Twyford 2011
The
sun shone on Twyford for another very enjoyable day. Sadly, a number of
regulars were unable to attend this year. They missed a varied programme
including Frances-Mary Pratt talking about music in the Biggles books;
she included some sung examples that made excellent use of the acoustics
of Loddon Hall. John Lester discussed the Steeley books, and Simon Lawrence
gave a talk about a German pilot that gave us an alternative viewpoint.
Other speakers were Richard Whittle and Simon Lawrence. Shirley Jacobs
commented on the use being made of the website, particularly by overseas
viewers, and quoted the large number of Turkish enquiries that had been
made concerning Biggles Flies Again (the book, not the magazine).
A page had been put on-line attempting to answer their questions, showing
that it is possible to respond quickly to such a situation. It was also
good to know that the website had been recommended as a "best of
the web" by the stumbledupon
website. Chris Rice had created an ingenious quiz based on the pictures
in the 'Biggles Card Game'. The originals were in a framed display which
was much admired. (Will put the quiz on-line later this month.)
Our
special guest this year was Steve Slater. Steve gave an illustrated talk
about the work of restoring the "Biggles
Biplane"; he also most generously brought along a very interesting
display of artefacts such as WW1 flying helmets, maps and other memorabilia,
which I found it hard to tear myself away from. This talk was particularly
absorbing, and for me, there was a truly magical moment when Steve described
how the engine fired smoothly at the first attempt. A wonderful moment
hearing about it, and it must have been a most memorable occasion for
those involved.
EXTRA : SHE
FLIES! Read
the press release here in .pdf format.
There are more pictures on Steve's
website.
See also the entries on the Internet
mentions page.
Other items that were discussed were the possibility of re-printing otherwise hard to obtain issues of 'Biggles & Co', and of providing slip cases or binders for your copies of Biggles magazines. Please let us know if you would be interested in either of these items.
Another hugely enjoyable meeting organized by Joy Tilley, to whom our grateful thanks.
Make a note in your diary now - Twyford 2012 will be on 21st April next!