EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning

Subject: Brussels EuroGathering 2002 - planning
From: mooman
Date: 30 Jul 01 - 06:52 AM

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)

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: bill\sables
Date: 30 Jul 01 - 07:15 AM

May I point out to northern visitors that you don't have to drive all the way to Belguim. There is a ferry from Hull every night to Zeebruger. The British group who attended this years gathering to Germany traveled by ferry from Hull to Rotterdam. The music started on the boat and went on through the night both going out and returning.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Linda Kelly
Date: 30 Jul 01 - 01:50 PM

Well- the lot in Hull don't really have an excuse for not going do we!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Linda Kelly
Date: 30 Jul 01 - 01:53 PM

Can I just point out to Bill that driving all the way to Belgium can result in wet tyres. Also do you call a Belgium dancer with bells on his legs a Maurice Dancer? What are the train connections like from Zeebrugge?

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: mooman
Date: 30 Jul 01 - 06:18 PM

Dear Ickle Dorrit,

Yes... the train connection is quite good from Zeebrugge to Brussels. There is a short local train connection from Zeebrugge to Bruges and from there a very fast and regular service to Brussels Midi station. The trains in Belgium are reliable and cheap. I can probably arrange pick up from Brussels midi to chez nous.

Best regards,

mooman

P.S. Our most famous "bells on legs" dancers are called "Gilles" and are much more scary than Morris dancers as they hurl oranges at onlookers with great force!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Noreen
Date: 30 Jul 01 - 06:46 PM

And for softie-Walter Southerners the Eurostar goes straight through the Tunnel to Brussels, so no excuses there either.

Sounds wonderful, mooman, and I definitely intend to be there. Will fit in with whatever arrangements are made- sounds like we'll need a week rather than a weekend...

I love the idea of a multilingual caller at a ceili!

Noreen

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 30 Jul 01 - 06:52 PM

This is cleared with the locals is it? In the light of the Jug threads, we don't want to have the first Euro Folk Riot...

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: GUEST,Raggytash
Date: 30 Jul 01 - 06:55 PM

Sounds good to me, however there are dates already committed in the UK, stewarding etc. Like the idea, but camping for visitors would seem a possibility. Please keep us informed

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: mooman
Date: 30 Jul 01 - 07:31 PM

Dear McGrath,

The locals here in Mooland are a fairly amenable and tolerant bunch. I will personally process the visas specifically required from visitors from 'ull and all regions surrounding the Jug and clear matters with the local riot police!

Vistors from 'arlow do not require a visa so you will be OK!

Anybody pretending to be a Gille will have their oranges confiscated by customs upon entry.

mooman

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: mooman
Date: 30 Jul 01 - 07:38 PM

Dear McGrath,

The locals here in Mooland are a fairly amenable and tolerant bunch. I will personally process the visas specifically required for visitors from 'ull and all regions surrounding the Jug and clear matters with the local riot police!

Vistors from 'arlow do not require a visa so you will be OK! (Being a quarter McGrath myself will also help in smoothing matters and obtaining preferential treatment from the local gendarmerie for any folking misdemeanours commited by anyone of that name!)

Anybody pretending to be a Gille will have their oranges confiscated by customs upon entry.

mooman

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: mooman
Date: 30 Jul 01 - 07:40 PM

Now THAT is weird! I have no recollection of pressing submit halfway through!

Too many oranges today perhaps...?

mooman

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: mooman
Date: 30 Jul 01 - 07:48 PM

For orange and silly hat fetishists

Don't say you weren't warned!

mooman

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Noreen
Date: 30 Jul 01 - 08:13 PM

Fascinating link, Richard! Ostrich feathers and tintinnabullement ...they'd make good mudcatters. Oranges seem an odd symbol of spring though? No doubt there's more to it than I understood.

Noreen

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 30 Jul 01 - 10:03 PM

This sounds good. For some peculiar reason the English May Day Bank Holiday will be on May 7th next year. I imagine everyone else has the equivalent holiday on May 1st, like real folkies in England.. So any idea as to what dates would be involved in this gathering?

Incidentally I heard a great word on a news broadcast today, on a story about the "Slow Cities" movement - "Glocalisation", which means being global and local at the same time. Like the Mudcat. Like this proposed event.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Mrrzy
Date: 31 Jul 01 - 04:28 PM

Rats - better do this as an annual thing, I can't come in 02 (prior engagement)... but 03?

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Rt Revd Sir jOhn from Hull
Date: 06 Aug 01 - 12:17 AM

I like the sound of this, I will stat saving up now! Are you going by public transort? I don't fancy driving on the wrong side of the road!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: GUEST,McCale
Date: 06 Aug 01 - 03:42 AM

McGrath,

The May Day bank holiday is always on the first Monday in May. Next year it will be on the 6th (not 7th, which is a Tuesday)

Nothing peculiar at all really...

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: pavane
Date: 06 Aug 01 - 05:41 AM

What part of Brussels is mooland? I stayed at a caravan site in Genval last year when I was working in Waterloo, if that's any use for accommodation. Not suitable for tents though. Thinking about it, was it you I helped to sell a melodeon last spring?

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: MudGuard
Date: 06 Aug 01 - 06:33 AM

I intend to come! Prefer floorspace to bed (beds are usually too short ;-) to B&B to Hotel.

I hope listeners are allowed, not only musicians.

And please select a restaurant where entrees are served before main courses ;-) (Wolfgang, this is not against you, it is against the restaurant owner!)

About train service in Belgium: seemed ok to me this year - as long as you do not want to take a bike along with you! It took two hours to get all the paperwork done for my bike.

MudGuard

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: GUEST,eric the viking-cycling
Date: 06 Aug 01 - 10:37 AM

Count me in, anyhow anything.

see you when I get back. 22.08.01

cheers
Eric

by the way, Cobble who is from hook and now a goolie should realy be a load of cobblers!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: pavane
Date: 07 Aug 01 - 10:40 AM

In the UK, all our bank holidays are now attached to the nearest weekend, except Christmas and New Year. Presumably we don't like mid-week breaks, and would prefer to go away for a long weekend. We have a May bank holiday instead of Whitsun, and don't have any national or saints' days to celebrate in England, although they do in Wales & Scotland. Even then, St David's Day in Wales is not taken as a holiday, although some schools have a half-day.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Skipjack K8
Date: 07 Aug 01 - 12:36 PM

Richard, really like the idea of a Glocal Ceilidh with a babelfish caller, anything to get the Romulans on the dancefloor!

May have dumped the fanny magnet for a sensible people carrier by then (never worked, anyway) so we might get the price per head down a bit. John, don't worry about driving. Just get slaughtered on the ferry, and one of the babes will take the keys off you!

Count me in.

Skipjack

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Les from Hull
Date: 07 Aug 01 - 04:01 PM

I'm sure that Maggie and I will be happy to provide ballast for anyone with spare seats and an engine travelling through Hull. And since I'm no longer a wage slave every day is a Bank Holiday. Hehe.

Les

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: John Routledge
Date: 07 Aug 01 - 04:04 PM

Count me in please!! In a tent or on floor - as long as it is low lying.

I would be happy to take the car from Hull if this helps logistics. Alternatively my experience of Belgium trains tells me that they are good.

Looking forward to the event. Cheers John

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Noreen
Date: 07 Aug 01 - 04:22 PM

Oh, Skipjack... it only worked 'cos it was the Alfa Romeo- a people carrier wouldn't have had the same attraction!

I did enjoy the drive though. Suppose we could have a full-blown session going in the back of a people carrier and not just you noodling along with the guitar.

Noreen

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Llanfair
Date: 07 Aug 01 - 04:35 PM

Ooh yes!!!! count me in!! I'll check with my friend in Brussels to see if she has a spare bed.
Cheers, Bron.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Noreen
Date: 07 Aug 01 - 04:36 PM

Just re-read what I wrote... the session referred to was intended to involve music. :0) (blush)

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: mooman
Date: 07 Aug 01 - 04:45 PM

I would never imagined you could have meant anything else Noreen!

(;>)

mooman

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Linda Kelly
Date: 07 Aug 01 - 05:43 PM

Having just been the driving force in the Hull - Bridlington folk train Les, I am sure that P & O wouldn't mind you organising a folk ferry. Sounds like fun, and last man overboard is a woose!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: John Routledge
Date: 07 Aug 01 - 07:02 PM

Last person please Ickle GB

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: brid widder
Date: 07 Aug 01 - 08:17 PM

by the look of it we'll need that new big bugger off ferry...do you think we could persuade the nice man from Hodgsons to provide free beer

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Malcolm Douglas
Date: 07 Aug 01 - 08:29 PM

Sounds interesting.  I haven't been to Brussels in, oh, 25 years maybe.  Is that bar in the old town still there?  The one with a stuffed horse on wheels downstairs and inflated pigs' bladders hanging from the ceiling?

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Noreen
Date: 07 Aug 01 - 08:33 PM

That new big bugger off ferry brought us back from the Mudcat Gathering in Germany, and we did our best to monpolise it with our music. Was fun trying!

We need Cobble's long-awaited photies to provide evidence of the session round (no, not posing on) the grand piano... *grin*

A larger group would go down well- we could give the resident pianist the whole night off, which would please the passengers!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Rt Revd Sir jOhn from Hull
Date: 07 Aug 01 - 08:56 PM

I like to go on train if i go so i can drink, I dont play music, but I like to listen, Maybe I will have lernt my tin whistle properley by then any way .john

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: CraigS
Date: 08 Aug 01 - 08:46 PM

Talk to me [e-mail] for interested persons

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: mooman
Date: 09 Aug 01 - 08:26 AM

Dear Malcolm,

Yes that bar is still going strong! It's on the Grand Place and is called the "Roi d'Espagne". And yes, the stuffed horse and inflated pigs' bladders are still there. Sounds like the weekend might require a visit there!

Best regards,

mooman

P.S. (for 'Spaw as I know you're bound to comment!) Stuffed horses and inflated pigs' bladders in bars, little pissants as city mascots, hats that are not hats and other things surreal and wacky (e.g. Les Gilles de Binche), not to mention 500 varieties of beer, are among the reasons why I am still living here after 10 years! mooman

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Julie B
Date: 09 Aug 01 - 08:29 AM

....Interested

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Noreen
Date: 09 Aug 01 - 08:49 AM

Ah, I get it... the inflated pigs' bladders must be for lambasting the head of the feckin' eejit who put his foot through your instrument after sampling the 500 varieties of beer?

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: GUEST,treaties1
Date: 09 Aug 01 - 08:50 AM

The gathering sounds great I'm definitely interested just depends on actual dates then the logistics of travel. Will read the threads to find out more. Cheers Theresa

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 09 Aug 01 - 11:36 AM

Noreen I don't want to go down on a ferry thank you!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 09 Aug 01 - 12:22 PM

That is to say I'd rather stay afloat.:0)
Mooman that photo of the Gilles looks like something out of one of Eric the Viking's fantasies!!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Noreen
Date: 09 Aug 01 - 01:36 PM

Well spotted, Madame Duck, and you put it so well... *grin*

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Susanne (skw)
Date: 11 Aug 01 - 05:10 PM

Mooman, count me in, please! All I need is a parking space. And if it was early enough in the month, I might even go on to Britain with the British contingent and get a taste of the all-night session on the boat (not to mention the constant internet contact with the rest of the world, aka the Mudcat Café!)

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 12 Aug 01 - 11:30 AM

Seriously thinking of coming minus ducklings if we can arrange things. Have just been looking at fairs etc and also contemplating options such as hiring a mini bus to make a group booking. Haven't looked at train fairs yet but getting quite excited at the thought that we might actually make it this time!!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Cobble
Date: 12 Aug 01 - 11:58 AM

Noreen did you get my e-mail, just bought a CD-RW, so all you catters who have been waiting will be getting a disc with the Germany gathering and the Yorkshire gathering, plus any other gathering I find, I am just getting use to my new toy at the moment only had it a couple of days. Im glad there is no pic of me flying out of the loo backwards, dont like to feed Eric with too many punchlines.

David Bailey, er I mean Cobble.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: John Routledge
Date: 12 Aug 01 - 01:23 PM

This really is getting down to detailed planning! John

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: SINSULL
Date: 12 Aug 01 - 05:18 PM

Looks like albino broccoli or walking cauliflower to me. Would I have to come in costume? Head space is limited on European flights out of the states.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 12 Aug 01 - 06:06 PM

The May Day bank holiday is always on the first Monday in May.

Yup, I know that. It's about as sensible as saying that Christmas Day should be on the fourth Monday in December. (And I suspect there are a lot of people who would love to do exactly that). May Day continues to be, as it always has been, the First of May, regardless of when the Westminster government chooses to have its Bank Holidays.

The point I was asking is, since the idea of this is to coincide with "European public holidays", do the other countries involved, notably Belgium, have their public holiday to coincide with May Day, or do they go the English way and stick it onto the following weekend? ie, what dates are envisaged for this gathering?

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Cobble
Date: 12 Aug 01 - 06:38 PM

Early warning about Euro gathering prepare to go home tired but very happy. Wolfgang did a superb job of it last year, they are all well organized over the canal where ever you roam. Prepare to lose sleep singing and playing.

With happy memories of last year Cobble.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 12 Aug 01 - 07:21 PM

This site lists public holidays in all countries - and it appears that Germany has May Day on 1st of May, but thta Holland doesn't have it as a public holiday, and nor does Holland - but they had 30th April instead, being Queens Day. And so forth.

So what dates are we talking about?

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Susanne (skw)
Date: 13 Aug 01 - 06:15 PM

Yes, the 1 May public holiday in Germany will be on a Wednesday in 2002. For me, having the gathering round 1 May (or even earlier - what about Easter???) would solve some problems, but I'd come regardless if it was later. Heed Cobble's warning, all of you, and the Britsh contingent - get your Euros early! See you all there!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 13 Aug 01 - 06:39 PM

Just been through the holiday dates for various countries and they all seem to be different. Bearing in mind the British contingent would have to be leaving on Sunday night if they are back at work on Tuesday anyway then gouing with our bank holiday would probably be best as others could get home in time for work Monday if needs be

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 13 Aug 01 - 07:12 PM

"the British contingent would have to be leaving on Sunday night if they are back at work on Tuesday anyway"

Whatever happened to the grand old tradition of sickies...

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: mooman
Date: 14 Aug 01 - 03:49 AM

Thanks all for expressions of interest and suggestions. I will compile a running list of "probable" and "possible" attendees in the next day or two and post it up.

I am fairly easy about the dates from my end (as long as we agree this well enough in advance to make any necessary external arrangements). From what the UK 'Catters are saying do I take it that a preferred date for them would be 3-6 May 2001? That would be fine for me but would it suit other European 'Catters also? I think this is the first thing we need to firm up on so people can do forward planning.

Let me know what you think!

Best regards,

mooman

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: mooman
Date: 15 Aug 01 - 11:55 AM

Hi all!

I've been running through the thread and trying to compile a "running list". As far as I can determine it looks like this at present:

Probables

Bill Sables Noreen MudGuard Eric the Viking Skipjack K8 Les from Hull Maggie Geordie Broon Llanfair Susanne (skw)

Possible

Raggytash McGrath of Harlow John in Hull Ickle Dorritt Brid widder Malcolm Douglas JulieB Treaties Mrs Duck Geoff the Duck

This already looks very promising and as yet we don't have some of the European 'Catters in touch!

Friends 5 minutes down the road from us have also offered a couple of beds and floor space. There is also a possibility that our neighbours across the road will offer use of their house for sleeping as they are currently working in Germany.

I'm going to enquire about use of one of the local Commune's performing spaces as mentioned in the first post in this thread. We may need it if numbers are high although I have more space in my house than we had for performing in the restaurant in Muenster last May. It may be also that singers and musicians would like the opportunity for separate "sessions" as was the case at the Yorkshire Gathering and that too should be possible to accomodate if needed.

I'll continue to refresh this thread from time to time.

Sinsull (and any other US/Canadian 'Catters), you would be very welcome although I know of no airline that will allow you on board wearing a Gille's costume (they are worried about the offensive use of oranges!)

Pavane, sorry I didn't reply earlier. Yes it was me you helped sell the melodeon for (OK the secret's out - I too tried to learn the melodeon and this will do my reputation no good at all! (;>))

All the best to all,

mooman

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Cobble
Date: 15 Aug 01 - 01:04 PM

What about me Mooman?????

Cobble.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: mooman
Date: 15 Aug 01 - 04:17 PM

Consider yourself added Cobble!

mooman

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Diva
Date: 21 Aug 01 - 03:26 AM

Well it will be Girvan weekend.....but.....I am sorely tempted to join the festivities. Diva

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: mooman
Date: 21 Aug 01 - 04:11 AM

Updated running list of potential attendees for the record!

Probables

Bill Sables
Noreen
MudGuard
Eric the Viking
Skipjack K8
Les from Hull
Maggie
Geordie Broon
Llanfair
Susanne(skw)
Cobble
mooman
Lady McMoo

Possibles

Raggytash
McGrath of Harlow
John in Hull
Ickle Dorritt
Brid widder
Malcolm Douglas
JulieB
Treaties
Mrs Duck
Geoff the Duck
Diva

Looking impressive and still over 8 months to go!

All the best to all!

mooman

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Trevor
Date: 21 Aug 01 - 04:55 AM

Put me down as a poss, Mooman.

Cheers.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Letty
Date: 21 Aug 01 - 05:51 AM

And to think I nearly missed this thread... Please count me in, Mooman!

Letty

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Noreen
Date: 21 Aug 01 - 08:46 AM

Wondered where you'd got to, Letty dear!

Noreen

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: mooman
Date: 21 Aug 01 - 09:52 AM

Thanks Trevor and Letty (where HAVE you been Letty!) and I'll add you to the next update.

All the best

mooman

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Thomas the Rhymer
Date: 21 Aug 01 - 10:35 AM

Just for jazz, could someone who knows tell me how much it costs to take a ferry from Hull to Rotterdam as a passenger? My ferryboat experience is aye, a bit limited...

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: White Dove
Date: 21 Aug 01 - 11:21 AM

Hi mooman.....I will join either list and tag along with the Hull Cats Chorus....their ferry, train and taxi renderings could make them famous in Europe!

hmmm

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: sledge
Date: 21 Aug 01 - 11:29 AM

Have me down as a poss.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: vindelis
Date: 21 Aug 01 - 01:18 PM

I'm a poss, too. (Looking at ferry V Eurostar from the south).

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Letty
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 04:27 AM

Noreen & Mooman,

I've been working too hard (he he he), no time to check mudcat (which I can only do at work or parents'). And on holiday too...Will be going again in September (9-16) to Stratford. Any chance of a session there? Though I'm going to see about 6 plays that week...And supposed to look after my lovely students (and the less lovely ones too).

Love, Letty

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: mooman
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 07:21 AM

Hi all!

Here's the latest updated running list of potential attendees.

Probables

Bill Sables
Noreen
MudGuard Eric the Viking
Skipjack K8
Les from Hull
Maggie
Geordie Broon
Llanfair
Susanne(skw)
Cobble
Letty
mooman
Lady McMoo

Possibles

Raggytash
McGrath of Harlow
John in Hull
Ickle Dorritt
Brid widder
Malcolm Douglas
JulieB
Treaties
Mrs Duck
Geoff the Duck
Diva
Trevor
Thomas the Rhymer
White Dove
sledge
vindelis

Looking good! I'll continue to refresh this thread from time to time.

All the best,

mooman

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Eric the Viking
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 12:43 PM

Hey, mooman-got your cyclists together I see! I am back from holland, this very day and looking forward to ctching up on the news.

Cheers

Eric

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: mooman
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 06:37 PM

Dear Eric,

Following your romantic capers with Skipjack in Muenster I thought you might like to be next to Mudguard this time though perhaps he is a little tall for you!

Richard (mooman)

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Cobble
Date: 22 Aug 01 - 07:34 PM

OOOH! Mooman you are an old softy at heart : -)

Cobble

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Wolfgang
Date: 24 Aug 01 - 08:02 AM

Susanne mailed me about why I didn't show in this thread. Well, it has escaped my attention, that's why. I'm not yet used to 'Euro' to mean anything significant to me, perhaps.

Count me as 'probable' from now on (1 person I guess).

Wolfgang

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Eric the Viking
Date: 25 Aug 01 - 05:25 AM

Richard don't be silly ! I'll use a box to stand on!

Hey it will be be great for all the other europeans-they won't need to change currency as apart from us, they will have the euro to spend.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: smallpiper
Date: 25 Aug 01 - 12:16 PM

Moonman - Count me as a possible cheers John

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Rollo
Date: 25 Aug 01 - 05:09 PM

Heigh-ho! I am possible, too! No working on weekend so far this time... being workless... I will need just a little space for me and my sleeping bag. So far I have slept under kitchen tables, in staircase corners, on balconies, in garages and once even hanging over a hedge.. (but that won`t probably count, because I was drunk as a sailor and couldn't resist against the two guys who dropped me there.) But about this fluffy hat... well... I didn't know the mystic realms of Moo were THAT mystic. No wonder they smite the audience with oranges. I would do the same if everyone called me "Cauliflower" everytime I entered the stage.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: alanww
Date: 29 Aug 01 - 11:10 AM

Mmmmm ...! Sounds as if it has great possibilities. But 3 to 6 May would clash with Upton-on-Severn Folk Festival at which I am supposed to be singing with the Shellback Chorus. I suppose I could send Derek Seed (the boss) one of those "sickies" that McGrath of Harlow mentioned!
So please put me down as a possible.
"Time passes over more cheerful and gay ...!"
Alan

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 29 Aug 01 - 11:33 AM

Sounds wonderful but have a prior booking at Hastings Jack in the Green.

I've been 'oranged' by those guys from Binche, it bloody hurt!

LTS

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: JudeL
Date: 29 Aug 01 - 01:11 PM

Sounds like an interesting and fun idea but like others it may not be possible for me to come this time. Jude

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: janey
Date: 30 Aug 01 - 01:21 PM

i think Moor and Coast may be the same weekend, but always on the look out for wider horizons so put me and davey O'D down as "possibles" (planning the sicky excuses as i write)

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 30 Aug 01 - 04:02 PM

I think Moor and Coast will definitely clash but we are still planning to come. The idea is to persuade Geoff's Mum and Dad to come and family sit so we can come on our own!!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Susanne (skw)
Date: 30 Aug 01 - 06:21 PM

Something is bound to clash with any date we choose, so there's a choice to make! Mrs Duck has shown the way ...

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Rt Revd Sir jOhn from Hull
Date: 09 Sep 01 - 09:22 PM

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Ranks
Date: 16 Sep 01 - 01:11 PM

Hello there,

I nearly missed this threat, if Letty had not told me it existed. I will come and Evi will very likely come, unless something unexpected happens.

Looking forward to seeing you all,

Ranks

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Eric the Viking
Date: 16 Sep 01 - 04:57 PM

Hey Ranks, how are you and Evi? How is Letty, she hasn't posted for a long while. See you in the spring

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 16 Sep 01 - 07:35 PM

Seems to be coming together. Nearer than Whitby. Belgian beer and chocolate... I hope I can get there.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Letty
Date: 18 Sep 01 - 05:29 AM

Eric, don't worry, I'm still lurking.
But been busy, and on holiday. Just back from Stratford.
My God, can't you Brits devaluate the pound a bit, I'm nearly broke!

Love, Letty

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: GUEST,Ranks, from Work
Date: 18 Sep 01 - 07:13 AM

Hi Eric,

thanks for asking. Evi and myself are fine. I am reharsing alot. I am now playin together with a fiddle player and we are starting playing our first gigs. Perhaps he will come to Belgium, too.

Nuff`Respect,

Ralf

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Rt Revd Sir jOhn from Hull
Date: 15 Oct 01 - 11:47 AM

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: mooman
Date: 15 Oct 01 - 11:50 AM

Thanks for refreshing John. I'll be posting further updates shortly.

mooman

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Rt Revd Sir jOhn from Hull
Date: 15 Oct 01 - 12:07 PM

Thanks mooman, I have just got back from Lanstock. I enjoyed it so much that I am looking forward to the next Mudcat Gathering I can go to.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Morticia
Date: 15 Oct 01 - 01:18 PM

You can put Gomez and I down as possibles too...I should be at Hastings but I had so much fun at Llanstock I find it hard to resist the allure of another mudgathering.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Linda Kelly
Date: 15 Oct 01 - 02:11 PM

Can I suggest that on the ferry, we secure John in Hull tightly by lifebelt; we do not want a reoccurence of his little adventure in the Banwy at Llanstock!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Matthew Edwards
Date: 15 Oct 01 - 07:07 PM

I have just been directed to this thread from Llanstock. I would love to come, but I haven't even started thinking about 2002 yet. However next May is my parents' Golden Wedding so there may be a problem avoiding a clash of dates. I'll do what I can to make plans that will let me get the best of both worlds, but for the moment count me down as a possible.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Linda Kelly
Date: 15 Oct 01 - 07:15 PM

Matthew, make an effort dear boy, bring your parents along! -lets face it we do a great party!!!!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Cobble
Date: 15 Oct 01 - 07:21 PM

Mooman have you found that pic of the wee wee pee pee thing that Mrs C asked for yet?????

Cobble.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: alanww
Date: 10 Dec 01 - 08:12 AM

OK, I submit! Please change my possible into a probable and I will square it off with Derek Seed about singing with the Shellback Chorus at the Upton-on-Severn Folk Festival, with which it will clash.
Has anyone done the reseach yet on the cost/convenience of travel by car/ferry or EuroStar from the Midlands/South of England?
As I haven't got to worry about work on Tuesady morning(!), I guess I would prefer to travel back on the Tuesday, will there be a survivors session on the Monday evening?
Also, will mooman be posting some details of not-too-expensive local B&Bs?

Come fill up your glasses and let us be merry ...
Alan

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: MudGuard
Date: 10 Dec 01 - 09:23 AM

Alan, ask the British delegation to this year's Münster Gathering (Llanfair, Erik The Viking, Cobble, Bill/Sables, Patrish, Noreen, Skipjack), they came by ferry and car in May.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: mooman
Date: 10 Dec 01 - 09:57 AM

Cobble,

I found an address of a specialist shop where I can probably get it and will try and get up there as soon as possible.

OK everyone, the list of probables and possibles will be updated accordingly. I will start a Part 2 thread on this after Christmas (this one is getting a bit long now) as I hope some local administrative things will be slipping into place by then.

alanww

I will certainly post up details of local B&Bs plus other travelling details.

Yes there will certainly a "residuals" session on the Monday evening! The Tuesday is my 50th birthday and it gives a chance for an even longer "party"!

All the best

mooman

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: GUEST,Tony cookieless Fossil in Brussels
Date: 10 Dec 01 - 01:08 PM

Come one, come all. It will be good fun, won't it? Mooman, put me down as a likely attender, helper and local assistant. I could possibly get the use of St Andrew's Church hall in the chee de Vleurgat as a performing venue, as we have run several Folk Nights there. Contact me, I'm in the Brussels phone book. There'll be a lot of interest from local folkies, I know.

For travellers, yes the trains here are generally, good, cheap, clean and run on time (if they're not on strike). Cheapest way across the Channel at present is actually on an aeroplane - Ryanair do a pretty cheap deal, if you get in early enough. But you end up down in the South, at Charleroi (beware of the Gilles, they hang out down that way...) - and then, for every flight, there's a bus to Brussels which drops you outside the "Wild Geese" Irish pub (can't be bad, can it?). Better than the rip-off cartelised ferry companies and EuroTunnel, anyway. But, for train-lovers, Eurostar is a good service, even though it's three times as expensive as it should be. But come, anyway - despite its demonisation by the British media, Brussels is a great place to visit. See y'all next year!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: MudGuard
Date: 10 Dec 01 - 02:34 PM

Trains may be well run - but have you ever tried to take a bike on a train in Belgium?

I did - it took hours to get the ticket sorted...

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Cobble
Date: 10 Dec 01 - 04:58 PM

Mooman .. let me know the cost and I will settle with you.

Mrs C.

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Letty
Date: 12 Dec 01 - 05:03 AM

Looking forward to seeing you all in Brussels. And hey, I'll be able to get some Belgian Euros. At least, I've been told the Euro is going to look different for every country. It'll be interesting to see what kinds will turn up in your purse (if at all, sigh). If anyone would like to hitch a ride: I will probably travel by car from the Ruhr-area to Brussels.

Letty, who now knows 10 times as many tunes on her fiddle, so beware!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Eric the Viking
Date: 12 Dec 01 - 01:17 PM

Aha Letty-beware the skipjack who knows 10 tunes on his fiddle!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: MudGuard
Date: 12 Dec 01 - 06:18 PM

Letty, the coins have one side which is common for all twelve nations and one side which is different for each nation.

The notes will be the same in all twelve countries.

see http://www.euro.ecb.int/en/section/euro0.html and http://www.euro.ecb.int/en/section/testnotes.html

Looking forward to meet you again!

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Noreen
Date: 13 Dec 01 - 07:49 AM

So... this EuroGathering will be on the weekend of the

4th/5th May 2002

to include the UK May Day bank holiday on Monday 6th. And we'll travel over on Friday 3rd... and those of us who have no lectures to get back to may not return until Tuesday 7th... (I can do some course research in Brussels main library perhaps to justify the extra time away from my studies *grin*)

Investigating plane fares from Manchester atm. This will be fun!

Noreen

Subject: RE: EuroGathering 2002 - forward planning
From: Noreen
Date: 13 Dec 01 - 08:06 AM

Please continue in new thread: EuroGathering 2002 - Planning Part 2