Quite an end to the year’s matches! [*]
Firstly, we had the great pleasure of playing the Irish Solicitors at Rosapenna in Donegal. The venue and hospitality (craic!) were excellent and we were lucky enough to have really good weather. We unfortunately lost again – I believe we have not won this particular fixture since 2004! Next year?
Next up was my Captain’s Day and the Autumn Meeting. We were again blessed with what can only be termed characteristic weather of blue skies and warm sun. I hope all those who attended enjoyed themselves as much as Liz and I did. Sincere thanks to all who made the long trek up to Northumberland – we had a really good turnout and that was enormously appreciated by us both. Brian Mather and Ian Cosgrove took the honours at Bamburgh Castle and I’m delighted to say that the big winners at Alnmouth were John and Cilla Slater.
There followed an eventful trip to Canada for the Quadrangular. Our delegation struggled to journey with various airlines and by various routes but most of us were eventually able to battle our way through Hurricane Fiona to get there. A special mention of sympathy goes to Robert Ackroyd who got all the way to Canada only to be thwarted by being unable to get on a flight for the final leg. I’m really sorry you found yourself in that predicament Robert and it epitomises the spirit of the Club that you put so much effort into turning out to represent us. The Scottish team ran out fairly comfortable winners (and Ontario were victorious over the LSGC) but everybody was extremely well looked after by our Canadian hosts at a truly spectacular venue (Cabot Links) rated regularly amongst the world’s best.
Finally, a delightful trip to Wales – Newport and Celtic Manor. We managed a 5.5 – 4.5 win – I’m delighted to say – to carry off the Three Feathers Shield. Lovely company and playing companions as always.
I won’t be bothering you for a while with any further updates as the Club now goes into Winter hibernation. I send you my very best wishes and thanks for all the great support you have given to the Club. Stay healthy and I look forward to catching up with you all next year.
[* the cancelled Magistrates match has been re-arranged for later in October but I will unfortunately have to miss this as I will be in Australia. Good luck to the team!]
