We had another good time in Knutsford, it's just a shame that more people don't take advantage of the chance for some relaxed gaming fun. It was nice to see a couple of old friends stop by (are all my friends old now, or is it just me?). We obviously can't force people to come along, but if we confirm dates well in advance (at least 2 issues of Despatch) then we might be able to round up more players and/or visitors. Even if you can't make a full weekend, why not drop in on the Saturday for a few hours of gaming? Our playing tastes are very mixed so anyone can find something to play. I was pleased to get a couple of games of Lord of the Rings under my belt during the weekend, but it really showed how careful you need to be when picking your team mates! Our first effort included the dubious cast of "Back Stabber" Barker, "Killer" Cummins and your very own "Go For Broke" Geggus. A fatal combination - we died very ingloriously. When we employed the "Wise Owl" Cowles, amongst others, we won easily. There must be a moral there somewhere. Answers on a postcard please. Overall a good game and worth a look for family etc.
Barry sometimes tries to upset me by sending me lists of lapsed members or members with overdue subs as he knows that, being the caring individual I am, I get frustrated to lose any member, for whatever reason. I hope we have listed those outstanding members in this issue and I would urge you to pay the £ 10 for continued membership. We even made it easier by giving everyone a free one year extension. Pay your £10 now and get two years membership. Can't say fairer than that guv! You may not play boardgames at this moment in time and conventions don't appeal, but this is a good hobby and needs everyone's support if we are to have anything to pass on to the next generation in the future. I may be a fussy parent, but I am much happier if my two sons are playing a game on the kitchen table (even with the accompanying rows!), than if they are "hanging out" or whatever other quaint expression refers to trying to relieve boredom on the streets late at night. I don't even want to consider the other unpleasant pursuits that could be thrust their way. What they learn now will set them up for the future and learning a competitive, but safe hobby which involves good mental awareness, is, in my opinion, not a bad way to start them off in life. Give them all that chance! Thanks for listening to an old fuddy duddy.
Chris Geggus.
Kev - if Barry isn't putting that list in the mag, can you ask him to please
and also ensure that this issue does go to the people on the list. Thanks