There is no deal.

The owners are more than happy to have us there and told me specifically that there is no need for prebook, no need for any cash to be paid in advance, and therefore no risk of loss either for us that organize it.

5 years ago, when we booked the Ace cafe, 4 people did not show and 3 who shall remain unnamed decided at the last minute that they didn't want the food after all, which I had prebooked per head, and that left me out of pocket of 7 x �15 that the Ace Cafe said sorry I can't refund you those, cause the food was prepared for the 7 blokes that didn't show up or decided not to eat.

I didn't take it to heart with the people that didn't pay, it's part and parcel of organizing such a large party, so don't worry, all water under the bridge.

This year thankfully things will be different, no one's going to be losing money.

When we are on the Dockside complex, people will have the freedom to go and get their own meals at the Diner, as much or as little as they want, but here is the link to their menu for you to get an idea, the prices are not too steep, so you have plenty of choice.

http://deansdiner.co.uk/food-and-drink

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What I thought would be a nice touch, would be to have a cake made for the occasion either one big enough or two or more each a different flavor or style, if everyone is in agreement with this, then I'll ask my local bespoke cake maker to give me some prices and for those if you all agree we'll split the cost among as many of us as we manage to get to attend,

what do you say?

I thought about a nice couple of bottles of Champagne but since you are all riding back, drinking booze is not really a good idea.

Sorry to hear that Cap'n, that others have let you down in the past.
I really do hope that next years event will make up for the disappointment.

I do like the idea of cake, put me down for a portion.

Had a look at the menu and there's plenty of choice and the prices are not extortionate (that's coming from a Yorkshireman!)

Pass on the Champagne I usually bring along with me a nice bottle of Scotch to share with my buddies for later at the campground.

I do like this plan.

Cheers Steve

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If I'm not working, I'll be

Well I would like to come and I sure as hell don't have a problem eating anything, I'm just waiting to find out if I'm to have surgery or not, that's my only depending factor, the venue looks good !..and it's not too far from me either.

Yes CaptMoto, I'm up for chipping in for cake etc....is there going to be an anniversary sticker/badge etc...? Steve

Hey Jo, I reckon we could take a nice coastal route to Chatham. ..fingers crossed your back gets sorted. Steve

That would be a beautiful coastal ride!..got to wait till 1st of December to hear what they decide is the best option for my back!..I wonder if off the road sell replacement back parts!..