sorry but i personally no longer support this one, , and i was a regular for years, its only 40 mins away from me ,
but in my opinion the recent changes and the charges have killed this one !
i used to go with the wife and kids, i had a good day on the bankside, sailing and doing all things 'boaty', spending my money with the traders and generally enjoying myself, - the wife and kids would take a train ride, view the animals and they too would have a great day...
once upon a time modellers used to get in free so long as they exhibited models, there was also discounted tickets for families and stuff if bought in advance....
but its all change now, i am secretary for our club and we now get 10 tickets free from the event organisers and thats it, everyone else pays full gate rate....... i will happily distirbute these tickets and inform club members of the event, but i wont be going again unless alot changes....
many modellers wish to take partners and families along, but when you are providing the entertainment and exhibits for this show then to add admission fees ontop leaves a bitter taste in the mouth !
especially as there are other up and coming shows that i feel are as good where exhibitors get reduced or totally free entry....
feedback from my fellow club members is the traders were muttering about dramatic increase in costs to have a trade stand there and then when the heavens opened everyone goes home, so there is little or no trade to be had......I fear its a downward spiral.........
i would much rather put the money i would have spent on admissions to beale towards petrol to go to the weymouth show in july, - all the traders are there, i guess double the number of models to view, free entry, omra racing out in the salt water, and real boats to view too !
in my opinion a better day out all round !
thats my opinion anyway !