'Niños' Camp and 'Aid for Spain' Rally Kelmarsh 12th and 13th August 2006

La Columna have taken a new turn in their displays in 2006; as well as portraying the military side of the Spanish Civil War the group has started doing 'Aid Spain' events.

'Aid Spain' being an event set in England during the Spanish Civil War portraying the efforts of those who supported the Republican effort from these shores. Kelmarsh was set up to represent the Basque Children 'Niños' camp at Stoneham in May 1937 just before the first children arrived. This was combined with an 'Aid Spain' demonstration and rally. The camp was set up to encourage members of the public to come into the camp and learn about the Spanish Civil War

The 'Niños' camp complete with republican bunting
Inside the Stoneham Camp at a food collection stall	Kev and Richard with Placards prior to march
Patrick 'Lounge Lizard' Cullen	Young Comrades of La Columna
Talking to the Public	Connor prepares for the march!
And there was even an Air show!

Below is feed back from Kevin Cotgrave of his view of the weekend:

'Another successful weekend with a well supported event has come and gone. There were only a few downs (THE WEATHER) but loads of high lights: The food in particular reached new heights of excellence (thanks to Digger & Jan). Breakfast was a real treat both days as were the Picnic spreads that were laid on. The 8 pint tea pot was a real life saver with char on the go all day. Totally yummy!

Our display was well received by the punters and in particular there were several Hispanic families who were enthralled by what we were doing. We attracted a lot of attention from other groups who were also complimentary about us. One 'Tommy' in particular commented favourably on our sociopolitical (his words) outlook! Maybe we are having an effect after all?

To close I'd like to say a big thank you to all who were able to support the event and commiserate with those who weren't. You missed a good' un!'