As a recent member of the HCGB and a first time competitor in this year's British Championships (yes, the white 47 above) I would like to lay to rest the whinging that the HCGB is a millionaire's club and a closed shop.
My co-pilot and I could not have been made more welcome, particularly in entering the Championships and everyone was extremely friendly. It helps if you have something to fly of course, but no one cares, or probably even knows, whether the machine you arrive in is owned or rented or if you're a cash strapped PPL just hitching a ride. Before joining I'd heard all the rumours that everyone was loaded with private turbines - it's just not true.
Granted, the centre of gravity for the social events is in the south, but that's where most members are. It doesn't suit us Northerners but the answer is for more people to join.
Don't knock it 'till you've tried it....