As I'm sure everyone realises at what is a time of national emergency, keeping magazines in print isn't top of the priority list. That said, I realise that getting a regular copy of the magazine is a big plus, especially for anyone who has to self isolate. Naturally those of us who work on the magazines are keen to keep them in production too!
While most of us work from home, the Coronavirus has hit our printing and distribution as well as MyTimeMedia's central operation.
The editors of of all MyTimeMedia titles have been asked to make several changes, with the aim of keeping the magazines going. One of these is going to a 5-week cycle. Obviously this still better than a cancellation!
This won't reduce the number of copies subscribers get, but it will mean you have to wait longer for each issue. Your renewal dates will be pushed back so you still get the full 13 issues.
There are likely to be other changes we need to make to make sure we can keep getting the magazine out to readers. We will be doing our very best to make sure it is still a good read.
It seems a bit inappropriate to be 'pushing' subscriptions at time like this, but if you do normally get your copy by going to the newsagent or WH Smith etc, it might well be worth considering a subscription to make sure you can get your copy.
And don't forget, a digital subscription brings you access to the digital archive, which could be handy if you are forced to self isolate.
I recall reading wartime copies of Model Engineer (obviously not during WW2, I'm not that old!) despite fewer pages and a smaller format. Percival Marshall managed to keep the magazine afloat, no doubt helping morale in those times, so I hope we can do the same now.
This is obviously a difficult time for everyone, please put the health of you and your and families and neighbours first, but if there's any way you think MEW can help, such as sharing information or ideas for mini-projects and the like do let me know.
And please, don't be shy to make the best of the forum as a way of keeping in touch with like-minded friends.
Best wishes to you all.
Neil