What better way to kick-off October than a jaunt to the lakelands of Fermanagh and a visit to the fine town of Enniskillen with The Ramblers.
The consummate hosting skills of the Coalter & Fluke connection were called upon once more and, as always, the ladies welcomed us through the gate with a smile. Meanwhile the two lads shuffled vans into place with all the ease of professional valets.
First order of business was a short members’ meeting where Ramblers received brief updates on all aspects of our club and the opportunity to put their thoughts and suggestions to Committee. Once business was concluded, it was straight onto an express 6 rounds of Bingo with Lindsey at the wheel and winnings galore. Joe and his playlist then provided a great backdrop while the craic and conversation flowed till late.
With Robert having arranged such brilliant weather it would have been rude not to get out and about. Saturday saw members fan out across Enniskillen to take in the wonderful walks and scenery this lovely town has to offer, along with the great selection of shops and refreshing pubs that are conveniently spaced up main street. By my count a ratio of 10 shops to 1 pub is a perfect mixture for those merry wives, and even merrier husbands!!
Saturday night saw a new singer, Robbie Pearson, who played through the evening while members wheeled round the floor before leading us up to what can only be described as a Raffle Bonanza! This traditional ballot usually gives us the opportunity for a breather, but not this time. With the table literally groaning under the strain of prizes individual step-counts must have reached record levels as Ramblers trekked back and forth to their seats laden down with winnings.
That poor table didn’t get much of a rest either as our generous hosts weighed it down with sweet treats for the next days’ Coffee Morning. Led by Joe, members warmly applauded all our hosts for their always brilliant efforts. Congratulations also to Florence Little winning the quiz prize and as well as Davie & Sheena Rea who patiently await the delivery of their lovely new motorhome. An extra special congratulations also for Glenn & Evelyn Cotton who celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary with us.
A warm welcome also to our new members Fiona & Sam and David & Gillian in what we hope will be a long and happy time with The Ramblers.
Coffee morning usually signals the end of an event, but with Robert having pulled out all the stops to make sure we were bathed in sunshine once more the conversation spilled out on the playground where reluctant members bade farewell to one another.
But fear not, before we know it, we'll be meeting again in Cookstown for another weekend of laughter, friendship, dancing, eating, shopping, bingo, raffles and the occasional bit of motorhoming.
Until then, safe travels, happy rambling, and remember: what happens on a Ramblers weekend usually appears in the report just days later!
The Rambling Writer