I think it was 2009, the year of Steve's post below, that I last went to this event. Has anybody been to this year's? In case anybody is thinking of going on Sunday, here's a link to the brochure
This weekend (21 & 22 November) there's the NW Birdwatching Festival at Martin Mere if you want somewhere to shelter from the rain and gale-force winds. There are lots of hides as well as the centre buildings with bookstalls, optics and clothing, travel firms, art displays and, most importantly, A BTO STALL. This will be bigger and better than ever with two staff from HQ in attendance - including occasional forum contributor and former Piethorn moocher Neil Calbrade.