Phantom could I suggest that you make contact with Mr Hibbert about the instrument mentioned by Anon – he might be able to assist.

Peter,

The museum provided a free Hog Roast and salad for cockpiters in the evening and FlyPast provided free drinks; but I understand that there was a misunderstanding over the discounted rate they normally get [like museum members] for snacks and drinks during the day. I have been told that it will be back to normal next year.

Well, you can ask to have my comments deleted, if that will help, but the facts remain the same; if you had been about seven years ago and read the comments on the ICC (now lost along with much of the other earlier postings) you would have seen that this is a reaccuring theme, and nobody has made more effort (privately, and publically) to encourage people to attend this event.

Stuart,

I would not ask for anything to be deleted – freedom of speech and all that, everyone has an opinion.

For the record I have been at every Cockpit-Fest.

That having been said I recall you once raising the issue Cockpit-Fest layout / positioning. Like my earlier offer, I ensured that the comments were relayed to the people at Newark that can discuss and try to make changes; hopefully those previous issues were addressed. I know Bill puts a lot of effort into coming up with the best layout, but within the confines of Newark’s lease agreements on part of the site.

People will always have reasons for and against attending. The last time you attended with the Spitfire project I overheard two other exhibitors complaining “why it was allowed to participate as it wasn’t a cockpit anymore!”

One interesting comment I did over hear this weekend came from a previous winner who was bemoaning why his cockpit [a shiny cockpit – my description] didn’t win and those other “tatty ones did!” [their comment not mine]

No names mentioned but as I said before you can’t please all of the people all of the time.

The offer still stands – I will ensure that all feedback reaches the appropriate people at Newark.

Stuart,

In any event of this type you will never please everyone and IMHO to say that “the shinyiest cockpits win the top prize”, just doesn’t reflect the range of prizes awarded at the weekend.

I guess some people are also there not just for the prizes! :rolleyes:

Welcome Jack Russell – please see PM.

Peter , with all due respect the “Jack Russell Team” were too busy talking to everyone to get time to look round; sorry that they didn’t make the Hog Roast though! Perhaps next year!!

It’s also come to light that Herb Warne trained at RAF Winthorpe with 1661 HCU; it was featured in the May issue of the museum newsletter.

Matt,

I would reiterate the very wise words that Bruce has just posted.

You should also remember that before you are likely to secure any significant grants you will have to become a properly constituted body, organisation, museum, or call it what you will; so initially don’t stretch yourselves too much. Even formalising things would be a major achievement.

Kev also raises some very important points, just answering them honestly to yourselves would also give you great guidance regarding the best way forward.

Me thinks ‘twas a great two days despite a few showers; and I’ve just seen there’s a thank you over on the museum website … http://www.newarkairmuseum.org/newsItem.php?id=30