Proposed Macro Meet Spring 2008 UK

[alliec]

Hi all,

I have spoken to Alby and Mark (Bandit1) about trying to organise a meet in the spring to put names to faces and have a bit of a social and shoot some macro perhaps:D.

So if anyone is interested could you make it known:D and providing enough people are interested get some dates together and possible venues. I have spoken with Mark tonight and something along the lines of a long weekend at a campsite somewhere easy for all to get to, or if anyone has any other suggestions fire away.

All are welcome wether in the UK or not, it would be nice to put some names to faces.

[troypiggo]

By pure coincidence, I will actually be in southern England late March/early April :)
Should I bring my macro gear? :D

[alliec]

Awesome:-), Definatley Troy, would be great to have you along. Are you over here holidaying?

[troypiggo]

My brother is getting married down in Hampshire somewhere. I'll only be there for a week or 2. In reality I don't know how much "free" time I'll have, but between you and me, I'd have more fun meeting you guys and taking macros of your bugs than chatting/meeting brother's in-laws that I'll never see or speak to again.

[edit] Actually, that's a bit harsh. His fiance's father is into photography. I met her parents this Christmas while they were over here on hols. Very nice people. Think he has a 20D, but not sure about his favoured style of shooting. He's a bit of a card.

[troypiggo]

LOL! I just had a look at where all you guys live - LordV, alliec, bandit1, macrojunkie, racketman - all probably within 2-3 hours of where I'll be. You'll have me surrounded!

[bandit 1]

Hiya Alistair,

Great to speak to you earlier, apologies once again, fancy catching me having a kip by the fire at that time o day eh disgraceful this is a great idea & I'm sure that folks would love to meet up somewhere ?? I don't have any particular place in mind as anywhere suits me fine, but I'll make a first suggestion just to get the ball rolling

As Troy would be over here from Australia & in the Hampshire area how about the New Forest, just an opening thought.

Come on folks lets have some suggestions, have Bivi Bag, incontinence pants & can travel

Cheers for now
Mark

[troypiggo]

Whoah. Guys, please don't make plans based around me. I don't know how "available" I'll be with the family commitments etc. Can I suggest you just make your own plans, and I'll wait and see if I can fit in along the way?

[Ferco]

depending on when in spring; I might be able to drive lol- turn 17 in March but then again will probs not pass first time so... but can always get a train down if you guys don't mind babysitting a youngster... :D

[macro junkie]

good idear..im in.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1115/1126289115_fcad803602_b.jpg

[macro junkie]

depending on when in spring; I might be able to drive lol- turn 17 in March but then again will probs not pass first time so... but can always get a train down if you guys don't mind babysitting a youngster... :D
yes thats fine but if u miss behave wil be sending u to bed with no supper..lol

[LordV]

Could probably pop down for one day (not into camping :) )

Brian V.

[macro junkie]

nore am i..il be there for 1 day tho..i want to see how u guys stack.;)

[alliec]

Thanks guys for the replys so far, in all honesty with an 8 month old a day somewhere might be easier for me to arrange with the other half.

Any one else interested, dont be shy;-)

[racketman]

sounds like something you want to arrange for the summer when you can be guaranteed there are bugs about - certainly in my area things don't kick off until june.

[bandit 1]

Hiya All,

How about as Toby suggests June then ?? as this is a better time for critters maybe the weekend of the 14/ 15 of June ???

Obviously not everyone can do a whole weekend some may just turn up take one look at me & run like hell :lol: for myself I can stay in a five star hotel or sleep in a ditch it matters not, I prefer a ditch as its free :lol:

We also need a venue, location, where ??

I suggested the New Forest as a starter, found this link for folks to look at, this does not mean this is my choice it just a suggestion !!!

Alby may be able to advise more on this as its almost on his door step, it's a three & half hr drive for me, but hey what's that when you wanna meet up with folks eh

http://www.forest-holidays.com/RVEdeb3363dc5d04b0f8dc25527971530f5,,.aspx

Nobody has said yes or no as of yet or suggested anywhere else / campsite/ hotel come on folks lets have solid suggestions. apathy is not allowed ;):lol:

Cheers for now
Mark

[racketman]

isn't the New Forest the last refuge of the Mole Cricket - spread out form a search line?

[bandit 1]

Hiya All,

How about as Toby suggests June then ??
As this is a better time for critters maybe the weekend of the 14/ 15 of June

Obviously not everyone can do a whole weekend, some may just turn up take one look at me & run like hell :lol:

For myself I can stay in a five star hotel or sleep in a ditch it matters not, I prefer a ditch as its free :lol:

We also need a venue, location, where ??

I suggested the New Forest as a starter, found this link for folks to look at, this does not mean this is my choice it just a suggestion !!!

Alby may be able to advise more on this as its almost on his door step, it's a three & half hr drive for me, but hey what's that when you wanna meet up with folks eh :D

http://www.forest-holidays.com/RVEde...71530f5,,.aspx (http://www.forest-holidays.com/RVEde...71530f5,,.aspx)

Nobody has said yes or no as of yet or suggested anywhere else / campsite/ hotel, come on folks lets have solid suggestions. apathy is not allowed ;):lol:

Cheers for now
Mark

[Attic]

Hi Chaps, you can count me in ;) what are we talking then a day jobby or weekend of camping and everything photography + Beer and BBQ :lol: If we are up for a weekend I can bring a tent it's a 9 berth but sleeps three comfortably (3 seperate compartments) if so meeting at a campsite may be best but, if just a day job we could meet at Burley or the Balmerlawn hotel on the A337 at Brockenhurst maybe? P.S. the dates suggested should be fine for me.

[spud14]

hi chaps ..... I'd like to invite myself along too.... so long as you don't mind having a girl along too.... would love to get some tips, my macro has always been much more flower orientated so bugs is a whole new ball game!!!:lol:

[asylumxl]

Hum, might be interesting, thats if anyone wants me heh. I'll wait for more details before i say anything.

[alliec]

The dates look ok for me 14 & 15 of june, but i think it may well only be a day trip for me what with the little-un and everything. Is the new forest suitable for a day trip? I have no knowledge of anywhere down that way. Distance isnt a problem for me.

Be nice to have you along spud14.

[bandit 1]

Hiya Alby,

I'm up for a full weekend of photography + Beer and BBQ :D well forget the beer, bloody meds eh :rolleyes:

I can arrive Fri eve/night leave Sun afternoon & anybody can come & go as they wish, no hard & fast rules just fun & meeting up eh :lol:

What campsite would you recommend ? I guess toilets & showers for smelly ol farts like me & of course some lassies may prefer something more hygienic than a dig & fill hole that is if any turned up :lol:

This sound more promising at last, oh decisions decisions :lol:

Cheers for now
Mark

[bandit 1]

Hiya Asylumxl,

The more the merrier :D:D

Cheers for now
Mark



Hum, might be interesting, thats if anyone wants me heh. I'll wait for more details before i say anything.

[Attic]

Hi Mark, They are all pretty much of a much really although some have toilet and showers which narrows it down a bit. I've been to Holmsley, Ashurst and Denny wood. I know a few good sites for dragonflies down them parts. If anyone else has any ideas of locations chirp up please.

[Mick Emmett]

I'll have to check my extremely busy schedule ;) but it sounds good to me, I'd prefer a weekend jobby or even a long weekend. Too many questions for a one day event; plus when you knock off the travelling time for the further away there wouldn't be much of the day left.

[bandit 1]

Hiya Spud,

Be great to have you come along, need someone to keep us chaps in order eh ;):lol:

Cheers for now
Mark


hi chaps ..... I'd like to invite myself along too.... so long as you don't mind having a girl along too.... would love to get some tips, my macro has always been much more flower orientated so bugs is a whole new ball game!!!:lol:

[mjm80]

Hi,
Sounds like this will be a great weekend, I hope to be able to make it.

Martin

[LindaB]

Ill see nearer the time, but I dont do camping these days lol.

Some years ago though, we regularly camped down there and stayed at Hollands Wood campsite a few times, it was nice then, but sure to have improved lots now. There was a nice pub down the road, think it was called The Jugged Hare.

With regard to dragonfly sites, if I can find it, there was a post on the WAB website last summer with places recommended to go to.

A useful link for you.
http://www.newforest-online.co.uk/new-forest-campsites-caravan.asp

Linda

[macro junkie]

iv enever ever shot a dragon fly..this is what i want to do the most.

[mtonsbeek]

Now that all sounds like an excellent idea!
May I also pencil my name in?
I would proably favour a B&B rather than camping and I would need to rearrange a few things as I am supposed to be working that Saturday morning.

Maarten

[dpastern]

Dang eh...oh well...you might want to drop lc_pete a line as well - he's in Wales but probably not too hard for him to meet up with you I suspect.

Dave

[macro junkie]

Dang eh...oh well...you might want to drop lc_pete a line as well - he's in Wales but probably not too hard for him to meet up with you I suspect.

Dave
aint u going to fly to the uk for the metting..? lol dam your letting the side down man,:lol: j/k

[troypiggo]

June will be after I've come back to Aus. The wedding I'm going over for is down very close to where Alby lives near Portsmouth. Any good public bug haunts you can recommend? :)

You guys sound like it will be quite a gathering. Wish I could be there. Have a pint or 2 for me!

[bandit 1]

Hiya All,
Well this is looking a bit more promising eh, I think we need a friendly Mod to make a sticky of this !!

Any Mods reading this?? Help please

Cheers for now
Mark

[bandit 1]

Hiya all,

To the friendly Mod to has moved this, I'm most grateful to you ???? but maybe I should have made things a bit more clear perhaps :o, I was hoping this could be made a sticky at the top of the Macro Forums Page please ???

Many thanks & sorry if this has caused any probs ?

Cheers for now
Mark

[lcpete]

Excellent idea guys :D
I will be working then as I work 4 on 4 off (factory work) I may be able to get the weekend off or I could definately make the following weekend if the dates haven't been finalised :D

Pete

[dpastern]

aint u going to fly to the uk for the metting..? lol dam your letting the side down man,:lol: j/k

Sadly, money isn't going to let me. Maybe next year, or the year after, although I want to travel to Canada before I go anywhere else in the world.

I've actually never been out of Australia before - never had a desire to, well had a desire to a few years ago, but didn't have the money, something I regret now.

Dave

[lance v]

i would if i could.......

[MrEd]

i should like to pop down for a day, as long as you dont mind a olympus interloper lol, but i would like to see some of you guys in action!

[bandit 1]

Hiya Tom,

Just a quick but very grateful thanks for you assistance, very much appreciated :D:D:D

Cheers for now
Mark

[bandit 1]

Hiya Lance, MrEd,

Lance, where there's a will there's a way;) would be great to meet you, man it's a hell of a long way to paddle a canoe :lol: one day maybe eh


MrEd, would be great to see you, Oh & your Camera ;):lol:

Cheers for now
Mark

[Wazza]

i would if i could.......

Give me your macro and 1DIII and I'll take some shots for you ;)

Definitely want to get into macro myself, but may end up buying a medium range telephoto - 70-200mm, or a 400-800mm prime :oops:

Better subscribe to the thread

[lance v]

Hiya Lance, MrEd,

Lance, where there's a will there's a way. would be great to meet you, man it's a hell of a long way to paddle a canoe . one day maybe eh


Cheers for now
Mark

It would be nice to meet every1:D, but like you say....a very VERY long way to paddle a canoe!!!!

Give me your macro and 1DIII and I'll take some shots for you ;)

Definitely want to get into macro myself, but may end up buying a medium range telephoto - 70-200mm, or a 400-800mm prime :oops:

Better subscribe to the thread

Haha y would you need my 1d3 when u have your own:p
+ Macro is 1 of the best photography niches in my opinion:D well worth it and very rewarding!(especially the MP-E65((i dont really like the 10 much))5x magnification is amazing)

I would also like a 500mmf4 but thatl take about 10 years:p(macro not wuite the same price as a 400mmf2.8!!! you could get a 500f4 and about 5 MP-Es for that price!

[method-photo]

I'm a relative lurker here, but am interested!

[bandit 1]

Hiya Method photo,

Great stuff you'd be more than welcome, the more the merrier eh, BTW stop lurking in those bushes & come out ;) :lol::lol:

Cheers for now
Mark


I'm a relative lurker here, but am interested!

[troypiggo]

My flights have been confirmed, and I'll be near Southampton/Hampshire from Mon 24 Mar 2008 until Thu 3 Apr 2008. I know I'll miss the Meet, but can any of you locals recommend some good sights with tourists and photographers in mind? Thanks.

[bandit 1]

Hiya Troy,

Can I suggest you PM Alby ( ATTIC ) as he lives nearby & could give you some good places :D

Cheers for now
Mark


My flights have been confirmed, and I'll be near Southampton/Hampshire from Mon 24 Mar 2008 until Thu 3 Apr 2008. I know I'll miss the Meet, but can any of you locals recommend some good sights with tourists and photographers in mind? Thanks.

[troypiggo]

Thanks Mark. Will do.

[method-photo]

Hiya Method photo,

Great stuff you'd be more than welcome, the more the merrier eh, BTW stop lurking in those bushes & come out ;) :lol::lol:

Cheers for now
Mark

OK

http://images.method.co.uk/images/20071230112107_334.jpg

[Canon Bob]

I'd be more than happy to tag along...only a couple of hours away for me. I imagine that hotels down there get good trade in June so an early date fix might be beneficial for the "anti-canvas" folks.

Bob

[bandit 1]

Hiya MP,

Lovely shot good to see you out from lurking :lol: now go post it on the Macro Forum.

Cheers for now
Mark
OK

http://images.method.co.uk/images/20071230112107_334.jpg

[bandit 1]

Hiya Bob,
Sorry not replied sooner, you're dead right in what you say about the date needing fixing, the last time I spoke to Alistair he said he was going to PM/ e-mail those that had replied so far. I've not heard back from him yet & I was going to give him a call but unfortunately I've caught this dreaded Fluy type virus so feel to rough to yap about stuff right now:p:p but hopefully I'll be feeling or getting over this by Monday, bloody typical eh & I've got a new range cooker being delivered here tomorrow how the hell I'm going get round doin that feeling like this God only knows.

I'm back off to my pit now hardly even got the energy to type, is that Violins I can hear :lol:

Cheers for now
Mark


I'd be more than happy to tag along...only a couple of hours away for me. I imagine that hotels down there get good trade in June so an early date fix might be beneficial for the "anti-canvas" folks.

Bob

[Bill Pham]

what is this. wow i been gone for awhile and come back to see this thread. wish i can come too. looks like lots of fun. good luck and happy hunting :D:D.

Bill

[buzzyrabbit]

I'll be intrested in tagging along if possible. Hopefully i coud pick up some macro tips from you guys.

[bandit 1]

Hiya Bill, Buzzyrabbit,

Sorry not got back before now but I'm still unwell with this damned virus thing :p that seems to be plaguing this neck of the woods & I know Alistair is up to his neck in work & being dad when he gets home, not sure what's happened to Alby as I've not seen or PM'd him lately

Good to see you back Bill :D

Buzzyrabbit,
Would be great to meet you, for me the more the merrier :D

Cheers for now
Mark :(:p

[Lester Wareham]

I can probably pop down for the day if it's the New Forest, but like may others I am not into camping (getting washed away in the Yorshire Dayles was enough).

[Mick Emmett]

Lester, if you're going to get washed away then there's no nicer place to have it happen to you than the Yorkshire Dales :D Er!; no "Y" in Dales by the way ;)

[Canon Bob]

Er!; no "Y" in Dales by the way ;)

There was before it was washed away !:rolleyes:

[Mick Emmett]

:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

[Lester Wareham]

Lester, if you're going to get washed away then there's no nicer place to have it happen to you than the Yorkshire Dales :D Er!; no "Y" in Dales by the way ;)

Yes a bit of brain blip there.

We managed one or two nights in a little hike tent, too dangerous to cook inside and weather too bad outside. Then the campsite flooded and we gave up and checked into B&B - this was meant to be a cheep holiday when we were first married. :rolleyes:

It was great though we had the place more or less to ourselves, all the caravans etc left as the fields were just mud pits. All the river and falls were full and looked great. This was august 1985, a few scans of the snaps here http://www.zen20934.zen.co.uk/photography/Gallery/Themes/Yorkshire%20Dales/index.html, fond memories. :)

[bandit 1]

Hiya Lester, Mick,

Lester,
Ah there's nothing like a nice lumpy Bivi out in the wilds, waking up & having a strip down wash especially in Feb.:lol:

Mick,
Thornton Force, now there's a place for an early morning shower, hell I remember it well, most invigorating.

I'm still trying to find a good campsite that's near b&b/hotels etc so that we can all be in roughly the same area, this is proving a bit difficult, Alby came up with Balmer lawn hotel on the A337 at Brockenhurst for a starter ( he must be rich );):lol: http://www.balmerlawnhotel.com/

As for a campsite I'm struggling, the only one that's near that I could find is ' Black Knowl Caravan Club Site ' but that's no good as it a members only job :rolleyes::( hopefully if your reading this Alby you could give me some campsites if you know of any please ?? or anyone else

Cheers for now
Mark

[andrew748]

can i play?

not fussed about the venue

but can we book some sun please

[bandit 1]

Hiya Andrew,

Your more than welcome if you bring some sweeties though ;):lol: I'll see what I can do about the Sun

Some lovely shots on your gallery btw, I'm intrigued as to what you would do with a Pipe Wrench :lol::lol::lol:

Cheers for now
Mark

[andrew748]

Hiya Andrew,

Your more than welcome if you bring some sweeties though ;):lol: I'll see what I can do about the Sun

Some lovely shots on your gallery btw, I'm intrigued as to what you would do with a Pipe Wrench :lol::lol::lol:

Cheers for now
Mark

Hi Mark, sweeties on order.
thanks for your kind comment.
btw
wifey took one look at the pipe wrench and went a funny colour:rolleyes:

more to come from the tool box i feel ;)

[Attic]

As this as gone a little quiet can I suggest Exbury Gardens on the Saturday 14 June. Large gardens with lots of habitats and lots of bugs hopefully. No suggestions seem to be appearing.
Link here : http://www.exbury.co.uk/exbury/index.htm

[bandit 1]

Hiya Alby,

That looks a nice place & one that would cater for most folks needs, I'll vote for this one it's a fair ol drive but if this ol crock can make it I'm sure others can also !!! lets see if we get any response, we're never goina please everybody that's a cert.

Cheers for now
Mark

[Canon Bob]

Hiya Alby,

That looks a nice place & one that would cater for most folks needs, I'll vote for this one it's a fair ol drive but if this ol crock can make it I'm sure others can also !!! lets see if we get any response, we're never goina please everybody that's a cert.

Cheers for now
Mark

It'll work for me...I can despatch the missus off into the floribunda for an hours peace and quiet...anybody else likely to bring their lady along?

Bob

[Mick Emmett]

Not if I want to camp, which I do.

[bandit 1]

Hiya Bob,

Great stuff, not sure if Ami will tag along or not she did make some passing comment about comming maybe, but it bothers me not, either way I will be there :D

Cheers for now
Mark



It'll work for me...I can despatch the missus off into the floribunda for an hours peace and quiet...anybody else likely to bring their lady along?

Bob

[bandit 1]

Hiya Mick,

Be good to meet you, personally I prefer camping or just a Bivi up under some moonlight sky but if needs must then I guess I'll have to choose the hard option of a soft bed & room service somewhere:rolleyes: :lol:

Cheers for now
Mark


Not if I want to camp, which I do.

[andrew748]

camping good
wifey yes
date confirmed?
not fathers day weekend, wifey works for clintons

[Courierman]

As this as gone a little quiet can I suggest Exbury Gardens on the Saturday 14 June. Large gardens with lots of habitats and lots of bugs hopefully. No suggestions seem to be appearing.
Link here : http://www.exbury.co.uk/exbury/index.htm

it's ok but they wont like 30 photographers all over the grass and flower beds with their new MP-E 65 ,gess will have to bring a Sigma 150mm 2.8 for there and crop alot

[Courierman]

It'll work for me...I can despatch the missus off into the floribunda for an hours peace and quiet...anybody else likely to bring their lady along?

Bob
hi Bob ,why did you not just call your self MR L whats that 20K in lenses :lol:

[Canon Bob]

hi Bob ,why did you not just call your self MR L ........:lol:

Actually, I do....my surname begins with L :p

It's not quite as bad as it looks...the 28-135 belongs to the missus :rolleyes:

Bob

[bandit 1]

Hiya Andrew, CM, Bob,

Andrew,
Camping is more my style gimme a Bivi Bag & a Starlit night any time, but should my Ami decide to tag along I guess I would put up with nasty clean sheets, cozy warm bed, room service Etc. Etc.:lol::lol:

CM,
Actually you do have a point about a hoard well maybe not a hoard but a group of photographers turning up unannounced some places are very touchy about people shooting all over.

I have been in contact with Exbury this afternoon.

1. To seek their consent

2. which I personally believe is most important, common courtesy a letter to the estate manager will be in the post tomorrow morning, watch this space & keep you fingers crossed Pleease

Bob,

All I got is outa your list is the Wife, some tubes & a flash, make of that what you can :lol:

Cheers for now
Mark

[andrew748]

:D

good job Mark

[Canon Bob]

Bob,
All I got outa your list is the Wife........


You've got the most expensive bit bit then :(

[bandit 1]

Hiya Bob

nice one your dear right there that's for sure :lol::lol:




You've got the most expensive bit bit then :(

[bandit 1]

Hiya All,

Just a quick update on how things are going along, very slowly, it would appear.
Having just spoken to a lovely lady called Sue at Exbury Gardens the letter that I sent ( snail mail ) to them has disappeared:rolleyes: so I've just e-mailed a copy to them, hopefully we'll get a reply soon.

Cheers for now
Mark

[bandit 1]

Hiya All,

Great stuff I've just had a reply from Exbury Gardens ( see in blue ) re the visit Sat 14 June, as you can see they're prepared to open early for us or late if needs be but I do need a definite reply from folks please so I can make any arrangements please :)

Cheers for now
Mark

Good Morning
Sorry about the delay if answering your request.
Confirming that it is fine for your group to visit the gardens and take your photographs. I will pop a booking form and garden information to you in the post. It has also been suggested by our commercial manager that if you would like to enter the gardens before we open at 10am or stay on into the evening to get some better photos it can be arrange at a additional charge. Something to think about, you can let us know at a later date.

Regards
Sue Brown
Group booking coordinator

[Mick Emmett]

To be honest Mark; the meet up is the main thing to me, any trip out is a bonus; so I'm happy to go along with anything you arrange. Sheesh! not much help there am I, sorry! Any news on a camp site in the area? or have I missed a posting?

[bandit 1]

Hiya Mick,

Good to hear from you,
No you've not missed any postings re-camping, so far it looks like if I come on my own I'll be kipping in the car or Bivi up in a hedgerow/field somewhere.

Hey maybe folks are put off coz they think I'm a rough ol beggar from some of my posts, you know eating bugs,sleeping rough Etc. ;):lol::lol:

Cheers for now
Mark

[andrew748]

Hiya Mick,

Good to hear from you,
No you've not missed any postings re-camping, so far it looks like if I come on my own I'll be kipping in the car or Bivi up in a hedgerow/field somewhere.

Hey maybe folks are put off coz they think I'm a rough ol beggar from some of my posts, you know eating bugs,sleeping rough Etc. ;):lol::lol:

Cheers for now
Mark

it's not to far for me to drive in a day, or i have friends in the area so i'm flexible :D

and still interested:D

[Canon Bob]

I'm still on for this....the missus has already made the sarnies and filled the flasks. Much before 10.00 will be pushing it for me though...about 2 1/2 hours to get there.

Bob

[andrew748]

I'm still on for this....the missus has already made the sarnies and filled the flasks. Much before 10.00 will be pushing it for me though...about 2 1/2 hours to get there.

Bob

mwhahaha

the A34 is the devils road :D

[Mick Emmett]

I did a quick Google for camp sites near to Exbury Gardens and came up with the two at the bottom, there was one closer but unfortunately it was on the Isle of White. The links from these pages to the actual campsite Web Sites don't seem to be active, they're both within spitting distance of each other next to the Village of Brockenhurst which is only 8 miles from Exbury Gardens http://www.brockenhurst-newforest.org.uk/ (info on hotels on the page also). Times knocking on and those that wish to camp need to know which site we're all going to head for, anyone know of anywhere else?

http://www.aboutbritain.com/campsites/hollands-wood-caravan-and-camping-site.asp

http://www.aboutbritain.com/campsites/roundhill-caravan-and-camping-site.asp

[bandit 1]

Hiya Andrew, Bob, Mick,

Andrew,
Devils road eh ! that'll suit me fine :lol:

Bob,
Think my drive is about 3 - 3.1/2 depends on the slow beggars :lol:

Mick,
I searched & phoned a few places but can't find a reasonably close site anywhere :confused: the only one that I did find near is that members only, damn frustrating :evil: you'd think there would be somewhere given the area eh :rolleyes:

Pah shoulda had the meet here there's a camping/caravan site literally over my back wall :lol:

Cheers for now
Mark

[Mick Emmett]

Mick,
I searched & phoned a few places but can't find a reasonably close site anywhere :confused: the only one that I did find near is that members only, damn frustrating :evil: you'd think there would be somewhere given the area eh :rolleyes:

Pah shoulda had the meet here there's a camping/caravan site literally over my back wall :lol:

Cheers for now
Mark

So why don't we? has anyone booked hotels yet?

[bandit 1]

Hiya Mick,

Sounds good to me, hey no traveling !! but I think we'll leave things as they stand, best not upset the apple cart eh :D

If your ever down is S. Devon Plymouth area gimme a PM :D

Cheers for now
Mark

[Mick Emmett]

You'll have to refresh me Mark, apart from we maybe visiting Exbury Gardens before or after the usual opening times if things work out OK; just what are the arrangements as they stand? Re-camping site mainly, is 8 miles from Exbury Gardens not close enough? I'll be coming from Leeds so riding down and meeting up at Exbury Gardens then riding back isn't an option, I need to be there the day before. I know some are wanting to stop in hotels but for those that wish to camp we might as well all stay on the same site, so before it gets too late it would be best to decide on one. That is unless we're gonna agree to do our own separate thing and just turn up at Exbury Gardens on the day. Someone else must have some thoughts on this.

[bandit 1]

Hiya Mick,

Sorry not got back sooner, thought I'd leave replying & see if anyone came up with anything first :confused: good job I didn't hold my breath eh:lol:

As things stand at the mo it looks like every man/woman for themselves with the meet up at Exbury 10:00

I also tried those links & just drew a blank camping, I'll prob drive up the night before & if in the meantime can't find a site I'll just dose in my Bivi come rain or shine, I can't believe it so difficult to find a campsite that's not members only.

I meant to Post my phone nos. just in case anyone should want a gimme a call 01752872564 & Mob 07779466640 my home no. will not accept anonymous numbers

Cheers for now
Mark

[Mick Emmett]

Mark. I've just been reading through the back posts and noticed a post by LindaB saying she stopped at Hollands Wood camp site a few years ago and that it seemed pretty good, I think that's where I'll head for. I must say I'm a little disappointed by the lack of response, there seemed to be a few in the earlier posts that were up for a camping weekend; where've they all gone?

[bandit 1]

Hiya Mick,

Gods & health willing I will meet you at that site on the Fri eve/ night hey hope you aren't superstitious as it's the 13th :lol:
Site link http://www.forestholidays.co.uk/camping__caravanning/england/new_forest/hollands_wood.aspx

I think the main prob is that the Sticky is not on the Macro page ??? being as it's a Macro Meet up I did feel it should be made a Sticky until the meet took place, I did pm Belmondo ( who was very helpful ) at the very outset & he had a Pow wow with those that make the decisions & this is where they decided the post should go !

Maybe its still to early in the year for folks to commit ? I think/hope that nearer the time things'll pick up, I'll bloody get there if I gota crawl on my hands & knees :lol:

Cheers for now
Mark

[Mick Emmett]

Well at least we've given them a place to head for now should any one wish to join us, you're right about this thread though; what a cock-eyed way the moderators have chosen to do things. This post should be on the Macro section and be an open sticky instead of having to navigate through a series of posts which on the face of it appear to be closed or locked; no wonder activity here has died off.

[buzzyrabbit]

I hope to be there also, as its only just over an hour away from me.

[troypiggo]

Just letting you all know. I leave tomorrow for the UK holiday I mentioned on page 1 of this thread. 2 nights in Dubai on the way over, then staying down near Portsmouth. I'll have my macro gear with me. Realise I won't make this meet unfortunately, but I'm gonna try to catch some of your bugs anyway :p

[Mick Emmett]

Well I've just booked on line at the Hollands Wood camp site, if any one was wanting to stay over for just the one night ( I know you were Mark as you live quite close) I'm afraid the minimum book is 2 nights, OK for me as I have quite a long journey home and wasn't planning on setting off back until the Sunday morning anyway. The cost is £34.00 for 2 people for the two nights, I'm on my own but unfortunately it's not any cheaper for just 1 person; it does however get more expensive if you have more than 2 people (but only by £11.00 per person). See you there Mark, unless you've changed your mind now you know you can't pay for just the one night.

[bandit 1]

Hiya Mick,

No not changed my mind I'll more than likely book the two nights that way I got my arse covered just in case the ol body decides to pack up :lol:

Hope you have a good Easter break

Cheers for now
Mark



Well I've just booked on line at the Hollands Wood camp site, if any one was wanting to stay over for just the one night ( I know you were Mark as you live quite close) I'm afraid the minimum book is 2 nights, OK for me as I have quite a long journey home and wasn't planning on setting off back until the Sunday morning anyway. The cost is £34.00 for 2 people for the two nights, I'm on my own but unfortunately it's not any cheaper for just 1 person; it does however get more expensive if you have more than 2 people (but only by £11.00 per person). See you there Mark, unless you've changed your mind now you know you can't pay for just the one night.

[andrew748]

i'm going to drive down on the day, is the cost of the day the admission fee or is that yet to be decided?

[Attic]

i'm going to drive down on the day, is the cost of the day the admission fee or is that yet to be decided?
Hi Andrew, yes it's just the cost of admission to the gardens, should be a fun day and the chance to meet some of the names on here too.;)

[andrew748]

woo :D

[chrisr_1959]

Hi Guys,

I have just found this forum and as a Macro newbie only just found this thread.

I live 5 miles from Exbury and if you need any info about the area I am happy to see what I can do.

To all of you, awesome photos! I have trawled dozens of threads and the pics are simply fantastic. I am quite inspired to have a go myself with my new Sigma 105 this weekend.

Cheers

Chris

[Attic]

Just over 2 weeks to go. Exbury gardens Main entrance 10am 14th June.
I will be there. Who else?

[Mick Emmett]

Well it's been a bit of a busy last couple of months for me, the wife was diagnosed with breast cancer in April. She's had all the surgery but next week starts the dreaded Chemo, if it affects her too badly then I may have to give it miss. I will of course be making every effort to attend as I've paid for 2 nights at the camp site up front and being a Yorkshire man I don't want to loose my money grrrr!, on the plus side I became a New Granddad tonight :):):) Now I feel really old :confused:

[Attic]

Well it's been a bit of a busy last couple of months for me, the wife was diagnosed with breast cancer in April. She's had all the surgery but next week starts the dreaded Chemo, if it affects her too badly then I may have to give it miss. I will of course be making every effort to attend as I've paid for 2 nights at the camp site up front and being a Yorkshire man I don't want to loose my money grrrr!, on the plus side I became a New Granddad tonight :):):) Now I feel really old :confused:
Sorry to hear of your wifes illness and I wish her a speedy recovery, congrats on becoming Granparents and that should take care of any surplus cash you might acquire in the future. :) Would be good to see you there but understand if you're not Mick.

[Canon Bob]

It's still firmly on my calendar and, as I'm retiring tomorrow, I don't really have any excuses not to be there.

Do pensioners get in cheaper ? :rolleyes:

Bob

Edit....10.00am might be pushing it a little for me though. Maybe I could get someone's mobile number so that I can find the throng?

[bandit 1]

Hiya Alby, Mick, Bob,

Mick, Firstly let me say how sorry I am to hear about your Wife !! there's not a lot one can say except that I wish her a full & speedy recovery, I do hope all goes well !! secondly congrats on becoming a Granddad, boy/girl? ha no more new glass now :lol:

Bob,
Always assuming that Orange has good signal here's my Mob 07779466640
I will be instantly recognizable by my false right arm & strange right foot :lol: my heads normal as far as I'm concerned but others may disagree though :lol::lol:

Cheers for now
Mark

[Attic]

It's still firmly on my calendar and, as I'm retiring tomorrow, I don't really have any excuses not to be there.

Do pensioners get in cheaper ? :rolleyes:

Bob

Edit....10.00am might be pushing it a little for me though. Maybe I could get someone's mobile number so that I can find the throng?
Retiring? Bob, you're not go to start all that "I don't believe it" malarkey are you :lol:

[Canon Bob]

Retiring? Bob, you're not go to start all that "I don't believe it" malarkey are you :lol:

I started that 25 years ago.:(

Plans are afoot and don't be too surprised if I've morphed into "Le Bob du Canon" by Christmas :wink:

[Attic]

I started that 25 years ago.:(

Plans are afoot and don't be too surprised if I've morphed into "Le Bob du Canon" by Christmas :wink:
Well Bob we don't mind but you and your wife will have to get used to a group of us popping over now and then to go poking our light collecting boxes into the scrub of the Dordogne :D

[Attic]

Giving this another bump as it's only a few days away. Sat 14th June Exbury Gardens in the new forest Hampshire. 10:00 am at the entrance.

[dpastern]

Who's paying for my airline ticket to the UK :P

Dave

[Attic]

Hey Dave package yourself up and go airmail it cheaper.;)

[dpastern]

hahahah, I don't think they let fat bastards like me on airmail routes ;)

Dave

[Attic]

You and me alike Dave, You could aways have got a tow over from the back of a ship but you should have thought about that 5 weeks ago :lol: Maybe if you're ever over this way in the future we could sort something out ;)

[dpastern]

Sounds good, although truth be told, my record of travel overseas is non existant - never rich enough to afford it lol. Some people like to travel, me I'm a homebody. Would be grand to meet up with my UK mates though, would learn a lot and have fun. Probably a few beers as well lol.

Dave

[bandit 1]

Hiya Dave,
When I win the Lotto mate you can have a private just & all the Amber nectar you want but when you arrive in Devon you'll ave to try a drop o 'Scrumpy'

Cheers for now
Mark

[Mick Emmett]

Hiya Dave,
When I win the Lotto mate you can have a private just & all the Amber nectar you want but when you arrive in Devon you'll ave to try a drop o 'Scrumpy'

Cheers for now
Mark

Mark, what is a "just" ? private or other wise. The weather up here isn't too good, in fact it's chucking it down and it's not looking too good for Saturday morning either :(

[bandit 1]

Hiya Mick,

Firstly how's your wife ?? & please pass on our best wishes !!!!!!

What a silly ol bugger I am eh, shoulda been a Private Jet :oops::lol:

Don't think the weather will be to bad down south at least it'll be a bit cooler than of late :D I'm still going, come hell or high water, but I won't be at the campsite, I was going to hopeful met up with you there but I'll now be leaving here at 5Am. Sat morn. stay the day & hopefully drive back or find a hedge to kip under on the way home:lol:

If your ever passing near Plymouth on your way down to cornwall gimme a call I'll PM you my no. I made the misake of placing them ' in the open ' once & had some twat pester the hell outa us.

Cheers for now
Mark

Cheers for now
Mark

[dpastern]

Private jet, now that sounds good! Does it come with its own naked stewardesses :) Oh I'm a bad, bad boy!

Dave

[Mick Emmett]

That's a hell of a long day for you Mark, you should go back to plan "A" and join me at the camp site so you'll be refreshed for the next days meeting, I'd even stand you a pint :lol:

[bandit 1]

Hiya Mick,

Blimey we're all over the place eh, text, PM's & Postings:lol:

I'm so used to really long days I'll be OK. tiz only my stupid body that lets me down & if that happens I'll just curl up & wait for things to get better, can't do sod all else but that !! I just look at it this way there's far more folks out there worse of so just be thankful for what I got & get on with life as things happen, the only down side is I'd have to have a pint of non Alcoholic as I'm no longer allowed to drink with the Meds I gota take, bummer but there tiz & I do like a drop o Scrumpy & Old Wood Rum :lol:

Well I'd best go make me a cuppa all this talk of drink's making me thirsty

All the very best to You & Yours
Cheers for now
Mark


That's a hell of a long day for you Mark, you should go back to plan "A" and join me at the camp site so you'll be refreshed for the next days meeting, I'd even stand you a pint :lol:

[Canon Bob]

Private jet, now that sounds good! Does it come with its own naked stewardesses :) Oh I'm a bad, bad boy!

Dave

Not sure which airlines you use but I find they all have naked stewardesses if you're imagination is upto scratch. :oops:

Back on track....I'll be there at the appointed time so keep an eye out for a bewildered looking character in a silver Saab 95 saloon.

Bob

[bandit 1]

Hiya Bob,

Great stuff see you there, I'm easy to spot I'll be the one with the weird walking stick / false arm :lol:

Cheers for now
Mark