Greetings everyone, for what will be another post-festive edition of Open House. This particular report is something of a milestone for me - in that it marks the first anniversary of my appointment to the National Committee, but more of that later. 

So, onto all things NABD. Since my last report, events of note began with September's Autumn Nabdness rally at Cornbury Park (as featured in issue 45), This was a brilliant gathering; the weather was perfect/ the site was lovely and the atmosphere was superb. A particularly relevant and enjoyable aspect of it for me was seeing many of the Reps, club members, and their families/ who I hadn't previously met (all that socialising with them at the bar - this job can be SUCH a joy!). A certain Master Joseph Coulthard came with us, and he had a great time; it was his first rally (and my first with a youngster In tow), All In all a proper good do and no mistake (though I discovered that keeping up can for can with the Rick Hulse's, Graham Bull's & BJ's of this world inevitably leads to that 'head full of mothballs' feeling next day).

This now leads me to the present low-down on the clubs. This quarter, new affiliations have practically gone through the roof; with White Horse Wings, the Time Lords, E,V.S., Iron Crows MCC, and Scorpions MCC, joining the ranks (but, of course, there's always room and a warm welcome for more). We've also seen the return of the Kent branch of the CMA and the Federation of Sidecar Clubs to the affiliates list, and received some generous donations off several outfits. As always, our gratitude goes out to you all.

Before we move on, a couple of soirees worthy of mention were two recent presentations attended by myself and Byrnie (our irrepressible Treasurer), with Nick Steed and Jamie Leach. Nick Steed is a member of Stockport MCC, who recently did the amazing "velcro knee-down challenge" at Rockingham Raceway to raise funds for the NABD. Jamie Leach is the North West Regional Junior Carnival Queen, and a junior member of the Crusaders MCC and she nominated the NABD as her chosen charity to receive the money she's raised during her 'reign' (see separate articles from each in this Issue). Hats off to them. 

Okay then; what of the Reps you may ask? More positive news here/ I'm pleased to say. In October, we were joined by new Reps Kailah Eglington (Hertfordshire) and Sean Edwards (Essex). They're both very welcome and needed additions to the team, Correspondence from a few members who are up for doing some 'Repping' is still incoming and ongoing, so our continued progress & development looks set to be pretty healthy indeed. In the past six months, I've been thoroughly impressed by the dedication and commitment that our Reps have shown. Many of them have grafted like troopers, done us proud/ AND been wonderfully patient with me during the periods of 'extreme workload' Put all of this together, and you have one very happy Liaison Officer. As I mentioned at the beginning, I've been in this post for a year now. and a review of it would be impossible within the confines of this piece. I can only summarise by saying its been one of the best of times in a long time with some unforgettable memories accrued on the way, I've met people that I can truly call friends & family as well as colleagues and fellow members, and that's something you really can't put a price on. 

Admittedly, it can often be hard going; when we've all been hurtling about like headless chickens and sometimes experienced an overwhelming desire to headbutt the nearest wall. But then, someone approaches you at a show or party, damn near shakes your hand dean off and launches into a eulogy of appreciation that they can hardly articulate because of the width of their smile. Why? Because they are back in the saddle and on the road: We've done what we aim to do; and it's at that point when the buzz and the feeling of having made a difference hits you like a wave, and THAT'S when it all becomes so worthwhile.

One thing's beyond doubt; I'm proud to be part of this association, and NABD has become a name that merits respect.

 I'll conclude by wishing you all a prosperous year for 2004 With that, I'll say adios for now, My daughter Amy's messing about with seasonal decorations, the dog's nicked the best spot in front of the fire, as usual -and my eyes are going square (so I think an expedient retreat to the nearest watering hole is in order).