After all the research, all the preparation….knowing that at some previous gatherings (Northern I must add ) attendance wasn’t always as high as expected, what was going to happen? Did I have enough bench space, did we have enough machines, was there too much food? I knew Paul was coming for sure, but what about the others….?
Paul arrived just before 11:00 and was unloading whilst I set about finalising the power leads from the house. Then a steady stream of arrivals and equipment and more people and more equipment…..and more equipment…and more…..b^&99dy ell!! Everyone who said they were coming, did, with more than 14 people the workshop was full and the benches creaked under the weight of £1000s of equipment. It took a while to get it all placed and we had to defer use of some machines until later in the day.
Personal highlights for me were:
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The benches didn’t collapse under the weight.
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Watching Joe and his equipment…great machine and great espressos…great guy.
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Seeing Seans Millennium bought brand new for £*** how much , what a sweet, sweet deal
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Hughs Zass, looked great, but I never got to play…next time hopefully
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Maurice with Zaffiro (naked) and naked portafilter, some great pours and crema you could walk on.
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PaulL and the roasting session with iRoast-MK2 and Hottop, I was impressed with both machines. And not nearly as much smoke as I imagined!!
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Cas and Gaggia…some concerns addressed and it pulled some great shots….no rush to upgrade now
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Kaz and the sheer range of smaller kit, I wanted especially to see the Moka pot in action on the portable gas burner ….next time.
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Oh and that lovely reconditioned Mazzer
In fact more than I can mention and for those I have not mentioned….it’s just to save space as the list could go on and on.
It was an initial get to know you meet….with future meets (if people want them) we can focus a little more on specific topics, and equipment. The other strange things for me, no time to sit and savour some of the great coffees being made
The Toper Roaster did not get switched on, mainly a safety concern, because there were a lot of people in a smallish space and roasters do get HOT! Luckily there were plenty of other things to see and do. I had a great time and it was great to meet everyone and finally put some faces to familiar names….and yes we did have enough food.
Thanks to everyone for all the effort made to bring equipment and food, but most important of all....for making it a great day!