For what it’s worth, we set up a Washington homebrewers association to organize events in our state, get some legislation passed, organize state-wide awards, etc. We were also concerned about stepping on toes, but it turned out to be ok. We basically made it clear that we were a resource for clubs, not a club ourselves. Each club gets a vote, that kind of thing. Our webpage has stuff about how to get in contact with clubs in your area, find homebrew supplies, etc.
On this, I’m happy to get in touch with clubs in the UK and see where things lie. Who knows, we may even find more people who want to help get this off the ground…
Ant Hayes, who posts here sometimes, could be a valuable contact for you. Try sending him a PM.
Even better, I’ll have a chat with him next week, as he’s organised the BJCP exam I’ll be taking.
Great! Say hi for me.