Saturday 7th December saw the annual Awards Evening, this year moved to December to give it a Christmas theme. With fierce stormy weather, the hall foyer-come-Christmas-grotto was a welcome sight. Everyone was greeted with a free drink as they entered the hall, which was all decked out thanks to busy ‘elves’ who had worked hard all day. Each table had beautiful Christmas wreaths and decorations, created by Catherine Gaffard and sold afterwards to raise money for the Ukraine appeal.
Imogen was the perfect compere and updated us on the amazing achievements from club members this year. We then heard from the different groups with a Christmas theme, a PIGs Poem, Junior Jingle Bells, a CRAP Carol and jokes from the Ergo Elves.
After all the major Trophy winners were announced, it was down to the serious business – dinner! Orders had been made when we bought our tickets and the chefs had been busy cooking in the kitchen, so no queuing for food – we could all relax and chat, while enjoying waiter and waitress service. In between courses Immi ran a fun quiz and the raffle was drawn (thank you to House of Cards and the Hardware shop in Caversham for donations of beautiful prizes). As the evening finished, the tables were cleared to make way for music and dancing.
Many thanks to Immi and Amber for all the hard work organising such a successful event, Matthew for the lighting and technical assistance, and to all those who helped them. We look forward to next year’s paddling and Awards Evening.
Happy Christmas everyone.
Mims