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| Davidstow Airfield Museum Opening 2008 |
DAVIDSTOW AIRFIELD MUSEUM OPENING - 14 JUNE 08
This is a short report based on my experience of the event, just to inform those who
weren't there.
We had decided that thought the event was only a 1 day, that we would try and get away
with going on the Friday and leaving on the Sunday.
We arrived at 1800 Friday, the journey was cool for June, but dry and the forecast for the
coming days was good (not mentioning the nights). There was plenty of grass to camp on
and it was well cut.
Clearly a lot of work had gone into the site preparation and Ian Dunn had helped most of
the day. There has obviously been a lot of help and most names won't be written here,
because I haven't researched this, only putting down what I know. Bill, Brin and Gwen
were already on site, as was Paula. Vanessa, Brian, Mark and Jane arrived about the time
we did, I think. They took all evening to set up a massive tent within which they pitched
more tents. A wander around the site revealed 2 big green marquees, one was Steve and
Sheila's and the other Graham Braund's on temporary loan. These were a VIP NAFFI
and scruffs NAFFI. Food preparation was taking place as we watched and it was clear
that few would starve. The new museum logo was up at the entrance and we caught sight
of the opening cake which was dressed in the old logo. Photos of this can be seen on the
web site. The parade square was looking clean and ready for action.
Overnight there was a considerable amount of rain and around 0715 we were awoken to
the sound of a high-speed brush, driven by Bill, sweeping water off the parade square.
The sun had been out from about 0600 and surprisingly things were looking reasonably
dry when we arose. By 1000 everything had dried out and in came the punters. Most of
the day our gallant RMP manned the gate (name escapes me). Bill was pulling together the
VIP Guard who were drilling all around the camp. I managed to escape that because I
was on VIP escort duty. More military vehicles turned up during the morning, Martin,
George B, Daniel. At 1230 there was a parade briefing. The original Base Warrant
Officer was called away at short notice, but his very able deputy stepped in. There were
an impressive number on parade and I hope to see some photographs taken by George
the official photographer at some point, perhaps these could be put up on the web site. At
1315 motorcycle escorts zoomed off to meet a lost Station Commander of St Mawgan.
The Staff car and jeep drivers dispatched themselves later, driven by Vanessa and Sharon
(as pictured the previous Thursday in the West Briton). The VIP arrival time was to be
1410. There was a salute by the VIP Guard at the entrance and the parade was formed
up and ready. Good speeches by Steve and Wing Commander Lawson. The parade
dismissed and the day continued. The station CO (old Naval habits die hard, for any
crabs out there, that's the OC St. Mawgan) stayed until well after 1700 and enjoyed the
event. His official driver from St Mawgan got into the swing of it all before the event and
brought the CO and escort in the MOD fast-black dressed in an "Anarchy" tee shirt.
What can you expect from civvies nowadays...!
Around 1800 we headed off for a picnic at Crowdy reservoir only to be stopped by a
veteran punter who only arrived 45 minutes before the end of the event, saying how he'd
cut his lawn and fell asleep. He told us how wonderful the event was and how he wished
he hadn't fallen asleep and waxed lyrical about life in general. Eventually we set off for the
picnic.
There were a lot of people at the opening, many guests and many punters. The web site
had had 1400 hits by Friday and by Monday over 2000, so a lot of interest had been
generated. I trust that this translates to paying customers who will financially support the
museum.
On Sunday it was dry overnight and then at 0745 it rained for 1 hour. Fortunately by
about 1300 the tents were dry and it was possible to get Graham Braund's marquee down
dry too.
We set off around 1400ish and had to try 3 garages to get petrol on the way home,
because they had run dry. The journey home was warm and dry, like June really ought to
be.
We did enjoy the event and think that as vintage vehicle owners we can be an asset to the
museum whilst the museum can provide a great period related venue. The 2 are greater
than the individual units and can be a great attraction for punters. At the end of the day if
we don't get punters to come and see us then we lose purpose. We look forward to the
"War Machines" weekend on 26th, 27th July.
Chris Dunn
This is a short report based on my experience of the event, just to inform those who
weren't there.
We had decided that thought the event was only a 1 day, that we would try and get away
with going on the Friday and leaving on the Sunday.
We arrived at 1800 Friday, the journey was cool for June, but dry and the forecast for the
coming days was good (not mentioning the nights). There was plenty of grass to camp on
and it was well cut.
Clearly a lot of work had gone into the site preparation and Ian Dunn had helped most of
the day. There has obviously been a lot of help and most names won't be written here,
because I haven't researched this, only putting down what I know. Bill, Brin and Gwen
were already on site, as was Paula. Vanessa, Brian, Mark and Jane arrived about the time
we did, I think. They took all evening to set up a massive tent within which they pitched
more tents. A wander around the site revealed 2 big green marquees, one was Steve and
Sheila's and the other Graham Braund's on temporary loan. These were a VIP NAFFI
and scruffs NAFFI. Food preparation was taking place as we watched and it was clear
that few would starve. The new museum logo was up at the entrance and we caught sight
of the opening cake which was dressed in the old logo. Photos of this can be seen on the
web site. The parade square was looking clean and ready for action.
Overnight there was a considerable amount of rain and around 0715 we were awoken to
the sound of a high-speed brush, driven by Bill, sweeping water off the parade square.
The sun had been out from about 0600 and surprisingly things were looking reasonably
dry when we arose. By 1000 everything had dried out and in came the punters. Most of
the day our gallant RMP manned the gate (name escapes me). Bill was pulling together the
VIP Guard who were drilling all around the camp. I managed to escape that because I
was on VIP escort duty. More military vehicles turned up during the morning, Martin,
George B, Daniel. At 1230 there was a parade briefing. The original Base Warrant
Officer was called away at short notice, but his very able deputy stepped in. There were
an impressive number on parade and I hope to see some photographs taken by George
the official photographer at some point, perhaps these could be put up on the web site. At
1315 motorcycle escorts zoomed off to meet a lost Station Commander of St Mawgan.
The Staff car and jeep drivers dispatched themselves later, driven by Vanessa and Sharon
(as pictured the previous Thursday in the West Briton). The VIP arrival time was to be
1410. There was a salute by the VIP Guard at the entrance and the parade was formed
up and ready. Good speeches by Steve and Wing Commander Lawson. The parade
dismissed and the day continued. The station CO (old Naval habits die hard, for any
crabs out there, that's the OC St. Mawgan) stayed until well after 1700 and enjoyed the
event. His official driver from St Mawgan got into the swing of it all before the event and
brought the CO and escort in the MOD fast-black dressed in an "Anarchy" tee shirt.
What can you expect from civvies nowadays...!
Around 1800 we headed off for a picnic at Crowdy reservoir only to be stopped by a
veteran punter who only arrived 45 minutes before the end of the event, saying how he'd
cut his lawn and fell asleep. He told us how wonderful the event was and how he wished
he hadn't fallen asleep and waxed lyrical about life in general. Eventually we set off for the
picnic.
There were a lot of people at the opening, many guests and many punters. The web site
had had 1400 hits by Friday and by Monday over 2000, so a lot of interest had been
generated. I trust that this translates to paying customers who will financially support the
museum.
On Sunday it was dry overnight and then at 0745 it rained for 1 hour. Fortunately by
about 1300 the tents were dry and it was possible to get Graham Braund's marquee down
dry too.
We set off around 1400ish and had to try 3 garages to get petrol on the way home,
because they had run dry. The journey home was warm and dry, like June really ought to
be.
We did enjoy the event and think that as vintage vehicle owners we can be an asset to the
museum whilst the museum can provide a great period related venue. The 2 are greater
than the individual units and can be a great attraction for punters. At the end of the day if
we don't get punters to come and see us then we lose purpose. We look forward to the
"War Machines" weekend on 26th, 27th July.
Chris Dunn
All pics courtesy of the Davidstow Museum
Website
Website
War Machines Weekend 2008
DAVIDSTOW AIRFIELD CORNWALL AT WAR MUSEUM
Brief, unofficial, scratch report by Chris Dunn
This year we got up to Davidstow by about 1600 after an unhindered run, unlike 6 weeks ago, for the Opening when there was traffic interference, particularly
around Temple. The weather forecast was good and it turned out to be the case. Steve was looking well prepared by the time we got there, despite Sheila
having been unwell most of the week and being unable to attend for the weekend.
We set up camp and headed in to Camelford for fish and chips only to be recognised by the chip shop as having been there last year! Later on arrivals
included Graham, Mrs Braund (can't remember her name) and family. Two new Champ owners Andy and Jane who farm locally at Padstow. The Black and
White landy crew from Bideford also arrived. George was sorting out sound equipment. There were always a willing band of volunteers roaming the site and
keeping an eye on everything. The museum is always looking out for new volunteers and I understand that Lawson may possibly be another when he "retires".
Saturday morning saw an influx of vehicles and displays. Ken and Esther, the Falshirmyeager (German Paras), Mike Ford and a 101st display, Tim Greasby,
Colin Harms (DR Section) with a crew from
Buckfastleigh. National MVT high command were represented by Chris Davies (Greensheet events co-ordinator). Local MVT high command by Bill Bock
and Bedford. Frank V made an appearance for the day, having travelled with Graham M and Carol. Sharon M was a para both days, without a vehicle as Tim
was working. A tank section drew up with about 5 tanks and military vehicles, they camped in the corner and during the day occasionally fired off rounds,
drawing gasps from the crowd and covering the site in cordite smells (actually it smelt more like black powder). The roar of tank engines as they mounted the
shelter mounds was awesome. Did I mention that they were 1/16 scale models? There was a good line-up of vehicles throughout the day with a smell of bacon
butties and cordite. Also a "Moorgoods" trade stand set up with offers of washing machines, helicopter flights or just a flak jacket. The weather was excellent
and there appeared to be a good number of public which was in fact exceeded on the Sunday. At 1600 there was a sunset with Graham Martin on bugle.
Then a convoy to Treligga Naval Air Station, which on Steve's map he claimed is 3 miles, but on our map is about 8 miles. There was a range of maps used
throughout the weekend. On Sunday Pete Gallie said that the D Day Beaches were 80 miles long and I had an official map from St Mere Eglise, on show
(surely a secret artifact because the beach code names are on it....!) , which appeared to showed about 40 miles. There appears to be a new invasion brewing
with Tim recruiting for more motorcycles for "65 for 65" next year and Pete and Chris wanted a small crew for next year (as long as his wheels don't have to
get wet).
On the run there were about 15 vehicles. There was 1 "fuel starvation" incident on a narrow single track lane, which was swiftly resolved. The RNAS Treligga
visit was fascinating. I was completely unaware of its existence, but there it is with buildings, doors marked with "Cabin" numbers and presumably "Heads" for
the heads. The farmer who owns the site talked us through the site and showed us his development of the Control Tower. On return to base. Steve had a nice
hot chicken stew brewed up.
More sunshine for Sunday and new faces. Ian Dunn and Helen. Harry Philpot's jeep made an appearance with its new owner Richard, who returns to military
events after about 7 years. This time the jeep
was bristling with an armoury including a grenade just below the gear stick. Richard hopes to get to as many events as he can. Roger L and his Dad and I am
sure many others who I can never recall names
of. Throughout the weekend the gate was manned by our stalwart CMP who's name I couldn't recall 6 weeks ago. I do apologise for anyone who isn't
mentioned, there were certainly more than I have numbered above. Why can't I recall the names of the team who drove the Ferret? My memory is not a great
asset. The museum web site will have some photos soon, so perhaps you can pick them all out when you see them.
Overall it looked like a good event for the museum and for those who attended. With the sun out, there must have been pressure for holiday folk to go to a
beach and there was something in Camelford
football ground on the Saturday with fireworks later on, which we enjoyed over a nightcap. The previous 2 years saw rain at this event on at least 1 day, but
this year was spectacular. I had to go
begging for suncream at the Guardroom. When there are some photos on the web site I'll distribute the web address.
Chris Dunn
Brief, unofficial, scratch report by Chris Dunn
This year we got up to Davidstow by about 1600 after an unhindered run, unlike 6 weeks ago, for the Opening when there was traffic interference, particularly
around Temple. The weather forecast was good and it turned out to be the case. Steve was looking well prepared by the time we got there, despite Sheila
having been unwell most of the week and being unable to attend for the weekend.
We set up camp and headed in to Camelford for fish and chips only to be recognised by the chip shop as having been there last year! Later on arrivals
included Graham, Mrs Braund (can't remember her name) and family. Two new Champ owners Andy and Jane who farm locally at Padstow. The Black and
White landy crew from Bideford also arrived. George was sorting out sound equipment. There were always a willing band of volunteers roaming the site and
keeping an eye on everything. The museum is always looking out for new volunteers and I understand that Lawson may possibly be another when he "retires".
Saturday morning saw an influx of vehicles and displays. Ken and Esther, the Falshirmyeager (German Paras), Mike Ford and a 101st display, Tim Greasby,
Colin Harms (DR Section) with a crew from
Buckfastleigh. National MVT high command were represented by Chris Davies (Greensheet events co-ordinator). Local MVT high command by Bill Bock
and Bedford. Frank V made an appearance for the day, having travelled with Graham M and Carol. Sharon M was a para both days, without a vehicle as Tim
was working. A tank section drew up with about 5 tanks and military vehicles, they camped in the corner and during the day occasionally fired off rounds,
drawing gasps from the crowd and covering the site in cordite smells (actually it smelt more like black powder). The roar of tank engines as they mounted the
shelter mounds was awesome. Did I mention that they were 1/16 scale models? There was a good line-up of vehicles throughout the day with a smell of bacon
butties and cordite. Also a "Moorgoods" trade stand set up with offers of washing machines, helicopter flights or just a flak jacket. The weather was excellent
and there appeared to be a good number of public which was in fact exceeded on the Sunday. At 1600 there was a sunset with Graham Martin on bugle.
Then a convoy to Treligga Naval Air Station, which on Steve's map he claimed is 3 miles, but on our map is about 8 miles. There was a range of maps used
throughout the weekend. On Sunday Pete Gallie said that the D Day Beaches were 80 miles long and I had an official map from St Mere Eglise, on show
(surely a secret artifact because the beach code names are on it....!) , which appeared to showed about 40 miles. There appears to be a new invasion brewing
with Tim recruiting for more motorcycles for "65 for 65" next year and Pete and Chris wanted a small crew for next year (as long as his wheels don't have to
get wet).
On the run there were about 15 vehicles. There was 1 "fuel starvation" incident on a narrow single track lane, which was swiftly resolved. The RNAS Treligga
visit was fascinating. I was completely unaware of its existence, but there it is with buildings, doors marked with "Cabin" numbers and presumably "Heads" for
the heads. The farmer who owns the site talked us through the site and showed us his development of the Control Tower. On return to base. Steve had a nice
hot chicken stew brewed up.
More sunshine for Sunday and new faces. Ian Dunn and Helen. Harry Philpot's jeep made an appearance with its new owner Richard, who returns to military
events after about 7 years. This time the jeep
was bristling with an armoury including a grenade just below the gear stick. Richard hopes to get to as many events as he can. Roger L and his Dad and I am
sure many others who I can never recall names
of. Throughout the weekend the gate was manned by our stalwart CMP who's name I couldn't recall 6 weeks ago. I do apologise for anyone who isn't
mentioned, there were certainly more than I have numbered above. Why can't I recall the names of the team who drove the Ferret? My memory is not a great
asset. The museum web site will have some photos soon, so perhaps you can pick them all out when you see them.
Overall it looked like a good event for the museum and for those who attended. With the sun out, there must have been pressure for holiday folk to go to a
beach and there was something in Camelford
football ground on the Saturday with fireworks later on, which we enjoyed over a nightcap. The previous 2 years saw rain at this event on at least 1 day, but
this year was spectacular. I had to go
begging for suncream at the Guardroom. When there are some photos on the web site I'll distribute the web address.
Chris Dunn