After traveling for three hours in the car from Hampshire we arrived at The Huntsmen & Hounds site felling a little hot and weary, wondering if it was really worth the effort to spend time in a ‘field’ with no electricity or mod cons. Usually we only go to ‘posh’ sites.

We were met by two cheerful, helpful ladies who addressed us as ‘darling‘ most of the time.

On setting up the caravan, we found that the battery was flat, disastrous for me! Within two minutes members arrived from out of nowhere with offers of help, we had no idea who they were, but before long someone had loaned this and that and had us connected to electricity! I don’t know how but golly was I pleased and impressed.

The Saturday got off to a good start with plenty of activities for the children in the marquee. I had brought one of my grandson’s with us and I was impressed with how the children made him welcome and he was included in all their fun. In fact we hardly saw him for the rest of the weekend as he was off with his new friends.

The fancy dress was well supported by both adults and children. It was good to see that quite a few had gone to the trouble of making their own costumes instead of just hiring them. This was noticed by the judges who gave prizes for all the hard work that had been put into making them. Not just prizes for ‘the best’ costume. Chuckles, I believe is his name, will soon be Head hunted by TV channels as he is the perfect compere with his wit and humour. The next’ Britain’s Got Talent’ need look no further. He had us in stitches.

It’s a Knockout competition in the afternoon was so impressive. Stewards Andy, Chris and their team were so professional, not only in the handling of the events, [funny how most games ended in a draw] but the construction of the equipment was second to none. Well done to them.  Not so impressed with the adults, the children put them to shame.

Sunday’s coffee morning, again was so friendly, we were welcomed and thanked for coming such a long way. Funny how I seemed to win the last raffle prize.

So both Dennis and I would like to thank all the members of EEDA for giving us a lovely weekend and making us part of your ‘big family’
Well done to everyone. Finishing on a sad note I hope that Gary who suffered a mild heart attack is doing well. Please send him our regards.

Dennis & Jean Smith
Hampshire DA