StaffGath is simple: Get together, don't bring a fursuit, tail, ears or anything else outlandish about the fandom and have fun, get to know folks a bit better and make jokes at each other's expense.

StaffGath simply stands for Staffordshire Gathering, please don't read into any belief that this is an elitist meeting of the staff of any convention (although don't be surprised to find plenty of staff there).

Unsurprisingly, the Staffordshire Gathering is based in Staffordshire, or more precisely, Stafford.

Over two days, StaffGath will trundle merrily through a day trip (probably involving ice cream), an evening meal and then the now traditional Sunday at Alton Towers.

Before we get started each day, everyone should rendezvous at Conbook Towers at 08:00hrs to split into cars. Stafford train station is very easy to get to as it part of the West Coast Main Line, and someone should be able to collect you from there if you don't drive.

If you're stuck for transport, try encouraging a friend that drives to come along - I'm sure they'll probably have fun and won't mind so much you taking advantage of life skills you've so far failed to acquire.

Accommodation for the weekend is strictly book your own, so here's a few choices you might like to consider:

• Premier Inn: Stafford North Hurricane
• Premier Inn: Stafford North Spitfire
• Travelodge: Stafford Central
• Best Western: Tillington Hall Hotel
• Express by Holiday Inn: Stafford M6 Junction 13

The Saturday trip usually costs somewhere in the region of £15 per person.

Cost of eating could come in at about £25 a head plus drinks.

Alton Towers costs a fortune at £35 per head - remember to take spending money with you for food and drink. At the time of year, it's quite commonplace to see plenty of two-for-one deals on entry. Keep your eyes peeled for such offers.

No money is required up front, but if you don't have any money on your person at the time you need it, then that's your own problem to deal with.

Registration is currently not open, but watch this space for more information.

If you have any further questions, just poke Twll - chances are you already know how to contact him.