Model Boats Magazine May-20 Back Issue

Welcome to the May edition of Model Boat Magazine which finds itself in a completely different world compared to the one I was one in just four weeks ago! I’m afraid the unavoidable topic of Coronavirus (aka COVID-19) is affecting us all (without exception - unless you are already living like a hermit) and the magazine, like all the others in the MyTimeMedia Group (and beyond) is enduring very heavy restrictions. Because of the huge reduction in newsstand sales (i.e. W H Smiths), the publishers have enforced a very tight budget on us; 66% down tight which means our contributor budget will not be what it was for the foreseeable future. I have already contacted a large number of regular and new contributors and the response has been very humbling; many of you forfeiting payment rather than see this great old magazine go down. We do still have a small budget, so payments (lower than normal) will still be made but I have been instructed not to commission any new articles. That said, that does not stop you from contributing them; I have been very lucky so far and have not actually commissioned that many, the natural flow of input from you all has maintained a very nice balance of content and with some encouragement, has broadened it. Take care everyone – and if the Government says stay at home - ‘stay a home!’ All the best, Martyn Chorlton.