Organised by the Ted van Dam Merret team.

By the 28th May, most of the crews from Great Britain, Germany, Denmark, Belgium, Holland and the Czech Republic had already gathered. Unfortunately after two unsuccessful attempts, the Finns had to cancel due to bad weather.

The Dutch love a sociable, easy-going atmosphere which is just how Ted was on the first evening when he stood on a table at the airfield’s own restaurant and briefed us during the evening meal.

Although not wearing clogs, he was supported with great commitment by his wife Sylvie and the whole family. But then Grumman meetings are, in so many ways a family affair.

Saturday started with a visit to the historical Meerman shipyard in Arnemunden.Here we enjoyed a presentation on how, in former times, ships were built in the Dutch style.The Shipyard was founded in 1763 and remained in the Meerman family for five generations.

In 2003 it was transferred to the local community, by the last of the Meermans, for the token price of €1! Today the shipyard is maintained as a working museum by volunteers so that the knowledge of Dutch ship building skills live on. It wasn’t just the sailors amongst us who were impressed by what we saw.

The group then moved on to Nieuwlands Rust, a farmhouse from the 18th century and a Costume Show. This place was amazing. A typical Dutch farm with many interesting features and a wonderful garden. AYA Europe was greeted by a period costume group and only a few people realised, at first sight, that Sylvie was one of the performers. During lunch in the barn, the costumes and utensils of the period were shown and described by local men, women and children. It was truly a unique fashion and culture show from a bygone era. The guests intrigued by the things shown, such as knives and a variety of clothing garments. It was my pleasure to present the organisers with an AYA Plaque

As usual, on the Saturday of our “Covention” our Gala evening took place. For this Ted had chosen the “Zeeuwse Rozentuin” – Kats. From time to time the heavens opened up such that the event couldn’t be held in the Rose Garden but it the indoor area. It made no odds, morale was high! As always, the various delegations were formally welcomed to great applause. To begin with, Ian Matterface gave out his “Door Prizes” to the lucky winners. The Norman Whistler Trophy went this time to Rainer Wendeborn and crew.