Wadebridge Bowling Club's annual Presentation Dinner took place on Saturday, 4th October.
The official invitation said 6 for 6.30 pm at The Swan Hotel, but numerous people assembled from about 4.30 at the Club. They said it was to collect all the trophies and transport them across to The Swan, but it just so happened that the club bar was open as well.
The cognoscenti arriving at 6-ish made sure to buy their drinks downstairs and carry them up because (a) it was quicker and (b) there is more choice of drinks than at the small bar upstairs. We filled the whole of the upstairs room, allowing space at the head of the stairs for the magnificent-looking trophy table and a clear area for presentations. Dinner was served reasonably efficiently by the Swan staff, but you had to be alert to hear your choice of meal called out as the servers emerged from the kitchen. Aly Tapley had thoughtfully prepared reminder slips which she put on the tables as people took their seats, so there were no excuses for taking the wrong dish.
Aly began the speeches by referring to Eddie Jones, our late President, then called upon Men's Captain Kevin Jones and Ladies' Vice-Captain Di Dingle to talk about the (considerable) bowling success of the club in 2025, before moving on to the award presentations. In a move warmly received, Eddie's son Andy presented the trophies and certificates. Thanks due to Tom Prout for ensuring that all the trophies and certificates were present and arranged to make the presentation run smoothly.
Tom has been instrumental in all sorts of organising in the club this year, not just as Men's Competitions Secretary (his official role) but also Club Nights Umbrella, Bowls Blitz and more. He was a worthy winner of the Member of the Year Award. (Incidentally, Tom was looking exceptionally smart this evening – first time I've seen him in a suit and tie!)
Through the meal, there had been a a picture table quiz, organised by David Atfield, and by general demand at the end David did a music round that he just happened to have in his pocket as well.
The list of trophy winners and runners-up is now available here.
Photos Penry Archer.
