The Live Ghost Tent Online

Birmingham International Convention 98
by Douglas Rimmer.

On the 17th July 1998 Sons (& daughters) from all over the world gathered together for the 11th International Sons of the Desert Convention this year in Birmingham, England and hosted by the Laughing Gravy Tent.

More countries than ever in attendance

Things got off to a good start. Registration was a smooth and well organised event with many committee members there in person to greet us. We each received a generous goodie bag full of useful information as well as much treasured gifts. The event T-shirt was a tremendous success depicting a heraldic logo. It gave us all a feeling of unity both for the Convention and for the sons. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly.
During the afternoon the local television station put in an appearance and some lucky Sons found themselves live on national TV!

At the stroke of 7pm festivities burst into action with the opening banquet. This was a nice way to catch up with old friends and make new ones.. Things progressed nicely and introductions were followed by the loyal toasts. With a flourish we raised our glasses to our heroes and heroines. Bram Reynhoudt read out a small but moving tribute to Bill Cubin - a nice gesture. After the meal there was dancing, music and much merriment. At 9:30pm the dealers room opened for the first time and Sons browsed the wonderful items on sale. This was the first of many bruising encounters for our wallets. I can’t remember what time I went to bed but I felt wonderful.

Live Ghosts Del Kempster & Eric Elliot with Dancing Cuckoos
Dick & Carole Schneider at the opening banquet

Day 2 started early with breakfast between 6:30 and 9am. I surprised myself by making it with time to spare. At 9:15 we all boarded coaches departing for Stan’s home town of Ulverston. The journey was a bit arduous but the magnificent scenery made it all worthwhile. The coaches stopped outside the famous Stan Laurel Inn, a focal point we all knew and loved.

More Live Ghosts outside ‘The Stan Laurel’ in Ulverston
- with the legendary Evans Evans in attendance

Now we took the chance to explore wonderful Ulverston. I decided to visit Stan’s home first on Argyle Street and several Sons joined me as I led the way. When we arrived we were met by the charming lady who now lives there and who invited us inside the house to sign the visitors book. It was only a brief moment but I had stood in Stan’s own hallway, I could barely control my excitement. Soon after I was whisked away by other Sons eager to see the famous Laurel & Hardy Museum. As we passed the local chip shop I stopped and bought some of the delicacies on offer and as the restaurant was full I sat on the pavement outside and ate from the paper - delicious!

Gareth Evans & Roger Robinson patiently waiting for the parade to start

Suddenly a cheer went up from the crowd as Ulverston’s own Happy Harry arrived, I grabbed a few precious moments before he was engulfed by the admiring crowd. Then it was off to the parade of tents starting at The Gill. We all proudly followed the town band and the Mayor around the streets waving our colourful banners, what a sight! Soon the entire town was engulfed in happiness. The day just flew by and soon it was time rejoin our coaches for the short trip to the Cumbria Grand Hotel at Grange. There we enjoyed a finger style buffet followed by the Sons entertaining. What a talented group we are! When John Ullah’s friend Mandy sang to him the whole place went wild. Mark Harris pretended to play a tennis racquet like a guitar and make us laugh at his jokes. Rebecca Kane lead some singing of well know Laurel & Hardy songs and stole our hearts. Then a surprise as the whole of coach number one gave the first rendition of “There’s a horse in the corridor” apparently a Dutch (or German) drinking song that’s totally crazy but good fun. I have never heard my American friends laugh so loudly. After a few more excellent turns Jack Taylor took the stage to present his bid to hold the 12th International Convention in Tacoma, Washington dubbed ‘SEATAC 2000’. It was a very professional presentation backed by lots of research and I’m pleased it was successful. The stage is set. The evening rounded off nicely with live music, dancing and laughter. At about 11pm we said a fond farewell to Ulverston and boarded our coaches for the journey back to Birmingham. A long but enjoyable day.
Day 3 was the Sunday and a much needed lie-in had been arranged. Breakfast lasted until 10am. Following this several sons gathered in the park next door for the Pee-Wee contest. A simple game in theory just hitting the pee-wee as far as you can. Of course you have to hit it! Harry Hoppe from Germany set a very high standard as the pee-wee flew for about 100 yards. I’m not sure if he won overall but it didn’t seem to matter, the fun was in just taking part. The dealers room re-opened at 11am for an hour and another T-shirt joined my groaning suitcase. More relaxed socialising was followed at 1pm with another buffet and drinks. I made sure I was near the front of the queue as I wanted to catch the first bus to visit the famous Birmingham Hippodrome. Soon we arrived and there before me stood the theatre in all it’s fantastic glory. We took the guided tour around small corridors which led to the beautiful auditorium and stage. You could feel the atmosphere, we were in for a treat as we followed our guide onto the stage itself and there I stood in the footsteps of ‘the boys’. The theatre is now home to the national Ballet and many rooms had been specially designed with this in mind. Training rooms with long mirrors on the walls and a sprung floor for the dancers to practice their moves had all been installed. In the costume room glorious gowns And tunics hung neatly on rails and in one corner rat’s tails were stored on hooks. Many ballet shoes in all colours were stored in wicker baskets marked with world destination luggage labels. As well as the ballet the Hippodrome was putting on ‘Phantom of the Opera’ and was packed with highly technical equipment and an enormous chandelier rested on the stage - all part of the play’s magic. There are plans to extend the theatre in future and I’m sure they will play on to many a packed house. I wish them well and look forward to returning one day.

After our tour we enjoyed Birmingham’s shops and pubs returning at about 4pm to freshen up. More excitement followed in the evening as we set off for Warwick Castle. Numbers were limited so some Sons went on a summer barbecue instead. I was lucky and went to the castle and some castle it is. Built in stone about 1068AD and set in 60 acres of ground it is a truly magnificent site. Mighty defences, ramparts, towers and fortifications protected it from unwanted intruders. A huge portcullis could be dropped to close the entrance and anyone getting beyond that was treated to boiling pitch poured through the murder holes - not the sort of warm welcome you would want! Inside we visited the armoury room where swords, pikes and armour covered the walls and along oak table and chairs stood in the centre. An enormous 1º inch bore flintlock arquebus gun stood in the fireplace - a weapon used against sailing ships to bring down the sails. On a happier note an enormous punch bowl stood on the floor in the corner, it held 100 gallons of punch plenty for a thirsty army - pity it wasn’t full though! Imagine the laughter that greeted the sight of a fully armoured horse in one of the corridors! - more choruses of ‘There’s a horse in my corridor’ soon followed. We were led through some fine exhibits to the dining room were we sat on long wooden benches in order to join the Kingmakers Feast. Set in the year 1471 we joined Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick for a preparation for battle banquet. Clapping was not allowed, instead clenched fists had to be banged on the table - this we did with much gusto. Entertainment was in medieval style and as we tucked into our food, musicians played traditional tunes. The master of the house kept us in fine spirits but eventually lost the plot and the Sons of the Desert won the day. Truly an unforgettable evening. My hand hurt for about and hour afterwards! As did my ribs laughing at the sight of the 14th century master of the house in a bowler hat! I found it hard to leave. The evening finished off back at the Chamberlain Hotel with a late night disco.

Monday morning came early and I made it to breakfast again. Much of the day had been set aside for us to explore on our own and this we did. I missed the grand quiz and joined my American friend ‘Voo-Doo’ Deraney for a trip to the National Motorcycle Museum. Together we enjoyed the magnificent collection taking photos to send to fellow enthusiasts - what a treat. I returned to the town centre alone as Allan went back to Warwick Castle for souvenirs for his sons, an easy trip by train.

On returning to the hotel I freshened up for the big convention finale - the costume ball. I had made up a costume with a black cape, white lace collar and tricorn hat, it went down a storm. Many Sons had made a super effort to dress up, some in smart suits, some in silly outfits, a nice mixture. The evening was even more special for me as the Flying Deuces USA tent made me an honorary member, an honour I will treasure forever. It didn’t feel like the end on the convention as we were all so happy. I know it was late when I finally turned in exhausted.

Tuesday closed the convention in Birmingham and I must say John Ullah and his team did a fantastic job. A very big thank you to all in the Laughing Gravy tent, you held the flag high. I hope you can all join us again in Tacoma, Washington and if you missed out this time start saving now. Conventions are just about the most fun you can have. See you there!

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Birmingham International Convention 98 by Douglas Rimmer.
On the 17th July 1998 Sons (& daughters) from all over the world gathered together for the 11th International Sons of the Desert Convention this year in Birmingham, England and hosted by the Laughing Gravy Tent.
More countries than ever in attendance
Things got off to a good start. Registration was a smooth and well organised event with many committee members there in person to greet us. We each received a generous goodie bag full of useful information as well as much treasured gifts. The event T-shirt was a tremendous success depicting a heraldic logo. It gave us all a feeling of unity both for the Convention and for the sons. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly. During the afternoon the local television station put in an appearance and some lucky Sons found themselves live on national TV! At the stroke of 7pm festivities burst into action with the opening banquet. This was a nice way to catch up with old friends and make new ones.. Things progressed nicely and introductions were followed by the loyal toasts. With a flourish we raised our glasses to our heroes and heroines. Bram Reynhoudt read out a small but moving tribute to Bill Cubin - a nice gesture. After the meal there was dancing, music and much merriment. At 9:30pm the dealers room opened for the first time and Sons browsed the wonderful items on sale. This was the first of many bruising encounters for our wallets. I can’t remember what time I went to bed but I felt wonderful.
Live Ghosts Del Kempster & Eric Elliot with Dancing Cuckoos Dick & Carole Schneider at the opening banquet
Day 2 started early with breakfast between 6:30 and 9am. I surprised myself by making it with time to spare. At 9:15 we all boarded coaches departing for Stan’s home town of Ulverston. The journey was a bit arduous but the magnificent scenery made it all worthwhile. The coaches stopped outside the famous Stan Laurel Inn, a focal point we all knew and loved.
More Live Ghosts outside ‘The Stan Laurel’ in Ulverston - with the legendary Evans Evans in attendance
Now we took the chance to explore wonderful Ulverston. I decided to visit Stan’s home first on Argyle Street and several Sons joined me as I led the way. When we arrived we were met by the charming lady who now lives there and who invited us inside the house to sign the visitors book. It was only a brief moment but I had stood in Stan’s own hallway, I could barely control my excitement. Soon after I was whisked away by other Sons eager to see the famous Laurel & Hardy Museum. As we passed the local chip shop I stopped and bought some of the delicacies on offer and as the restaurant was full I sat on the pavement outside and ate from the paper - delicious!
Gareth Evans & Roger Robinson patiently waiting for the parade to start
Suddenly a cheer went up from the crowd as Ulverston’s own Happy Harry arrived, I grabbed a few precious moments before he was engulfed by the admiring crowd. Then it was off to the parade of tents starting at The Gill. We all proudly followed the town band and the Mayor around the streets waving our colourful banners, what a sight! Soon the entire town was engulfed in happiness. The day just flew by and soon it was time rejoin our coaches for the short trip to the Cumbria Grand Hotel at Grange. There we enjoyed a finger style buffet followed by the Sons entertaining. What a talented group we are! When John Ullah’s friend Mandy sang to him the whole place went wild. Mark Harris pretended to play a tennis racquet like a guitar and make us laugh at his jokes. Rebecca Kane lead some singing of well know Laurel & Hardy songs and stole our hearts. Then a surprise as the whole of coach number one gave the first rendition of “There’s a horse in the corridor” apparently a Dutch (or German) drinking song that’s totally crazy but good fun. I have never heard my American friends laugh so loudly. After a few more excellent turns Jack Taylor took the stage to present his bid to hold the 12th International Convention in Tacoma, Washington dubbed ‘SEATAC 2000’. It was a very professional presentation backed by lots of research and I’m pleased it was successful. The stage is set. The evening rounded off nicely with live music, dancing and laughter. At about 11pm we said a fond farewell to Ulverston and boarded our coaches for the journey back to Birmingham. A long but enjoyable day. Day 3 was the Sunday and a much needed lie-in had been arranged. Breakfast lasted until 10am. Following this several sons gathered in the park next door for the Pee-Wee contest. A simple game in theory just hitting the pee-wee as far as you can. Of course you have to hit it! Harry Hoppe from Germany set a very high standard as the pee-wee flew for about 100 yards. I’m not sure if he won overall but it didn’t seem to matter, the fun was in just taking part. The dealers room re-opened at 11am for an hour and another T-shirt joined my groaning suitcase. More relaxed socialising was followed at 1pm with another buffet and drinks. I made sure I was near the front of the queue as I wanted to catch the first bus to visit the famous Birmingham Hippodrome. Soon we arrived and there before me stood the theatre in all it’s fantastic glory. We took the guided tour around small corridors which led to the beautiful auditorium and stage. You could feel the atmosphere, we were in for a treat as we followed our guide onto the stage itself and there I stood in the footsteps of ‘the boys’. The theatre is now home to the national Ballet and many rooms had been specially designed with this in mind. Training rooms with long mirrors on the walls and a sprung floor for the dancers to practice their moves had all been installed. In the costume room glorious gowns And tunics hung neatly on rails and in one corner rat’s tails were stored on hooks. Many ballet shoes in all colours were stored in wicker baskets marked with world destination luggage labels. As well as the ballet the Hippodrome was putting on ‘Phantom of the Opera’ and was packed with highly technical equipment and an enormous chandelier rested on the stage - all part of the play’s magic. There are plans to extend the theatre in future and I’m sure they will play on to many a packed house. I wish them well and look forward to returning one day. After our tour we enjoyed Birmingham’s shops and pubs returning at about 4pm to freshen up. More excitement followed in the evening as we set off for Warwick Castle. Numbers were limited so some Sons went on a summer barbecue instead. I was lucky and went to the castle and some castle it is. Built in stone about 1068AD and set in 60 acres of ground it is a truly magnificent site. Mighty defences, ramparts, towers and fortifications protected it from unwanted intruders. A huge portcullis could be dropped to close the entrance and anyone getting beyond that was treated to boiling pitch poured through the murder holes - not the sort of warm welcome you would want! Inside we visited the armoury room where swords, pikes and armour covered the walls and along oak table and chairs stood in the centre. An enormous 1º inch bore flintlock arquebus gun stood in the fireplace - a weapon used against sailing ships to bring down the sails. On a happier note an enormous punch bowl stood on the floor in the corner, it held 100 gallons of punch plenty for a thirsty army - pity it wasn’t full though! Imagine the laughter that greeted the sight of a fully armoured horse in one of the corridors! - more choruses of ‘There’s a horse in my corridor’ soon followed. We were led through some fine exhibits to the dining room were we sat on long wooden benches in order to join the Kingmakers Feast. Set in the year 1471 we joined Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick for a preparation for battle banquet. Clapping was not allowed, instead clenched fists had to be banged on the table - this we did with much gusto. Entertainment was in medieval style and as we tucked into our food, musicians played traditional tunes. The master of the house kept us in fine spirits but eventually lost the plot and the Sons of the Desert won the day. Truly an unforgettable evening. My hand hurt for about and hour afterwards! As did my ribs laughing at the sight of the 14th century master of the house in a bowler hat! I found it hard to leave. The evening finished off back at the Chamberlain Hotel with a late night disco. Monday morning came early and I made it to breakfast again. Much of the day had been set aside for us to explore on our own and this we did. I missed the grand quiz and joined my American friend ‘Voo-Doo’ Deraney for a trip to the National Motorcycle Museum. Together we enjoyed the magnificent collection taking photos to send to fellow enthusiasts - what a treat. I returned to the town centre alone as Allan went back to Warwick Castle for souvenirs for his sons, an easy trip by train. On returning to the hotel I freshened up for the big convention finale - the costume ball. I had made up a costume with a black cape, white lace collar and tricorn hat, it went down a storm. Many Sons had made a super effort to dress up, some in smart suits, some in silly outfits, a nice mixture. The evening was even more special for me as the Flying Deuces USA tent made me an honorary member, an honour I will treasure forever. It didn’t feel like the end on the convention as we were all so happy. I know it was late when I finally turned in exhausted. Tuesday closed the convention in Birmingham and I must say John Ullah and his team did a fantastic job. A very big thank you to all in the Laughing Gravy tent, you held the flag high. I hope you can all join us again in Tacoma, Washington and if you missed out this time start saving now. Conventions are just about the most fun you can have. See you there!