Morning all
Couple of things (or maybe four!)
Firstly comparison with what they do in the AAW isn't really appropriate. Whilst we can pinch a few ideas here's a quote from their page about the 2015 Pittsburgh event:
We are especially grateful to the following 300+ VOLUNTEERS whose contributions were instrumental in making the event successful...
http://www.woodturner.org/?page=2015PittsburghThere are 15 of us trying to make the seminar happen - we haven't had 300 people at a seminar ever, never mind volunteers!
Second an extra day would cost another £150 and given people are shy of spending £400 - £450 I very much doubt they would spend £550 - £600 and the additional effort of organising it with the team we have would not be feasible.
Moving around the UK is something we are considering but at the moment we're focussed on the Midlands as most of our Branches are south of the M62.
As for the guys on YouTube I wish them well. But where have they been all these years? Many clubs have open days where they get support from the trade. It isn't a new idea and from a personal perspective I agree with Mark. I wonder if they are aware that Axminster organised a weekend turning event? I think they ran two before deciding they couldn't make it pay. And that's with their database to go at. And surely they know the Irish Woodturners (IWG) hold annual events? How many suppliers do they think there are? Graham, could you keep an eye on this and keep us posted on their progress?
And another one for you Graham you mention that you have a far proportion of younger members at Didcot. Can you ask them why they didn't come to the seminar? Perhaps you could ask your other club members why they didn't go and let us know?
Cheers Dave