I went to this fair on Friday... Again fantastic things, i could have spent a bomb. Spotted Mark Hill, Judith Miller, and Mike Melody!

Is anyone going to the NEC this Thursday (22nd)? Be great to say hello.

Im going Friday!!!

Very sensible, far less crowded.

However, people keep things for me and if I don't turn up on the first day, they might sell them to someone else. Then they won't put stuff by for me in the future.

How did you get on? Friday was very quiet and Ive never seen the fair so small.

Still nice things though!

It was a third of the size it used to be. Many of the stallholders were blaming the organisers for making changes and upping costs.

The new split format doesn't work well, in my opinion. Used to be much better when Sections 1 & 2 were distinctly separated and you could simply walk along the rows and see everything.
Now they're almost intermingled and the layout is so confusing, I know I missed loads. Also it was very crowded and nearly impossible to get along some aisles because they've squashed it into a smaller space.

I found a few pieces but nothing outstanding.

It was that small, I think I got home almost 2 hours earlier than normal. I heard the Thursday was packed, Friday was very very quiet. I never bought anything It was all quite expensive. I could have bought things if I had the money. I also heard dealers moaning. Some about their things were vetted and asked to be removed. They were not happy. I also agree with you the old lay out was better. Its confusing now. I heard some dealers saying that they dont think the fair will survive if they contintue like this.

On a different note. I parked next to David Barby outside and seen him several times inside while going around the fair.

We have never been to the NEC fair. It's a bit too far to go to in one day for us & we have never fancied going up there to stay.
Sorry neither of you found anything, I guess it's date lined, so not our thing anyway.

You should really try to go to this fair. Its free to get in, you do need a ticket but they are easy to get. Its a fantastic fair, the best of the best, Its worth it just to look. I do love it there. Even to spot the people you know from the TV.

Yes indeed, it's one of the best in the country - usually! There are few fairs around where you'd be able to see that much quality stock in one place.

I did find some things, just not as many or as individually special as I often do.

Yep, celeb spotting is fun too!