Had a think about this. If I may be so bold.
It would seem from some of the feedback (reading between the lines) over the last year, things had become a little too organised. Not that this was an issue for those who bought tickets but quite obviously and more importantly for those that didn't. By too organised I mean a little over indulgent. I would hazard a guess that the target audience has been missed.
Most people kitted out for camping don't mind (even prefer) roughing it a bit and are very apt at feeding and watering themselves and probably enjoy camping because it is that way. They also have the best camping holidays when newly met groups improvise and join in ad hock for a social evening. I hope I am making sense.
Marquees and bars rarely feature in a campers itinerary along with burger vans or posh loos.
For those motellin or B&Bing it, the whole thing becomes quite a financial commitment for a weekend just to drive through a field.
Now I'm not suggesting those involved didn't work their taters off trying to make the event appealing. I just think it was slightly over cooked. An easy thing to do when lots of people suggest things they have enjoyed or seen as a success in the past.
I would suggest someone steps back from the excitement and idea making in the future, understand the needs of the prospective attendee and keep the overheads to a minimum.
I would love to organise a meet up but with the lack of green lanes in north Manchester I would fear a large percentage of people wouldnt bother. Unless the Manchester and Lancashire laners are keeping them a secret.
Quite possibly the best weekend would be a couple of portaloos and a bonfire. People able to arrive and leave as suits and pay accordingly. Also a small venue works much better as people camp together. Usually that's all it takes to guarantee bafoonary, self embarrassment and a ruddy good nights partying.
I do hope those involved don't walk away from the idea but come back with a good solid and simple meet up that appeals to those daft enough to put up with a Land Rover and inquisitive enough to turn up and laugh at others who are obviously as potty as they are.
