By Cath G
What an excellent 'do' it was. I believe it is the first time we have had such a good attendance in a long time. 7:30pm arrived and ninety four diners sat down for starters of pate or soup.
A search party was sent out to look for Rosie and Jim. They eventully arrived having parked their barge near the river bank. Sorry you missed your starters; Claire and Kirsty ate them. Gail and Lyndon had a little more luck and, after making their fashionably late arrival, were able to sit down to their starters (luckily for them Cath G and Jenny B were on a diet or they could have gone as well!).
Everyone looked very smart and, I have to say, didn't Adam look very dapper in his suit.
On with the main course which was a carvery with plenty of vegetables and potatoes all round.
Phil, Louis and Rebecca tucked into their Mushroom Stroganoff, making sure they did not get a 'Ginster' pie like last year. Adam got that instead!!! Fortunately, there was plenty of wine on the table to wash it down with.
Mel then stepped into her 'presidential role' and got everyone organised for the Captains' speeches. This is where I mention Mel saying thank you to Ian Morrall and calling him Mr Dyson, but I promised her I would not include it.
Lillian praised her team, giving awards to Jane Sharkey, Jenny Williams and Lucy Wilson. Talking of awards, did someone forget to mention something? Alison Plaxton, aka 'Paxton' must be the club's 'Athlete of the Year' having completed the London Marathon this year. We are all very proud of her.
Jo G was hilarious as usual aided by Mr Pinot Grigio, dishing out trophies to the team's leading goal scorer and players' player, Gaynor Fisher. Her first season with us you know! Cath B gratefully accepted the Captain's armband along with the Captain's player award.
Simon 'quickly' gave awards to his mixed team, namely Richard and Lillian.
Then it was on to the Clough family affair. Ben had a lot to say but was told the band would be on soon. He spoke proudly of his team, explaining to all that they had won Division 10 as Champions with a fine turn out of young and 'old'. He gladly awarded his brother Mat, the award of leading goal scorer. Scoring 36 goals - isn't that more than all the ladies' tally put together? Ben accepted the team's players' player trophy with modesty. But what was one of the highlights of the night, was his admiration towards his father, Steve, who was awarded Captain's player. I am sure we all agree that Steve has been a foundation of strength within the men's team.
Sharon presented awards for the most improved player within the club. It went to Sian Rolf this year. Well deserved - I knew you would improve once you ditched Sally. Chairperson's award went to Sarah Hall for all her hard work dealing with the fixtures, attending meetings and helping all teams as a player. Well, except the men, but I am sure she would have if asked.
A quick raffle where everyone forgot they bought tickets and on to the band.
What a band! China Sky started with Queen and we all got dancing. Everyone enjoyed them and it is likely they will be asked back next year.
Wine was flowing and everyone mingled.
To be honest I don't really remember too much else.
Oh yes, there was a Champagne roll where everyone tried to roll their £1s nearest to the bottle to win two bottles. Where did that go? Not to an underage drinker I hope!!!