Southampton-based lighting rental company GLS, promoters Live Nation and venue Southampton Guildhall all combined forces with rigging specialists Lift-Turn-Move (LTM - The Lodestar people) to stage one of LTM's renowned CM Lodestar Motor Schools at Southampton Guildhall.

The Guildhall is a popular venues on the live touring circuit and one with which the touring fraternity is well familiar. The use of the venue was negotiated between GLS's Ian Turner and the Guildhall's Head Technician, Simon Williams.

Turner explains, "Live Nation and GLS both had technicians, engineers and freelancers, who were interested in doing the Motor School, and it also provided a chance for some of the new people we know who are just getting into the business to get close-up to one of the basic industry standard pieces of kit". The Guildhall was in a similar position, with lots of hoists in their house rig and a crop of new technicians.

GLS is the most significant rental company on the South Coast, and all their chain hoists are Lodestars. They have been clients of LTM's John Jones for many years, dating back to before he formed the company in autumn 2004, "We've always trusted our motor and rigging decisions to John" says Turner.

The course was presented by LTM's Dave Ward and John Jones and was attended by 15 knowledge-hungry people. This is an ideal number for the two-person presentation format honed by Jones and Ward, and allows everyone to receive sufficient individual attention.

People came from other rental companies in the area including Stagecraft from Salisbury and video specialists Fonix from Bournemouth, and also from slightly further field, like the ML Group from Crayford.

John Jones comments, "There's a stronger demand than ever for Motor Schools, and we're responding directly to that. We have always encouraged good product awareness for Lodestar owners and users, and are now getting asked increasingly if we will do on-site Schools both in the UK and abroad. There is a real recognition of its value".

Topics covered included stripping and rebuilding motors, troubleshooting, common problems, the effect of rain and other environmental elements, double braking and operational practicalities like the correct use of chain bags.

Dave Ward concentrated on the more technical subjects, while John Jones discussed general motor, rigging and industry issues and product support.

The two day course also included a night out on the town organised by GLS, highlighting all the hot and happening nitespots!

Ian Turner concludes, "It was a completely worthwhile exercise and we'll definitely be doing it again".