It took me a few years to go to Krefeld. I kept hearing it was a good show but the usual ‘time & money’ kept being a great excuse. Then three years ago I though why not, and I did. Try and stop me from going now! We (that being Carl McMullin, Paul Schofield, Flo Walz & myself make a road trip of it. As Carl does not like to fly, we drive to Hull and took the overnight ferry to Rotterdam then drove to Krefeld. It’s not too long in the car, but it’s a great time to catch up and talk of recent finds. We are normally the first to arrive on the Friday but it is not long before others start to arrive.
You can feel the excitement in the air as people are darting to and fro from room to room and asking ‘do you have anything for me?’ I had two lighters I was saving for people. Larry & Christian both seemed happy, and I had made my first sales a short time later and I had made my first purchase. An evening meal, a few drinks and plenty of chatter and before I new it, it was time for bed. An early rise full of anticipation once again. What wonderful lighters would the day bring? I was not to be disappointed.
The room was full to bursting with lighters galore and the biddng was frenzied. I picked up a few lighters to move on (to help pay for the trip) and a few to add to my collection. I know everyone else picked up something for their collections too. The really great thing is it’s a chance to catch up with old friends and make new ones while picking up some great lighters.
I know a trip to Germany to buy lighters is not going to suit everyone. But why not try one of the English shows, there’s one in September! Or if you’re not located in England, why not try and get to the next show closest to you. I know you will not be disappointed!
Thank you to Grahame & Brigitte for all their efforts in arranging another enjoyable show.
By John Clayton