Page 38 - Transporter Talk

NEW AND REJOINED MEMBERS
Noel Shipston
membership@vwt2oc.co.uk
Introducing new team members Andy Jones, Luke Flynn and Ozzy Halls.
Andy says:
I just wanted to take this opportunity to introduce myself, as you might see my name popping up in the magazine from time to
time. I’ve recently offered to help out the management team — mainly by writing articles and putting together some tasty recipes — to support Nick with the editorial side of things and hopefully take a bit of pressure off his shoulders.
I’ve just turned 60, have three grown-up children, and a 7-year-old grandson who’s already a big fan of camping. In fact, I almost sold my beloved 1979 Bay, Nancy after COVID, as all my camping mates sold their vans and opted for those “all- inclusive” holidays abroad. You know the type — endless buffets, pool bars, and sun loungers with towel battles at dawn.
But then Reuben said, “Grandpa, can we go camping in your van?” — and that was that. Three years later, Nancy is still very much a loved member of the family.
I’ve been part of the VW scene since my dad bought his first Volkswagen back in 1969 — a basic, no-frills 1200 Beetle. It didn’t even have a petrol gauge (those were optional back then). Instead, there was a little lever down by the pedals to switch to the reserve tank when you ran out of fuel. Not exactly ideal when approaching a busy junction!
Once I passed my driving test, the obsession properly kicked in. Over the years, I’ve owned several Beetles, Polos, and Golfs — with a few non-VWs in the mix too (yes, family life does have its compromises...apparently “we need something with more boot space” is a real thing!).
Today, I’ve got two wonderful motors: a VW Golf Mk6 Cabriolet and my trusty ’79 Bay, Nancy.
38 | Transporter Talk Issue 196