Brant Lake Camp 1989-2009. So, how do I begin trying to explain this place Brant Lake Camp to the uninitiated? Short answer is I can’t. But being told I can’t do something, never stopped me before. In fact, it usually made me more determined, so here goes. I would guess there are other camps that are equally meaningful to their own alumni, although I’m not so sure. I spent just 9 days back at my “other home” in early July and, yes, there were moments of frustration and despair, and times when I wondered if I’d get my voice back after repeating “call the ball” for the 6th straight time within a matter of minutes. However, offset these intermittent minor drawbacks with the countless ‘moments’ of joy, fun, laughter and excitement, and you’ll begin to ... read more

San Sebastian Surf We soon got into a rhythm in San Sebastian. Wake up early, hit the surf before the wind (and the crowds) pick up, find a cool breakfast spot, then head into town, before planning the evening session as the winds drop again. Today was no different, other than it followed the night before. I was carrying a wash of ale in my stomach and surfing in this state was like trying to paddle out on a water bed. Still, it didn't stop me. By day, San Sebastian was a pretty cool city with a lot of culture, some great scenery and 3 hungover Englishmen. We took off shopping and sightseeing until Mark felt it necessary to really experience the Spanish Culture and head back to the hotel for a Siesta. Calv and I ... read more

The Wedginald's So as is routine at this time of year - the Wedge had us drive down to Plyms to do some bitch work on his yacht. This involves finding some skanky old paint (anti-foul actually) and slapping it on the "Seraph's" underside - I think they call it hull. Fortunately, the weather was with us, so it wa'n't too painful. Sailing up the River Having done all of Wedge's bitch work, while he claimed to be busy saving the world with Nuclear Submarine Safety Procedures (unfortunately that's true - well I don't think he's actually saved the world yet, but his day will come), we topped and tailed the Seraph ready for its annual wetting. The trip up the river dart (I've guessed at that name, well more like made it up, so please ... read more

Bangin Sounds Unfortunately I didn't take any pics of the speakers going in, though it was a right mission. Had to take the side panels off to jig saw the holes in, which also meant taking the units out to get the driver's side panel off. As the recesses were not deep enough to house me bangin speakers I had to make an extension ring for both sides. Fortunately I'd left enough excess in the carpet to wrap neatly under the speakers. Finally had to trail the cables under the roof and down the passenger side door frame. With plenty of help from Steve, we managed to get the job done in about 7 hours. Well worth it though! Curtains Sourced some sweet curtains on ebay from a good man called Reza from Van-X in Stoke. ... read more

Getting the table in place Back to Dave Lowe's place for the table fitting. I managed to pick up the leg, floor mount and top plate for about £20 from a company who sell all sorts of bits for boats & caravans etc. The base was made of plastic but looked strong enough. The only glitch to this bit was the strengtheners running across the bottom of the base. So having found the right spot for the table - ensuring we weren't gonna hit any pipes or suchlike underneath Dave drilled the central hole. Then to ensure we got a snug fit a little angle grinder action was needed. Photos should speak for themselves...... read more