Rich,
I'd say that the difference is that when people say they are coming from a long way away, then they typically are. It also takes more planning for them and they have normally taken than into account as well.
The fact that its a big meet, (rather than a once a month one that is easy for local people not to turn up to) means that I bet you will have a good turn out....... AND most of the people on the list are people that have always delivered on their promises in past meets.
Don't let the local one dishearten you too much...... I'm sure you'll have a good turn out of this one. You will always have the odd one or two that have an issue or pull out at last min, but the majority will be there I'm sure.....!
Just needs people to let you know if they can't make it for any reason, rather than just pulling out mate
Keep the faith Rich!
Couldn't agree more. A one off drive out is always going to attract more than a monthly meet. Especially if you get Mark to have a word with the big guy and book some sun!
Organise it and they will come.........