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In this section we will show the latest News Letter, plus a few more.
News Letter 39:- December 2012
(I am sure Bryan Brock would have approved) May I suggest Register members attending any Rally, who would like to meet up for an impromptu get together, go to the beer tent at 5pm on the Saturday of any Rally above. Take a copy of the newsletter with you and put it on the table to let others know who you are.
This may help new or prospective members to meet Allen owners. I know there will be some Allens at the above Rallies.
News Letter 38:- September 2012
We held a small boat gathering in May where Allen Boats joined in at the BCN Society boat gathering at the Titford Pumphouse. I did'nt manage to make it by boat, but did meet with a group of register members attending the event. We discussed the future of the register and a way ahead and possible future events. It was suggested that we hold a social event in November and plans for next years boat gathering was also agreed. More details below.
News Letter 37:- December 2011
The Way Ahead
It has been awhile since a newsletter has been produced, the untimely death of Bryan Brock took the wind out of the registers sails. Having talked to Gus Tysoe and other Allen Boat owners we felt that the register should continue. Work is being carried out behind the scenes to put the register back on a firm footing, but in the meantime this newsletter has been produced to let you all know that this is happening and announce that we intend to hold a boat gathering and social event next year in conjunction with the BCN Society. On the Saturday afternoon at 2pm we can hold an open meeting of the Register to decide the way forward.
The newsletter has been sent to the address list that Bryan and Gus had maintained, any corrections (and E mail address details if possible) should be sent to Martin, address is at the bottom of the following page.It would help simplify future distributions if this could where possible be by E mail.
Martin O'Keeffee and Barrie Johnson.
We are planning to join our friends of the BCN Society in holding our next gathering and get together over the weekend of the 19th-20th May 2012 at the Titford Pumphouse in Oldbury. We have of course met there before and it is but a stones throw from the old Allen yard.It has good moorings and the facilities of the BCN Society headquarters in the pumphouse that make it a good venue for a get together.
Booking forms for the BCNS Summer Rally with which you are joining are available from Barrie Johnsonat :-
7 Moat Farm Drive, Bartley Green. Birmingham. B32 4LH or by E mail to :- barryjohnson7@tiscali.co.uk
The form can also be downloaded from the BCNS website; details below.
Web Site
BCNS are currently moving to a new website (http://www.bcnsociety.co.uk) so Jeff Barley who has for many years maintained the Allen pages as well as the BCNS old website is currently working to move all this to a new Allen specific domain.
Other Rallies
Annie Jenner( who has assisted with the distribution of the newsletter) writes that she has spoken to the organiser of the Stafford Boat Club Gathering which is on Friday, Saturday and Sunday the 8th, 9th and 10th of June 2012and they would be happy for Allen boat's to attend. If any one would like to come, please either down load the entry form to website http://staffordboatclub.co.uk/BoatGathering2012.aspx. or send a stamp addressed envelope toAnnie at:-
2 Fox Pitt Cottage, Shingle Barn Lane, West Farleigh, Kent, ME15 OPN. if sent early enough a block booking can be made to moor together.
News Letter 35:- April 2010
Not Very Good News:- 10th Gathering (July 2010) Cancelled.
I imagine that many of you will have seen the report in the March Canals Magazines concerning the draining and repair works at the Chasewater Reservoir - the main supply to the Wolverhampton Level of the BCN. Anticipated water shortages will mean low water levels; overnight closure of locks; and likely 1-or-2 day stoppages.
The BCNS has cancelled its Festival at Pelsall; their Marathon Cruise; and re-routed and restricted the numbers for their Explorer Cruise. The Parkhead Rally has been cancelled, and although I have heard no news so far concerning the Black Country Boating Festival, that would also seem to be in balance.
Our own Gathering at Titford Pumphouse will inevitably mean a number of our entrants will have to lock up to the Wolverhampton Level - and down again afterwards - but there is an additional potential problem with the Crow. IF it is a dry summer there is a high probability that the Titford Pools will be insufficient to maintain the level up there - and pumping to maintain it would come from the already shallow Wolverhampton Level. Closures there are a distinct possibility - which would likely be announced at very short notice.
As a result of all of this, and after discussing it with Dean Davies, BW Manager for the BCN, I have reluctantly come to the conclusion that it would be best to cancel NOW, rather than risk any of us perhaps being marooned in the middle of nowhere, or unable to get back home again.
A Possible Alternative
I am looking into the possibility of staging an alternative - and somewhat smaller - Get-together "somwhere" on the New Main Line Level in order to reduce to the minimum the amount of water to be taken from the Wolverhampton Level, but so far I have been unable to locate a place that would be available at the right sort of date. I will be writing again as soon as I can.
Refunds of 2010 Entry FeesFor those of you who have already paid both subscription and entry, I attach a cheque for the latter. And might I make a small reminder to those who haven't yet sent anything, that the sub is £5.00...
Fleece Orders
The first order has been completed, and will be despatched this week.
I supposed it was inevitable that we received a further order 2 days after we had placed the order with the makers, but it wasn't possible to add it in. However, 'repeat orders' only require a minimum of 5 garments, so if any of you who delayed making a decision earlier would like to change your mind, the next list has started...
"Maudelayne"
I have had to make another Hard Decision this past month - this one being to "move into brick" after 15 years of happily living afloat. She will almost certainly be up for sale with The Used Boat Co
BryanNews Letter 34:- February 2010
A Belated Happy New Year to you all
This newsletter had started out dated December 2009, as my intention was to get it and the Entry Form to you in time for Christmas. However, several events intervened (apart from the usual festivities) and, of course, the, recent spell of appalling weather which nearly brought the whole country to a standstill.
In addition, while at the early draft stage, I was given the opportunity to purchase an excellent fleece at a very reasonable price. The supplier said he could provide similar garments, embroidered with out logo, and as he postal dispute was then running it seemed reasonable to delay briefly and obtain a proof and a fully detailed quotation. Unfortunately this took longer than anticipated, by which time we'd missed the Christmas post. The final straw was that Gus's printer broke down the day before the final draft was agreed, and took over a fortnight to be repaired.
Tenth Gathering - 9-11 July 2010 Titford Pumphouse, Oldbury
I enclose herewith the Entry Form, as promised in the last Newsletter.
This is a rather special ocassion and I look forward to seeing a great many of you. Don't forget ownership of an Allen boat, or indeed a boat of any kind, isn't necessary; we like to meet people who are interested in the Allens and the boats they built.
The last Newsletter detailed the proposed entertainment on the Saturday - the lunchtime Brass Band has now been booked well in advance... Since writing we have been approached by Stuart Lane, the Development Manager of the Galton Valley Museum - opposite Smethwick Pumping Station - and he and his staff will be delighted to welcome us all to visit his establishment.
The Fleece
Specification
Fully-knitted, heavy-weight poly fleece (390-400gm)
Contrasting collar
Full zip front
2 external angled ziped pockets
2 internal 'poacher' pockets
1 internal zipped pocket
Drawcord hip with cord lock
Embroidered with Allen Register logo on left breast
Available in navy blue or black
Sizes S - XXL
Price - £24.00 (including P&P)
Premium Polo Shirt
Specification
Heavy - knit pique
High natural cotton content for weather comfort
3 matching button placket
Cuffed sleeves
Taped neck
Embroidered with Allen Registered logo on left breast
Available in navy blue, black, or bottle green
Sizes S - XXL
Price - £15.00 (including P&P)
I can assume you that the fleeces are extremely warm, and after looking in Milletts can add that they are not only heavier material but also are better pocketed; some £20 lower in price; and of course, bear our logo....
There is one possible minor snag - in order to get these prices we need to order a minimum of 10garments, which I do not think should be a problem. Nevertheless, as a precautionary measure,I will not be banking any cheques until the minimum level has been reached
Bryan included an order form with the posted newsletter not reproduced here, if interested contact Bryan by post/telephone as in membership found in Allens List section.
All that's left is for me to wish you all Good Boating for 2010, and to see you in July.
News Letter 33:- September 2009
Tenth Gathering: 9-11th July 2010 - Titford Pumphouse, Oldbury
The BCN Society have kindly offered us the use of their headquarters at Titford Pump House and their marquee for our Gathering
This is a milestone event, and I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible.
Don't forget - you don't have to own an Allen boat - you just need to be interested or involved in some way with Valencia Wharf.
Programme
Friday 9th July
Noggin-and-natter evening with Real Ale Bar and burgers & hot dogs
Saturday 10th July
There will be a brass band to entertain us over the lunch period
Evening entertainment will be provided by the hilarious husband and wife team
DANDY
Real Ale.......BBQ.........Burger Bar
Entry Forms will be sent with the next Newsletter in time for Christmas.
News Letter 32:- March 2009
Ninth Gathering: 12-14 June 2009 - Tardebigge New Wharf
I mentioned in the last Newsletter that we had accepted the Worcester Birmingham Canal Society's invitation to join them in celebrating their 40th Anniversary. Other Canal Societies have also been invited so there will inevitably be Allen Boats present.However, I feel thw well-known Oldbury boat builders should be formally represented by members of the Register from all over the country.
A entry form will be on this site shortly in the main BCNS Events section. The form should be sent direct to the Worcester Birmingham Society. The Allen Register sticker is so that they can tell us who should receive an Allen Gathering Plaque.
Looking Back
Believe it or not it is nearly nine years since our first Gathering at Merry Hill! There is now a 16 minute DVD of this event available from me for £6 (post paid). Mike Sutor, who made the original video and has transferred it to DVD, reminds us that technology has made incredible advances since 2001 - not least in the number of differenr DVD formats now in use. In consequence, some people MAY experience difficulties with the DVD, but Mike will be pleased to help solve most of them, which is why his telephone number is on the case.
Looking Forward
A final thought - "keep your powder dry" for 2010, which will be our 10th Gathering. It will almost certainly be at Titford Pump House, which is the nearest suitable location tp Valencia Wharf. Talks have already started with the BCN Society in order to fit in with their plans; at present it looks likely to be 'early to mid' July 2010 but full details will follow.
We must make it a very special occasion. BryanNews Letter 31:- December 2008
I know it is a little early but this is probably the last newsletter you will receive in 2008 - so
HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL
I am constantly being asked where next year's gathering will be. Now I can tell you. We have received an invitation from the Worcester and Birmingham Canal Society to join them in celebrating their 40th Anniversary in 2009. It seemed a good idea to combine it with our 9th Gathering and so I have accepted this invitation. The venue is to be
Tardebigge New Wharf on 12 - 14th June 2009
There is now a superb social centre close to St Bartholomew's church with full facilities. SO GET IT IN YOUR 2009 DIARY NOW. I know it is a steep climb from the towpath but we are planning to organise a people-carrier to operate a shuttle service
On a more sombre note, I received a letter from Dudley Matthews in September. It contained profuse apologies for not informing the Register that Enid died peacefully on Thursday 20th March 2008. He was particularly concerned that the Allen families and those who knew him at Valencia Wharf had not been informed. Clive's boat Otter and Dudley's Gloucester Rose are stll moored on the Avon at Wyre Mill and they wish to remain "on the books".Infilling of Valencia Wharf
There is some consternation over Valencia Wharf being infilled. I went to see Bob Allen about this and he had three main concerns:
1. Holloways seem to be forging ahead withouy consultation.
2. What will happen to those who are moored there?
3. Have British Waterways stipulated that the ends of the infilled arms are to be properly sealed off where they met the main line?
However, subsequent information (largely from Brenda Ward) reveals that prominent members of the BCNS, BW, IWA the Environment Agency and local authorities are well involved. As I understand it, Holloways have planning permission to extend the buildings but no permission has been granted to infil the arms.
White Harriette II - (updated)
In the last Newsletter I reported that following an inspection at the Gathering in July of their boat by Bob Allen, Arthur East and other experts, their opinion was that she was unlikely to've been built by the Allens, despite her having been sold as one.
But she has since been dry-docked, and Jed sent John Allen photos of the hull below the waterline. John has now confirmed that there is an aspect of the hull construction that was unique to the Allens at the time of building, so there is now no doubt.
New Members
We welcome the following who have joined the Register since the last issue of the Newsletter
Dick Henneman...............Eclipse
John M Howard...............Ferris McCleod
News Letter 30:- September 2008
Our 8th Gathering - Hawne Basin
In spite of the uncertainties regarding moorings, access to the club facilities and possible misgivings regarding Gosty Tunnel, by all accounts our 8th Gathering went well. As many Hawne moorers were away cruising, Tony Friar (Hawne Mooring Master) was able to accommodate us all within the security of Coombeswood Trust.
A note of sadness was occasioned by the death of Joyce who, as Tony Jones's partner, had been a very popular member of the Hawne Basin community for many years. Tony and Joyce were very supportive and encouraging in the early days of the Register and many of us joined the large number of mourners at the cremation service. Only a few weeks previously Barrie Johnson very kindly represented the Register at the funeral of David Oakely. I hope Mrs Oakley and the children will not lose touch with us. They will always be most welcome at any of our events. Keith Hewlett opened the Bar on Friday evening from " early doors" and Jennie Hatton prevented us from getting thirsty all day on Saturday. She also organised the barbeque packs. Grahem Hatton showed videos and DVDs on both the Friday and Saturday evenings. Peter Freakley showed his videos: "Towpath Encounter" and the re-enactment of unloading a lorry and narrowboat at a warehouse in Wolverhampton. The video "The last of the Boat Docks" largely shows Peter Keyes yard but there is a moment showing Bob and John Allen at work at Valencia Wharf. There were also videos of early boat gatherings, the first Allen gathering, Sonia Rolt's amusing speech at "Tardevent" and the official opening of the Titford Pumphouse. As usual, all the Allens including Arthur and Joan East sat together which is always good to see. Ged and Jo Blake from Lymm were assured that their boat was an Allen when they bought it. However, John Pugh and other Allen experts had their doubts. During the Saturday evening John Allen and Arthur East inspected NB "White Harriette II and they too were doudtful. Ged and Jo said how much they had enjoyed the weekend and would remain members anyway. We give them a warm welcome. Their friends Ernie and Mrs Cheetham (NB Christena of Lymm) were unable to come. Will and Maria Evans (NB Persia) also didn't arrive, but I sent them their plaque. I hope they did not run into a problem. Phil and Dot Clayton (NB Marsh Harrier) were unable to attend at the last moment. Also Mike and Mo Jennings (NB Rotherome) sent their regrets. Barrie Johnson gave Stewert Priddey (NB Dihedral) and me the task of getting to Titford as early as possible for the BCNS 40th Anniversary in order to secure a mooring for a boater who required a bankside mooring. However, Sheila Priddey was involved in a motor accident (not her fault) over the weekend. Fortunately she was not injured but shaken and shocked. John Pugh (NB Windrush) came in Stewart's place. The consensus of opinion was that the noggin and natter evenings were enjoyable but one or two did ask why the entry was fourteen pounds with no pre-booked BBQs. When Gus and I were working out the budget we had to cater for a charge for showing the videos etc. Graham Hatton didn't ask for a fee so we made a donation to the Coombeswood Trust from the surplus. We owe special votes of thanks to:Erewash 40th Anniversary - Langley Mill
I was delighted by the response to my suggestion that we should attend the Erewash 40th Anniversary. At least eleven members attended - that was 9 Allen built boats and two enthusiasts. In spite of warnings about vandalism and rubbish we had no problems at all apart from trying to find real ale in the pubs! It is a long haul to Trent Lock and from Stenson Lock on the Trent and Mersey all the locks are wide so it is a good idea to go with another boat. We were in company with Colin and Annie Jenner (NB Eli) which made it all great fun.
The next wide lock after Stenson is Swarkestone. Just above thwe lock is the orginal junction of the now disused Derby Canal and the Trent and Mersey. One of our members, Ian Parrott, appeared. He seemed pleased to see us because he has moved from Shardlow to Willington and was able to give us his new address. Bryan .Back to page 1 of The Allen Register