Markstock: myths and legends

Mark has mentioned that there might not be a Markstock in 2006. The shock and horror on Piggy’s face was a treat! However, in the grand scheme of things this would be a perfectly normal event in the Markstock ‘economic cycle’. I shall attempt an analysis of Markstock’s and dispel some myths.

Myth#1
“There has been a Markstock every year”
In 2001 and 2003 no Markstock events took place.

Myth#2
“On Big Pete’s orders, no women have ever been invited to Markstock”
Despite what Pete may say, there have been women coming to Markstock since 1999. The only women-free events were in 1998 and 2002. However the majority of the guests are male and woman are still excluded from full membership, even in these politically correct times!

Myth#3
“markstock is always held on a Saturday and involves a spending the night in a tent”
The records indicate that Markstock’s have been held on a Monday and have been terminated at Midnight.

Myth#4
“Big Pete has always done a welcoming speech”
This is actually a very recent trend starting in 2004

FACT
Mark, Big Pete and myself are the only guests with 100% records. Chris (in Skiathos in 2002) and Mike (Australia? 2005) are close behind on 5/6.

FACT
Markstock has only been held in the month of June.

FACT
There has always been a Markstock charter, though in recent years the theme has been hijacked through the efforts of Big Pete to become a political mouthpiece for beliefs that, to be polite, feature on the fringes of mainstream British Politics. The content of the first Markstock charter related only to BBQs!

FACT
Historically there has always been a genuine attempt to introduce everyone and make all guests feel welcome

the next blog will trawl through the Markstock archives.