Tabler Summer 2015

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MAGAZINE FOR THE WORLD’S GREATEST YOUNG MEN’S CLUB

MAGIC MOMENTS

EIGHT-PAGE BIGGEST WISH SPECIAL

SUMMER STYLE GUIDE HOW TO LOOK COOL BY THE POOL

‘AVE IT AVIEMORE CONFERENCE REVIEW

FIGHTING TALK

BOXING BUDDIES READY TO RUMBLE

AWESOME AUTUMN DISCOVER ROUND TABLE LAUNCH

Summer 2015


6th May 2016 to 8th May 2016

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Summer 2015 It was in the early 90s that we were told by those music legends The Shamen that “E’s were good”!

FEATURE

JOHN ADAMS IS ONE OF THE SMALL BUT GROWING NUMBER OF MEN WHO HAVE SACRIFICED THEIR CAREER TO BECOME A STAY AT HOME FATHER. WHILE HIS WIFE WORKS FULL TIME, JOHN, 41, LOOKS AFTER THE FAMILY HOME AND HIS TWO YOUNG DAUGHTERS, ELIZABETH AGED TWO AND HELEN AGED SIX. HE TELLS ROUND TABLE MAGAZINE WHAT IT’S LIKE TO BE A STAY AT HOME DAD IN 2015.

Two decades on, Round Table is feeling the benefit of E’s – energy, enthusiasm and excitement. It was in abundance at National Conference in Aviemore and is now powering the Association forward under the stewardship of President Marcus J ones – who possesses all three E’s. There have already been some very exciting times – and dare I say emotional ones already, particularly at Drayton Manor for The Biggest Wish, which we rightly devote eight pages to, reflecting on a marvellous day for Round Table and Round Table Children’s Wish. We have also been crowned the best Association in the EMA region – so we really are on an upwards curve. I am particularly excited by the forthcoming month- long Discover Round Table campaign in September, which will kick off at NSW. Its aim is to raise awareness of Round Table and also to attract new members. Tables are invited to be part of the campaign and reap the benefits, so why not see what it’s all about (see page 18).

When I explain I’m a stay at home dad, I frequently get asked what my favourite daytime television programme is. There’s an assumption us stay at home parents, whether mums or dads, while away the hours drinking coffee while channel surfing.

I have the two daughters; Elizabeth who is a toddler and Helen who is in her second year at school. Balancing the needs of a toddler and a school girl is demanding. In fact my wife, who has a job in senior management, often tells me I have the more demanding role of the two of us.

We once had a builder in his 60s working on our house. I thought I’d better explain to him why it was always me at home with my daughter and not my wife. I didn’t expect a warm reception, but he told me he hadn’t seen his kids growing up and wished he’d been able to do the same as me.

If only I had a spare moment for such folly! The reality is that I don’t have any spare time and can account for every second during the day.

I don’t think a stay at home mum would find it any less demanding. Being a stay at home dad, however, comes with particular challenges.

As time passes I get more and more into this role. It’s not easy but I am at the centre of family life. I love providing and caring for the family. It’s a genuine sacrifice, but I wouldn’t want it any other way.

Firstly, some people simply don’t know how to deal with you. I’ve been the main carer for my kids since 2011 and I’ve had some very odd experiences in that time. I once had a GP tell me I was “babysitting” when I turned up in her surgery with my daughter. There was also the occasion a nurse started physically looking round the room for my wife when I took my youngest daughter for inoculations. I won’t lie to you, I was offended on both occasions! Loneliness and isolation are huge issues for stay at home mums. For dads, it’s magnified. Women don’t always feel comfortable arranging to socialise with a man. This means you can be left out of social gatherings. This, in turn, means your children don’t get asked on as many play dates.

Oh, and as for daytime TV, if I’m doing the ironing I will often watch something on the History Channel. I can’t stand daytime trash so would rather watch something educational while taking the creases out of the family’s clothes! John blogs about his experiences at http://dadbloguk.com John is also the author the book A modern father (…and dad blogger), published in 2015 and available from Amazon in paperback and Kindle versions.

Even so, it’s not all bad, far from it. I feel honoured to spend as much time with my kids. Few men have this opportunity and it’s great to nurture their talents and watch them grow. 12 Tabler SummerEdition

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MEMBERSHIP

DON'T

SHUTTHEGATE! IN THE QUEST TO WIDEN THE REACH AND THE APPEAL OF ROUND TABLE WE VISITED A DIFFERENT KIND OF FARMERS’ MARKET IN SPRING – THE YOUNG FARMERS’ ANNUAL CONVENTION. FOR 36 HOURS WE DECAMPED IN TORQUAY, JOINING MORE THAN 5,000 OF THEIR MEMBERS TO PROMOTE AND RAISE AWARENESS OF ROUND TABLE. WHY YOUNG FARMERS? Young Farmers has a 25,000 strong membership across England and Wales (Scotland and Northern Ireland have separate associations) aged from the age of 10-26. At this convention (attended by those aged 18 and above), they put forward a proposal to extend membership to 30, which was defeated. This offers Round Tables a great opportunity to recruit younger members, who are already used to clubs of a similar ilk. Round Table is present in many rural areas and has a number of members in the farming industry as well as a number of former Young Farmers, who have made the transition. WHY THE CONVENTION? This is only open to members aged 18 and above and is the key event in the Young Farmers calendar. As well as being a ‘business’ weekend a bit like our own AGM, it’s a chance to wind down and party and meet informally with YFs from across the country. WHAT DID RT DO? In partnership with colleagues from Young Farmers, we made sure that we had a very visual presence at the conference, including a prime spot in the registration area – which every one of the attendees had to walk past. We had a branded, eye-catching cut-out which attracted a lot of attention and opportunities for engagement; we ran a free draw (great for data capture) to be part of a Young Farmers team at NSW and also provided promotional material about Round Table. Round Table and Tablers from Area 19 (Devon), including then area chairman Chris Luxton, were on hand to promote Round Table. As Young Farmers has a male and female membership, we were joined by Ladies Circle national membership officer Ginette May. There was also an opportunity to attend an exclusive event with the incoming Young Farmers’ President and other key influencers of their membership and tell them more about Round Table and Ladies Circle as part of developing a longer term partnership. The main event, from our perspective, was sponsorship of the Young Farmers darts competition on the Saturday morning.

OUTCOMES This was a productive two days, raising awareness of both RT and LC among the grass roots members of YF and, in particular a number of their key influencers. We came back with data of more than 150 Young Farmers, whom we can contact and continue to promote Round Table to. A team of Young Farmers will be at NSW to compete, and discover for themselves what Round Table is about. HO W CAN MY CLUB BENEFIT? The gate (it is farmers!) has been opened between the two Associations at all levels and RT clubs are encouraged to make contact with their local YF and build a relationship.

Find a club and invite them to an event, run a joint event, challenge them to tug of war or just get in touch. Importantly; make the connection. There are more than 600 clubs and you can find yours by going to: www.nfyfc. org.uk/Findyourcountyfederation/ county_federations WHAT ABOUT CLUBS IN SCOTLAND AND IRELAND? Scotland: www.sayfc.org/join-us Northern Ireland: www.yfcu.org/join-us WANT SOME FLYERS TARGETING YF? Email: comms.officer@roundtable.org.uk

Hucknall RT has already made inroads with a local agricultural college – jointly running an event.

We had a very visual presence with RT branding across the room and a large number of Tablers present to get amongst the crowd and raise awareness of Round Table. The event, loud and raucous, certainly got RT noticed. 28 Tabler SummerEdition AutumnEdition

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These are exciting times, so let’s harness that energy and enthusiasm and most of all – enjoy it! Have a great summer Macca

Get Tabler delivered straight to your tablet or mobile. Download your Round Table app today from iTunes or the Google Play store on your device

Publisher Round Table Editor: Lee McLaughlan

Editorial Editor: 0121 456 4402 Phone: 0121 456 4402 Fax: 0121 456 4185 Email: media@roundtable.org.uk

Contributors Mark Brooks Nicola Pinder RTCW

Nicole Carroll John Adams

Advertising & Subscriptions Chief Exec: David Barley 0121 456 4402 ChiefExec@roundtable.org.uk

Account Manager Nicole Carroll 0121 456 4402 comms.officer@roundtable.org.uk

Proof reader Cate Bickmore 01442 251345

DESIGN

General Enquiries

Copyright

Marchesi House, 4 Embassy Drive, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 1TP 0121 456 4402 Enquiry@roundtable.org.uk www.roundtable.co.uk

All material appearing in Tabler magazine is copyright unless otherwise stated or copyright may rest with the provider of the supplied material. Tabler magazine takes care to ensure information is accurate at the time of printing, but the publisher accepts no responsiblity or liability for the accuracy of any information contained in the text or advertisements. Views expressed are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher or the editor.

Nonfacture 0121 794 0245

Print Baker Goodchild Phone: 0800 612 1972

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KING OF THE TRACK AN UP AND COMING RACING STAR IS REVVING UP INTEREST IN ROUND TABLE THIS YEAR – BY MAKING IT A KING OF THE TRACK.

Tabler – John Paul Horton (Lincoln By Design) – in striking fashion, ensuring it will stand out even when going flat out on the track.

Student Jonathan Davis is in his second season in the BMW Compact Cup in car emblazoned with the Round Table logo.

The car got its first airing at Donington on Sunday 29th March 2015 with six further meets to follow including action at Brands Hatch and Silverstone before the final meet back at Donington in October.

Davis, who picked up the Best Rookie trophy on his debut season in 2014, will be backed by Round Table this coming year. His father Chris is a former Round Table member at Deeping Round Table and currently back in office as President of the Lincolnshire area. The car has been liveried by a fellow

Davis says “It is with great pride that I shall be carrying the flagship Round Table roundel around with myself this year, as being backed by such an eye opening and inspiring group of young guys will only push me harder to achieve my goals within the BMW Compact Cup.”

After a testing first couple of meets at Donington and then Brands Hatch, Davis improved at Croft. He took third on the grid for the first of two races but brake issues forced him out the race. Davis started in pole for the second race, based on previous qualifying times, and despite obvious issues with the car secured a first podium of the season, nursing the car home to third. The fourth meet of the season was taking place as Tabler went to print. The final three races of the season are Silverstone

23 August

Snetterton 300

13 September

Donington GP

4 October

KEEP TABS VIA WWW.BMWRACEDAYS.CO.UK

COLLECTION LICENSES

WE ARE AWARE THAT EACH YEAR HUNDREDS, IF NOT THOUSANDS, OF TABLERS TAKE PART IN COLLECTIONS ON CHILDREN IN NEED DAY. Last year was a huge success with significant publicity across the country, and no doubt many of you will be out in force again in November. To assist, we have been made aware by the BBC that there has been a change in legislation affecting the application of charity collection licences. So, the BBC are looking to apply on behalf of RT (and our sisters in Ladies Circle) to ensure the spots are secured for CiN in the near future. If you are planning to collect then act ASAP. Email: caleb.rt776@googlemail.com with the following information: Table or Area name collecting

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Chosen location ( train station/bus station/ airport/high street etc)

Time of collections (AM, PM - all day)

Contact details


GREAT DUNMOW

MAKE HISTORY

FOR VETERANS CHARITY

GREAT DUNMOW AND DISTRICT WANTED TO DO SOMETHING BIG TO COMMEMORATE THE CENTENARY OF THE START OF WORLD WAR 1, AND ENDED UP GIVING ONE OF THEIR LARGEST CHARITY DONATIONS EVER. A group of 34 cyclers made up of Tablers, 41 Club members and friends of 33 Engineer Regiment, cycled 165 miles from Great Dunmow in Essex to Ypres in Belgium to lay a wreath at the Menin Gate to honour of those who lost their lives in WW1. Mike Dalton, chair of Great Dunmow Round Table said: “In addition to the cash raised we have also secured training and other services for the charity, which amounted to a further £24,000.” Initially setting a target of £40,000, the group smashed their total by collecting £56,000 for BLESMA, the limbless veterans’ charity. Their membership includes those who have lost the use of a limb, an eye or eyesight and has over 4,000 members and widows. BLESMA revealed that GDRT’s cheque was the single largest donation they had ever received.

SUPPORTING

ALL4NEPAL

IT IS THREE MONTHS SINCE THE HIMALAYAN NATION OF NEPAL WAS HIT BY A DEVASTATING EARTHQUAKE WHICH KILLED AND INJURED THOUSANDS AND LEFT THOUSANDS MORE HOMELESS. Among those first on the scene was Round Table Nepal (RTN), who set about helping the injured, and to this day they are offering daily support to help the nation get back on its feet – with the focus now on rebuilding schools. RTN has now launched the Freedom Through Education scheme, as an educated Nepal is of major importance for the RT Family. Supporting them in pursuit of this is the All4Nepal campaign, which comprises Round Table, Ladies Circle, 41 Club, WoCo Foundation, Tangent and Agora all working in partnership. Across the globe, clubs and members of these associations have dug deep and, their help having played a major part in funding essential equipment and medical supplies in the immediate aftermath, it is now being channelled towards the rebuilding of schools and educating the children of Nepal. RTBI and Ladies Circle GB&I raised more than €6,000 at national conference, while Feltham & Hounslow recently donated €2,650. To date, more than €73,000 has been raised and the fundraising goes on. Pin badges are available and can be ordered via www.all4nepal.org where donations can also be made.

DOWN AND DIRTY

WITH ROUND TABLE EVENTS WHERE YOU RUN THROUGH MUD AND CLIMB OVER ALL MANNER OF OBSTACLES HAVE BECOME ALL THE RAGE, AND TABLERS ARE LOVING IT! WE LOVE IT THAT MUCH, IN FACT, THAT BACK IN JANUARY, AREA 14 WERE OUT EN-MASSE AT X-RUNNER IN DERBYSHIRE TO PROMOTE ROUND TABLE WHILST GETTING INVOLVED THEMSELVES. Over 3,000 runners from across the UK flocked to the event held at Donington Park, which included over 60 obstacles and an assault course. Hundreds of blokes spoke to the team from Round Table and now know how Tablers #domore with every aspect of their lives. Not to be outdone, runners from Knowle and Dorridge, Solihull, Moseley and Coventry Round Tables took part in the Wolf Run near Royal Leamington Spa in April and raised £1000 for Macmillan Cancer Support as well as generating significant media coverage.

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TRIO STRENGTHEN

THE TEAM AT HQ

ROUND TABLE HQ HAS WELCOMED THREE NEW MALE MEMBERS OF STAFF TO THE TEAM AT MARCHESI HOUSE. New chief executive David Barley officially took over on 1st April and has made several appearances at Table events, including National Conference in Aviemore. He brings a wealth of experience to the role, having held a number of senior positions in the not-forprofit sector and with membership organisations, the latter having seen him successfully re-engage a 30,000 strong membership, gaining national recognition in the process. The youngest member of the team is Harry Prince, who has joined the organisation as a PR apprentice. Under the guidance of accredited PR body PRCA, Harry will undergo 15 months of training while working at Round Table HQ five days a week to learn more about his chosen career path. In a bid to strengthen Round Table, the latest recruit is Liam Bedborough, who has joined as Business Development Manager. Having worked for previously as a Business Development Officer for IGEM, another membership organisation, Liam’s role at Round Table is to develop opportunities with organisations, whilst also exploring sponsorship and advertising. Liam will also support Tables around the country and help increase membership numbers nationally.

PRESIDENT TARGETS

DYNAMIC YEAR OF

GROWTH

MARCUS JONES IS READY TO DRIVE ROUND TABLE TO NEW HEIGHTS DURING HIS YEAR IN OFFICE. The Beeston Tabler is championing growth in membership along with raising awareness of the Association. A series of initiatives to engage Tablers across the country is being rolled out with significant drive from the National Council (national officers and regional reps). “The landscape of Round Table is changing and we are on a journey of new discoveries and opportunities,” said the 44-year-old. “The Association has endured challenges in recent years, but I have never been so optimistic for the Association and its members. “We play major parts in our communities, raising many millions of pounds and delivering large scale events that enhance those communities. “Now it is about growth and telling the wider world what we do, and encouraging the young men of Great Britain and Ireland to discover Round Table and see what it can do for them. “I have benefited enormously from being in Round Table, as has every member. We have developed skills we never had before joining, as well making friendships that will last a lifetime. I want every young man in the country to grasp the same opportunity. “This I going to be an exciting and hard-working year for the Association, as we look to establish key partnerships that will enable us to achieve our aims and create new benefits for the members.”

MARATHONMEN ROUND TABLE CHILDREN’S WISH HAVE ONCE AGAIN RECEIVED MASSIVE SUPPORT FROM ROUND TABLE AS NINE CURRENT AND PAST MEMBERS TIED UP THE SHOE LACES TO RUN THE LONDON MARATHON.

Runners included Kevin Chard, David King, Kevin Howard, Rikki Jones, Simon Thomas, Simon Cooper, Oliver Crichton, Andy Waring (past member) and David Tindall (past member).

As well as pushing themselves to the limit to raise money for the charity, they have helped to raise the profile of RTCW. The Tablers who joined the London Marathon team helped to raise vital funds to continue the work RTCW does in making treasured memories and magical moments come true for the many children who are battling life-threatening illnesses. Places are open for the 2016 London Marathon. If you want to give yourself a challenge and help a charity that is close to our hearts, then email Samantha@roundtable.org.uk 6 Tabler AutumnEdition SummerEdition


RTBI NAMED

EMA ASSOCIATION OF THE YEAR ROUND TABLE GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND HAS BEEN NAMED THE BEST ASSOCIATION IN THE EUROPEAN MEDITERRANEAN AMERICAS (EMA) REGION. EMA chairman Mikael Schvili made the award at the EMA meeting held in Larnaca, Cyprus, last month. Mikael, a Swedish Tabler, proclaimed the standard was very high and that choosing the best from amongst so many that were worthy was a huge honour. He said: “RTBI is an association with a proud legacy but somewhere along the line it lost its way. It allowed itself to get old. However, it decided to do something about it. With thoughtful analysis, professional strategy, plans, commitment and hard work over a number of years, they’ve stopped the downslide. Work continues under exceptionally strong leadership to make the association strong and vigorous as it once was.” Sharing of resource was also key to RTBI’s award, with Mikael adding: “The tools they have developed have been generously shared with other associations so they can also benefit. This includes an attractive website, promotional material, vision and strategy.”

INTERESTED IN ATTENDING ONE OF THE RTI EVENTS? RTI WORLD MEETING August 12-16; Visby, Sweden. www.rti2015.com

SOUTHERN TABLERS’ MEETING (STM) - September 17-20; Geneva, Switzerland.

NORDIC TABLERS’ MEETING (NTM) - November 19-22; Reykjavik,Iceland.

www.facebook.com/groups/ stm2015/

www.ntm2015.com

CENTRAL TABLERS’ MEETING (CTM) - January 22-24, 2016; Luxembourg City, Luxembourg. www.ctm2016.lu

APPY DAYS

FOR CIRENCESTER ENGAGING AND COMMUNICATING WITH FELLOW TABLERS CAN BE THE BIGGEST HEADACHE. Everyone is looking for the solution (including us in the comms team!) and Cirencester Round Table may have found the solution for each and every Table in the organisation, after adopting digital technology in the guise of Team App. The app, which is free to download, has changed the way Cirencester communicates for the better. It is adaptable and Cirencester has 10 sections including news, social media links, photos, events, chat and member profiles. Vice chairman/secretary Adam Baggs who introduced the App to the club said: “We always used to do a very high-end 28 page directory, however this year we have been different and introduced the App.

“It allows different access levels for members, prospectives and 41 Club members, a chat room for banter and section for documents so we can store the likes of minutes, agendas et cetera. “We’ve had it a month and it is well used by all the RT members, though a couple of the dinosaurs took a while to get used to it. It links well with email and the web though, so is all accessible even if you don’t have a smartphone – which is probably why the pick-up has been so strong. Even 41 club members are using it well, with a large number of them on board. “Setting it up was relatively easy. It probably took about two hours to get my head around how it all worked and the best way to set it up for us.

“Then it was another couple of hours getting it right. Adding the data then takes a bit of time but is far easier than the historic chasing and hassling of people - it is my second year as secretary so I know just how hard that can be!” Tabler SummerEdition 7


FORGET

THE WACKY RACERS – IT’S MONTE CARLO OR BUST! COULD YOU DRIVE 1,600 MILES IN A CAR THAT COSTS LESS THAN £300? This was the challenge for six Downend Tablers as they took on the Monte Carlo or Bust challenge. Raising money for “It’s in the bag”, a testicular cancer charity, a Citroen Picasso covered in blackboard paint and a Rover 618 fashioned as a Batmobile took to the roads for an epic weekend. Just 24 hours into the race tragedy stuck when the Rover, known as Dudley, broke down and had to be left behind. The Picasso, nicknamed Pablo, soldiered on and is now in quiet retirement in France. Travels took them through Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Italy, Monaco and France in a variety of costumes, including Danny dressed as Mr Incrediballs! As well as having bags (testicular cancer charity – get it!) of fun, the guys raised a fantastic £1,300.

THE OUTDOOR EVENT SERVICES EXHIBITION

The Th e SHOWMAN’S SHOW 21&22Oct 2015 Newbury Showground Berkshire RG18 9OZ

Where Exhibiting Means Business

The UK’s original and most comprehensive exhibition of products, services and entertainment for the outdoor event industry

BENOIT IS LE MAN(S) KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH FORMER TABLERS DOESN’T DO YOU ANY HARM - JUST ASK LICHFIELD ROUND TABLE WHO GOT TO SPEND THE WEEKEND IN LE MANS AS A RESULT OF A PAST MEMBER. Benoit (so cool he doesn’t need a surname), is a native of Le Mans and having returned home invited the his old chums over.

For exhibitor & visitor information contact: Lance Show

& Publications Limited, Courtyard Office, The Courtyard, Parsons Pool, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8AP

Tel: 01747 854099 Fax: 01747 854634 Email: info@showmans-directory.co.uk www.showmans-directory.co.uk

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His knowledge saw him guide the group through a weekend which included classic cars, camping and the introduction to the French BBQ. Described as a “bucket list” type weekend, Lichfield plan to open out the invitation to Tablers across the country for next year’s meeting!


NO IT’S NOT THE R KELLY CLASSIC BUT THE ILFRACOMBE SOUTHWEST BIRDMAN WHICH IS BACK AND BIGGER THAN EVER FOR 2015.

The madcap event, which is now in its 11th year, is organised by Ilfracombe Round Table and will offer free entry to the community for the first time in a decade. On Saturday 1st August, people will hurl themselves off Ilfracombe pier in a variety of flying contraptions in their bid to become the South West Birdman champion. This year, the team have added an extra factor into the whole experience which will see entries judged on a two or three minute performance before they make the leap to ramp up the drama for the crowd. Last year’s winners, the Dairy Boys, entertained the crowd by back-flipping off the pier and managed to soar nearly 12m which saw them take the Birdman crown. Could you beat this? The world record for a birdman jump is 159.8 metres so why not aim for the record books?

There is still a bit of time for Round Table teams to enter the competition, with entry closing on the 26th July. Teams or solo entrants can enter for just £15 but entries are limited to 20. Book in via www.SouthWestBirdman.eventbrite.co.uk This year the Tablers have chosen to give the event a West Country theme which will also include an inflatable bar hosting a cider and ale festival and a farm Olympics competition with events such as welly-wanging. If flying isn’t your thing, why not camp for the weekend at the event? Open to the whole Round Table family, you’ll even have chance to experience an exclusive gig from our very own José Brinkmann with his band José and the Hotdogs. Camping tickets are priced at a bargain £17 + booking fee per person and includes two nights camping and breakfast, entry to Friday night event and Birdman VIP area. Purchase your tickets at www.BirdmanCamping. eventbrite.co.uk.

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MARCHESI ROOM PROJECT ANNOUNCED A NEW SITE HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED TO HONOUR LOUIS MARCHESI, THANKS TO HARD WORK FROM 41 CLUB AND ROUND TABLE.

Immediate Past Chairman of Norwich Round Table, Richard King, and Des Fulcher of 41 Club have signed a deal with Cinema City to name one of the education and training rooms within their site in honour of the Round Table founder. The Cinema City site holds historical as well as current significance for the Round Table family – Round Table was founded within Sucking Hall, which is now a modern bar and dining area, and meetings have been held on the premises to this day. As a part of the agreement, a cabinet will be specially created to house some of the Round Table family’s memorabilia which will give visitors the chance to find out a little more about the history of the organisation and the site of the very first meeting in 1927. Anybody from the Round Table family who has donated to this project will be celebrated too via a commemorative plaque.

SCOTLAND’S OLDEST

TABLE TURNS 80 ABERDEEN ROUND TABLE, WHICH BOASTS THE DISTINCTION OF BEING THE OLDEST IN SCOTLAND, WILL CELEBRATE ITS 80TH CHARTER ON SATURDAY OCTOBER 3.

The club, which has the additional distinction of being No. 100, will be looking to score a night of success as it hosts the event at Pittodrie stadium, the home of Aberdeen Football Club. Football fans can revel in the location, that has witnessed some great days in the history of the club, while Tablers relive their own glory days.

For further updates, please contact Richard King of Norwich Round Table or tweet Norwich – their username is @RoundTableNo1

Tickets cost £40 and include a three course meal and half a bottle of wine per head, with entertainment provided by a Ceilidh band.

Picture: Toby Forster (Norwich VC) presents Marchesi Prints to Helsingborg No1 and Tallin No1 for donating £250 towards the Marchesi Room Project

To book in contact Gavin Maxwell via email on gavin.maxwell@hotmail.co.uk

SHEPPEY BOOSTED BY CIDER FESTIVAL SUCCESS A KENT ROUND TABLE HAS HAILED ITS FIRST CIDER FESTIVAL AS ‘A MUCH NEEDED MORALE BOOSTER’.

Isle of Sheppey Round Table, which has just three members, staged the popular event with significant support from 41 Club members, volunteers and a generous venue in The Rose Inn. An array of 18 ciders, showcasing the best of Kent’s producers, were well and truly supped with 34 cases sold netting a profit of £2,000 for the club. A perfect summer’s day, combined with an array of eclectic musical bands ensured a large turnout, raising awareness of Round Table on the island as it looks to increase its numbers. Caleb Watson said: “This event is a much needed morale booster if not fundraiser for the members of Sheppey Round Table, of which there are only three. This event was aimed to recruit new members and of course remind Sheppey just what Round Table is all about. “The atmosphere was excellent, we had a great venue and great weather, which were contributing factors in us raising over £2,000 from a very simple to organize event. The mastermind behind this was Guy Russon, but without the support of everybody this would not have been such a success.”

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GONE FOR A BURTON BURTON ROUND TABLE MADE INTERNATIONAL HEADLINES FOR THEIR ATTENDANCE AT THE ROUND TABLE GERMANY AGM. Local media reported on the Midlanders’ excursion as their nine-strong delegation became the talk of the town! The club, which is twinned with German Table Lingen Meppen, travelled to the AGM to see Lingen Meppen Round Table member Holger Crosse become National President of the German association. Nine intrepid Tablers assembled at Birmingham airport for a traditional Tabler breakfast, with two of the party being of new members on their first international Tabling experience. The fun really began for Burton as they were welcomed liked kings into the Black Forest where the AGM was being held, attending a welcome meeting with 700 other Tablers and their families. Not only were Burton the largest international delegation, but they made up 10 per cent of all international guests attending that weekend.

GREEN SHOOTS

START TO BLOSSOM EVIDENCE OF THE GROWTH OF ROUND TABLE CONTINUES AT A PACE WITH THE PROSPECT OF THREE MORE TABLES OPENING (OR RE-OPENING). Glastonbury, Clacton-on-Sea and Brighton have all appeared on the ‘potential’ map following tentative enquiries. This comes in swift succession to the year that saw Hampton, Cambridge, Belfast and Fareham all granted their charters. Hampton its a completely new Table, while Cambridge, Belfast and Fareham have been brought back to life with lots of hard work by the respective Tablers. Be sure to give them a like on Facebook and ask them how they’ve managed their success.

24 HOUR CHALLENGE!

ROUND TABLE REVEALS FINANCIAL

MUSCLE

IN MAY WE REVEALED THAT ROUND TABLES HAD RAISED IN EXCESS OF £2 MILLION IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS, BENEFITTING MORE THAN 1,100 ORGANISATIONS AND INDIVIDUALS. The significant sum was uncovered by a national survey of all 400 clubs – which saw just over a third respond. It is the first time the survey has been conducted to ascertain the impact the Association has on communities across the UK. Among the major beneficiaries are Round Table Children’s Wish and the BBC’s Children in Need. Round Table president Marcus Jones said: “I am tremendously proud of our Association and the members for what they achieve each year.

Could you bring something back from 60 locations across Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire in 24 hours? That’s the challenge being set by Leicester De Montfort Round Table for their event on 1st August 2015. Cars of four can be entered into the challenge, with each car charged at £100 but nothing stops individuals being sponsored themselves! All money raised will go to the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance service.

“The £2million raised in the past year is only the tip of the iceberg and we’ll be looking to build on that figure next year.” The survey will be conducted again towards the end of the Table year and we encourage all Tables to complete it to enable the Association to generate greater awareness of its impact across the UK.

If you want to get involved, check out their Facebook page. Tabler SummerEdition 11


FEATURE

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JOHN ADAMS IS ONE OF THE SMALL BUT GROWING NUMBER OF MEN WHO HAVE SACRIFICED THEIR CAREER TO BECOME A STAY AT HOME FATHER. WHILE HIS WIFE WORKS FULL TIME, JOHN, 41, LOOKS AFTER THE FAMILY HOME AND HIS TWO YOUNG DAUGHTERS, ELIZABETH AGED TWO AND HELEN AGED SIX. HE TELLS ROUND TABLE MAGAZINE WHAT IT’S LIKE TO BE A STAY AT HOME DAD IN 2015. When I explain I’m a stay at home dad, I frequently get asked what my favourite daytime television programme is. There’s an assumption us stay at home parents, whether mums or dads, while away the hours drinking coffee while channel surfing.

I have the two daughters; Elizabeth who is a toddler and Helen who is in her second year at school. Balancing the needs of a toddler and a school girl is demanding. In fact my wife, who has a job in senior management, often tells me I have the more demanding role of the two of us.

We once had a builder in his 60s working on our house. I thought I’d better explain to him why it was always me at home with my daughter and not my wife. I didn’t expect a warm reception, but he told me he hadn’t seen his kids growing up and wished he’d been able to do the same as me.

If only I had a spare moment for such folly! The reality is that I don’t have any spare time and can account for every second during the day.

I don’t think a stay at home mum would find it any less demanding. Being a stay at home dad, however, comes with particular challenges.

As time passes I get more and more into this role. It’s not easy but I am at the centre of family life. I love providing and caring for the family. It’s a genuine sacrifice, but I wouldn’t want it any other way.

Firstly, some people simply don’t know how to deal with you. I’ve been the main carer for my kids since 2011 and I’ve had some very odd experiences in that time. I once had a GP tell me I was “babysitting” when I turned up in her surgery with my daughter. There was also the occasion a nurse started physically looking round the room for my wife when I took my youngest daughter for inoculations. I won’t lie to you, I was offended on both occasions! Loneliness and isolation are huge issues for stay at home mums. For dads, it’s magnified. Women don’t always feel comfortable arranging to socialise with a man. This means you can be left out of social gatherings. This, in turn, means your children don’t get asked on as many play dates.

Oh, and as for daytime TV, if I’m doing the ironing I will often watch something on the History Channel. I can’t stand daytime trash so would rather watch something educational while taking the creases out of the family’s clothes! John blogs about his experiences at http://dadbloguk.com John is also the author the book A modern father (…and dad blogger), published in 2015 and available from Amazon in paperback and Kindle versions.

Even so, it’s not all bad, far from it. I feel honoured to spend as much time with my kids. Few men have this opportunity and it’s great to nurture their talents and watch them grow. Tabler SummerEdition 13


SNOW-CAPPED MOUNTAINS, WEE DRAMS APLENTY AND AN ATMOSPHERE THAT EVERYONE WANTED TO BOTTLE AND TAKE HOME. The assembled masses arrived in the Highlands by plane, train and automobiles and while the location had been a debate of hot topic, Aviemore made a lasting impression on all who attended. The heady cocktail of business and pleasure was intoxicating with two barn-storming nights of entertainment and an AGM that was electric from start to finish. The message is the same every year, if you’ve never been then you don’t know what you’re missing. This was also a year when the AGM moved into the digital stage with proceedings covered on Twitter (for the full Twitter feed go to twitter.com/roundtableAGM). Friday also witnessed a full room for a social media workshop. Knowledge and passion were the order of the day. So what of the 87th AGM? After the initial formalities, including some amusing entrance music, the first task was the election contests for the roles of Membership, Marketing & PR and Vice President.

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Banchory’s Dan Broadhead and Lichfield’s Richard Holland pitched for Membership; Lee McLaughlan, Moseley and David Morris of Jersey for Marketing & PR before the three-way contest for Vice President between Dave Beadle (Cardiff), Neal Lowe (Nuneaton) and Southend’s Mark House. It was then a tense wait as officers gave their reports, awards were handed out and issues were discussed. There were also a number of visitors, who all made their presence felt one way or another. Ladies Circle president Claire Wevell and Tangent president Janice O’Neill came with greetings. Claire didn’t mince her words opening her address that Tablers couldn’t give a “flying f**k” about what was happening in their meeting! It brought one of the biggest laughs of the meeting. A closing joke from Janice, again with a risqué punchline, ensured the ladies left having covered themselves in glory. The followed the most poignant and emotional moment of the day as Jill Harris took to the stage to present the Vaughan Harris award, in memory of her husband. A touching speech, reflecting on the support of the Round Table family, reduced the room to tears along with a worthy standing ovation.

Proposals on the day reflected on entrance fees for new members. The first was to amend the pro-rata entrance fee to a flat fee. This was discussed at length and needed a two thirds majority to be passed. The proposal was lost. The second proposal of the day looked at changing the policy of two years free membership for under 26’s to two years free membership to under 22’s. This also needed a two-thirds majority which lost. Non-advertised entertainment on the day included pea-shooters which were distributed to the room by Area 24. Simon Goff of Northampton Nene raised the issue of proxy voting. Many Tablers were keen to have their say on the issue, which has now gone to National Council to explore further. There were farewells for retiring board members, Greg Meadwell (Membership); Lee McLaughlan (Marketing & PR) and Stephen Sprod, who was also retiring from Table due to the age rule. Outgoing President Stephen Glaister reflected on his year and then handed over the chain to Marcus Jones. He introduced the new board (see page) with Richard Holland, Lee McLaughlan and Mark House elected. The entire board, to emphasise their duty, were inducted by RTI President Jason Thomson.


And the winner is...

NO ROUND TABLE AGM IS COMPLETE WITHOUT RECOGNISING THE STERLING EFFORTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS MADE TO THE ASSOCIATION. THIS YEAR WAS NO DIFFERENT AS COMMUNITY SERVICE WAS HONOURED, THE PRESTIGIOUS TITLE OF TABLER OF THE YEAR AWARD WAS A CLOSELY GUARDED SECRET, AND THE YEAR’S SPORTING CONTESTS WERE RECOGNISED. RTBI 2015 glory getters are:

TABLER OF THE YEAR Mike Dalton of Great Dunmow and District Round Table has been awarded the Tabler of the Year award for his work during his chairmanship of Great Dunmow. Mike’s chairman’s challenge in 2014 was a bike ride with a difference – a 160 mile cycle from Great Dunmow to Ypres raising money for BLESMA (The British Limbless Ex Servicemen’s Association). A massive £56,000 was raised for the charity, the single biggest donation that it had ever received. In fact, during his year as chairman, the Table raised and gave away a staggering £100,000 to charities, membership grew 20% and all events saw record profits. COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD

THE VAUGHAN HARRIS AWARD

Awarded to Beeston Round Table for their work on the Sensory Woodland Project.

Awarded to Richard King of Norwich Round Table for his work on the Marchesi Room project.

MEMBERSHIP AWARD

SPORTS AWARDS

Awarded to Deeside Round Table for recruiting the most new members in a year.

BOWLING – Area 19

GOLF – Area 14

MEDIA AND PR AWARD

QUIZ – Area 35

Julian Webb of Lichfield Round Table wins the National Media and PR award for his #Nutnominate campaign.

POOL – Area 50

THE DANISH AXE AWARD Awarded to Chris Lightbody of Hucknall Round Table.

THE PAST PRESIDENTS’ POT Awarded to Jamie Buchan of Arbroath Round Table.

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National Board 2015 - 2016

NATIONAL PRESIDENT Marcus Jones (Beeston)

VICE PRESIDENT Mark House (Southend-on-Sea)

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Steve Glaister (Bewdley)

NATIONAL SECRETARY Luke Bull (Alcester & Stratford District)

TREASURER Steven Grew (Derby Merlin)

ICT OFFICER James Forbes-Keir (Pontypridd and Rhondda)

MARKETING & PR Lee McLaughlan (Knowle & Dorridge)

MEMBERSHIP OFFICER Richard Holland (Lichfield)

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS OFFICER Stuart Hadley ‘Studley’ (Dartford)

EVENTS OFFICER Ed Watton (Brackley and District)

PROGRAMME OFFICER

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER Andrew Simmonds (Bristol)

David Morris (Jersey)

CHIEF EXECUTIVE David Barley

REGION 1 Colin McKenzie (Banchory and District)

REGION 2 Paul Bell (Dalgety Bay)

REGION 3 Kevin Stuart (Falkirk)

REGION 4 Nick Thompson (Windermere, Ambleside and District)

REGION 5 Vacant

REGION 6 Aaron Ross (Wakefield District)

REGION 7 Vacant

REGION 8 Adam Connor (Long Eaton)

REGION 9 Tristran Russell (Woodhall Spa and Horncastle)

REGION 10 Ed Smith (Knowle & Dorridge)

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Marcus Jones National President 2015-2016

National President’s Ball

A KN GHT AT THE

ROUNDHOUSE 05.03.16

tickets now available via www.marcusjones.co.uk

GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND

REGION 11 Martin Lines (Cambridge)

REGION 12 Trevor Durham (Cardiff)

REGION 13 Matthew Bennett (Gloucester)

REGION 14 Andrew Layard (Brackley and District)

REGION 15 Karl Halliwell (Leigh-on-Sea)

REGION 16 Jose Brinkman (Ilfracombe)

REGION 17 Jon Rees (Winchester and District)

REGION 18 Rick Griersen (Bearsted)

REGION 19 Adam Fitt (Maidenhead)

REGION 20 Kevin Lees (Foyle and District)

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Discover Round Table Be a part of Discover Round Table month SEPTEMBER WILL SEE A DEDICATED MEMBERSHIP AND AWARENESS DRIVE UNDER THE BANNER OF ‘DISCOVER ROUND TABLE’. THE FOUR-WEEK CAMPAIGN WILL INCLUDE A COMPREHENSIVE MARKETING PROGRAMME ACROSS A VARIETY OF MEDIA CHANNELS. The campaign will feature four themed weeks – offering every Table in the Association an opportunity to pick a week that fits in with their programme – or even gives you time to lay on an extra event!

IF YOUR TABLE OR AREA WANTS TO REAP THE BENEFITS OF DISCOVER ROUND TABLE,

THEN YOU NEED TO TELL US!

WEEK 1 Sport

WEEK 2 Food

WEEK 3 Balls

WEEK 4 Discover

Join the campaign! Firstly, pick a theme, decide on the event details (you may already have one in your programme) and then promote as part of Discover Round Table month. If you want to hold more than one Discover Round Table event, feel free. ***Important – if you don’t inform us of your participation you won’t get full media support. Discover Round Table month will be officially launched in Norwich on Friday 4th September – the first day of National Sporting Weekend – the largest event in the Round Table calendar. Registered Tables will received a dedicated press release and targeted social media, along with a place on the dedicated Discover Round Table page on the RTBI website. This will only be given to Tables that officially register. 18 Tabler SummerEdition AutumnEdition

We have a dedicated logo that you can use to promote your Discover Round Table event as well as a dedicated hashtag #discoverroundtable. We are also working on collateral to support the event – and, most importantly, incentives for attendees to consider joining before the end of the year as well as incentives for the club or area that signs up and pays for the most members on the back of the month – so accurate data will be required. More information will be released via email, so make sure you email details are up to date, and social media (www.facebook.com/groups/RTmembershipdrive). Email Comms.Officer@roundtable.org.uk and register for Discover Round Table month.


The Biggest Wish

Dream day as Orange army

take over Drayton Manor!

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The Biggest Wish NOT THE BIGGEST IT STARTED AS A DREAM, NO DREN’S WISH. THE WISH, BUT ROUND TABLE CHIL TIN GILES, WHOSE DRIVER BEHIND IT WAS MAR ENSURED THE PASSION AND COMMITMENT D. NDE FOU S WA CHARITY chesi Gold Medal In 1998 he was awarded the Mar had worn that honour. he sion occa and this was the first wishmaker and told Martin took part in the day as a re acknowledging of the charity’s beginnings befo only in making the the efforts of those involved not years of support and the for but en, happ Wish Biggest fundraising. dream of 25 years ago The Biggest Wish celebrated that families from across 100 than e by bringing together mor Drayton Manor. the country for a magical day at amazing spectacle, Martin was there to witness this d Table family, who were Roun the of bers mem by d joine ort the families. also there as wishmakers to supp swarmed around the they irts, T-sh ge oran Bedecked in ing smiles as bright beam with te minu park enjoying every as the sunshine. es added star status to Olympic swimmer Sharron Davi listening to their lies, fami the with ling ming day, the res. pictu on milli a for ng posi stories and a gala dinner, with ing even the in d inue cont The fun work of granting its inue cont to W RTC raising funds for sses. illne ing limit wishes to children with life s. Here’s to the next 25 year

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The Biggest Wish Quotes from the kids: DANNY (SEVEN): r “ I had a great day. I loved the circle rolle

all being coaster on the water and I loved us s mummy or time t mos as , time e sam the at out Elizabeth.” daddy have to stay at home with

AMELIA (FIVE):

sideways “I like the roller coaster that went laughing from sore got ks chee over the sea. My and screaming.”

WILLIAM (THREE):

“I saw the Thomas train. I loved it.” iam & Sinead, Liam, Danny, Amelia, Will Round Table). eley Mos by d inate (nom beth Eliza

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The Biggest Wish

, nearly losing Kez at 10 We’ve had our own battles with autism. Yesterday we day to day g livin and months others and how lucky we for is life cult diffi all saw how teful that our girls want to gra I’m er. are to have each oth ing!), that Luke is making mak help others (Circlers in the nd are all part of the wider Rou a difference and that we Table family. ies Circle Fiona Bull, Redditch Lad for such a wonderful day I am writing to thank you we were looked after and out. From beginning to end n had a ball and such a day dre chil he ilt, t spo thoroughly nt more to us than you can mea ily fam le or for us as a who ever imagine. nd Table received a Middlewich & District Rou who would fulfil the d nomination for a local chil cial event. We were spe this for eria crit ty eligibili and his family to Ben d sen to able be delighted to ’s Mum, Alison, Ben ay. urd Sat Drayton Manor on a fantastic day had ily advised us that all the fam activities Drayton Manor and s ride the of lots g enjoyin y whole family had been ver has to offer and that the nteers. Our volu le Tab nd Rou the by well looked after and nd Table who organised thanks to Tamworth Rou co-ordinated the event. Middlewich Round Table

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to Table, 41 Club The last 20 years of his life devoted with it. I know my up n grow I’ve and to RTCW. For me Wish and would dad would have loved The Biggest have made his life worthwhile. ident Chris Harris, son of former RT Pres is. Harr han Vaug t iden Pres and 41 Club t we can do We should never underestimate wha I have never seen and in my seven years in Round Table smiles and left with ed arriv le Peop y. toda like anything orange and of sea a was park The s. with bigger smile going on. everyone wanted to know what was ? What is Round Table? What is RTCW . know now Well 7,000 people in that park the Round of ion pass the The passion of Round Table, volunteers has made the of ion pass the and ly fami Table ordinary guys doing a difference to those families. The owledge the excellent ackn to have I s. extraordinary thing bringing it all together. stewardship of Sean Poultney in I am proud to be This was Round Table at its best and ber. mem a Marcus Jones, RTBI President was extraordinary. The faces of the kids and parents today from nothing that e creat to What you have done well done in bringing is incredible. It’s a great feeling and do this. It’s a huge can you n show has it as ther toge it all with people here be to t grea a and here be privilege to and today e renc diffe a e mak that give their time and e to so many. you have made a serious differenc swimmer. Sharron Davies, MBE. Olympic

from For more comments and images or Facebook The Biggest Wish go to Twitter ish and do a search using #thebiggestw

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The Biggest Wish

g bling day yesterday bein Wow, what a fantastic, hum ilies having fam se tho all ing see h, Wis a part of The Biggest his Ollie from Lichfield after a great day out, especially what a great party in the And tes. Sta the in on operati . The biggest hat tip to Sean evening, fab entertainment orable day. mem ful, Poultney for a wonder Table. nd Rou d fiel Adrian Hope, Lich the Bull, her lovely family and Massive thanks to Fiona e all had the best day hav We h. Wis t ges Big le Round Tab have We feel very privileged to at Drayton Manor today. in orange ilies fam y man so e wer re been involved and the . a lovely day together too t-shirts smiling and having han’s squeals of delight Nat . fun ch mu so had just The boys ep in sured and Alastair fell asle on the rides are totally trea . the car clutching his map you enough x We really can’t say thank h. ditc Amber Massey – Red 24 Tabler AutumnEdition SummerEdition

on ean Poultney for putting AWESOME!! Congrats to S ilies fam y man so see to zing the The Biggest Wish ama ones e so Tablers being chaper enjoying the day and mor with the families. nce erie exp le who the and enjoying was great to see around the Spotting the orange tops nd were here because of Rou y the g win theme park kno Table! meet Sharron Davis around to As a bonus I got to escort see all and day the of ies stor the the families and listen to the smiles!! t all the organisers “Making a difference” is wha e today! don ly nite defi e hav and helpers n Jason Thomso lden RT. RTI President, Saffron Wa


To see d The Biggest Wish was. What an amazing weeken lves, regardless of their mse the ying enjo n dre so many chil what they face in life, was exactly situation and challenges work I do the do to ed ileg priv it was all about. I feel very e one of the best jobs in the and of course believe I hav and of the things we believe in One g. ntin gra h world in wis nce of the family orta imp the is W RTC at have passion for y, ndparents, siblings and man and to see mums, dads, gra e hav and ily fam a to nce a cha many others carers have ud all about. RTCW is very pro some fun was what this was the Biggest Wish and le Tab nd Rou of e to carry the nam nk the reason why. A huge tha completely demonstrated . you to everyone involved be, om chc Win en Kar ldren’s Wish. Director, Round Table Chi

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The Biggest Wish THE ORGANISING TEAM OF THE BIGGEST WISH WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING FOR MAKING THE DREAM BECOME A REALITY. CHRIS LIGHTBODY - HUCKNALL ROUND TABLE. His company – First 4 Care - supplied a wheelchair accessible vehicle for the Buchan family who were nominated by Ellon Round Table and supported by wishmaker George Stewart. They were unable to fly from Scotland and Chris stepped in, ensuring the family could attend The Biggest Wish. NICHOLAS WARREN BROWNHILL OF TAMWORTH ROUND TABLE got his employer to supply commemorative badges for all of the families and crystal trophies for corporate supporters. SAM NUNDY OF SPALDING ROUND TABLE who got Tesco to supply 500 chocolate bars and sweets. WILLIAM BRYAN whose father and grandfather, who were all Tablers, and the support of Drayton Manor. MIKE RICHARDSON OF BEESTON ROUND TABLE and Cushion Print Management for print and design services. ASHLEY PEAKE for the design and build of The Biggest Wish website. ALISON DELANEY of Little Bird for sponsoring five families to come to the Biggest Wish. ESOS for donating a new Ipad Air 2 and DAYTONA MOTORSPORT for their exclusive track offer prize.

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Comms Update THE TABLER’S ACADEMY HAS LAUNCHED!

MATERIALS – NOW ONLINE!

ROUND TABLE ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Round Table places great importance in helping members develop the skills and knowledge they need in order to make the most of their time in Table, and to help equip them for life outside of Table too.

We’ve made a new range of materials available for use in your Table.

Have you liked RTBI on Facebook yet? Or sent us a tweet?

You asked for a powerpoint template so we’ve listened and uploaded one suitable for any of your Round Table events.

All our official social media accounts are:

Tablers’ Academy is part of an initiative to make Round Table a learning organisation. In addition to providing training opportunities for members, we will list learning material and links to training resources that we feel will be of interest.

In addition to this, we’ve now uploaded the popular business card and sticker templates so you are able to have any quantity you desire printed for your own Table.

Tablers’ Academy will develop over time to be a valuable resource for all members, and include in-house and externally sourced material. We hope you will find it a helpful addition to the website. To find the Tabler’s academy, log into the members area, head for Info and Advice and then select the Tabler’s Academy tab.

We recommend using route1print. co.uk for good quality, cheap print. There are even social media graphics starting to appear for key times of the year – including Christmas!

Facebook.com/roundtablegbi Twitter.com/roundtablebi Instagram.com/rtgbi LinkedIn: Just search Round Table Great Britain and Ireland We also have a fantastic group on Facebook open to Tables to discuss anything RTBI related – simply search “Round Table Membership Drive Ideas” and request to join.

This can all be found in the members area by selecting the info and advice tab, then heading to the “Posters,Flyers,Materials” section.

TUESDAY TABLER opt in or miss out RTBI’s TAKE ON A MAN’S WORLD every tuesday rtbi.eu/tuesdaytabler Tabler SummerEdition 27


MEMBERSHIP

DON'T

SHUTTHEGATE! IN THE QUEST TO WIDEN THE REACH AND THE APPEAL OF ROUND TABLE WE VISITED A DIFFERENT KIND OF FARMERS’ MARKET IN SPRING – THE YOUNG FARMERS’ ANNUAL CONVENTION. FOR 36 HOURS WE DECAMPED IN TORQUAY, JOINING MORE THAN 5,000 OF THEIR MEMBERS TO PROMOTE AND RAISE AWARENESS OF ROUND TABLE. WHY YOUNG FARMERS? Young Farmers has a 25,000 strong membership across England and Wales (Scotland and Northern Ireland have separate associations) aged from the age of 10-26. At this convention (attended by those aged 18 and above), they put forward a proposal to extend membership to 30, which was defeated. This offers Round Tables a great opportunity to recruit younger members, who are already used to clubs of a similar ilk. Round Table is present in many rural areas and has a number of members in the farming industry as well as a number of former Young Farmers, who have made the transition. WHY THE CONVENTION? This is only open to members aged 18 and above and is the key event in the Young Farmers calendar. As well as being a ‘business’ weekend a bit like our own AGM, it’s a chance to wind down and party and meet informally with YFs from across the country. WHAT DID RT DO? In partnership with colleagues from Young Farmers, we made sure that we had a very visual presence at the conference, including a prime spot in the registration area – which every one of the attendees had to walk past. We had a branded, eye-catching cut-out which attracted a lot of attention and opportunities for engagement; we ran a free draw (great for data capture) to be part of a Young Farmers team at NSW and also provided promotional material about Round Table. Round Table and Tablers from Area 19 (Devon), including then area chairman Chris Luxton, were on hand to promote Round Table. As Young Farmers has a male and female membership, we were joined by Ladies Circle national membership officer Ginette May. There was also an opportunity to attend an exclusive event with the incoming Young Farmers’ President and other key influencers of their membership and tell them more about Round Table and Ladies Circle as part of developing a longer term partnership. The main event, from our perspective, was sponsorship of the Young Farmers darts competition on the Saturday morning. We had a very visual presence with RT branding across the room and a large number of Tablers present to get amongst the crowd and raise awareness of Round Table. The event, loud and raucous, certainly got RT noticed. 28 Tabler SummerEdition AutumnEdition


OUTCOMES This was a productive two days, raising awareness of both RT and LC among the grass roots members of YF and, in particular a number of their key influencers. We came back with data of more than 150 Young Farmers, whom we can contact and continue to promote Round Table to. A team of Young Farmers will be at NSW to compete, and discover for themselves what Round Table is about. HO W CAN MY CLUB BENEFIT? The gate (it is farmers!) has been opened between the two Associations at all levels and RT clubs are encouraged to make contact with their local YF and build a relationship.

Find a club and invite them to an event, run a joint event, challenge them to tug of war or just get in touch. Importantly; make the connection. There are more than 600 clubs and you can find yours by going to: www.nfyfc. org.uk/Findyourcountyfederation/ county_federations WHAT ABOUT CLUBS IN SCOTLAND AND IRELAND? Scotland: www.sayfc.org/join-us Northern Ireland: www.yfcu.org/join-us WANT SOME FLYERS TARGETING YF? Email: comms.officer@roundtable.org.uk

Hucknall RT has already made inroads with a local agricultural college – jointly running an event.

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LOVE UNDER THE TABLE WITH SEX THERAPIST, NICOLA PINDER

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RIGHT, THAT’S THE CORNY TITLES ALL USED UP NOW! IN MY ARTICLE BACK IN THE SPRING EDITION, I HINTED THAT WE MAY LOOK INTO THE IMPACT OF ADDICTION TO ONLINE PORNOGRAPHY. WELL, I’M BACK TO WRITE ABOUT JUST THAT! The amount of adult content that turns up on an innocuous internet search is no accident. It’s a clever attempt to draw you in. The industry is at the forefront of technological advancements; where it leads, internet development follows. Webcams and online payments and many other fantastic applications came from this sector which is very effective at getting its services viewed and used. I’m not here to preach. The use of pornography can be very effective in many different ways for people, but in its internet format it is very addictive. If you are just viewing the odd bit here and there, fine. But, when people are risking their jobs, relationships, financial security and even their liberty, that’s when you know there is a problem that needs addressing.

Within the field of sexuallyrelated psychotherapies, pornography addiction is being viewed as “the next big thing”. A specific phenomenon that has got people’s attention is that of younger men (i.e those under 40), consulting their GP with Erectile Dysfunction (ED). Much research has been carried out and a link made between the viewing of pornography and rising incidents of ED. A possible cause of this is the altering of some neurochemical processes within the brain as a result of repeated exposure to sexual scenes, often with men developing a tolerance for sexually explicit material thus seeking out more novel or bizarre material to achieve the same level of arousal. If a man accompanies his viewing with a ‘physical workout’ shall we say, then think back to what you may know of behavioural psychology and Pavlov’s dog. You are creating a conditioned response to a specific set of stimuli which becomes positively reinforced each time it is repeated.


Then, when intimate with a real woman, a guy’s penis doesn’t respond how it should, as natural functioning has been over-written with the new pattern of behaviour.

We might say then that the real problem with pornography isn’t that it shows us too much sex, but that it can’t show us enough of what real sex is.

Pornography essentially trains men to be digital voyeurs looking at women rather than seeking genuine connection and intimacy.

Pornography displays sex one-dimensionally, taken out of its relational context, but it can’t offer the reality of multi-dimensional intimacy. It makes real women just seem like ‘bad porn’. What a sad state of affairs that is to be in.

There are many knock on effects of this, some of which have been noted in recent studies. One such article that appeared in the Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy, found that exposure to pictures of female centrefold models from Playboy and Penthouse, significantly lowered their judgements about the attractiveness of ‘average’ people, with another study from the journal of Applied Social Psychology finding that, after only a few prolonged exposures to pornographic videos, men and women alike reported less sexual satisfaction with their intimate partners which included their partner’s affection, physical appearance and sexual performance.

The longer someone has been viewing pornography via this medium, the more difficult it can be to treat. That is because it affects so many different areas of the brain and alters the functioning in a complex way, back in the day, when all there was to look at were magazines without moving images and sound, the neurological elements were not altered on so many levels nor at such depth.

With the technology now easily accessible to younger people training in these habits is beginning at a very young age. Given that any sexual act you can think of is available on the internet to view, this means that a mind trained for fantasy will find reality dull; no matter how stunning reality is. Pornography trains boys and men to be consumers, to treat sex as a commodity and to think of it as being available on-tap and made to order. Unfortunately this is a generation exposed to miseducation about sex and relationships. However, neuroplasticity is your friend! Your brain has the ability to change, to learn different ways of doing things. So there is hope after all! With nearly 20 years of experience in the field of sexual health, Nicola has a thriving private practice and also works on behalf of the NHS as a specialist psychotherapist. If you have been affected by this article, have a look at www.atsac.co.uk or contact Nicola for some confidential advice via www.nicolapinder.co.uk

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NSW 2015

Let’s get ready to rumble! Darren Spencer 41

Age

42

220lbs

Weight

190lbs

5’10”

Height

5’ 9

72”

Reach

71”

NO…IT’S NOT ANT AND DEC BUT THE FIGHTING MACHINES THAT ARE SPENCER BURRELL AND DARREN BARKER THAT WILL BE ROCKING ROUND TABLE TO THE RAFTERS.

17.5

Neck

15 1/2”

It is now just a matter of weeks before these two go toe-to-toe in the boxing ring – to be crowned the king of Norfolk in front of 500 Tablers and a public demanding BLOOD! The contest will well and truly add some punch as a major highlight of this year’s National Sporting Weekend extravaganza in Norwich. Tickets are expected to reach colossal sums on the black market – so if you haven’t got yours…then you may just be able to sneak one

43”

Chest (Normal)

39”

45”

Chest (Expanded)

41”

15”

Biceps

14”

40”

Waist

40”

24”

Thigh

17”

Calf

24” 16 1/2”

visit: www1.roundtable.co.uk/members/nsw2015/ Ahead of the bout, Tabler caught up with the main protagonists to find more about them!

Spencer Burrell is NSW Chairman SPENCER BURRELL ANSWERS What’s the toughest fight you’ve ever had? I have been married 20 years, need I say more? What can the crowd expect to see you from? Blood sweat and tears (mine) As mates, how do you feel about going toe-to toe? Mates? boxing ring. Also we are from norfolk so that is a lot of toes in a

How would you describe your boxing style? Organic, with an essence of panic. y feel? Now that it’s getting closer – how do you actuall taking its Knackered and sore. Training 2- 3 times a week is toll. What’s your biggest concern? I should Ensuring that I give a good show and I do not look like be in 41 Club. sions? What are your trainers’ thoughts/first impres ed as If they could talk they would wonder what has happen of my they have spent the last ten years kept in the bottom a side. wardrobe only to be used once a year for the Area 5 drunk (It was supposed to his boxing trainer but hey...punch already) Have you got a boxing a nickname? Baby hands Burrell

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Darren Barker is Area 6 chairman

What’s the toughest fight you’ve ever had? will ever venture in Thinking of the fight with Spencer, I don’t think that year old or six year 10 my as such nts, oppone s previou as league the same being a karate Lewis and hook right mean a have do really old sons! They g partner!!! champion at just six is making to be a tough sparrin What can the crowd expect to see you from? , lots of sweat....and A good old fashion brawl lots of effort, lots of passion blood.....not mine of course!!! -toe? Mates? As mates, how do you feel about going toe-to style? boxing your e describ How would you Destroying and life threatening!! y feel? Now that it’s getting closer – how do you actuall Training is hard.....dieting is destroying me...... and no alcohol is life threatening!! Darren…what’s your biggest concern? happened to him at We don’t have the same outcome for Spencer as what Conference in Harrogate. (Do tell…Ed) sions? What are your trainers’ thoughts/first impres months training? You Jackson Williams our trainer has already said three need three years!! Have you got a boxing a nickname? The Brawler


WE’VE ALL WATCHED THOSE ENTREPRENEURS LOOKING TO CASH IN AND MAKE THEIR FORTUNE AFTER PITCHING TO MEGA-RICH DRAGONS IN THE LONG-RUNNING BBC TV SHOW. Well, fans of the show might want to look away now, as a recent study has found 76 of the 143 businesses that successfully pitched on Dragons’ Den never saw a penny of the money offered to them by the multimillionaire investors. The research, carried out by TigerMobiles.com, looked at the 143 companies who successfully pitched for investment in Dragons’ Den from Series 1 through to Series 11. Data from Companies House and information divulged by business owners who appeared on the show was combined with the Duedil API to produce a comprehensive resource illuminating every winning pitch in the den. Key findings include: • 76 of the total 143 agreed investments never went through after the den. • 23 of the 143 business that successfully pitched are no longer trading. • Of the £13 million pledged by the Dragons, only £5.8 million was ever invested. 33 Tabler AutumnEdition

Dan Forster, a technology expert at Tiger Mobiles, who failed to hear back from the BBC when he applied to go on the show in 2008, had the following to say: “I’ve always been a big fan of the show and thought it would be interesting to see where the businesses that successfully pitched were today. I knew others would find it interesting too so I took it upon myself to compile the research. I was quite shocked that so many businesses never got the investment money after the show and to be honest I’m glad I never heard back from the BBC when I applied to go on.” It’s not all bad news for businesses considering entering the Den, though, as of the 65 investments that were successfully made, a Dragon is still a shareholder at 37 of them. “That shows a level of commitment,” says Forster, who believes that one statistic is the show’s saving grace “If the Dragons do put forward their own cash then they are in it for the long term and will use their resources to help grow the business. You only need to look at Levi Roots as an example of what can be achieved with a Dragon on board and a cash injection. He’s now worth 35 million.”

Other Fun Facts from the Research • £250,000 is the highest amount ever successfully pitched for in the Den. • However, on the two occasions £250,000 was offered, neither investment went through after the show. • £100,000 is the most common investment figure asked for by pitchers (30 of 143 pitches). • £35,000 is the lowest amount offered for a successful pitch, for the youdoodoll, Deborah Meaden did invest but the company has now ceased trading. • Peter Jones is the most prolific investor, offering investment to 54 of the 143 businesses who successfully pitched on the show. • The highest amount of equity ever given away in the Den was 79% by RKA Records, which has since being renamed Bannatyne Music Ltd. • The most common amount of equity given away in successful pitches is 40%, with 42 of 143 pitches giving up that share in their company.

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Get Away TO

THE RAIN WAS BEING BLOWN INTO OUR FACES AS WE DESCENDED THE DIMLY LIT STEPS TOWARDS OUR BEACON OF LIGHT. AS THE FOUR OF US TOOK CAREFUL STEPS, YOU COULDN’T HELP BUT WONDER HOW MANY SMUGGLERS HAD TROD THIS SAME CORNISH PATH IN CENTURIES BEFORE. There was no fear of being met by a stranger armed with a cutlass and flintlock protecting their ill-gotten gains but the warming smiles of the waitress at the Lusty Glaze Restaurant – one of the ‘go to’ venues in a reinvigorated Newquay. After our long journey from the Midlands, this dining haven, decked out in fairy lights, was the perfect respite and ideal start to exploring this nugget on the Cornish coast. Our treat was to enjoy their popular ‘woodburner’ sessions where couples and families are invited to chill to some mellow sounds while tucking into some of the finest dishes in the area. Having perused the menu, it was difficult to ignore the opportunity to partake in some ‘Hot Rock’ dining, where a smooth rock, heated to 450 degrees (which takes the small matter of three hours to reach) is served at your table with the likes of prawns, steak and scallops. Before you can eat a health and safety warning is essential!

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This unique experience, followed by some puddings to die for, got this long weekend off to the perfect start. But it isn’t just the food that empowers this small and perfect alcove on the coast, which has been privately owned since it was sold by the Crown back in the last century. At the height of summer the beach becomes a playground for all with an array of events, which has seen it awarded the No 1 spot by The Times for ‘Most picturesque live music venues in the UK’ for its sundowner sessions. What could be better than the beach as a dancefloor, the sun setting in the distance and live music bursting in your ears. This summer the Cornish Sinfonia (July 26) and the John Butler Trio (August 25) will provide the feast for the ears. But this paradise also hosts volleyball and beach rugby contests this summer, while it will also jump to sound of Oompah with a Bavarian night. For the active, and those who want amuse the kids, then it also has its own centre offering sea, cliff and special kids activities to make the most of those sun-kissed days. We were based just a short drive from Lusty Glaze in the Bristol Hotel, which offers great views of the ocean and is just a short walk from the hub-hub of Newquay.


Forget the surfboard, this is literally getting in at the deep end. Zip up your wetsuit and take the plunge. The sea buffets you, but this is a unique chance to swim through caves and climb craggy rocks before jumping back into the waves. It’s not for the faint-hearted as the jumps increase in height and team-bonding is key, but great for those adrenaline junkies and teenagers who are bored with the amusement arcades and being glued to their mobile phones! Built in 1927, quite appropriate I suppose, our room was spacious and had an adjoining room for the kids to stay in – allowing some parental peace not always on offer at some of the more modern chains and their ‘family rooms’. While a tad dated, the staff were friendly and breakfast offered a hearty start to the day, perfect for those little adventurers – or bigger ones a bit like me! Now, my early recollections of Newquay were always via the Radio 1 roadshow when it would turn up at Fistral Beach, famous for its surf. I went as a teenager, where my memories are dim and distant, while last year I made a fleeting visit to enjoy the town’s coastal assets and take part in a coasteering session.

For those who like to stay on terra firma, then Newquay is not short of options to keep the kids amused – especially the little ones – with the famous Newquay zoo or aquarium. With the weather still inclement, the aquarium it was – just about enough to keep an 11 year amused, while the eight year old was relishing the treasure hunt!

It retains its traditions, with your typical seaside B&Bs and hotels, fish and chip shops and seaside trinket stores. But it also boast some niche independents (Fat Willys is still there), quirky cafes like the Cats Whisker – great cakes and coffee and its very own Love seat which is worth investigating, while for the cool surf dudes no trip to Newquay should miss the outlet-esque Fat Face, Weird Fish and Salt Rock stores. These nestle just along from the Dolphin Inn, which is oldest pub in Newquay if you need a break from it all. A warm welcome and a hearty meal, plus some local fire water, will certainly get you back in the mood for exploring.

From finding Nemo to witnessing sharks, rays and giant turtle via the obligatory glass tunnel as aquariums these days, it certainly proved a hit.

Further afield there are plenty of options including the indoor water world at Hendra, while to the north of the town Watergate Bay offers more stunning views but also is host to the luxurious and family friendly hotel of the same name which sits next door to Jamie Oliver’s 15 restaurant.

Newquay is undergoing a resurgence as it looks to again be the jewel in the English seaside crown. Five years of investment, which is ongoing, is seeing a rebranding and reawakening.

My tribe were certainly entertained and while it may be one of Cornwall’s oldest town’s, there’s certainly plenty NEW about Newquay that’s worth lusting after.

.UK L HOTEL BRISTO TELBRISTOL.CO O .H WWW K LAZE LUSTY G STYGLAZE.CO.U U WWW.L PHIN .CO.UK THE DOL WQUAY LPHINNE O .D W UAY WQUAY WW RIUM NE M.CO.UK/NEWQ F AQUA E IU E R R A E U U K BL FAQ BID.CO.U LUEREE WQUAY WWW.B WW.NE W ID B AY NEWQU

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Tabler SummerEdition 35


MEN’S Fashion

Summer SurvivalKit

WHY IS IT THAT WE ALL KNOW WHEN SUMMER IS MEANT TO HAPPEN EVERY YEAR, YET APPARENTLY WE ARE ALWAYS CAUGHT OUT WHEN THE SUN REARS ITS HEAD AND WARMS UP OUR SHORES? AVOID BEING THE BLOKE STUCK IN HIS WINTER WARDROBE WHEN IT IS BAKING IN AUGUST. WE’VE GOT THE TABLER GUIDE TO LOOKING EFFORTLESSLY COOL ON THE FIVE DAYS WHEN IT WILL BE HOT THIS SUMMER.

Summer Shirts

Totally tropical is the theme for this Ted Baker polo shirt, albeit in muted tones

Stand out from the crowd and show your flowery side. Label J Rio Tropical Shirt

The muted option in a classic fit, for those who want to look effortlessly cool.

£39 TedBaker.com

£25 Jacamo.co.uk

£42 Fred Perry houseoffraser.co.uk

Summer Shorts

The classic chino will never go out of fashion, and plain shorts will offset your patterned summer shirt. We like this in stone and the fact they are so cheap.

£12 F&F chino shorts Clothingattesco.com

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Don’t be afraid of the denim shorts. At the right length, they look good on most blokes.

£20 Next.co.uk .

If you’re quite happy to go with a pair of printed shorts, this semi-tailored pair from Burton will add a bit of colour to your summer wardrobe.

£34 Burton.co.uk


Summer Smells

Jean Paul Gaultier Le Male Summer Eau de Toilette 125ml

Davidoff Cool Water Summer Seas

Paul Smith Sunshine Limited Edition

A fresh twist on Jean Paul Gaultier’s signature fragrance with top notes of mint and cardamom.

An updated classic for summer 2015, with hints of citrus and peppermint. Splash all over yourself, this comes in a 125ml bottle.

This fragrance always tend to be easy to wear and this is like summer in a bottle with hints of citrus and black pepper. Tasty.

£40.50 Boots.com

£35.50

£26

theperfumeshop.com

Debenhams.com

Summer Shoes

Loafers

Sandals

1927 flip flops

They’ve been off the fashion radar for a few years now but loafers are back in. This shoe bridges the casual/semi-casual gap and looks great with plain summer shirts, and at £25 they are a steal.

Don’t be squeamish about wearing sandals, they let your feet breathe and have become rather trendy in recent years. Just ditch the white socks when wearing these Vextor sandals.

You can’t blame us for trying to showcase something that is Round Table themed, and the 1927 range has been launched with flip-flops.

£25

£50

Aldoshoes.com

Clarks.co.uk

marcusjones.co.uk

£15

Summer Sunnies

Classic aviators

Plastic’s fantastic

Wrap around

Channel your inner Top Gun in this iconic shape. Ray Ban have got this look covered but we’re a fan of the 3519 style that comes in at.

If you aren’t scared of showing some colour in your sunglasses frames, try these blue frames from Oakley. Channel the colour of the sea *not the same as the colour of the sea at Weston.

If you’re a fan of the wrap-around style, Primark will leave you quids in with this bargain £1.50 pair – perfect if you are always “misplacing” your sunnies.

£130

£1.50 instore

Sunglasshut.com

Primark

£131 Sunglasses-shop.co.uk

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Men’s GROOming IS YOUR IDEAL SATURDAY AFTERNOON SPENT WRAPPED IN A FLUFFY WHITE BATH ROBE WHILE A BEAUTY THERAPIST GIVES YOU A GOOD PAMPERING?

The answer is probably a big fat no, but we’re here to break some taboos and here is one: spa days are not just for women. Shocking, right? You might not believe us, but spa days and treatments for men are becoming more popular. Gone is the notion that spending the day indulging yourself is “less manly”. Men are embracing good living and are making more of an effort to look after themselves, and the spa day is just an extension of this. Admit it to yourself. You like to be indulged. You like to be pampered. Why shouldn’t YOU look good? You may be amazed, but a third of all spa-goers now are male. You only need to put ‘men spa breaks’ into Google to see the number of companies offering a day tailored to the wants and needs of blokes. It might not be the first choice for a stag do venue (that train of thought might be a while away yet), but maybe it’s time to stop scoffing at the idea of a spa break with a partner or friends and embrace having a little me time… and a nice rub down, obviously. One discerning male reports back on his experience for Tabler magazine “Do you need any paper pants?” said the therapist before leaving the room. I was 32 years old and stood in paper pants which were hastily covered with shorts. How did I end up here? I’d never been against the idea of a spa break, not sure what to expect. Pulling up to The Stanley House Spa, the building was impressive and nestled in acres of Yorkshire greenery. Good start. Whisked through to the spa itself, the surroundings were clean, modern and staff were keen to tend to your every whim. First session of the day was made up of two hours in the thermal suite including thermal bathing (bubble machines are ace), two sauna rooms and two steam rooms. There was more than enough to keep us amused for a few hours – just a shame that people felt the need to hog the loungers the whole time. Being the only bloke in the room wasn’t much of an issue, in fact, most people kept their heads buried firmly in their copies of OK magazine. I wasn’t sure what to book as an spa treatment so went for a deep tissue massage, which sounded both relaxing and blokey. In reality, it was. Other than the aforementioned incident with the paper pants, where the poor therapist walked in on me in my crotchless paper undergarments,

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the treatment was great and did the job on my sore shoulders. To break the silence, we had some idle chit-chat and she told me that an increasing number of blokes are coming to the spa and even visiting on their own. Spa breaks can seem a bit of a faff for just one afternoon, so the combined stay in the adjoining hotel was very welcome after an afternoon of pampering. A huge TV and decent FreeView signal allowed for a chilled afternoon of watching football feeling totally relaxed. There are worse places to watch football coverage especially when you’ve got room service ready to bring you a cold beer at any point. Food at Stanley House is very good. Coming to a spa you expect it to be salads and the like, but this was quite the

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opposite with lobster and steak on the menu and portions on the decidedly man-sized side. Is it the sort of thing I’d arrange for a lads’ weekend away? Probably not, but attittudes towards visiting a spa as a bloke are definitely changing. Is there anything wrong with a bloke enjoying the odd spa day or two? No! Give it a go guys. Stanley House Spa and Hotel stays start at £149 for a double room with spa treatments starting at £25. The hydro pool is available for use starting at £20 for a two hour session. Make your booking today at www.stanleyhouse.co.uk

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Round Table Family

I CAN’T BELIEVE I’M ALREADY 10 WEEKS INTO MY YEAR AS 41 CLUB NATIONAL PRESIDENT AND THERE IS STILL SO MUCH TO DO AND ACHIEVE. I enjoyed my visit to your Council Meeting at Marchesi House and found it very stimulating and informative to sit in on your own Councillors’ Meeting. I was impressed with the focus and dedication, I found in the team. The membership of 41 Club sent a clear message by how they voted at our AGM in Harrogate to reject any form of selective open membership so we stay as an organisation that can only draw its membership from Round Table. This has, without doubt, strengthened the view that the future of both of our organisations lies in 41 Club helping Round Table to grow and flourish. But we need to do more than that because we need to be attractive to past Tablers to join us as well to inject new life into 41 Club so we can continue to help Table. On my travels around my Association this year my message is clear. Just like I did at your AGM I remind our members that we’re still all Tablers at heart just in older bodies. I remind them of the great times we had in Table and finish with a question “Have you found a new member for Round Table this year?” We are encouraging, whenever we can, Tablers who reach 45 to join us and if there is not a suitable 41 Club, or the age gap is too great, to start a new younger and more “active” 41 Club and have the occasional joint meeting with established clubs so new links are formed for the future. I’m a big enthusiast of Marcus’s idea of Business Clubs to help Table find new members and I know from my own personal experience, it’s my day job, they do work and they do build fellowship and trust. My longer term view is that we need to work even closer together and we were delighted to have Vice President Mark join us for our Council Meeting and for the social event afterwards. Membership Officers meeting twice yearly at

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Marchesi House to discuss strategy and get to know each other. I’m going to perhaps be a bit controversial here and suggest that it would be much easier for our two organisations to work together if we could find a way of using Round Table as part of our name. One thing I would like to mention is that 41 Club is 70 years old this year and we have a traditional Charter Lunch planned at the Armouries in Leeds on Saturday 12th September. I hope you can join us. I want to close with a final thought, Round Table changed my life and I want to see it continue to change others’. If I can make even a small difference during my year as 41 club National President then I shall leave office a happy man. Then you would not have to leave one organisation to join a new one, it would just be a seamless transfer between the younger and older parts of the same.

Yours in Continued Friendship Terry Cooper 41 Club National President


Round Table Family News from Ladies Circle!

OUR THEME FOR THIS YEAR IS “TIME TO GROW” AND BY THAT MEASURE I’M ASKING FOR YOUR HELP. It’s time to open new clubs and time to make it easier for girls to join existing clubs – in short, it’s time for our amazing Association to become the club of choice for young women across the country. Sound familiar? We’re in a great position to have achieve growth based on last year’s groundwork and we are determined to increase membership even more in 2015/16. As your sister organisation, we want to ask you to help spread the word of Ladies Circle to your partners, sisters, daughters, nieces, neighbours and friends. Opinions out there for what Ladies Circle get up to are very often incorrect and we’re working hard to change that. Like Table, we’re a very modern and vibrant club for young women and are really making a difference with our fundraising and community activities. Here are a few examples of the great activities our members get up to – let’s see if we can change some of those perceptions!

Recent Circle nights have included gliding, water activities such as banana boating & donuts, pole fitness sessions, treasure hunts, laser clay pigeon shooting, murder mysteries, gin tasting & more! On the fundraising side our girls have been active both locally and nationally. We also supported Children in Need activities including Carfest. We’re going back again this year too and are looking forward to that. It looks like some of you will be joining us too. Please support us and help spread the message about Ladies Circle. You can find us easily on Facebook via: www.facebook.com/ladiescircle.media or through our website: www.ladiescircle.co.uk or via twitter: @LadiesCircleGBI

Yours in Friendship Zoe

UKRAINE, FINLAND AND A FIAT 500! On a grey and wet day in a hotel in Derry on 28 March of this year, the Tangent exec gathered to charter Tangent Ukraine via Skype. This was one week after Ladies Circle chartered Circle Ukraine. Obviously visiting the war-torn country was out of the question, but not to be defeated, by distance, rain or troubles we turned on that computer and met our Ukraine sisters. It was a very emotional few minutes, talking to the ladies who we had been communicating with over Messenger, email and telephone, with all the obvious language barriers! But they were sweeties and we all raised a glass of champagne to celebrate Tangent becoming more international. Two weeks later we were in Finland to see Tangent Finland become full TCI members, dress as cats and listen to 35 years of Table history, in exceedingly monotone Finnish!! Onwards to our ‘magical’ AGM in Harrogate and ‘Circling the World’ at Ladies Circle AGM in Aviemore, having the most fun five can have in a Fiat 500!! Zoe and I are becoming the A-Z of Tangent and Circle and in the process firm friends, I have become her personal shopper, being summoned by text to fetch and carry! We are hoping this will resonate through our two associations. Send me a friend request on FB to see that Tangent are not all ‘old ladies’ and blue rinses!! All the best, Alex 41 Tabler AutumnEdition

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Round table Children’s wish

‘A Great Run for a Great Man’

London Marathon 2016

Great North Run

Don’t forget - Round Table Children’s Wish are looking for some fantastic people to sign up for the Great South Run in Southsea, Portsmouth on Sunday 25th October 2015.

Ever fancied taking on the challenge of a lifetime? We are also looking for London Marathon runners for next April! Anyone who would like a place can contact Sam at the office to register their interest. Even if you are waiting for ballot results, we can still add you to list just in case you are unsuccessful.

Our Great North Run spaces are now filled, however you can still register your interest for 2016. The event takes place in September in Newcastle and is a half marathon run. Anyone interested in the British 10k London Run in July 2016 can also get in touch. This is a 6 mile summer run through some famous parts of central London.

There is no set minimum – we just encourage you to raise whatever you can in memory of past Round Table and 41 Club President, Vaughan Harris. Vaughan took on this 10 mile run back in 2011 for us! Funds raised will be going towards the cause he supported and will help us to continue making magical moments and treasured memories come true for children battling life-threatening and terminal illnesses. Even if you may not have known Vaughan, everyone is welcome to join the team and raise funds for a fantastic cause! 42 Tabler SummerEdition AutumnEdition

The London Marathon is one of the most prestigious marathons and definitely one to tick off the bucket list!! Charity spaces are £150 to register, with a further £1650 to raise (£1800 in total)

If there is any other run which you are interested in, just drop us a line and we can see if we can get you registered in your chosen event and then send you a fundraising pack to raise some money for the charity. Any run enquiries can be directed to Samantha Read on 01202 514515 or email samantha@rtcw.org


Keep those wishes coming A HUGE THANK YOU TO ALL THOSE AT NATIONAL CONFERENCE, FOR MAKING US FEEL WELCOME AND FOR COMING OVER TO TALK TO US ABOUT THE WORK OF THE CHARITY AND THE RELATIONSHIP WITH ROUND TABLE. With the Biggest Wish event, it is great to see the support across the country. We really do need you all though, to refer children for wishes. You all know your communities and therefore are often the first to hear about a child or young person who may be eligible for a wish. Please do refer to us and we can grant a wish in your name. RTCW currently has 89 wishes on file, although this changes on a daily basis. We can’t grant these all at once, as we have to wait for the child to be well enough to take part. We will however, keep in touch so that we are ready to organise a wish when the child is ready. Karen – Director Over the last three months we have granted many wishes. We are unable to tell you about them all, but here are a couple for you to see just what we have been up to!

Daniel

Sajid

Other wishes granted:

Daniel was referred to us by a Tabler in Coventry. At the age of three, Daniel was diagnosed with a brain tumour and as a result has faced very intrusive, lengthy and painful treatment. Such a brave little man. Daniel’s wish was to go to Disney, so we granted his wish and sent him and his family off to Disneyland Paris to have a fabulous time.

Sajid was referred to us by his Mum after Sajid had endured major open heart surgery. Sajid has been on such a heart rending journey and yet he still laughs and copes with everything he has to face. Sajid’s illness is ongoing. All Sajid wished for was an iPad! RTCW got to work and granted him his wish and he was absolutely over the moon!

Pontins Holiday, Centre Parcs, Spiderman Meet and Greet, Trip to Portugal, VIP meet and greet with Olly Murs, Playhouses, PS4 with Driving Games, Personal Shopper Experience…

“We really want to say a huge, huge thank you. We had such an amazing time in Disney, full of fun, laughter and memory making. Thank you so much again, you have given us the best thing ever – wonderful memories” Daniel’s Mummy

“He is just so happy. He loves the iPad so much, we can’t get him off of it”. Sajid’s Mum The iPad is making, and will continue to make, a huge positive impact upon Sajid’s quality of life.

Areas of the Country where we are currently granting or have recently granted wishes: County Durham, Newport Wales, Herefordshire, Warwickshire, Dorset, Greater Manchester, Staffordshire, Gwent, Norfolk, Manchester, Suffolk, Hampshire, Jersey, Lincolnshire, Surrey, Birmingham, Scotland, Wiltshire, Yorkshire and Bedfordshire.

PLEASE KEEP SUPPORTING WHERE YOU CAN. YOUR HELP IS REALLY APPRECIATED AND SUPPORTS THE RTCW TO KEEP GRANTING WISHES.

25th Birthday celebrations! The official Round Table Children’s Wish 25th Birthday falls on Friday 16th October 2015 and we are planning to celebrate big time! We have two major events happening on that day. Official Birthday Wish Friday – Get your place of work or school to dress up or down for the day and help raise much needed funds. If you don’t feel like dressing up but would like to give, why not text a donation? Simply text RTCW14 (with an amount) i.e. RTCW14 £10 to 70070. Donations start from £1. RTCW Diamond Anniversary Ball – join us for an evening of celebration at the Lighthouse, Poole, Dorset. Tickets will be available soon.

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Tomatin.com

Please enjoy responsibly.

Experience the Softer Side of the Highlands. The smooth, rounded hills sheltering the Tomatin Distillery reflect the softer side of nature in this quiet corner of the Highlands. Here, bubbling pure spring water, tender barley and gentle patience all go into creating our 12 Year Old, a deliciously sweet and smooth malt with hints of apples, pears and subtle sherry.


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