The 2021 AGM and Fun Day
Tavistock! Exciting new venue
As you will know by now, Warwick School was unable to host our AGM and Fun Day, so this year's Event was being held at Kelly College, Tavistock.
It was an amazing success, thanks to Charles Knape, our new Event Organiser, who was able to step up at very short notice and arrange this for us.
The Venue:
Kelly college sits on the outskirts of the Stannary town of Tavistock in 20 acres of landscaped grounds, on the edge of Dartmoor and including a stretch of the River Tavy. A beautiful school in Devon, founded in 1877 and steeped in history and tradition with all the usual facilities for overnight stays.
The Event:
A review will appear in the Winter Nutwood Newsletter. Meanwhile, here is a snapshot:
Book signing - Stuart Trotter was present and signed pre-ordered 2121 Annuals. It is always such a pleasure to meet Stuart and he takes lots of time chatting with each Follower.
Road Show - the Followers' Road Show, hosted by our own John Beck, and highly popular over the years, was back! John brought along some scarce and rare Rupert items to show and discuss.
Dealers' Bourse - there were some new sellers this year, offering a huge selection of Rupert books and memorabilia - and some familiar ones too.
Rupert and Pedigree - Jerry Reynolds of Pedigree shared some reminiscences of Pedigree's time working with Rupert.
Rupert Annual Covers - Members attending had been asked in advance to name their favourite Rupert annual cover. Roger Coombes gave a super talk, illustrated by members' choices, and leading up to the overall favourite ...
Caroline Bott - Alfred's God-daughter, came along and brought some original Rupert items, including a 1973 brown-faced annual. Members were delighted to be able to see it at very close quarters.
Rupert Hot-Air balloon - though it is old and a little battered, the owner and pilot assembled his crew and it happened - the balloon was inflated, for one last time. What a fantastic sight it was!
Origami - our old friends were in attendance - and Tony O'Hare, who came along on behalf of the Origami Society, of which he is Chairman, has now joined the Followers! Welcome Tony.
The 100th Anniversary badges - a brand new one for 2021 was included in each welcome pack for those attending. Other versions from 2020 were available to buy on the day.
Rupert Bumper Raffle - the raffle took place with many exciting prizes, including the star prize of a beautiful original piece of brand new Rupert artwork by Stuart Trotter, which was won by a lucky member who was present on the day. Thanks to our new Raffle Gnome, Darren, for such a superb job. All the prizes won by members who had bought postal tickets will be sent out by Darren.
Gala Dinner - the catering staff did us proud. An amazing evening was had by all.
