The Salisbury Plain Observing Group and Swindon Stargazers joined forces once again for a star party at the campsite at Sixpenny Handley. This was the first time my partner and I had been under canvass and what a weekend!

Having taken advice from others who had camped before, we had purchased a suitable tent and accoutrements for a short weekend of observing. As you all know the weather for the past few weeks has been lovely if a bit hazy for observing at times. I knew that this was not going to continue, but I was hopeful.

Having fortified ourselves at the pub on the way, we arrived on Friday lunchtime at the campsite to find Chris Grew already there. It was quite windy but fine and sunny and so we decided to set up at the end of the field where it was less open. Having laid out the tent we were glad of the help when Jon Gale arrived being first time campers. Amazingly this was an argument free process! We then helped Jon with his and others started to arrive. Pete Chappell and Mark Radice were quickly set up.

The afternoon was spent relaxing, checking the weather forecast and trying to observe the Sun between haze and clouds. I did observe one sunspot at approximately 2 o'clock. We discussed the possibility of an observing session after the next Wiltshire Group meeting since a number of people had gone out to look through Mark's binoculars after his presentation. I think many at the meeting would enjoy an opportunity for observing provided they are warned to bring warm clothing.

We retired to the pub for the evening meal. By now there were around 10 of us as Chris's family had joined him. Sadly we left the pub to walk back in the rain and while some stopped off at Chris's motor-home for a final drink, my Pete and I retired for the night, having asked someone to wake us if the skies cleared. What a night! It rained with lightning and thunder and strong winds, I was convinced the tent would come down around us. A flash of lightning and a thunderclap woke me at 7.20am as the storm passed with its last gasp. Amazingly the tent had stood up to the summer storm.

A wander across for a shower and a leisurely breakfast at the "shed" canteen was followed by a drive to Shaftesbury and a little retail therapy. The day was blustery but mainly fine. On returning others had arrived. Gary had built a "Salad Bowl" telescope which was the subject of much discussion. He later very kindly checked the collimation of Sally's new 8" Dobsonian telescope that she and her daughter were looking forward to using. Sadly not this particular weekend! We also welcomed Robin and Hilary and their family to the fold. Our numbers had now swelled (although Mark Radice cut and run once it was obvious there would be no observing) and still there was no break in the weather. An early evening downpour followed by another pub meal and another night of wind and rain.

Sunday started wet but improved as breakfast was consumed and people packed to leave. Although we didn't do any observing I have to confess it was very pleasant spending a weekend with observing friends and their families.

There was discussion on a last minute summer get away possibly and another party at a similar time next year. I look forward to a star party with some observing included. Thank to all those who attended for an enjoyable weekend.

Dawn Wilson