 - 01:04 PM

pout sniffle... no Sue, you 'aven't made me feel better. Mad people singing and campfire negates howling wind and driving rain.

Curse you rheumatoid arthritis. Depriving me of association with mad people.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: GUEST,richard bridge on netbook
Date: 09 Sep 11 - 07:27 PM

weather has been tolerable, fire lovely, singing good. 20 people right now.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: melodeonboy
Date: 10 Sep 11 - 07:31 AM

I'm pleased to see the sun's come out for you. I hope you're all having a good time.

Sorry I couldn't make it (yet again!). Working Monday to Friday and gigging Saturday and Sunday!

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: GUEST,Capella
Date: 10 Sep 11 - 07:40 AM

Ok, lets do it! small tent, guitar, banjo, several packs of Old Speckled Hen going into the back of the car... Knockholt here we come!!

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Abdul The Bul Bul
Date: 11 Sep 11 - 10:55 AM

Well sincere thanks for to the organisers for all their efforts.
A memorable weekend indeed.
Everything I brought home seems to smell of bonfires.
Al

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 11 Sep 11 - 11:39 AM

Everyone seems to have been very positive.

A few more came on Saturday (oooh Matron).

The feast had almost an excess of delightful tastes.

There were enough performers so that no-one was really under pressure, but equally everyone got enough turns, and the performances were varied and generally of good standard. Everyone brought a positive approach, it seemed.

The marquee went up and down well, and the wood lasted just right.

The weather was mostly OK and at times delightful.

It looks (pending finalisation) as if the costs have worked out exactly right. We had some costs not anticipated, but also some savings unanticipated.

Roll on the next one!

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Girl Friday
Date: 11 Sep 11 - 12:57 PM

I looked at the sunshine this morning and thought of you packing up for home. Glad the weather was fair for you and everything worked out well costwise.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 11 Sep 11 - 01:22 PM

Everything worked out absolutely excellent cost wise.
A excellent event and the weather was good. I think the event dates should not change?

Keeping this event to June and September is a must other months should be ruled out because of clashing with other events. It was great to see folk I have not seen for ages and good to see Newbies who have never been before and who voiced to me how they throughly enjoyed themselves and with out doubt will be coming again in June 2012.

This is a different event to Pigears and sweeps whereby time tables rule the event.
Knockholt is simple Its because of this very reason the communal side of Knockholt and the gathering of folk around a simple fire with no over amenities then two bogs and a Marquee for bad weather that make the event so unique.

I favor this event to all the others that I attend and that includes folk clubs sweep Pigears and pub gatherings. although I will continue to support my clubs and attend other events they do not = Knockholt. Those FOLK who missed the event through illness hopefully your make it next June.

For those who opposed the raised costs then you simply missed a great event.
Your cutting your noises off to save a few quid.
Well done to all singers players dancers and poets and readers.

A superb Knocholt well done everyone.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 11 Sep 11 - 01:54 PM

And a special mention for the battlebread of Brian Bloodaxe, a remarkable feat!

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 11 Sep 11 - 03:07 PM

Thank you Richard.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 11 Sep 11 - 03:54 PM

I think it was 4 virgins, wasn't it? Dan's Dad, Gaynor, and Alan and Paul.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 11 Sep 11 - 05:26 PM

I think Dan's Dad been before.
Gaynor throughly enjoyed the event.

I found a Army Cap Badge in The Dead Tree Flint pit and they Identified it too be from the Royal Horse Artillery. Possibly WW1. It was covered in Thanet Sand but underneath it all it was quite polished so I think it was lost recently rather then years ago. (Who Knows) I will put a photo of it on FB.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 06:56 AM

Second money impressions (some final invoices still awaited) are of almost exact break-even, so I'd personally like to stick two fingers up at those who alleged "rip-off" etc.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: morning wood
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 07:09 AM

Had a great weekend and many thanks to the organisers and attendees that made it so. Wouldn't like to be there at the moment though with the wevva as it is!

Pete, I knew that cap badge was one of the artilleries but couldn't remember if it was RFA, RHA, RGA etc. Nice feature for your guitar headstock! It's sometimes suprising how good some metals come out the ground, particularly if out of the air in anaerobic conditions.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 07:13 AM

A propos, Pete, I picked your guitar - the Tanglewood 6 - up in the marquee on Sun AM and it has problems. It would not tune properly - but that may be down to knackered strings not intonation as such - and there was a nasty fretbuzz at about the 5th fret in the middle of the neck. I prescribe a visit to Dr Rodgers...

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Essex Girl
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 07:57 AM

I'm glad the weather was Ok for you. Sorry we couldn't make it this year but we had other bookings on Friday and Sunday afternoon, but June is already in the diary.
Linda

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Lady Raffles
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 09:28 AM

What a great Knockholt! Mick and I had a wonderful time, there were so many highlights – Jim surpassing himself Saturday night with his hilarious rendition of "Lean forwards, lean backwards, to the left and the right".... with lots of rude bits in between, the food at the feast which was really extra special,Royston and Richard's harmonies, Ann's shorts! Pierre's sudden back flip from his camp chair, Grandson Louis bonding with a herd of cows, Dave kenningham telepathically calling us to Orpington to rescue him and Zahirah who were stranded there and the unexpected arrival on Saturday night of Capella - my brother Tony and (soon to be) sister-in-law Lesley which was most fitting for our 18th anniversary year as it was Tony who discovered the field about 24 years ago and lit the very first knockholt fire.

As always it was great to see so many old friends as well as our 4 knockholt virgins – Zahirah, Gaynor, Alan and Paul. We're looking forward to the next camp already.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 10:38 AM

100

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 10:40 AM

There will in fact be a tiny shortfall - VAT had to be added to something...

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 11:29 AM

Ah - recalculate accurately - there is still a nominal surplus, but very only just...

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 02:35 PM

Richard I travelled to knockholt this year with no case for the six string Tanglewood. so it was out in all elements and left in the Marque all night rather then the car. I was scared the humidity in the car would be worse then leaving it in sheltered climate of Marque??? being exposed body wise.

Also in the stead of the Elecxaire strings I normally use I had to change too
'Newtone Heritage series.012-051 low tension guitar strings. I put them on the 6 string Tanglewood prior to Knockers after I busted the G Elexciar so it was a set of newbie strings on the tanglewood and there very low tension.
having now been informed of the different strinsg and there low tension and the Tanglewood being out of a case al-night in a marquee, do you still think a visit to Rogers is necessary?

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 03:07 PM

Try a set of elixir 12-53s and see what happens.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: GUEST,woodstock52
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 03:19 PM

Ken and I had a great time luxuriating in his newly acquired Ebay caravan although not quite decked out to rival Pat & Debs Moorish extravaganza.I just love it there, it is only about 3 miles from Bromley and essentially Greater London, but if you didnt know otherwise that field could be in deepest Cornwall. And I cant understand why anyone should be objecting to £30 for a 4 day break (with music and alternative humour included) - I'm a humble Jobseeker and I still think its briliant value for money. In a way, it was almost nicer that there were fewer people and the Marquee was raised in record time by just 3 blokes. My only concern was on Saturday with Gaynor & Alfs impromptu Sciroc(?) display teetering on the edges of the bonfire. Booze, bonfires and dancing - a heady cocktail

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 03:24 PM

I always use Elixir 12-53s both Rogers and yourself recommended them to me on separate occasions and I have had good sound and no problems and they were on the 6 string Tanglewood prior to Knockers but I popped a G string on Friday morning and restrung them with the Newtone strings which were put on in haste in order to get to knockers without further delay. Newtone strings were recommended by Rogers to use on my traveling guitar which I use for finger picking?and which also sustained body and saddle damage?

Clearly Newtones are not at all suitable for the Tangle wood re I play heavy and they are Low tension/ Which I think what with being out of case but undercover made my Tanglewood six string clear quite unplayable at knockers.

Elixir ,s on there way to me now ? has I speak>

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: GUEST,wodstock52
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 03:32 PM

Pete, Elixir 12-53, is that how you manage to maintain your youthful good looks? And as to Rogering yourself and saddle damage - all sounds a bit Frankie Howerd to me

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 03:34 PM

Ceroc (and there is a competitor called "leroc")- but I know what you mean, it did look not elf and safe tea friendly!

In the quiet of the night (when?) you can just hear the M25, but only just.

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: GUEST,woodstock52
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 03:43 PM

Richard, you were talking about 'Boy Bands', and I still think yourself and Royston are the best example of the genre, in my experience - and I hope you remain 'undiscovered' for the greater good

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 03:47 PM

I agree
This years Knockholt was the best I have ever attended.

The fact I rolled backwards off my camping chair shows clearly that /material and manufacturing standards in this country have dropped nearly has heavily has I did. The chair was new but the metal supports were crap and snapped all of a sudden sending me backwards into a heap.

Im pleased to say most folk missed the incident. Being pissed in the past I have succumb to setting my boots alight by fallen in a drunken mess in the fire pit,( not on the fire) but this time i was Ironically stone cold sober when the incident happened. Apart from the frame work snapping a leg came out its socket which added to the Palaver.
Close inspection next day revealed the chair is shit and dangerous> There again what do you want these days for £12.99.
How about sommit you do not break your UCKING neck on when it comes to parking your Arse after a sober trip to the Heads????????

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Pierre Le Chapeau
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 03:49 PM

I must admit after the chair Fiasco I had a drink and played a song hee hee

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: GUEST
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 03:56 PM

Pete, had you not mentioned about having a drink after the 'Chair Fiasco', you could be looking at £1000's of pounds of damages now

Subject: RE: Knockholt September 2011
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 12 Sep 11 - 05:09 PM

I don't think they make boys that old any more...