Stafford 2007
Posted By : Gary Saunders, 08-Jul-2007, 03:42pm
Good effort Claire. Thoroughly enjoyed myself, only too little moans ,both of which the organisers could not really control. Firstly the number of
traders, quite dissapointed by the turnout, especially the ones that didnt stay for the sunday aswell.Maybe we should start only purchasing products
from the traders that support shows like these, after all we all could save a fortune on p+p.Secondly this one is down to the members. What is the
point of taking your triumph if you are going to leave it parked next to your tent for entire weekend, for every car parked on the display field, there
was 2 parked next to a tent! Have to agree ,maybe let car related traders in for free, that way they wont moan and well be able to browse for a lot
longer, where was Quiller, Moss, Spitfire Graveyard, Spitbits, Woolies, tool traders, paint sundries etc. I promise im not moaning , just hoping for an
improvement next year. Funny how all the traders turn up for Stonleigh.
Well Done Claire
Regards Gary
Well Done Claire
Regards Gary
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Adrian Dean, 08-Jul-2007, 03:56pm
I feel really bad writing this but I'm sorry to say that I agree. I went on Saturday and was expecting something like Stoneleigh, Triumph
ultraoverloaded, get an entire Spitfire home in carrier bags, but was disapointed at the turnout and I only had to drive 35 miles from Birmingham. Hats
off to Claire, the organisers and all that, God knows I wouldn't want to do it. But where was everybody? It was a lovely day for driving a Triumph
anywhere, but the hall was half empty and the carpark too. Less than 20(?) autojumple stands, and fewer traders -- I have to wonder was it worth their
while. I got there very early thinking that the place would soon fill up but the hall felt empty all day. Maybe Sunday was better or maybe its more of
a weekend get together for the more hardcore triumph enthusiast, camping and all that, I don't know. Think I'll stick to Stoneleigh.
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : Calvin Andrew, 08-Jul-2007, 07:38pm
Been for the weekend, and it was lovely, found more people to talk to and cars to pinpoint and chat about.
loved the displays, especially the german spitfire with lemans alloys, i feel a set going on the coupe.
well done Claire,
some ideas for next year,
1) book the weather again
2) mood music, jazz band in the bar on saturday night for a bit of atmos
3) freezer block refreezing point, 30 p a block over night, should make money and what a service.
4) extend the clothes stalls to include a nail bar, we had one son in the creche, one son asleep in the pushchair and you whetted my wife's appetite with the clothes stall, and assuaged my guilt at spending.
again, a top weekend for my family, so well done to Claire and everyone else who donned a hi vi to help out.
Calvin
ps, Richard Briscoe, see you next year when you are not so infectious.-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Steve Abbott, 08-Jul-2007, 08:36pm
First of all, a big thankyou to Johnathon, John and Pat from the Northants area, also Colin and Richard, fellow P'boro area members, they made me welcome and prevented me from being 'Billy no mates' during the weekend.
I do agree with the comments about the traders but I personally get the feeling we have a brilliant annual event at Stoneleigh to pick up parts, etc.
This was my second weekend at Stafford and I had some really nice chats with people I met, I wanted to introduce myself to a few other regulars on here, I recognised some but I found myself running out of time as there really was lots to see.
The evening party and the Six Factor were pure delight, this is the sort of thing Stafford is about and we ALL need to work harder at keeping the social side alive. None of the people I started conversations with told me to sod off!
I am going to try even harder to make more friends in the club and, other commitments allowing, get to more of the social events at weekends.
The folks from Northampton area that I spent time with this weekend were delightful people and we all have one thing in common, Triumphs!
So lets make Stonleigh the event were we gather the bits and bobs and events like the International, the place were we gather for a natter about our cars, a few drinks and a good time.
P.S. I had my car tuned by the Auto tune guys and after they found several faults, and put them right, the trip home was a real blast.
Long live Stafford.
Steve.-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Ian Smythe, 08-Jul-2007, 08:56pm
I wouldnt worry to much about the traders at the recent MG International show there were less traders in attendance than last year and i think the number of traders at the international had actually gone up this year ! Jigsaw racing would have been there if it wasnt for Marks Ill health i noticed Abingdon parts for Triumph were back this year.
This is the first year i have camped at Stafford in previous years i have moaned about about the lack of activities going on. I think i get it now when you camp over there is no rush to get round whats going on and this allows you to soak up the atmosphere enjoy the Triumps that people are bringing in (some awesome GT6s THIS YEAR BY THE WAY).
Excellent weekend Claire well done to you and the rest of the TSSC crew who make it so and thanks to the rest of you who travel 300 miles so that myself and other Triumph enthusiasts get to enjoy your car and your efforts in the upkeep of the car.
And why move from Stafford at 9PM last night when the sun was setting i couldnt really think of anywhere i would rather be beutiful Staffordshire countryside swifts darting around in the air
ROLL ON NEXT YEAR-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Danial Phoenix, 08-Jul-2007, 09:44pm
enjoyed it verry much, nice people and enjoyed and will come next year,traiders dident bother me was a good few and can order parts any time of year, just nice to pick up the smaller bits which dont justify p&p like chick doing and rarebits.
only thing was hall was half empty saturday, and seemed pointless puting cars on balcony with all the room below as few went up there, half empty made it look less busy, and sunday wasent full. did enter modified for fun to get downstairs in hall and was only 6 entrys. all those cars outside, some could have been invited in hall. but not moaning, enjoyed the archery spent over &163;20 on it and enjoyed every miniut of it.
and thankyou for the 3 nice people that stoped on the m14 for me. epecialy the tune up guy, who gave me the 2 nuts to get my back on my way.-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Kevin Rochfort, 08-Jul-2007, 10:05pm
Well done Claire and your team, you've done a lot of hard work to make this years show a success.
Here is my collection of photos from the event : http://triumph-motorsport.fotopic.net/c1321501.htm...
If anyone wants to use one of them to illustrate an article in The Courier, feel free - but please let Bernie know where the photo came from and its "KAR" reference number as he has a CD with all the original high resolution images so he can put a higher quality version in The Courier.-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Vin Poonwassie, 08-Jul-2007, 11:04pm
Great pictures Kevin!
good picture of the 'LeMans06 Naked Barman' (aka Jonathan Binnington) in front of his table of drinks- the before and after photo's.
He also won the auto gymkana- he only beat me 'cos I wasn't used to my cars new foot print (new shoes) and he is more 'as one' with hid car!
Also, well done Claire! - I saw you at the show but you always seem to be organising something or checking everything was all ok. It ran really well! - Remember everyone said you can't have an auto test at the event.... well you proved them wrong.
Looking forward to Aug 08 (even though I'll probably still be knackered from LM08!)
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : Andrew Brady, 09-Jul-2007, 11:46pm
[IMG]
I expected a better turn out&8230;
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Michael Charlton, 08-Jul-2007, 07:35pm
Anyone notice if TLD was at the show?
Mike
Mike
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : James Dennison, 08-Jul-2007, 10:03pm
I was only able to come along for the Saturday afternoon. Really enjoyed it -sooooooooo wanted to be camping and having a few beers.
Claire must know the Big Man 'cos it has been the only good weather we've had up here since April!
Spoke to loads of folk - everyone very friendly.
The traders I spoke to seemed up-beat enough.
Not as many autojumble stalls as a few years ago - but I guess this is inevitable as most stuff is sold on e-bay nowadays.
I got most of the bits I wanted and have numbers to call for the rest - success.
The tune up bloke was excellent - really knew his stuff and has transformed my car for a fraction of the price I have been quoted elsewhere.
TOP EVENT!!
A thought though - Today I have been to an event just down the road from me (I'm only 20 mins from showground). Usual sort of english summertime thing with a collection of vintage cars, food stalls, a brass band, fairground rides, donkey rides etc. &163;4 a head to get in but the car park was packed with everday folk out for a nice couple of hours at the weekend with the kids. It would be a very different International but would certainly see numbers swelled with general public, perhaps even introducing a few new folk to our cars?
Looking forward to next year!
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : Clive Senior, 08-Jul-2007, 10:03pm
TLD, no sign....
But had a great time, so well done claire for being brave enough to actually try new ideas. Heard some positve comments about the race night, though, like the talent show, not my cup of tea. Enjoyed the evening though, beer was good and company great. And I apologise if I woke up the quiet campsite at 1am. It was all to do with Neal making a cuppa, but the knob on his kettle breaking and flying across the tent. It just got silly. Sorry.
As to the relatively low numbers, I think many people where put off by the very poor weather last week, and that probably upset many potential concours entrants too. However, there were plenty of people about. Inddor traders were a bit scarce, but the outdoor autojumble was fine, again I expect many couldn't be bothered to make the effort if it was going to possibly rain.
Looking forward to next year already! Hic.-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Martin Marrison, 09-Jul-2007, 11:08am
I'll have to agree with some of Clives comments. Tallent show not my thing and put me off the main entertainment. On the Friday night the Hourse an pig racing was too loud and we couldn't use the bar to catch up with people we hadn't seen all year. Perhaps next year the hourse and pig racing should be on one part of the bar and the other side for non Horse racing.
Bring back the band on the Saturday night I say!!!!
Perhaps I am getting too old now being the wrong side of 40!!
The rest of the show was good and it was nice to see some of the new ideas. I think may people were put of by the weather and the travelling up was bad on both Friday and Saturday. This should be helped by the change of date for next year so as not to clash with Silverstone.GP.
It is an interesting point about Traders not paying to enter. I did find enough to buy on the Saturday but the Sunday there were some gaps.
We need to encourage the Concours to get more cars into the Hall. I judged the Spitfires and the GT6 on the Sunday morning and we could have done with some more cars. Perhaps we ought to call cruised and used the novice class???
Can't we bring Adam and the trunion oiling in to the hall adjacent hall to the main show to provide some action in the hall. We would need to manage cars in and out but it would provide some action!!
Keep up the good work
Martin Marrison
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : Pete Davies, 09-Jul-2007, 11:27am
Hi Everyone,
Our Thanks must go out to all at head quarters and especially to Claire and her team. Great job!
We tried to take part in everything (You've got to be in it to win it) and really enjoyed ourselves - even down to having a laugh in the six-factor (We were Mr & Mrs Meat Loaf).
I agree with all the comments so far posted - even the ones that didn't like the six-factor - you can't please all the people all the time, but eveyone is entitled to their opinions, but I really agree that traders should have a free entry.
We (The Manchester Area) put a lot of effort into creating our "Le Mans" themed display, perhaps other areas might like to take up the challenge and create displays of their own - there is plenty of room in Bingly hall after all! It would be good to see the area displays "themed" - a bit more interesting that a few rows of white cars.
All-in-all a good weekend that we were glad we took an active part in.
Thanks again everyone.
Pete & Janet
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : Debbie Lewis, 09-Jul-2007, 11:39am
Hi Pete,
Just wanted to say that you put on a very professional display there, really well done to your area for putting that on... even if I did stand there for 15 mins to see if the guy under the car moved...! LOL
Really well done!-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Lisa Garland, 09-Jul-2007, 12:28pm
Hi ,
I travelled from Liverpool to Stafford on Saturday just for the day, although we did'nt arrive until about 1pm i was shocked to find out that i had to pay &163;9 each for my two children... aged 15 and 14.... i read that under 16's were free but is that only if you are camping? so a total cost for four of us &163;36..i came in my Triumph Vitesse but no mention of the 10% discount at the shop also on the back of the courier it says &163;8 admission fee?....(or should i have asked when i bought something at the shop about the discount?)
Anyway...well done to those who organized the event this year we had a great day , thanks to Adam who 'Troiled my Onions'!!! and gave me some good advice.....(i have bought gaiters! many thanx )
We met and spoke to some lovely people on Saturday including a man who was up in the gallery with the cream... honeysuckle coloured Triumph 2000.named josephine, it was a pleasure to meet you! This beautiful car along with the others in the gallery should have been in the main area as there was plenty of room. Hope to see you next year!
As i was setting off for home i noticed one of my brake lights was not working so i rushed back into the hall but
no-one had any for sale, but CHIC DOIG came to my rescue with two second hand ones, he would'nt accept payment for them, it worked a treat! Thankyou so much!
Hope to camp next year....great idea to change the event back to August
Lisa-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Andy Cook, 09-Jul-2007, 01:59pm
Lisa,
I think it's out of order to hav to have to pay full price for children if they visited for the day unlike free entrance if they camp.
This is something that neeeds to be fixed for next year, either make child day tickets free of charge or at least a fraction of the adult price. Maybe Claire would like to comment on this....
Overall I enjoyed the event, like I allways do.
Claire has done a lot to
try and reinvigorate the event, I'm sure it will get better.
I liked the free creche and sideshows for the kids. I liked the fact that an auto test has ben re-introduced, although it didn't seem to run for very long.
I liked the new location for the autojumble nearer the hall. Although it didn't seem to be that busy the availability of food in the bar was a good improvement.
Missed this year by the kids was the Scalextric, the train rides,
Something else that was missing although not a big problem for me was the jazz band on a sunday lunchtime.
Personally I didn't particularly like the 6 factor and prefer a live band, but some people obviously enjoyed this so I'd suggest a live band next year with a 30 - 60 minute talent slot between the band sets.
I also didn't personally like the horse racing, however again some people did so repeat this but put the divider across the bar and have the horse racing separate so people can talk in the bar.
I like quite a few people was disapointed in the lack of traders, we need to try and give the ones that no longer attend an incentive to come back. Some ideas,
1. A free pitch for Stafford traders or alternatively get them to donate a raffle prize and then hold a raffle.
2. Free advertising in the courier for x months if they turn up at Stafford.
3. Free advertising on the club website if they turn up at Stafford.
4. A voucher for Free food and drink for traders at lunctime.
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : Clive Senior, 09-Jul-2007, 12:55pm
Martin M.---Agree with some of my comments......thats a first.
And to be fair, I did say twas not my cuppa, but lots of people enjoyed the racing bit, prehaps Martin is on to an idea about splitting the bar into 2 for the friday, racing one side, old farts talking the other?-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Nigel Clark, 09-Jul-2007, 01:34pm
Dear All,
Many thanks for all the comments posted already about Stafford - please keep them coming. Its very encouraging to see that everyone found something to like about the show. I am also very pleased to see so many constructive points being made about how to improve the show in future - these are all going to be noted for future events.
A recurring theme is that we need more traders at Stafford. This year we were unlucky in that two or three who had booked were forced to pull out at very short notice. However, I agree that it would be better if we had more traders and autojumblers, so we will look for ways to make Stafford an even more attractive event for traders and boost the numbers next year.
Last but not least, I would like to add a very big "thank you" to Claire and everyone who helped with producing such a successful event. WELL DONE!
Nigel
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : Colin Wake, 09-Jul-2007, 02:55pm
Tony was touring Europe at the weekend delivering and collecting cars and parts there-of I beleive.
Cheers
Colin-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Claire Hill, 09-Jul-2007, 04:12pm
A huge thank you to everyone who attended the show this year. As you saw we made some small changes this year as I needed first to see how to put the event together before jumping in with both feet.
Changes already planned for next year include:
Keep the race night but divide the bars (and adjust the volume control!!!)
Several new incentives for both regular and new traders
A new way of obtaining vehicles for the hall displays
On Saturday , a disco, smaller six factor AND a live band!
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Is that ok for now (it has only been 1 day! Have an article to write "Stafford - 12 months to go")-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Claire Hill, 09-Jul-2007, 09:02pm
Hope Bill Davies doesn't mind me doing this but thought his comments on the CT messageboard very interesting...
Having attended every TSSC International Weekend since 1990, I have previously commented unfavourably on the event's decline, and the head-in-the-sand attitude of the organisers. Year-on-year the attendance has declined, yet this has never been reflected in the gate figures.
For the first time this decade, someone had the guts to change things. We (as traders/jumblers) have always asked for the autojumble to be placed immediately in front of Bingley Hall, as was the case in the early 1990s. The jumble in the top car park fragmented the show - we had often been asked by visitors if there was anything going on indoors, this coming more than halfway through the weekend! I've no doubt that others who had been in the main hall were unaware of the autojumble going on, hidden as it was behind a building. This year the trade and jumble areas were coherently organised so that each flowed into the other.
So was the show any good this year? Yes, absolutely the best it's been for some years, I can't understand how anyone can fail to see this. The attendance was disappointing, something which was almost inevitable following last year's lacklustre showing. But the show itself was considerably improved, and I know Claire has plans to build on this for next year. This year's success will hopefully be reflected in next year's increased attendance.
Something beyond the organisers' control, the autojumble this year was amongst the best for years. There were large quantities of original Stanpart panels and mechanicals, a substantial amount finding it's way into my own collection. I have not seen this kind of stuff turn up since the mid 1990s, I came away a very happy bunny! I don't know how Claire managed to arrange this one!
The Saturday night disco/party was something of a mixed bag. With limited budget, Claire was brave to opt for a decent disco rather than a live band. The Six Factor wasn't to my taste, but it was an attempt to do something different. I would like to see a live band return next year, but even that can be a minefield. Anyone remember the horrible Meatloaf tribute band a few years back? Some people loved Meatloaf, I didn't..... ever. You can't please all of the people all of the time, but a decent covers band would probably come closest. It would not have lost the momentum of the party in the way the Six Factor did. Perhaps something like Six Factor would have been better received on the Friday evening?
What can we do to help? I would like to see a more formal showing from Club Triumph. Karen and I weren't aware of exactly who would be representing the club, but we made an effort to communicate that we had a club banner available, via the original CT at Stafford thread. No-one asked for the banner, when we realised mid-morning on Saturday that the banner was still with us, Karen tried to deliver it, but there was no-one with the CT cars to receive it. Club literature would also have been a benefit, again we could have provided this as it was available on our trade stand. Hanging around waiting wasn't an option for Karen as we were busy in our own right, so Karen returned with the banner.
Karen and I have a few constructive suggestions for further improvements which we will be making to Claire. We would like to see a return to the model-by-model lineups we saw in th old days. There could be incentives to bring cars away from the campsite, and to attend in Triumphs in the first place. Most important would be a way to make the Bingley Hall environment less sterile. We will be giving this some serious thought and contacting Claire directly with our ideas.
Please, please please, support this show. It has in recent years been dismissed as an irrelevance, this year showed that it is back on the way up.
Cheers,
Bill.
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : Pip Flegel, 09-Jul-2007, 09:04pm
Stafford is what we make it as a club Clare did all the hard work all we had to do is enjoy it Manchester Area participated and thoroughly enjoyed
ourselves Thanks Clare for a great weekend it was brilliant. We can't wait for next year Congratulations you deserver it
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : John Hill, 10-Jul-2007, 00:19am
Well done to all the organisers of the weekend. Our little group from Essex and West Kent thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, most of us 'Stafford Virgins'. The race night was good, even managed to win a couple of races. Saturday night, very enjoyable, a mix of the six factor and a disco, and lots of beer! What more can you want. Even managed to bag a trophy in the herald concourse. Bloody knackered now. Cant wait for more of the same next year.
John Hill-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Clive Senior, 10-Jul-2007, 07:05am
I have been thinking about the whole weekend. As a package it was MUCH better. Yes, the lack of traders was a disappointment, but not surprising if people did not spend the previous year. They should get the message the weekend is on the up, and hopefully will be willing to attend next year.
Well done Claire, and it is good to see you are happy to apply some tweaks for next year. I am still astounded that you were able to make so many changes to the event in one go. You have certainly made your mark.
The hall is always tricky. Bill is right is saying the new autojumble area links it all up better, and I visited the hall much earlier in the show than normal. More indoor traders always help, but the competition car and "le mans" display were encouraging. I have always wondered if hands on demo's are worth another try? Anglian Triumph did the head swaps a few years ago, which was a great offer (buy an unleaded head, have it fitted for free) so prehaps that may be a suggestion for the future. Maybe exhausts (+manifolds??), springs/shocks etc or even proper 4 wheel alignment. I would like to see the rolling road again too. That looked unused when I saw it a couple of years ago. It could easily be brilliant. Organise dyno shoot-outs, people could actually see how much power their cars produce (rather than the naff estimated at 200bhp or whatever) and make tweaks there and then. The register secs would then have a mountain of info for months to write about! And how about using the back area of the hall for the trunnion oiling or other services? Get poor old Adam inside in case of rain!
I must try and come up with some other ideas too. I am trying to be helpful! Would like to see some more suggestions from others too.-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Claire Hill, 10-Jul-2007, 07:44am
Thanks, Clive.
Agree with lots of your points. We did have about 8 demonstrations lined up but for one reason or another most were pulled at the last minute. What I would like to have is a demonstration hall (one of the annexes at the end) and would like to start organising this as soon as possible. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE can anyone help with this (see previous threads over what is suggested - hood and windscreen fittings are always requested for example).
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : Martin Marrison, 10-Jul-2007, 11:48am
Claire,
A suggestion for Saturday perhaps how about a line up of Cars that have been featured in various mangazines. This would enable people to see the cars featured in Magazines in the Flesh and compare them with the articles. Mine was in Triumph World may years ago if this helps?
Regarding traders how about if the traders advertise for the previous 12 months in the courier they get a free pitch in Stafford? Not sure how the commercials would work out?
I must have missed the rolling road year but I would be game for putting my car on the rollers especially to compare with Clive Seniors!!!!
A few years ago we looked into a Sunday morning Convoy to kick the day off in a similar fasion to the Dutch meetings. Has this been considered again or are the logistics to bad?
Looks like lots of good ideas coming in keep up the good work.
Martin
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : Steve Cureton, 10-Jul-2007, 04:28pm
The one thing I really missed was the commentary and interviews that usually take place in the arena, the tannoy system really adds atmosphere and it's really good to hear peoples accounts of their cars and experiences. Likewise adding commentary to the Gymkhana would also have added atmosphere and interest, it just isn't a spectator event without it.-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Jackie Forsythe, 10-Jul-2007, 07:25pm
Bill Davies' comments are spot on.
I really appreciate the effort put in by Claire and the others.....a lot of hard work went into the show and it showed. Some smashing opportunities/events for families...siting of jumble was absolutely excellent....archery was a super idea...disco was really good...missed pig race but would like to see it in the future (wasn't sure children were ok in that bar, so missed it)...nice incentive of draw ticket placed on windows of cars parked up near hall...earlier concours presentation...smoke machine in disco lower than knee height this year
)...the guys t- shirt that lit up with sound in disco.....so
basically something for everyone.
Really, really missed the live band (Abba tribute next year with optional 60s fancy dress????)...sorry folks but Xfactor turned me cold..........missed the commentator chappie from last year...missed the train.....missed the scalextric.
BUT
loved the show. Think it is also superb that Chic Doig is always there and supports club/members. Excellent friendly atmosphere on camp site......maybe a bring a plate and share BBQ/Buffet next year?? Could be weather limited???
Ideas for next year???
...Abba Tribute band
...discount/club vouchers for folk bringing and displaying Triumphs on grass area.
...hood display would be excellent.
....colour theme in hall great BUT have more than one colour combo...fill hall and gives more visual impact
...twin an area with a similar area in aniother country and invite them over to meet their "companion" area
...spot prizes for cars parked on grass (not based on smartest car necessarily)
Again, excellent weekend. Our group from N Wales who camped really enjoyed it.
Jackie-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Jason Davies, 10-Jul-2007, 10:26pm
A very interesting thread which is clearly divided by campers and non-campers, however having given this a little thought I would like to offer some suggestions for next year, I am the first to admit that I do not have a great deal of time to organise all of this and I know many members give up their free time to organise this event, but maybe that should not be so, maybe the club should pay Claire and her team something to organise this event.
We have a whole year (and a bit) to come up with ideas and build on the successes of 2007. I have been a member since 1989 and I have been fortunate enough to have experienced the highs and lows of this event and my suggestions here are meant to be constructive and are certainly up for constructive criticisms.
So what would I do:
1. I would definitely allow traders to set up free of charge (car related), I would also encourage them to take part in the running/organisation of the show.
2. I would also offer classes/workshops for members, helping them to develop specific skills such as:
Engine rebuilds - practical experience, I know that I would definitely spend a day stripping and rebuilding an engine and I would also pay for that privelege, but how much are members willing to pay.
This obviously leads on to wide range of rebuilds - Diffs, Gearbox, overdrive, etc
3. Seminars, lectures, there are some fantastic articles in the courier, I would love to hear John Thomason speak about his time with the courier, his cars etc, we could have a number of speakers from the different marques.
4. Display stands should be organised, where were the tool manufacturers, we also need people like Newton and Commercial, again a demonstration of their products, these would sell 100 times over if its promoted properly, I think traders would also welcome pre-defined well presented space with boards to present work on, can the showground supply these?
This doesn't come cheap, how much are members willing to help both financially and with time, we could have a stafford collection/account where we all donate &163;5 a month to go towards setting these up, afterall we will all benefit and we will promote the club, we have an award winning magazine and we could be well on the way to an award winning show.
I also think its important to mention both Steve Gill and Chic Doig these traders should be commended, they have both been attending the show for as long as I can remember and I think they definitely deserve some sort of award if there is one for supporting the club year on year.
My final bit which is a moan, I can never understand why the club shop sells products which traders also sell, as an example, I bought a fuel pipe system for my Spitfire at the show from probably one of the most expensive traders, and it was still &163;10 cheaper than the one at the club stall, I also ordered an exhaust 3-4 weeks previously and it was not ready, unfortunately this is fundamental to the success of the show, I really like the Bell exhausts and fitted one to my GT6, but out of principle I cancelled my order.
We (the club) should be developing and selling unique products for our cars, I can pick up a set of wheels, interior trim anywhere, but a set of bonnet struts, bells exhausts, brightwork I would always go to the club. I am sure traders would be more respectful as well if we adjusted the range.
As I said in my opening line there are campers and non campers but we are all members and the day should be as strong as the evening.
I am willing to lend a hand if necessary in terms of supplying signs etc can anyone else contribute?
Jason-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Andrew Jones, 11-Jul-2007, 04:13pm
First comment from me is- went for weekend and enjoyed it! The show? lack of traders was a disappointment to be fair. Mate wanted top for his spit and new seats and i'd advised him to hang on til stafford- can't win em all! 25quid in rimmer vouchers we couldn't spend too. I realise they can't take everything but c'mon no wiper blades the weather we've been having! Jumble was little better, position wise and luck wise. As for the display i understand the pearl anniversary theme thus having all the white cars but it left the arena a little sparse. Think you need to fill it next year- not just concours but anything. We spent as much time wandering the car park! Perhaps each attending area could show, the le mancs thing went down well, or each register for example. I'd have put mine in, let the people touch, prod, poke and point to their hearts content! Missed the arena too- think it's that background noise! As for the entertainment it's gonna be difficult to please all! We did the friday race night and quite enjoyed it, well we won which helps! Yeah was a bit noisy but you've all weekend to chat and it was for a good cause. Saturday we were off into stafford town to check out a few pubs and the wildlife- didn't much fancy the six factor. As stated its gonna be hard to please everyone. The abba tribute band idea for example, fine if its what you want but count me out! I'd rather have killswitch engage! Never heard of em- well you get my point! Anyhow, you've had lots of feedback and ideas, and probably more to come. There's only a year to go! I'll finish by saying thanks to everyone for doing the job, to claire and all her helpers well done and good luck!-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Jackie Forsythe, 11-Jul-2007, 07:41pm
Andrew...when you said "killswitch engage" I thought you were referring to an immobiliser system. Get in touch with your inner Abba...you know you want to.-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Andrew Brady, 13-Jul-2007, 10:05pm
A suggestion for the next time? Each of the registers puts together a group of their cars in the hall with a small stand/table and a member can be in attendence and act as a focus for questions. I'm a long time Triumph bod and was able to interest myself, but someone new to the marque would have been a bit lost.-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Alexander Cain, 13-Jul-2007, 11:36pm
What a brilliant idea Andrew, how about the Register Secretary's * making themselves available at certain times at each relevant section, to introduce themselves, promote the cars. answer questions and try and get as many IVR's as possible!
For example I'd like to find out more about 2000's, but never really get the chance to see any, or ask about them.
Alex
* Humble apologies to Secretary's who are no doubt snowed under at the International, and are naturally trying to enjoy themselves!!!!! -
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Martin Robinson, 16-Jul-2007, 10:03pm
I had a great time this year and the Tribute ale was an added bonus! ;c)
I was also going to say that I missed the Triumph World talk-over going on throughout the day - it really added to the atmosphere last time I was there (2 years ago).
A great idea about having different registers in the main hall to fill it up. How about going the whole hog and making it like a mini motor show, with stands for each model? Think Earls Court circa 1967! We do need to get the public in as mentioned many times, and make it more interesting for them - many shows have been mentioned that are popular with the puiblic, why can't we be one of those?
Well done Claire, it sounds like you have the balls (ahem) to get Stafford on track again :c)-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Calvin Andrew, 16-Jul-2007, 10:27pm
What if you made it a classic car show for allcomers? a section on the grass for anyone wishing to bring their other-than-triumph classic car.
Price is an issue for general public, eight quid is a lot for the passers by who might pop in. Maybe day tickets could be reduced to below a fiver and then the local drivers and classic clubs courted.
what do you reckon?
Calvin.
I love triumphs, but it the different ones, modded or accessorized or pickupped that grab my attention,
would love to see visitor's classics, be they ford or even, ahem, MGs.-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Philip Charlton, 17-Jul-2007, 00:05am
I reckon different classics should be allowed in so long as pre 19whatever. The secretaries of various marques thing is a good idea, but you get to see those cars outside anyway. I think the reason single make static shows are still around but suffering is due partly to polishers not wanting any change. If I want to see a GT6 or Spitfire or 2000, Ill look out my window. Stags, TRs and others at my friends house up the road. I dont need to go to a show and look at the same cars over and over, because apart from the small modified section (which though excellent, rarely changes content), the only difference between the cars is what polish is on them.
I want to see Triumphs getting their groove on and munching mac, I go to Spa or Le Mans or Mallory or Silverstone or Caddy etc because each car has something different about it and is usually well thought out. Also, the cars are moving. Yes, people using them! If some cars could shift themselves at Stafford there would be me and shed loads more people there. I got told off last time for "speeding around" and "making a racket" in my magenta GT6. 1st gear in a GT6 trundling round looking for a trailer for a striken car up the road is hardly the scene of speeding around and making a racket. Thats the kind of stuff that kills shows, moaning because theres a car moving and disturbing a duster and kicking some carbon about. Theres no real motoring activities there. You stick a &163;30 rolling road shoot out at stafford and Ill see you there, handling course? GREAT. Stopping course? EXCELLENT. Cant be done due to rules n regs? Tosh, land rover shows have been doing it for years and keep on doing it. Id happily pay &163;8 for a show where something can be seen working. Its alright having a modified class at the show. Ohhh lovely, a supercharged herald. Very nice a 2.6 Spitfire. I have great admiration for people who plough time and effort into these things. But whats the point of just looking at them? I can do that at home, its called the internet, magazines, sky tv.
It also would prove these mods work if they were put into action. Ive seen a 2.7 triple carbed modded to hell super beautiful beast making 123bhp/135lb/ft. My old 2litre was making that 4 years ago. Ive seen cars on aftermarket suspension that rock n roll all over the show and pitch and dive breaking, what was the point of doing that mod?! Maybe if people could see well handling/performing cars they could better their own correctly seeing various setups in action.
Be great to see some old mexicos, cortinas and p6s shooting it out with the triumphs, interest to one and all!
Moving cars also attracts the public. Stop at the gates, "whats happenin here mate?" "well, people park up their triumph, get out walk around, look at other old triumphs, buy overpriced burgers and hunt for bargains in a hall for triumph traders, only &163;8!" heheeeyyy top day!
nahhhhhhhhh.
I think Claire took a good shot at a hard job, well done. But for me and a lot of others, Stafford is boring as hell and until theres a change to something with real car based activities, I and more wont be going back.
comment on a point just made my a friend;
Im not saying turn it into a full blown rally stage, just throw something in there where cars can be seen moving and doing something to show a vehicles potential. The gymkhana, GREAT!, something moving but not exactly taxing on the car, more focus on driver. Im not at all saying lets up sticks and head to the Pod (which Id love but loads would hate), just something to make the cars appealing other than a good shine and lovely looks. It will also captivate younger kids with the image of a Triumph doing what its best at, they dont read books anymore, they watch TG and play on GT4. A touch of pulse is required to reignite the urge to return there.-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Mike Crewes, 17-Jul-2007, 09:10am
Philip
Whilst nobody, including Claire, would claim that the TSSC International Weekend is perfect, I think you are missing a big point. I drove my Herald Estate from Hampshire for 5 hours to Stafford so that it could partake in the Competition Car Display and it has never been polished in it's life. I USED the car to get there! I MOVED it about in the Autogymkhana, had it tuned and it's Trunions oiled. I bought parts for it and spent a great deal of time (and some money) MEETING UP WITH FRIENDS FROM ALL OVER EUROPE THAT I HAVEN'T SEEN FOR AGES! That's why I go and why I suspect that other's go too. We can all see Triumphs galore anywhere, we can even see just about every classic if we go to a few shows, but what you don't see is your friends. The Club is made up of people, not cars, we just have the cars as a means to be a Club.
If you get all that, and meet ALL of your friends outside of the International Weekend, then I'm sorry, but there is not much anyone can do for you. I always look at other Club members as friends, most of whom I have yet to meet.
Looking forward to the International Weekend 2008 (I have only missed 1 weekend since 1982 and that was because I was at Le Mans!).
Regards
Mike
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : Pete Davies, 17-Jul-2007, 09:16am
Great sentiments Mike - I agree whole-heartedly
Pete-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : George Ralph, 17-Jul-2007, 01:06pm
I agree with Mike. In fact it was the first time I'd met Mike after all these years when his car was parked next to mine in the hall. I also drove there in what essentially is a competition car, complete with heavy clutch in the M6 traffic jams and leaking roof on the way home. Had to change a gasket in the hall on Saturday morning with the help of one mate and plenty of barracking from other members! Then went and had a pint. I had the opportunity to meet and chat with loads of people I had previously only met by means of this messageboard but never in person which was a great pleasure. It's also the only chance I get to meet up with International friends, and God bless 'em for making such a huge effort to come every year.
I guess we all get out of it what suits us. I do think though that there were loads of interesting, and sometimes surprising cars around the sight that might have been rounded up and put in the hall. I also miss the running commentary that used tie things together.
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : Chris Taylor, 17-Jul-2007, 10:52am
From the various comments made, it seems it may be necessary to make a fundamental decision about what Stafford is all about. Those who believe it is all about the cars, preferably with some demonstration going on, seem to have been disappointed. Those for whom the show is all about the people seem to have seen a decided improvement over recent years.
Someone else has said that Stoneleigh is for the parts, and Stafford for the social side. Not sure where that leaves those who want to see some action, but are not fully into the racing scene. At one time Stafford was all things to all members, but times change, as do people, and the uses to which they put their cars. (Far fewer club cars are daily drivers than when the first Stafford event was held, and the club has changed, both in its size, feel and the cars it caters for).
You can't please all of the people all of the time, but it does seem clear that some people are happier than others with the changes made this year. Are the various aspirations in conflict with each other, or can some of the more car focussed and technical stuff be worked on for next year?-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Clive Senior, 17-Jul-2007, 11:07am
I don't think anybody is actually unhappy about this years changes, and there is a feeling of support for what Claire has achieved. I believe it is more a case of people wanting different things in the future (ie a band!)
And there has been a raft of good suggestions here on the board for Claire et al to muse over.
Some suggestions are probably impossible, but I would like to see, as many others have mentioned, some "action". The autotest was good, but needed more support, but I do like the rolling road idea a lot, and this year talking to the racers was interesting too. So more of that!
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : Philip Charlton, 17-Jul-2007, 06:14pm
Good for you! Im glad you enjoyed yourself, I know thats what its about
No big points missed at
all. Im not saying anything against that.
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : Calvin Andrew, 21-Jul-2007, 05:06pm
A bit dark, a bit fuzzy, but a memory of Stafford,
enjoy,
Calvin
Stafford 2007-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : John Davies, 21-Jul-2007, 05:57pm
All,
Look at Kevin's posts here below about the TRR International and those on the TRR website.
http://www.tr-register.co.uk/forums/index.php?show...
I was going to say that the TSSC was very lucky with its International, but in fact it was that Claire managed the single most important thing for an event organiser - she arranged good weather!
Lots of TSSC members must be caught up in this, just as the TRR is.
From here in the merely damp North West, you have our sympathy.
John
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : Philip Charlton, 14-Jul-2007, 01:03am
saw killswitch at download this year. EPIC!
Abba gives me the shudders like the thought of a cheese grater running down an exposed spinal chord.
you can never get everyone happy with 1 style of music. a band which plays a range of styles is required. I suggested a band would might have been tempted before, but maybe no one was interested because hendrix, cream, led zepplin and the who arent really get up and dance stuff.-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Claire Hill, 14-Jul-2007, 05:27pm
I also had the idea earlier in the year about having the register secretaries in attendance (maybe each at a pre-advertised time) but unfortunately ran out of time to implement the idea. I will be contacting all register secretaries early in the New Year for their ideas and suggestions as to how we can best promote their particular models.
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Stafford 2007
Posted By : Andrew Jones, 15-Jul-2007, 08:52pm
kilswitch- rock city awesome!. did abba in 1977 when they were relevant! well maybe releventish! times change- so did i! not knockin it just making a point! if you're having music its gotta be a broad spectrum. the register thing seems the way to go- again broad spectrum, every triumph represented. ps forgot to say; my "inner abba" will not be making an appearance in the forseeable future!!!-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : David Rumens, 17-Jul-2007, 06:30pm
Most of it has aready been said. But feedback from the Newbury Area is -
On the Friday keep the racing but keep it to one bar and reduce the volume.
Bring back the live band on the Saturday.
On the Saturday have real ale in both the bar and the band/disco area. It was only available in the band/disco area.
Very enjoyable.
Bits from me -
I had feedback from a Vitesse owner that the Reg secs were not available, as in past years, at the tables in front of the TSSC stand. In the past Reg sec have been available to talk to member and who is manning the table is Tannoyed. Nice to be wanted!!!
Nice to see other Triumph Clubs present, mayby they need to be on the ground floor.
To me Stafford is more of a social do than car show. Hence those who camp get the most from the event.
Finally well done Claire, thankyou to you and your team for all the hard work.-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Lisa Garland, 17-Jul-2007, 10:26pm
I would just like to say thankyou to Trudi and Nigel from the TSSC for reading my message about being charged full price at Stafford for my two children..Two days later i had an email from Nigel apologizing for the mistake. The next day I received a refund!!
Many Thanks!
Lisa-
Stafford 2007
Posted By : Colin Lindsay, 18-Jul-2007, 10:22am
Just a few comments on the above, and to say thanks to Claire and the team for the best Stafford in years - the autojumble was good, traders could have been better (we need a few tool stands, maybe even paint, maybe even a local tyre fitter?) and it's a pity TriumphNuts didn't stay for the Sunday but all in all there was a lot of effort put in this year and it showed!!
THANKS CLAIRE AND TEAM!! Thanks to the Mancs area for their excellent display inside the hall.
It was great to see all the Stanpart panels.. wish I'd saved more pennies. Traders like Chic Doig, Mick Dolphin and Bill Davies always make a real effort at the show and we should support them (not forgetting Steve Gill's huge spread of parts!)
The Register Secretaries used to sit in the hall and wait for members to come up and chat but this was dropped after a few years since a) we had to be in the hall for specific times, which could be awkward, and b) it ate into the autojumbling time... it could just as easily and less formally be done in the bar over a pint!! (Yes I did miss the chance of a quiet chat this year due to the horse racing so maybe a divided bar would be a good idea) However I used to be happy to be paged via tannoy to meet members at the TSSC stand. Similarly the car owners who bring their cars to the show - they could position them in the grounds on show, but then they'd rather be having their trunnions oiled or being in the gymkhana which all adds to the atmosphere... and it's fun walking around the campsite in the evenings and seeing them all parked up.
Despite the exorbitant ferry prices this year it was still worth my while attending, the team should be proud of everything. The show is definitely on the up again and promises even better things next year. If only I'd bought that tubular manifold for the Herald 1200....
Colin
Stafford 2007
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