AC Owners Club Forum
AC Owners Club Forum => ACOC News and Events => Topic started by: Big col on November 10, 2017, 21:17:43
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I went to the show today and was looking forward to my first visit as a club member to the stand.
I was sadly disappointed. Four cars that frankly didn't stand out from any of the other Cobras at the show real or fake. Why four Of the same cars were put corner to corner is questionable and frankly boring. A lack of imagination is apparent. I was also left feeling deflated due to the lack of regalia on offer, absolutely nothing.
At least I did manage to pick up a Grayhound radiator Mascot from one of the autojumble stands.
Colin
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As a veteran having assisted at 26 shows in the past I know only too well how difficult it is to get Members to offer their cars for display for the 4 days. If there are 4 Cobras this year, that is no mean achievement. Did you offer your car?
It is terribly demoralising for the volunteers who undertake these tasks to be constantly criticised (by anonymous posters) for their efforts on your behalf. If you think you can do better, why not volunteer?
We have 600 Members, of which about 10% are active in the Club. I think we do a good job in the circumstances. Rant over.
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Well said Graham. I am pleased that you stand up and defend the sterling efforts of the outstanding volunteers.
No I didn't offer my car this year as it is currently being stripped for restoration, a long term project. It will be offered when it is in a fit state to be shown.
I will also offer my services as a volunteer when the car is present. I don't feel eligible to help out at the moment as I know nothing about Cobras and little enough of even my own model, a 16/66 DHC. I will also be happy to help out when Work commitments allow. Unluckily I still have to find the funds to carry out the TLC that my car requires. Hopefully it will be achievable after the next couple of years.
I am not an anonymous poster wishing to demoralise the volunteers. I am a fairly new member trying to support the club by buying regalia and offer constructive criticism.
If my comments are offensive then I offer my sincere apologies to the volunteers and I promise to keep my gob shut in the future.
Colin
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Not offensive, Colin, just disappointing.
I am sure that the organisers would have jumped at the offer of a part-restored car, they have attracted lots of interest in the past and it shows the public that it is not all about the gloss and the glamour.
The way to learn about the cars is to get involved, you will meet some great club members and some interesting show visitors. When time permits, do volunteer.
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I too, saw the Cobra (sorry I mean the AC) stand, I know the club is very much Ace/Cobra based but evn if no cars available surely a little more about other AC's would be possible to display. Also agree the lack of regalia sadly disappointing.
And don't start on me about volunteering my car, as I did not even get my alleged security sticker thing for the National so did not bother taking it to that either.
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Well, I'm here on the stand right now.
The theme of this years' show is family ties, and the 35th anniversary of the MkIV Cobras is being celebrated with 4 siblings, being the last Superblower, a pukka Lightweight, and a very nice pair of standard MkIV's.
Over the last few years there have been AC's from the 1920's to 2001, including Aces, Acecas, GrEyhounds, ME3000s, a 16/60, the ferocious racing 428, and of course, Cobras.
Tony & Jeremy Witt have resurrected the Club's presence after many years of AC not being represented AT ALL, and have had to endure much more unjustified criticism than praise.
The decision not to bring regalia is based on a lack of interest from show attendees, in fact you are the first person any of us can recall asking about regalia!
Next year, the team would be delighted to have any really early examples of 3-wheelers, Petite, Sociable, Delivery vehicles etc, there has never been a 2-Litre on display, or maybe a barn find or mid-restoration AC?!
Many thanks to Andy Shepherd, Bob Langley, John Norris & Peter deRousset-Hall for allowing their MkIV's to be displayed, and to those who set up, man & take down the stand , it's a pleasure spending time with you!
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Originally posted by AC Ace Bristol
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Nik.
Well Said ! Couldn't have put it better myself.
Yes, it is important to portray the History of the AC Marque, but it is also important to celebrate Birthdays and Anniversaries of AC Model's.
This year the theme was Cobra MK1V's. ( Hence 4 x MK1V's )
Back in 2003 my BEX333 was displayed along with 3 more AC Ace on the ACOC Stand to celebrate "The 50th Anniversary of the AC Ace"
A lot of thought and hard work goes into organising. setting up, manning and dismantling the ACOC Stand.[;)]
In good old AC fashion.. .
"BLOODY WELL DONE"
To all those who have organised, manned and supported the ACOC over the years at this prestegious event at the NEC..[^]
Nik, Great Idea for next year, Sociable to Ace Brooklands. would make a great theme, Then 2019 is 70th Birthday of the ACOC so something special .[;)].
Keith
(https://images2.imgbox.com/3d/15/XB25SW6x_o.jpg)
Photo posted on Keith's behalf - apologies - deleted the original post by mistake!
I'm happy to supply my 'Brookland' Mk2.
I've posted pictures just about everywhere 'ad nauseam' so in the flesh wood be fun.
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quote:
Originally posted by Shamea2
Originally posted by AC Ace Bristol
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Nik.
Well Said ! Couldn't have put it better myself.
Yes, it is important to portray the History of the AC Marque, but it is also important to celebrate Birthdays and Anniversaries of AC Model's.
This year the theme was Cobra MK1V's. ( Hence 4 x MK1V's )
Back in 2003 my BEX333 was displayed along with 3 more AC Ace on the ACOC Stand to celebrate "The 50th Anniversary of the AC Ace"
A lot of thought and hard work goes into organising. setting up, manning and dismantling the ACOC Stand.[;)]
In good old AC fashion.. .
"BLOODY WELL DONE"
To all those who have organised, manned and supported the ACOC over the years at this prestegious event at the NEC..[^]
Nik, Great Idea for next year, Sociable to Ace Brooklands. would make a great theme, Then 2019 is 70th Birthday of the ACOC so something special .[;)].
Keith
I'm happy to supply my 'Brookland' Mk2.
I've posted pictures just about everywhere 'ad nauseam' so in the flesh would be fun.
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If that picture is from the current show, I think the stand looks pretty good actually. And I think most intelligent folk would recognise it as the AC club, not a kit car club. I guess the club has two diverse strains and must be unique in that they are so diverse. We have the early cars and post Cobra cars, linked by the original Ace. Very different cars, very different ownership propositions and therefore very different owners. If you are a happy Greyhound owner, you probably don’t relate or particularly relish the prospect of owning a Mk IV or Cobra and vice versa. For sure, it’s the AC Cobra that continues to keep the brand known today. But, I think the point of the club at the NEC is to raise awareness of AC as a manufacturer. If there are 4 spaces available, maybe a ‘60s Cobra, a Mk IV, an Ace and something from the early period, would help educate the public about AC and show then it’s not simply comprised of AC Cobras. And yep, I’d volunteer my car and time if asked, but only if required. In any case well done all of you reminding the public that once upon a time Britain had globally leading motor industry, that included a major marque that was acalled AC.
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That club stand photo was taken quite a few years ago - maybe 15? - it was organised by Eric and Irene Gates, very hard-working members. The carpet tiles and other paraphernalia were stored in Eric's loft and had to be retrieved and stored repeatedly over the years, not bad going for a chap of advancing years. In those days we had a hard core of about a dozen helpers, plus the car owners, who shared the building and manning of the stand over the four days. Hard work but good fun. Where are all the volunteers now?
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The AC Club Stand picture (Above) of the 4 Aces was taken back in 2003, I asked Bryan our Web Master to post it on my behalf to show that each year we have a Club Stand, we have a theme.
Be it to celebrate a special Anniversary of a specific AC Model or just to promote the History of the ACOC or AC Cars.
As you see in the picture 2003 we celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the AC Ace.[:)]
This years stand celebrates the 35th Anniversary of the Cobra MK1V, hence 4 Cobras.[;)]
We used to sell ACOC Regalia on the stand but things can go missing, plus the time and effort invested didn't justify taking the stock. Any club member or interested party can discuss buying regalia or go on line and pay by credit card or paypal, Things have changed significantly over the past 14 years.
Maybe one or two members can post a picture or two of previous club stands, To show that no two years have been the same. but each promotes the ACOC & the AC Marque.[;)]
Keith
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Graham, I think that stand could easily be built by the four people who are manning it and exhibiting their cars. I exhibit at exhibitions on a regular basis and could put that stand together single handed, albeit in a few hours. I’d suggest to pay for carpet and have the stand so the display equipment is of modern fold up design. Only needs to be bought once. Then everything could be carried in the footwells/boot area of each car attending. Hotel accommodation would ideally be on site, but I presume the club pays for that anyhow.
This meant to be constructive. Smart modern, fold up exhibition chairs are £16 each and four would fit in the boot of a Cobra. If I were exhibiting, I guess I’d be prepared to redesign the stand on the basis the other guys would assist in delivering as suggested. . But anyhow, just an idea. If the current crew are happy with the status quo, I’m not complaining or wishing to rock anyone’s boat.
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Having just returned from the the NEC (last night) my comment to myself on seeing the AC stand was boring, boring, boring, boring. They should get themselves off the stand with the chain link fencing that give out the message to punters that they are not approachable, and see just how more oriented other clubs are in being proactive in encouraging new members. I was on the Octagon stand yet again and it was difficult to get off with the number of people waiting to ask questions, chat and talk. The stand was equal to the 289 stand boring.
Perhaps if all the clubs forced the organisers to pay costs to the exhibiters then a more appealing exhibition would be created
The picture uploaded did not look like the one I saw yesterday it looked even more boring!
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I do not intend to comment on the subject of whether or not the stand is boring as such judgements are a matter of individual taste. However, as a matter of fact it should understood that all expenses for accommodation, travel, etc. are borne by the individuals who show their cars and man the stand, not by the club.
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(http://www.cobraclub.com/gallery/data/500/medium/image43.jpg) (http://"http://www.cobraclub.com/gallery/showphoto.php/photo/9168/title/image43/cat/500")
Boring and unimaginative? [:p]
(Photo credit to Peter de Rousset-Hall, and about 150 others!)
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sexist and exploitative?
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Originally posted by AE512
sexist and exploitative?
Hope so!
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Nigel, I'd think twice before attending any feminist meetings, if I were you. If you're capable of having two consecutive thoughts without a rest in between, that is.
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Originally posted by AE512
Nigel, I'd think twice before attending any feminist meetings, if I were you. If you're capable of of having two consecutive thoughts without a rest in between, that is
Point taken :)
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quote:
Originally posted by AE512
sexist and exploitative?
Fair observation Glenn, especially in today’s, take no prisoners, climate. I agree it is sexist, as one of the definitions of that is female stereotyping. Hoewever, exploitative? That would infer that these young women had some advantage taken of them, because of a situation they found themselves in. In my view, I think it highly unlikely that any of them would not be fully aware that they the purpose of their employment at the show, would be to wear figure hugging outfits for the purpose of attracting a predominately male audience to visit the stand occupied by, or be made aware of Lancaster Insurance.
Really if female models continue to willingly agree to appear like this, is to fair to blame the poor old bloke who instinctively casts an eye their direction? Is it not him that is being exploited by the far from unintentional exposure here?
I do agree however that the concept of draping attractive girls over cars is outdated and a bit naff, although I realise that this pic was simply a bit of provocative fun.
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SIGH...
[xx(]
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Many thanks to Tony and Jeremy Witt, Bob Langley, John Norris and Peter de Rousset Hall for representing the ACOC at the NEC again this year, all of whom gave their time COMPLETELY FREE OF CHARGE and attended at their own cost! This year's theme was the 35th anniversary of the MK IV Cobra hence the four cars on the stand. The chain link fence was at knee height and designed to reduce the risk of hoards of visitors from causing damage to the aluminium bodies. Anyone interested in the AC marque was encouraged to step over and talk on the stand. Regalia has never sold in sufficient volume to justify stocking and manning a shop on the stand, and is freely available via our ACOC Website and ACtion magazine. Volunteers are always welcome to staff the stand, and to provide cars for the display, and I will look forward to fresh help with the design, construction, staffing and content of future stands. For such a small club, I think the ACOC does a wonderful job, and I am sure the majority of members appreciate the efforts of the volunteers who make all the Club's events possible. Regarding Political Correct behavior on the stand, thank goodness that some of us have a sense of humour! Many thanks again to all those who helped make the NEC Show a success.
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I enjoyed the voluptuous, shapely figures, full of curves and yet quite sleek oh and the girls where quite nice too. I do like Cobra's honest just get fed up with them being the centre of attention most of the time.
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Having just purchased a Mk1V lightweight that needs some minor cosmetic reconstruction and being a new member to the club I visited the AC stand yesterday.
I would like to say many thanks for the welcome,help and advise I was given by the guys on the stand.
Keep up the good work.
Maybe I should have exhibited my Mk1V in its current condition as I think it may have attracted some attention ????
Regards
Robert
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Robert.
We all enjoyed meeting you yesterday. Your car would certainly have received a lot of attention if it had been on display!! Gods luck with the “minor”cosmetic work. Look forward to seeing it back on the road.
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Any more thoughts about Pedant's comments regarding the fact(?)that club stands bear the cost and the promoters take the profit from entry fee and suchlike (not sure about the parking though)?
(notice the '?' in parenthesis, this is because I'm assuming(dangerous) that Pedant is speaking with some authority)
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Irrespective of the comment, I cannot accept the assumption that someone posting anonymously on the Forum would be "speaking with some authority".
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Constant, I have always thought that it should not be allowed to post if you are not prepared to be out in the open about exactly who you are. Otherwise any criticism is nothing more than petty sniping and trouble-making. I will admit that some of my posts cause controversy, but It's not my way to hide behind a pseudonym - I stand by what I've posted and will argue/debate my point with anyone.
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Glenn,
My comment today at 15:58:07 was not aimed at you ... but at Pedant (about whom you assume he is speaking with some authority).
You are perfectly identifiable.
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Constant, sorry if the tone of my post gave you the impression that I thought your comments were aimed at me. I know they weren't.
I had been meaning to make a point of 'hidden' posters going against my view of how things should be done - for example - make suggestions, ask questions, question how things are done, point out inaccuracies, be controversial, but please don't hide behind a veil.
Show your face and have the courage of your own convictions.
If I had a say in the running of this forum, anonymous registering/posting would not be allowed.
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This Photo of Peter's gives a more accurate depiction of the weekend for all of us who manned the stand, including the ghostly, beheaded (unthanked, Andy![;)]) figure of myself!
(http://www.cobraclub.com/gallery/data/500/image45.jpg)
Rob, it was interesting to see the job you have ahead, click on my name to email directly for image posting!
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I couldn’t make the show this year, but nothing wrong with that stand. Nice work guys.
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Spent a very interesting day at the NEC on Sunday. Of the 5 Halls, Hall 1 was by far the highest standard of presentation. The ACOC stand therein, with four superb cars, some good quality artwork, decent floor covering, and a friendly welcome, was up there with the best.
It takes a huge amount of work, and considerable personal commitment in time and cost, to prepare and present a show stand. Huge thanks to Jeremy and Tony Witt for once again taking the lead and, with the car owners Bob Langley, John Norris, Peter de Rousset Hall and Andy Shepherd, for representing the Club in excellent style.
Looking to the future, may I suggest 2019 will be a key year. Then, we will celebrate the ACOC's 70th Anniversary, the 120th Anniversary of the creation of Weller Bros, the 110th Anniversary of the Sociable - the first passenger machine to bear the A-C name - and the 60th Anniversary of the Greyhound.
Any volunteers?
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quote:
Originally posted by AE512
Constant, sorry if the tone of my post gave you the impression that I thought your comments were aimed at me. I know they weren't.
I had been meaning to make a point of 'hidden' posters going against my view of how things should be done - for example - make suggestions, ask questions, question how things are done, point out inaccuracies, be controversial, but please don't hide behind a veil.
Show your face and have the courage of your own convictions.
If I had a say in the running of this forum, anonymous registering/posting would not be allowed.
Hi Glenn,
All fine.
Here we are on the same wavelength. Anonymous participation to the Forum should not be allowed.
Cheers
Constant
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quote:
Originally posted by MkIV LuxAnonymous participation to the Forum should not be allowed.
Anonymous participation on an open public forum should be the default choice. I would not mind posting in my own name on a private forum (which could possibly be restricted to ACOC members only, but that's another debate).
In these days and ages, the protection of privacy is a point that I would expect relatively fluent users of the Internet to acknowledge without reservation.
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Pedant. I would very much like assistance with the costs involved for me to be part of the team at the NEC, as I`m sure would the others whom I
keep amused for hours on end, year after year bore with my tales of disastrous journeys to and from the NEC, rather than staying in the same hotel as they do!
I find it very hypocritical that you feel strongly that anonymous posts shouldn`t be allowed, but do so yourself! [V]
Please be kind enough to indicate whether we should call you Tom, Dick or Harry.
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Sorry Nik, If you look at my post, I didn't thank myself either, so we are in an exclusive club of 2! Thanks belatedly for your help and sorry for the oversight. Andy
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Tongue firmly in cheek! We had so many laughs over the weekend, the thanks are all mine!
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Dear all, I'm sorry for my lateness in coming to the table to share an external perspective on forum anonymity; I am currently a non member, who occasionally contributes to the forum when I have something of worth to share, as a long term 428 and Cobra enthusiast and newly joined Club member.
Outside of the ACOC I'm a member of The 289 Register and indeed a founding member of The Cobra Register too. Over the years, I have witnessed some highly disappointing conduct from non members (but forum contributors), of which many have chosen to hide behind a nickname, or indeed no name at all. When embarking on the new forum for another club of which I am a member, our board took the decision to ask for people to use their given names , in the hope that this will drive more gentlemanly behaviour, underpinned by a policy of etiquette where any inappropriate conduct will result in forum threads being removed, or worse still, forum access taken away to those individuals in the belief that this will hopefully drive a happier online community.
It is a great source of sadness to me that anonymous members criticise such an august body as the ACOC; it is such a well respected club in automotive circles with a genuinely incredible legacy of curating truly significant cars. Driving and indeed maintaining momentum of any club is a constant challenge given the ratio of active to inactive members and I wish you well for the future, as you are custodians of real greatness that warrants respect. As an aside, I thought the NEC stand looked great, by the way.
With my best regards,
Lee Marshall