OK - so who's doing the Wales run who lives south, of shall we say, Watford?
For anyone who thinks its a bit of a trek it's so worth it just for the run-out and get-together over a lunchtime roastie at Bala. If you make a weekend of it I have found that by staying 3 nights you can get a deal on accommodation (B & B - 10 minutes from Chester). That way it also keeps the other 'alf happy so its not all driving on one day and I have to say that Chester itself ain't a bad place to sightsee or shop if that's what it takes to clinch the weekend away.
Only downside is having to slow down on the Sunday run for Mr Beavis so he can keep up.