At this years reunion there was a genuine feeling that the 50th anniversary reunion in 2013 was going to be really special. Those that haven’t been able to make it so far have been keeping in  touch and have committed themselves to attend the half century get together back in Hereford. Some will be making the journey from abroad and this could be their only reunion, so there will be a lot to pack into that weekend.

 

Attendees at this reunion were ; Dave Davies; Barry Brannigan; Des Wilson; Dave Beaumont; Trevor Harvey; Brian Oglivie; Alan Gray; Tom Paterson; Rob Izatt; Mike Stephens; Gil Ridley; Mike Dewes; Ian Wilson; Keith Fraser; John Evans; Jim McComisky; Alistair McCrindle; Bill Masterton; Bob Cuss; and Con Martin.

 

Because we had taken Con Martins offer of the use of his club’s facilities plus a buffet on the Saturday night, it was decided to hit the casino on Friday night this time and see if LADY LUCK could strike twice. The same offer was on as last year so the topic of conversation during the meal was who was going to try and emulate last years win. The complementary chips were shared out and it was Bob Cuss’s lucky number that came in (NUMBER 49) and we all trooped back to the hotel to celebrate our £175 beer kitty. The pressure is now well and truly on next year’s gamblers.

 

When Ten Pin Bowling Challenge Cup match got under way it looked as if Bob Cuss’s team were going to get their revenge for last years defeat as they stormed into an early lead. This unfortunately turned out to be a false horizon as Tom Paterson and Des Wilson wrecked their hopes with some superb bowling. Once again Alistair McCrindles team took the spoils winning both games. Des Wilson topped the points scoring with 291 and the top strikers were Dave Beaumont, Mike Stephens, Bob Cuss and Des Wilson all with 4 strikes a peace. Roll on next year !!!

 

With the Hilton once again making us very welcome and the Casino kindly ! providing a beer kitty, it was decided to return here again in 2012, but the half centenary reunion will be the following year will be held at Hereford.

 

During the only formal part of the weekend where we discuss the next reunion along with any other business Gil Ridley very generously offered to set up a 49th Entry website. Dave Beaumont and Mike Stephens volunteered to help in anyway they could and it is hoped this would be up and running by July. Ian Wilson then produced bottles of beer brandishing his own label for everyone to try, which is his latest business venture. Everyone wished him every success and asked could he bring two bottles each next year !!!

 

Dave Davies became our furthest traveller, flying in from Germany, unfortunately Nigel Swifts work commitments prevented him making it from Italy but he has said he will be a definite at next years reunion and the 50th anniversary in Hereford.