Articles and Help from North Wales Koi Club

Dave Wilson and I were lucky enough to go to the Richdon Koi annual BBQ, I was even luckier as Dave volunteered to drive!

The whole day was great success starting tea/coffee reception and a chance to meet with some old pals from the East Midlands KC and other clubs, as well as Donna and Richard Jones. quite a few Koi keepers and their families were setting up tents and caravans when we arrived, as they were stopping for the whole weekend. We had to be away by about 9pm Saturday so we would miss the second day activities which included a Koi auction.In hind sight this was probably a good thing from a point of view of maintaining ‘bank balances in the Black’

The lectures were held in a Marquee on Richards and Donna’s lawn.

11.00
Martin from Kusuri started off the lectures by explaining the new laws from the VMD and how they effect manufacturers of Koi and Pond treatments.

13.00
Richard Jones gave a Health talk which included power point slides of parasites, as well as demo’s of Koi treatments, and how to take a scape to look for parasites with a microscope.

15.00
Koi Appreciation - Richard Jones, Dave Pope (BKKS Judge ) and Stefan (Forum member and very knowledgeable amateur Koi keeper) explained what they look for in a Koi. Dave promoted the BKKS and what a judge looks for. Stefan gave a hobbyists perspective. Several Gosanke were bowled for the audience to be educated and also make their own judgements and comments. Richard showed a tosai Dianichi Showa of some significance that he is growing on.

17.00
Mushio’s Quiz!! after last years talk on Japan, Mushio returned with a ’special’ quiz. Not for the faint hearted or children!

19.00
BBQ and Disco, Basically a brilliant day! Dave and I were tempted by several Koi, especially with 30% discount being offered on the day. Just as our resolve was weakening, the Fish house closed for the BBQ …… phew, close escape!!!

I would thoroughly next years Richdon BBQ to all NWKS Members. Finally a big thank you to Dave for driving, an early start and late finish. I owe you a beer or two mate!

Martin Rocliffe