SKI-ALLENHEADS        NEWSLETTER          SEPTEMBER 2004

 

 

 

 

Yes, this is the BNSC newsletter and the club’s name has not officially changed. It’s just that after a good deal of discussion and advice we’ve decided to play up the Allenheads connection and play down the Norwegian connection, with its associations with cross country skiing.

 

In fact there was much interest in snowboarding as well as downhill last season and this seems to be the way things are going, if the club is to survive and start growing again. We find encouragement on all sides but of course are dependent as always on snow, money and the willingness of new people to help run the club.  We could certainly use more people to help train and run the tows this season.

 

And here it may not be too soon to mention that we will need an new secretary and treasurer at the next AGM, Frank and Tom both wishing to stand down after many years of hard work on your behalf. These are statutory posts without which we cannot run the club, so please think hard whether you could volunteer.    

 

Some changes

 

First, Mike Horrocks is setting up a new website which you will be able to find at http://www.ski-allenheads.co.uk/.

 

You will also see that the membership card has been re-vamped. This includes alterations to the rules on the back of the card, so please take time to read these again  - they are not the same.

 

The membership form has also been changed and you will see we have dropped the joining fee, a relic of the days when there was a waiting list, in the hope of making it more attractive to take out full membership, rather than waiting for the snow and turning up. It was possible last year to become an affiliate member for a day but this is really intended for visiting friends of members or as a “taster” session for people who it is hoped will then want to join as full members. Anyone who comes back for more should be aware that full membership is better value or money!

 

Safety

 

The committee has reviewed all the safety arrangements this year and bought new equipment including an emergency shelter for anyone who cannot be moved before help comes. Revised advice on safety and emergency procedures will be put up in the hut and everyone should read and be aware of it. A summary appears on the back of the membership card. Members need to be aware however that they are responsible for their own safety when using the field. In particular it essential that you have no loose, open or dangling clothes that could be caught in the tow ropes; this includes ski poles, which should not be looped over the wrist but carried on the left side away from the rope. Also remember to alight in good time, clear of the trip.

Diary Dates

 

 

TOWS UP                           7th November 2004         10.30 a.m.

TOWS DOWN                  3rd April 2005                    10.30 a.m.

AGM                                     21 April 2005                      8.00 p.m.

 

Please make every effort to be present for these. The rapidly aging bones of the faithful few need your help.

 

Discounts

 

Thanks to Carolyn ringing round we can inform you of a good list of discounts for club members this year.

 

*              10% discount on ski wear and equipment at

      *        Nevisport,  22,  Savile Row, Newcastle                                                                0191 232 4941

      *        LD Mountain Centre, 34, Dean Street Newcastle                                              0191 232 3561

      *        Ski and Outdoor Warehouse, 23B, Airport Industrial Estate, Kenton        0191 286 8914

      *        Reynolds Outdoor Centre, 6, Derwent Street, Sunderland                           0191 565 7945

 

Nevisport are offering 20% discount from Saturday 20th to Sunday 28th November inclusive.

 

LD are offering 20% discount on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th November. You will also have the possibility to book a pair of new skis to try out at Silksworth dry ski slope the following Friday

 

Mike Richardson, BASI (Alpine) of the LD Mountain Centre offers 20% discount on his “Pathways” video clinic, a one day course held at Silksworth. Maximum group size is six. It focuses on the development of fundamental skills for red runs/off piste, speed control (pressure, edge and rotation), body management (coordination and rhythm) and adjustments for different terrains. Courses are normally on Sundays but can be arranged to suit any group of six people.

 

Last but definitely not least, Allenheads Inn offers members 25% discount on Winter Breaks bed and breakfast rates.

 

Don’t forget you must produce your membership cards to enjoy these discounts.

 

Any old boots

 

We have a supply of skis for use on the field but could take others of 175 or shorter; and we could supplement our stock of boots, any size but in safe condition. Please contact Carolyn by e-mail at mailto:carolyn.hawkes@tiscali.co.uk if you want to pass any on - or bring them with you on the 7th November!

 

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Finally let me wish you a good ski season at least some of it at Allenheads.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

Bev Bagnall, Chairman